okaybee

It’s ironic that I’m writing this post to distract me from packing for New York!

I have a big aversion to packing, it not my favourite pastime. However, I’m good at making lists and making sure that I have everything with me, so as much as I hate packing, I can be pretty confident when I close my suitcase that I haven’t left anything behind.

There’s no denying that flying can be a stressful experience. The constant checking whether you have your passport, the mad dashes around the airport, the dry skin after a long flight, the jet lag. It’s all pretty annoying, but when you love visiting new places, it’s totally worth it.

I think you can make flights a lot more enjoyable with a little preparation. When it comes to sitting down for your flight, having a bag prepared with certain things can make the experience a lot more relaxing.

Clothing

I don’t know about you but I am always freezing on planes! I don’t travel anywhere without my favourite fleecy giant scarf which doubles as a blanket. It’s lightweight, soft, and makes all the difference, especially when it comes to a red eye flight. Thick cosy socks are also a must for me.

I like to strike a balance when it comes to clothing on flights. I don’t want to get dressed up, I’m getting on a plane not going out for the night! But I also don’t want to look like I grabbed my oldest sweats and headed for the airport. Topshop Leigh jeans are my go to for flights, the super stretchy fabric means they’re not uncomfortable to wear and they look help me look put together. A soft sweater or tee shirt is a must, plus comfortable boots that I can easily slip on and off.

Asos Sweater with Striped Trim  |  Zara Striped Sweater  |  Topshop Bale Boots  |  Zara Extra Soft Scarf  |  Madewell Sleeveless Sweater  |  Topshop Leigh Jeans

Toiletries

My skin literally feels like it dries out the moment I step on a plane. All that recycled air is not ideal. I like to take off my make up the moment I’m on a plane, that is if I bothered to put on make up in the first place. Hydrating creams and sprays are a must for face, neck and hands. I apply them as soon as I’m seated, and then again every few hours, depending on the length of the flight.

I also like to try and stay as fresh as possible on a flight. Baby wipes, mini deodorant and a toothbrush and toothpaste are a must for me. I also think having these for red eye flights help with routine. I always brush my teeth and clean my face just before I get into bed, so repeating this on a flight helps me to trick myself that I should try to sleep.

Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream  |  Dermalogica Skin Kit  |  Burt’s Bees Face Wipes  

Sleep Aides

Speaking of tricks for sleeping, I’ve only been converted to eye masks in the last few years, and the reason why is I used to sleep with my curtains open. There was something I loved about waking up to sunlight streaming into my room. Then I got black out blinds and since then I am converted. I need total darkness when going to sleep. So eye masks on flights have become a must!

Some people swear by ear plugs. I prefer a good pair of headphones that I can play some soothing music on. I bought these Frends headphones when I was in Miami a few years ago and I bring them on every single flight. They fold up making them super easy to transport and they definitely look better than ear plugs!

Snacks & Drinks

I have a serious hatred of plane food. If I can’t recognise what it is supposed to be, I’m not eating it. Why is plane food always so gross?! Having snacks on a flight is a must for me. I like to have protein bars like Quest bars or Lara bars, some fruit or veg like an apple or carrot sticks, popcorn and tonnes of water (which also helps with the drying skin). Depending on where I have visited, I love bringing some treats or baked goods on my flight with me. When I was in Toronto last summer, I queued for ages to get a box of Tim Bits for my flight. I’m a fan of a glass of wine or G&T when I’m flying, depending on the time of day of course, and how long the flight is!

Time for me to stop procrastinating, I need to pack for New York! Make sure to check out my Instagram to see pictures of my trip and I will have a great new post for you  guys when I get back!

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