What to Bring on a Flight: The Ultimate Travel Essentials Checklist (2025)

Mixplor

25 Apr, 2025

What Should I Take on Flights?

The Ultimate Guide to In-Flight Essentials for Stress-Free Travel

Flying can either be a breeze or a battle—it all depends on how well you pack. Whether you're heading on a weekend getaway, a business trip, or an international adventure, packing smartly for a flight can dramatically improve your experience in the air.

This ultimate guide breaks down what you should bring on a flight, organized into clear categories. From documents and tech to comfort items and snacks, you’ll find everything you need for an easy, enjoyable journey—no matter the length.

Essential Travel Documents

Carry-On Bag Basics

Comfort and Health Must-Haves

Clothing and Personal Items

Electronics and Entertainment

Food and Snacks

International Travel Essentials

Family and Baby Travel Items

COVID/Post-Pandemic Additions

Pro Travel Tips for Packing

Essential Travel Documents

Let’s start with the non-negotiables. Without these, you’re not getting very far.

✅ Passport and ID

Domestic Flights: Valid government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license).
International Flights: Passport with at least 6 months' validity.
Tip: Carry physical copies and digital scans saved in your phone or cloud.

✅ Boarding Pass

Print it or save it on your phone via the airline app.
Keep it easily accessible for gate checks.

✅ Travel Itinerary

Flight details, hotel bookings, and car rental confirmations.
Have a digital copy saved offline.

✅ Travel Insurance

Medical emergencies happen, especially abroad.
Carry the policy number and emergency contact.

✅ Visa & Permits

Check if your destination requires an entry visa.
Some countries need transit visas even for layovers.

Carry-On Bag Basics

Your carry-on is your lifeline mid-flight. Pack smartly to avoid discomfort or scrambling for essentials.

✅ Backpack or Rolling Bag

Must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.
Look for one with multiple compartments.

✅ Wallet and Cash

Credit/debit cards, some local currency, and emergency cash.
RFID-blocking wallets add an extra layer of security.

✅ Pen

Always useful, especially for customs forms.

✅ Sunglasses

Protect your eyes if you're landing in a sunny locale.

✅ Water Bottle (Empty)

Fill it after security to stay hydrated during the flight.

Comfort and Health Must-Haves

Sitting in a cramped seat for hours isn’t exactly a luxury. Here’s how to feel a little more human while flying.

✅ Neck Pillow

U-shaped memory foam pillows are gold for long flights.

✅ Blanket or Shawl

Airline blankets aren’t always clean or warm enough.
A pashmina scarf doubles as a blanket or pillow.

✅ Eye Mask

Block out cabin lights and get better rest.

✅ Noise-Canceling Headphones or Earplugs

Tune out crying babies or engine noise.

✅ Lip Balm and Moisturizer

The cabin air is incredibly dry.

✅ Hand Sanitizer and Wipes

Wipe down your seat, tray table, and armrest.

✅ Medications

Bring a small pill organizer or labeled bag.
Keep prescription medications in their original packaging.

Clothing and Personal Items

Being comfortable doesn’t mean showing up in pajamas—but it also doesn’t mean jeans are your only option.

✅ Layered Clothing

Airplane temperatures vary.
A t-shirt, hoodie, and lightweight jacket are a versatile combo.

✅ Extra Socks

Take off your shoes mid-flight and still stay warm.

✅ Compression Socks

Prevent swelling and blood clots on long-haul flights.

✅ Extra Underwear

For freshening up after a red-eye or in case of lost luggage.

✅ Slip-on Shoes

Easy for security and walking around the cabin.

Electronics and Entertainment

Keep your mind busy, battery full, and devices protected.

✅ Phone and Charger

Include a portable power bank (at least 10,000 mAh).

✅ Laptop or Tablet

Ideal for working, watching movies, or reading.

✅ E-Reader (like Kindle)

Save space and battery compared to paperbacks.

✅ Universal Adapter

For international travel, look for one with USB ports.

✅ Headphones

Wireless for convenience, wired just in case.

Food and Snacks

Airline food can be… unpredictable. Bring some backups.

✅ Healthy Snacks

Protein bars, nuts, dried fruit, or crackers.

✅ Gum or Mints

Helps with ear pressure during takeoff and landing.

✅ Empty Snack Containers

Pack leftovers from airport restaurants if allowed.

✅ Reusable Utensils

For eating your own food or cutting down on single-use plastic.

International Travel Essentials

Flying across borders? You'll want a few extra tools in your kit.

✅ Travel-Sized Toiletries

Comply with TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule (3.4 oz containers in a 1-quart bag).

✅ Toothbrush & Toothpaste

Freshen up before landing.

✅ Deodorant and Face Wipes

You’ll feel so much better after a quick clean-up.

✅ Local SIM Card or eSIM

Grab one upon arrival or arrange an eSIM ahead of time.

✅ Phrasebook or Translation App

Handy when navigating foreign signs or menus.

Family and Baby Travel Items

Traveling with kids? Multiply the essentials and the patience.

✅ Diapers and Baby Wipes

Always pack more than you think you need.

✅ Extra Outfits for Kids and Parents

Spills, blowouts, and accidents happen.

✅ Baby Food and Snacks

TSA allows baby formula and breast milk in reasonable quantities.

✅ Toys and Tablets

New toys or downloaded movies can work magic.

✅ Blanket or Favorite Stuffed Animal

Comfort objects can soothe nerves and promote sleep.

COVID/Post-Pandemic Additions

We’re flying in a new world now—here’s what’s good to keep on hand even if mandates are gone.

✅ Face Mask

Required in some countries, optional in others.

✅ Hand Sanitizer (Travel Size)

Still your best friend in high-touch environments.

✅ Disinfectant Wipes

Great for tray tables, seats, and restrooms.

✅ Health Documents or Apps

Some places still ask for vaccine proof or health declarations.

Pro Travel Tips for Packing

✈️ Roll, Don’t Fold

Rolling clothes saves space and reduces wrinkles.

✈️ Use Packing Cubes

Organize like a pro—especially useful if you're changing accommodations often.

✈️ Keep Essentials Accessible

Pack your bag in "zones" so the important stuff is within reach.

✈️ Track Your Bag

AirTags or Tile trackers can help you find a lost suitcase quickly.

✈️ Download Everything Ahead of Time

That includes Netflix shows, eBooks, airline apps, and maps.

What do we need to carry with us when traveling?

Flying doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right packing strategy, your journey becomes smoother, more comfortable, and less stressful. It’s all about anticipating your needs, from comfort and cleanliness to tech and treats. Whether you’re a first-time flyer or a frequent flyer, this list has you covered for whatever skies you’re taking to.