Long haul travel can be both exciting and challenging, and so the travel essentials you pack become super clutch.
While the prospect of new adventures is thrilling, the reality of spending hours—sometimes even a full day—on a plane can feel overwhelming. Fatigue, disorientation, and discomfort often await on the other side of these extended flights. At Carry HQ, we’ve experienced more than our fair share of long haul journeys, and through trial and error, we’ve learned the importance of packing the right long haul travel essentials and accessories.
Technically, any flight over seven hours is considered long haul, but that doesn’t account for the full travel process—from navigating airports to getting to and from your destinations. Last month, I put my carefully curated long haul travel essentials to the test during a 32-hour door-to-door journey from New Jersey, USA to Melbourne, Australia.
These essential items have made my long haul flights smoother, helping reduce jet lag and discomfort. Ready to level up your travel game? Let’s dive into the must-have long haul travel accessories that can transform your experience.
Oars + Alps Cooling + Cleansing Wipes (US$16)
These are the best wipes I’ve found for travel. Now these aren’t for wiping down your tray tables or any of that, but they are perfect for revitalising you and freshening up as you get to your destination. Traveling can be sticky, dirty work and a shower is often a long way away. These Oars + Alps Cooling + Cleansing Wipes, wipes can be used on the face and body and feature an Arctic Blue Ice Crystal side for exfoliation and removing dirt and sweat, while the reverse side offers a caffeine boost. These have saved my bacon (and the nostrils of those around me) on more than one occassion.
Snacks – Chomps (US$14.99+)
I don’t want to pay $15 for a 2 day old dehydrated sandwich, and neither should you. Looking after your nutrition when you travel makes a huge difference. When you need a handy grab-and-go snack that’s easy to store in a bag and also healthy, take a bite out of Chomps meat sticks. Sugar-free, gluten-free, and high in protein, the meat sticks come in a variety of tasty flavors and are a convenient travel snack to keep the hangry vibes at bay. I bring a whole bunch of these on the road with me, they’ve become a vital part of my travel kit.
Anker Nano Charger (30W) (US$18.99)
Keeping powered up over 32 hours can be a challenge, but thankfully the Anker Nano Charger is here to to help. It offers pint-sized power, with 30W of fast charging that can charge a phone, tablet, earbuds, and even a iPad Pro or MacBook Air. The charger also uses ActiveShield 2.0 technology to monitor temperature over 3 million times daily to keep your devices safe. I’ve found 30W to be more than enough for what I need when I’m actively in transit, and this little cutie takes up no space whether its in your bag or topping you up between your seat.
Anker Nano Power Bank (30W, Built-In USB-C Cable) (US$39.99)
To pair with the charging cube, a good power bank is a must. The Anker Nano Power Bank helps keep devices juiced on the go with a 10,000mAh capacity and an inbuilt USB-C cable for handy charging. The 30W Bi-Directional Charging feature offers 30W two-way fast charging that can boost the power bank to 50% in 45 minutes or charge an iPhone 14 to 50% in half an hour. I love that I don’t have to carry an extra cable with me in my sling, and for the last 18 months this has been my go to travel power bank. I can charge my phone, my airpods and even give my iPad a boost if needed. In tandem with the above cube, it’s a great run and gun solution. It’s also available in a beefier 20,000mAh size if needed.
Bombas Merino Wool Blend Everyday Compression Socks (US$40) and Ankle Compression Socks (US$20)
Take care of your legs and heart. Long-distance travel puts serious stress on your body, so any relief helps. Compression socks have improved a lot, and the Bombas Merino Wool Blend Everyday Compression Socks are a great choice. They offer graduated compression (15-20mmHg), strongest at the ankle and easing off toward the calf. With merino wool’s moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties, these socks keep you comfortable during travel and at your destination.
These are the most comfortable compression socks I’ve ever worn. I wore them for 36 hours straight on my return flight to Australia—twice—without any itching, discomfort, or sweating. If you prefer a smaller option, the Bombas Ankle Compression Socks are a solid pick with uniform compression and a comfy cuffed ankle. This is one of those products that makes you think, “This is exactly what I needed!”
Bombas Men’s Gripper Slipper (US$48)
These are a luxury for sure, but on a long trip away from home who doesn’t love a little extra comfort? The Bombas Gripper Slipper wraps your feet in cozy comfort, with an extra-cushioned footbed and a brushed lining for sigh-worthy comfort. The exterior grips help prevent slips and the design also folds flat for packing convenience. It’s like a plush blanket for your hard-working feet, if you have the room in your bag, a great little upgrade.
TRTL Glimpse Sleep Mask (US$59.99)
Sleep is a super power, and one that I’m trying to master still. The TRTL Glimpse Sleep Mask helps you nod off into sleep land easily thanks to its 360-degree blackout design that supports deep sleep. Not only do I use this on the plane, I find it helps me sleep better in hotel rooms that have varying amounts of noise and light that is hard to predict. These are exceptionally comfortable, and I’ve not had any of the “rub” that I sometimes find with other masks. The Glimpse also has this sneaky feature where you can adjust the front panel to let some light in, enabling increased awareness but still letting you nap, perfect for the plane so you don’t miss meal service! The raised foam layer stops the mask from touching your eyes, allowing you to blink for added comfort. Plus, it comes with its own carrying pouch to keep it nice and clean!
