Top Tier Necessities for International Flights

Now having gone through multiple airports and hours on airplanes, I feel as though I could be considered a pro at international travel. Whether you are flying domestic travel within the United States or internationally to South Korea as I did, there are somethings that I have in my carryon to provide the best flight experience- even if your seat is the middle seat!

1. Noise Canceling Headphones

This was a game changer for me as I never owned them before my international flight to South Korea. You don't realize how loud the plane is (or maybe I was just oblivious) until you take off the noise canceling part and can hear all the sound being held within the plane. From the air vents to the screaming baby at the back of the plane, these are a saving grace. I have the Bose 700 and they definitely do the job! I use them at the gym as well and it provides such clear sound balance. Also, there's the option to reduce noise canceling if you do not want the full experience.

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2. Liquid IV

Being on a plane with constant dry air circulating throughout the flight, our skin tends to dry out because of this. Our body additionally becomes dehydrated. With the one drink minimum that is given throughout the flight, the tiny gulp of water that is handed to us does not suffice what we're needing to consume. I throw in one packet of Liquid IV in my carryon and drink this throughout my flight to keep up with what my body is needing. I have noticed a change in how I genuinely feel after arriving to my destination.

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3. Water bottle

Just like bringing the Liquid IV to keep up with hydration, a water bottle can also help your body regulate better. Now, here's the key to getting it through security so you don't look dumb when it goes through the metal detector (obviously not talking from experience): empty the water bottle. I bring my 40 oz metal water bottle with me and fill it up once going through security. This helps in keeping up with my constant drinking of water throughout the day. I recommend one with a screw top and not a Stanley tumbler as during takeoff it will need to be stored under the seat.

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4. Favorite Candy

This one is a little niche, but I see as a necessity. While on the flight, the typical snacks given are pretzels or cookies (based on American Airlines). Where these are saltier snacks, I am always needing a good balance. My go to is Nerds gummy clusters or Trolli sour worms. These give a good sense of home too as I travel to somewhere new, something constant through the change if you will. Whatever you enjoy on those harder days, I recommend bringing them as it will make the travel easier.

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5. Toothbrush & Deodorant

After a long flight, all I want to do is take a shower. Sometimes, there is no choice to do so, having a layover to another flight or having to get right into whatever has you traveling to that certain place. I have become accustomed to needing to brush my teeth post meals and not just the recommended twice a day. To make myself feel a bit more human, I go to the airport bathroom and do a quick self cleanse; reapplying moisturizer, brushing teeth, and putting on a second or third swabbing of deodorant. This routine gives my mind peace in not being so grungy post flight.

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An honorable mention: a neck pillow for the naps (if you can) on the plane. I have a love-hate relationship with mine as I am unable to get sleep on the plane, or at least decent sleep. I tend to nod off for about 10 minutes and then jolt awake for no reason. My neck pillow does keep my neck warm and comfortable while watching movies or reading my book.