A long haul flight can be a little daunting, especially if you haven’t recently completed one. What on earth are you going to do for the next 10 hours?! And what do you need to pack when all you have is a small carry on case?

It’s important to feel happy and safe on your long haul flights- especially if you are going on holiday. Who wants to start their holiday feeling scared and unprepared?

As someone who completes around 6 long haul flights a year thanks to my job and my love of travelling, I’ve learnt a few things about what to pack to stay comfortable on a long haul flight.

• Entertainment

Bring a few alternative entertainment options so that you can switch things up depending on your mood.

A few friends of mine have also been on long haul flights where the in-flight entertainment system has gone down- not fun! Have a few back up options on hand just in case the worst happens.

I always like to have an iPad with some shows and films downloaded, a good book or kindle, a notepad for jotting down some ideas, and even a little sewing or crochet project if I fancy something different.

• Moisturiser

Your skin on a long haul flight will get DRY, no matter how much water you drink. Bring along a facial moisturiser, a hand cream, and even a lip balm to help your skin stay nourished on the flight. There are a ton of brands who do luxury travel skincare miniatures.

• Layers

Flights can either be very cool, or very warm, and sometimes in one flight you will feel both extremities of temperature.

You will usually be given a blanket, pillow, eye mask, ear plugs and warm socks for a flight which are really helpful- but sometimes you still need a couple of extra layers to be comfortable.

Wear a camisole top or comfortable t-shirt under a sweatshirt or cardigan so that you put on and take off a layer if you need to.

• Snacks

Airlines are certainly not famed for the tastiness of their food- in fact, I hardly ever eat the meals on offer on planes.

Let’s be honest, it usually looks revolting!

To conquer this, I always bring a huge snack selection on board with me. On your way to your destination you could even bring a lunch box with some cold pasta or sandwiches inside. SO much nicer than what you are offered by the airline.

I also always ensure I have a big bottle of water with me for the flight- sometimes you are offered water on the flight, but check to make sure this is included in your fare. In my opinion, it’s better safe than sorry.

• Neck Pillow

Although you will often be given a pillow by an airline, I usually prefer to place this at the small of my back to help make the seat more comfortable.

This means that you need to bring your own neck pillow if you plan to sleep during the flight. Invest in a good one that clips under the chin to give yourself the best chance at catching an hour or two of sleep on the plane.