What to Pack in Your Carry-On for a Long International Flight (For Women)
Everything You’ll Be Glad You Brought at 35,000 Feet
Long flights can be magical (according to some people who are not me). Some enjoy the hours of uninterrupted movies, the gentle hum of the plane, a new adventure waiting on the other end. But they can also be not so magical if you’re cold, hungry, or stuck in a middle seat with no moisturizer.
Whether you’re headed abroad for a solo adventure or girls getaway, this carry-on checklist covers all the in-flight essentials that help you stay comfy, fresh, and calm from takeoff to landing.
Travel Documents & Essentials
Keep these easy to reach, ideally in a zip pouch or travel wallet:
- Passport + visa (if required)
- Boarding pass (printed or mobile)
- Travel insurance card or info
- Credit card + a little cash
- Pen for customs forms
Comfort Items
Long-haul flights are basically permission to turn into a burrito. These help:
- Neck pillow
- Light blanket or travel wrap
- Compression socks (for circulation)
- Eye mask
- Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones
- Face mask (optional but sometimes comforting to have if you are sitting near someone with cold symptoms)
Entertainment & Distraction
You don’t want to rely on the seatback screen. Bring options:
- Phone + charger
- Portable charger/power bank
- Headphones (noise-canceling or Bluetooth)
- Kindle, book, or magazine
- Downloaded shows, podcasts, or playlists
- Journal or notebook + pen
- Puzzle book (crosswords, Sudoku, etc.)
Toiletries & Freshen-Up Kit
A few small items can make a world of difference after 8+ hours:
- Toothbrush + toothpaste
- Face wipes or micellar water pads
- Hand sanitizer
- Lip balm
- Moisturizer or face mist
- Deodorant
- Hair tie or clip
- Feminine care products
- Mini first-aid kit (band-aids, ibuprofen, motion sickness tablets)
Pack these in a clear TSA-friendly bag so you can grab them mid-flight or during layovers.
Snacks & Hydration
Plane meals aren’t always reliable. I like to bring backups!
- Reusable water bottle (fill after security)
- Electrolyte mix or tablets
- Protein bar or trail mix
- Chewing gum or mints
- Light snacks (crackers, dried fruit, nuts)
Extras That Make a Difference
These may seem “extra,” but trust to some, they’re not:
- Travel document pouch
- Phone stand or holder
- Disinfecting wipes for tray table and seatbelt
- Foldable tote bag for under-seat access
- Cozy socks or plane slippers
- Scarf or wrap (warmth + outfit upgrade)
Final Pro Tip
Pack your carry-on assuming your checked bag won’t show up right away.
That means: one change of underwear, minimal makeup, and any non-negotiable medications stay with you.
