Mid Life Travel Pro

As someone who hops across the Atlantic to the UK and Ireland multiple times a year, I’ve perfected the art of the carry-on. Long flights can be wonderful… or wonderfully uncomfortable if you’re not prepared. Over the years, these are the ten items I never board a transatlantic flight without—my tried-and-true essentials that make every journey smoother, cozier, and far more enjoyable.

1. A Lightweight Travel Blanket or Wrap

Cabin temperatures can swing from toasty to Arctic within an hour. I always bring a soft, compact travel blanket or oversized wrap. It keeps me warm on the plane and doubles as a scarf once I land in damp British or Irish weather.

2. Noise-Canceling Headphones

Between engine hum, crying babies, and snack carts rattling past, a quiet bubble is priceless. Noise-canceling headphones help me relax, watch movies in peace, or drift off for a much-needed nap – Plus I find them more comfy than the ones that go inside the ear!

3. A Fully Stocked Toiletry Pouch

I keep a small TSA-friendly toiletries kit ready to go: moisturizer, lip balm, a hydrating mist, toothpaste, travel toothbrush, and hand cream. The cabin air is notoriously drying and your skin will thank you.

4. A Portable Charger (Fully Charged!)

Transatlantic flights often have outlets… and sometimes they don’t. I never take the risk. A fully charged power bank ensures my phone, Kindle, and earbuds stay powered through delays, layovers, and long flights.

5. Compression Socks

Trust me – once you start flying with compression socks, you’ll never go back. They keep my legs from swelling on overnight flights and help prevent that heavy, uncomfortable feeling when you land.

6. A Change of Clothes (Including Undergarments)

After too many lost-luggage close calls, I always pack a complete change of clothes. Landing in London or Dublin without your suitcase? Stressful. Having clean clothes in your carry-on? A total sanity saver.

7. Snacks You Actually Like

As much as I love to fly, airplane meals don’t exactly excite me. I always pack protein bars and snacks in case the airplane meal is less than palatable!

8. Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated on a long-haul flight is key, and I never rely solely on those mini airline cups. I bring my own bottle and fill it up at the airport right before boarding. An added bonus is I skip the pricey airport water bottle charges.

9. Travel Documents & Essentials Pouch

My passport, Global Entry card, credit cards, foreign currency, and any printed confirmations all live together in one slim organizer. No digging in my bag. No panic in the security line.

10. My Kindle (Loaded with Books Set in the UK & Ireland!)

There’s nothing better than reading a cozy novel set in a village in Cornwall or the Irish countryside while you’re flying there. I always preload a few new titles for the journey.