Twelve South AirFly Pro Deluxe (US$64.99)
I like my own headphones, and I hate airplane headphones. Thankfully, someone at Twelve South felt the same way. This nifty Bluetooth transmitter plugs into the plane seat’s headphone jack and offers over 25 hours of battery life, while also supporting two pairs of headphones so you and a travel buddy can listen to music or watch movies simultaneously. For added functionality, the AirFly Pro also has a Receive mode that enables a wireless setup in non-Bluetooth speakers in a car, boat, or elsewhere. It plugs into any standard 3.5mm jack, but also comes with an adapter for the dreaded two prong airplane system. This is a must have for anyone who flies regularly.
TRTL Pillow Cool (US$69.99)
I have no problem with travel pillows, and think anything you can do to increase your rest/decrease your fatigue is a good thing. However, we all know that the older traditional travel pillows can leave a lot to be desired in the comfort and packability departments. However, the TRTL Pillow Cool is different. The wrap-around design accommodates any neck shape, jaw, and shoulder and features a scientifically proven interior support system for improved head and neck alignment. Plus with its lightweight and compact design, it’s convenient to pack on your travels. The cool version is made out of a very breathable material, so if you’re like me and run hot (particularly on overcrowded planes) this is a worthwhile upgrade. Just like their eye mask, TRTL also include a handy carry case with this to keep it clean and hygienic for your next sleep!
Peak Design Mobile Tripod (US$79.95)
This has been glued to my phone for over three years now, and it is the perfect travel companion for your phone. Peak Design’s Mobile Tripod is durable enough for life on the go yet compact enough to fit in a pocket. Made with anodized aluminum, it uses MagSafe-compatible magnets to secure to the back of your phone and can hold a phone in either portrait or landscape mode. The anti-slip legs dampen vibrations and can be set up in tripod or kickstand orientations, while the micro ballhead is reminiscent of an actual full size tripod and lets you easily adjust the phone angle to your specific needs. This is perfect for movie watching, FaceTime calls with loved one, or even sneaking in a cheeky Netflix session as you sip a pint at the airport bar. Simply the best $80 you can spend on your phone.
Fount FlyKitt (from US$99)
Australia is far from home, and jet lag can be brutal. On my last few trips down under, it took me days to feel normal again. Just when I adjusted, it was time to fly back and start the process all over! The Fount FlyKitt system, developed using research from Navy SEALs and fighter pilots, is designed to fight jet lag. It combines custom supplements, special glasses, and a smart app.
The supplements help improve sleep quality and reduce inflammation caused by travel. The glasses block 99% of light wavelengths that mess with your circadian rhythm, enhancing sleep. The app takes your travel details and creates a custom plan for meals, sleep, and supplements. It tells you exactly when to sleep, eat, take supplements, and block blue light—all based on your flight schedule.
After trying it on a 36-hour return trip, I felt amazing the moment I landed and significantly less fatigued. I was impressed with how straight forward it was to use, it comes in a great carry case, colour coded supplements that match the app, it’s incredibly well thought out. If you want to make the most of your time at your destination, this system is a game-changer.
Twelve South ButterFly 2-in-1 MagSafe Charger (US$129.99)
Simplification makes any journey better. The Twelve South ButterFly combines elegant design with smart functionality. This 2-in-1 USB-C MagSafe charger lets you wirelessly charge both your iPhone and Apple Watch at the same time. Its compact, folding design makes it easy to store in your travel bag. Stylish and practical, it’s a must-have for streamlined charging on the go.
Plus it serves as an iPhone display stand or a Watch charging pedestal. It helps me cut my cable needs in half, and the design is wonderfully clean and functional. These are the type of products I love to bring with me when I travel, they make my life easier!
Bellroy Venture Sling 9L (US$139)/Lite Sling (US$89)
Keep these items close at hand during the flight and airport journeys. After testing different slings on my escapades, I always return to Bellroy’s Venture Sling 9L and Lite Sling for travel days. The 9L Venture Sling offers plenty of storage and adventure-ready features. Its wide opening makes it easy to access gear, and it’s spacious enough for essentials, plus a jacket or water bottle. The expandable gusset allows the bag to self-compress for smaller loads or to pack easily when empty.
On the other hand, the Lite Sling is perfect for lighter loads. Weighing just 220g, this 7L bag also features an expandable gusset, wide-opening access, and a packable design that can be rolled or folded. Both slings work well as seat caddies and can serve multiple purposes during your travels.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 (US$249)
Good headphones can make a hug amount of difference on a long trip and the Apple AirPods Pro 2 have become a favourite of mine for a few reasons. I’m fully in on the Apple EcoSystem and have been for about a decade or more now, so the fact they work seamlessly with my phone or iPad is very convenient. They offer enhanced audio performance with noise cancellation and 3D sound, and its surprisingly good for a pair of earbuds! The H2 chip delivers crisp, high-definition sound and enables Adaptive Audio that automatically prioritizes sounds requiring your attention, which is useful when lots of people are milling about. They’re tiny, take up no room in my bag, and charge impressively fast. When you pair these with some of the accessories above, you can keep yourself entertained, zen, or whatever you need to do to make it through 36 hours.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (US$1199)
I love my iPad, but it take up a lot of tray table real estate. A few years ago I moved to the large iPhone Max models and I’ve not looked back. Not only is the extra screen real estate great for your daily use, it really comes into its own as an entertainment centre. The iPhone 16 Pro Max features the biggest display and longest battery life of any iPhone to date, so download your movies and shows that you need to catch up on, and enjoy it without having to rely on the fallible infotainment systems of the airlines. This newest model also offers a useful Camera Control feature that provides easy access to various tools at the touch of a finger, so if you get that epic view from a window sit you can snap away immediately, even if you’ve just woken up!
