Let’s face it, while airlines typically provide passengers with more than their standard amenities during long-haul flights, you’ll need more than water/juice, a small in-flight meal, and a blanket to survive. With a little pre-departure planning, you can enjoy your time in the air. Here are few carry-on must-haves for a long flight:
[Related: 4 Ways to Stay Connected While Traveling]
Extended Battery Pack for Mobile Devices — Nowadays, almost everyone hates being disconnected from their devices, especially during a long flight. So don’t forget to pack extended batteries. You’d be surprised at how fast the time will go by when you’re watching movies, listening to music, or getting some long overdue work done. Check out CNET.com for reviews about extended batteries.
Reading Material — If your eyes get tired of staring at a computer screen, it’s always good idea to get lost in a printed book or magazine. Check out the Best Sellers list at Amazon or The New York Times.
Toiletries & Medication — Prior to departure, check out  TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids. Your basic in-flight necessity kit may include sanitizing wipes to wipe snack trays, medicine, face-care items such as moisturizer and lip balm, deodorant, hand cream, makeup, etc.
Sleep Aids — Trying to get some sleep on a long-haul flight without the comforts of a pillow or sleep aid may seem next to impossible. So don’t forget to bring a neck pillow and an eye mask; even sleeping tablets may help.
Noise-Canceling Headphones or Earplugs — It’s every traveler’s wish to have a peaceful flight sans crying babies, loud-talking passengers, or someone kicking the back of your chair. But the reality is, most in-flight distractions are inevitable. However, you can certainly be prepared to block out some disruptions such as noise. Earplugs can also help reduce pain from a change in altitude. Check out CNET’s recent review of the Best headphones of 2015 and the Best noise-canceling headphones of 2015.
Food & Snacks — Most large department stores such as Target and Walmart sell travel-size snacks. To avoid any hassle trying to open or store your goodies during a flight, think small, mess-free packs of snacks. Check out 6 Healthy (Mess-Free) Homemade Snacks to Pack When Traveling on Oprah.com.
Downloadable Entertainment For Your Devices — You can never be sure that the airline will provide in-flight entertainment options. Prior to departure, download your favorite movies and music to your mobile device.