Charles Esther
The summer holiday season has officially landed.
So has the annual rush through crowded airports and cramped plane cabins as millions of jetsetters take off for a much-needed break.
Seasoned flyers will know the excitement of the journey often comes with a host of all-too-familiar discomforts at 35,000 feet.
Dry skin, dehydration, jet lag, and head and body aches.
Many of these issues are largely caused by a combination of dry cabin air, low pressure, recycled air, and shared surfaces.
So, what exactly does one need to survive flying in a confined space at high altitude for an extended period of time?
Duke Armitage, pilot and aviation enthusiast, revealed to Yahoo! Shopping the must-have items passengers should use to arrive at their destination looking fresh and feeling well-rested.
Brimming with essentials, the expert’s ‘comfort kit’ includes everything from pilot-approved skincare and tech to hydration boosters.
Read on to discover Duke’s top ten picks for an upgraded flight experience.
1. Hydrating Facial Mist
Cabin air can sap moisture from your skin, leaving it dry and irritated.
A facial mist with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or rose water helps to refresh and hydrate your skin mid-flight.
Duke recommends using it every couple of hours to maintain a dewy glow.
2. Noise Cancelling Headphones
Between crying babies and engine hum, flights can get noisy.
A good pair of noise-cancelling headphones is a game changer.
They block out ambient sounds and allow you to rest or enjoy your playlist in peace.
3. Collapsible Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is key, but tiny cups from the flight crew won’t cut it.
A collapsible water bottle saves space and lets you carry a decent amount of water once past security.
Duke advises sipping throughout the flight to fend off dehydration.
4. Compression Socks
Long flights can lead to swollen feet and increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Compression socks help maintain healthy circulation and prevent leg fatigue.
They’re a small investment with big health benefits.
5. Lip Balm with SPF
Dry cabin air doesn’t spare your lips.
Choose a nourishing lip balm with SPF to protect against UV exposure through plane windows.
It keeps your lips soft and shielded throughout the flight.
6. Eye Mask and Neck Pillow
Quality sleep on planes is rare, but the right gear helps.
An eye mask blocks out cabin light, while a supportive neck pillow keeps your posture in check.
Together, they make naps more restful.
7. Antibacterial Wipes
Planes are full of shared surfaces.
Armrests, tray tables, seatbelt buckles — all touched by countless hands.
Use antibacterial wipes to quickly clean your space before settling in.
It’s a smart habit that helps keep germs at bay.
8. Electrolyte Tablets
Drinking water is good, but adding electrolytes is better.
These tablets help replenish minerals lost during travel and combat fatigue.
Duke recommends dissolving one into your water bottle every few hours.
9. Portable Power Bank
Most flights now offer charging ports, but they aren’t always reliable.
A compact power bank ensures your phone or tablet stays charged throughout your journey.
Essential for staying entertained or checking gate changes post-flight.
10. Lightweight Skincare Essentials
Long-haul flights aren’t kind to your skin.
Duke carries a travel-sized kit that includes a gentle cleanser, moisturiser, and under-eye cream.
A quick cleanse and moisturise before landing can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Flying can be draining, but it doesn’t have to leave you feeling like a mess.
With a few smart additions to your hand luggage, you can step off the plane looking and feeling refreshed.
Duke Armitage’s top ten in-flight essentials are a simple way to boost comfort, reduce travel fatigue, and make your journey more enjoyable.
So, before you zip up that suitcase, don’t forget to pack like a pro.
Happy travels.
