Have you ever been in the position where you wished you were that organised parent in the plane who manages their 3 children without a tear during that 8 hour-flight? Or you hoped you brought a bag with essentials to avoid being stressed when you found out your luggage arrived in Paris, Texas instead of the French capital...
As you know by now I love travelling but hate flying so it makes sense to me to be comfy and the least stressed as possible...
1. BRING SOMETHING TO READ
I like reading on holidays, maybe because during the year I find it so difficult (my commute needs a change of train every 10 mins, so if I manage to read Time Out, I'm already a lucky bunny). This is why I always put in my hand bag a good travel guide of my destination to geek about it and be ready to explore once I'm on the ground. I already mentioned my few favourites in this article.
2. INFLIGHT SOCKS ARE YOUR NEW BFF
After a long haul flight, or actually any flight I get really puffed up. My shoes are super tight: I still remember that day in Istanbul airport where I had to get around the airport in sleepers (going to the public toilets with that, is just gross) because my feet just couldn't fit my shoes after my first flight. This is why I've invested in inflight socks (they aren't pretty, but they do their job!) and avoid drinking alcohol to make sure I look as "slim" as possible when I land.
Get your inflight socks from Boots, they are very good quality, for a reasonable price!
3. PACK ESSENTIALS IN A SMALL POUCH
Ever since the day my luggage got exchanged upon arrival (yes everyone bought that cheap suitcase from Primark, I can't blame them!), I always pack a small pouch with my one-night essentials: a pair of clean underwear, a toothbrush (they usually give this onboard though alongside toothpaste), a light top, and hydration or moisturising cream (or moisturiser) and a bit of perfume.
4. KEEP YOUR CHILDREN BUSY
Ipads are great, but studies have shown show that they aren't the best way to keep your little ones busy. Plus you are most likely to run out of battery and you do not want to deal with tears when this happens...
So to make them excited about the trip and keep them creative, get them a goodie bag full of travel related activities. Not only they will learn about other cultures, but it will also assure you a peace of mind... for at least the next 2 hours.
5. USE A REFILLABLE WATER BOTTLE
How frustrating is it to throw away your half-full bottle of water at security? Heathrow Airport now offers fountains just after the security checks so you can refill your bottles. Not only it makes you save money, as you won’t have to buy a 50cl bottle of Evian water for £2, but you will also contribute to reduce plastic pollution in the oceans. While onboard, kindly ask a flight attendant to fill it up for you to keep you going and avoid dehydration.
6. FLY WITH A COMFY AIRLINE
I am not particularly loyal to one particular airline, but I do like having a nicer service to make the most of my time onboard. I avoid low cost/ budget airlines when possible and try to choose a more comfortable one, especially when it comes to a long haul and you need that extra legroom...
If you want to buy some of these travel essentials, head to my shop where you'll find almost everything you need to travel in style!