What to Pack for Every Flight
Everybody has their own way of packing and travelling, but the things you take on the flight with you usually need a strategy of their own.
And with new rules, new aircraft layouts, and new security restrictions, it’s easy to forget we’re packing for a very different era of air travel than the one we grew up with.
So here are the 8 things we absolutely do take on every flight, and the 3 things we definitely will not be bringing anymore.
1. Carry-On
This is really the centre of your trip. Your carry-on is with you at all times, so you should be able to rely on it completely. And if your checked bag ever goes missing, your carry-on needs to be light enough to hold your most important items + a change of clothes without weighing you down.
That’s why the Glide Lite Carry-On is so many people’s preferred cabin case. Super lightweight at only 2.0kg (so you can comfortably overpack), and 4 smooth spinner wheels that let you move through airports quickly without strain or speed bumps.
It’s designed to be simple, stable, and durable. A case that feels barely there, but ends up being the one thing you reach for time and again.
2. Weekender Duffle
A really good personal item holds overflow from your carry-on, and all the mid-flight necessities, in an organised way.
But this Weekender takes it to the next level: it packs like a suitcase so your essentials don’t collapse into a pile, and the side pockets and compartments give you quick access to your passport, phone, chargers, snacks so you don’t have to mess up the entire bag.
And it also has a trolley sleeve to sit comfortably on your carry-on. It stays organised, behaves well under your seat, and really makes you feel like you have everything you need at your fingertips.
3. USB-A Charging Cable
This has quietly become one of the most important in-flight items.
Older aircraft still use USB-A ports only, and many airlines are now restricting or fully banning power banks from being used or charged in-flight.
A simple USB-A cable ensures you can charge your phone during the flight without relying on a bulky battery pack you might not even be allowed to use.
4. Compression Socks
Did you know long-haul flights can significantly affect circulation, even for people who don’t usually experience swelling?
Compression socks make a noticeable difference: less heaviness, better comfort, and improved mobility when you land.
These are especially important if you fly long-haul frequently. It’s a necessity, actually.
5. Noise-Cancelling Headphones (or earplugs)
Not for luxury, for sanity. They block cabin hum, crying babies, PA announcements, and let you rest or focus without constant interruption.
6. Go Anywhere Belt Bag
There are certain items you reach for constantly, passport, phone, card, medication, lip balm.
If they live loosely in your duffle bag, you add dozens of unnecessary interruptions to your day.
A belt bag keeps all of this in one designated place, accessible within seconds. It doesn’t try to hold everything, just the things that matter most when you’re moving. And it won’t count as an additional item (as long as you take it out only when you need it).
This is especially handy if you’re not checking in to your accommodation immediately. Just grab this bag and explore.
7. Small Travel Pharmacy Pouch
Panadol, electrolytes, stomach tablets, plasters. It’s not glamorous, but having these within reach is the difference between managing a problem quickly or suffering through a 10-hour flight.
8. A Refillable Water Bottle
Cabin air is brutally dehydrating. Having a slim, leak-proof bottle you can fill after security makes a bigger difference than most people expect.
What We Don’t Take on Flights Anymore (And Why)
Power Banks
Many airlines now restrict power bank use in-flight, require them to be stored only in carry-on (not used), or offer no safe way to charge them while on the plane.
It’s far more reliable to use the aircraft’s USB-A port with your own cable and keep the power bank at home.
Oversized Toiletry Kits
You don’t need full-size anything on a plane. Dryness, dehydration and limited space mean smaller and simpler is better.
Heavy Books
They add weight to your carry-on, and you usually don’t read them. A Kindle or downloaded audiobook is much easier to manage.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for clarity on what to pack for your next flight, this list is the most reliable foundation we’ve found — the items that consistently make flying smoother, easier and far less stressful.
Leave a comment