Comfort Meets Minimalism: Essentials for Your Next Flight

Travel tips

May 4

Minimalistic products for a more comfortable flight.

Long-haul flights can be a real challenge, especially when it comes to packing light while still staying comfortable. In this post, I’ll share my top flight essentials for making your journey smoother.

If you’ve ever been stuck on a long flight, you know the drill: cramped seats, limited legroom, and that never-ending search for the perfect balance between comfort and convenience. Minimalist packing adds another layer of complexity—how do you bring just enough without feeling like you’ve left something important behind?

After years of trial and error, we’ve figured out the essentials that keep me comfortable and relaxed during those marathon flights, all while sticking to my minimalist packing mindset. Let’s dive into what really makes a difference when you’re packing for your next long-haul adventure.

Travel Documents

We have our documents always ready and keep them stored where we can easily find them, such as a fanny pack or body bag. We also keep our printed copies in a case to protect them against water leakages or loss when taking everything out at the security. For international flights, check which documents you have to show at arrival. If you want to know what to pack for a whole trip, check out our packing list, so you don’t miss on anything.

Passport or ID (domestic flights only)
RFID-block passport case
Boarding pass
Travel insurance info (printed & in the cloud)
Visa documents (if needed)
Copies of important documents (printed & in the cloud)
Pen (for customs forms)

Entertainment & Electronics

We’re always prepared for the unexpected. Not all airlines offer in-flight entertainment, and even when they do, it might not be up to par—or in a language we don’t speak. Some flights come with a hefty fee for entertainment, or none at all. That’s why we make sure to have our own options ready, whether it’s for potential delays, slow or spotty airport Wi-Fi, cancellations, or just the long hours of a flight.

Phone + charger
Headphones (noise-canceling if possible)
E-reader, tablet, or book
Power bank (fully charged)
Laptop (if you’re working or watching your own movies/series)
Downloaded music, shows or podcasts.

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Health & Comfort

We keep a small backpack with all our essential health and comfort items right under the seat, always within reach during the flight. Whether it’s a long-haul journey or a quick hop, having these items handy makes a huge difference in staying comfortable and feeling good. This way, we’re always prepared to tackle any discomfort or dry air, and we can stay refreshed throughout the flight without having to dig through our luggage.

Neck pillow
Eye mask
Earplugs
Lip balm
Face wipes or hand sanitizer
Travel-sized lotion
Motion sickness tablets (if needed)
Lightweight sweater / socks for cold flights
Any medications you need (with a doctor’s prescription)
Tissues

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Snacks & Water

Some flights offer snacks for purchase, and you can usually grab something at the airport—but we like to be one step ahead. We always bring a few of our own, just in case of delays, cancellations, or those long hours spent waiting at the gate. Having your own snacks means you’re not stuck with overpriced or unhealthy options, and it’s a real lifesaver when everything’s closed or you’re too tired to look for food.