Whether it is a long or short flight, onboard comfort is a priority. There are some gadgets/items which make any flight less stressful and a bit more comfortable. Here is a list of my favorite onboard items;

• An inflatable Neck pillow – (which takes up less space in your carry-on) is perfect for relaxation or sleeping on uncomfortable flights.

• Compression socks or stockings – this is perfect, especially on long flights. It aids in blood circulation, preventing DVT blood clots and the swelling of the lower legs and feet.

• Ear plugs or noise-canceling headset – perfect to drown out the noise from the plane engine and crying babies.

• Vaseline or lubricating nasal spray – my regular readers have heard me regurgitate this a million times. It is also my no.1 must-pack item of the 16 essential items to pack in your carry-on. I will never board a plane without applying it. Greasing your nose prevents the dehydration of your nasal cavity. The dryness of the air in the plane causes the inner lining of the nostril to dry out, and tiny cracks develop. As a result, the germs circulating on the plane enter these cracks and you become sick on vacation. This hack has been working great for me for many years.

• Sleep mask – this is your lights-out sleep-aid when you want to rest or sleep. It keeps the overhead and window lights out when your seatmates want them on.

• Lip balm & hand cream – dry skin is another problem when travelling, because of dehydration and or air on onboard. For that reason, cracked or dry lips and hands are also prevalent. Therefore, be sure to have your lip balm and hand cream with you, to moisturize your lips and hands throughout your journey.

• Gum – chewing gum is perfect for those who suffer from “airplane ear”. Because of the buildup of pressure in the ear, the eardrum pops and pains during take-off and landing. Be aware that chewing gum also gives gas, so chew at the appropriate time and not the entire flight.

• A Cardigan or a large Scarf/shawl – this is ideal during the flight and for long and cold airport layovers. Whether day or night, it gets cold during flights at high altitudes. So, if your airline does not provide a blanket, you can experience an extremely cold and uncomfortable flight. Therefore, have a cardigan, scarf, or shawl with you, and big enough to keep you warm.

• · Sunglasses – you do not want to risk having your sunglasses in your checked bag only to receive them in pieces, also if you arrive in a country during the day, you will most likely need them when exiting the airport especially after a red-eye flight.