Long flights can test your patience and your posture. Between dry cabin air, awkward naps and unpredictable seatmates, it’s easy to land feeling drained. With a few smart travel essentials you can upgrade your economy seat into something close to business class comfort.

Whether it’s your first long-haul or your fifteenth, here are six flight-tested hacks that keep you feeling fresh, organized,and (mostly) jet lag–free.

1. The Neck Pillow That Actually Works

Skip the inflatable ones. A memory foam neck pillow is your best friend on red-eyes and long-hauls. I’ve used this one for 2 year, it wraps around for full 360° support and won’t slip mid-nap.

2. Wear Compression Socks

Cabin pressure messes with circulation, especially on long flights. These compression socks help reduce swelling, boost blood flow, and make it easier to walk off the plane feeling normal. I used to get leg cramps mid-flight, but ever since I started wearing these, I can actually sleep, sometimes for a full 8 hours.

3. Pack an In-Flight Essentials Pouch

Instead of rummaging through your carry-on mid-flight, prep a small pouch with all your travel mini must-haves:

• Lip balm
• Disinfecting wipes
• Wire earphones
• Toothbrush + paste
• Lotion

I usually use a small pouch or fanny pack to keep it all within reach, especially useful if you’re in the window seat. This one is my go-to: Lululemon Dupe

4. Bring Your Own Snacks

Airline meals are unpredictable, so I always bring my own. I usually pack beef jerky, crackers, pistachios or honey roasted peanuts, a small sandwich, cookies, a Twix bar and sometimes instant coffee, a hydration powder packet. It keeps me full and saves money. I portion everything into ziplock bags from Dollar Tree.

If I have lounge access, I’ll grab a few extra snacks there too—just another reason to always carry a few clean ziplock bags in your carry-on.

5. Dress in Layers

Cabin temps can be unpredictable, so wear breathable layers like light pants, a long sleeve, and a hoodie or scarf. For red-eyes, go comfy; for short flights, I usually throw on baggy jeans.

No matter what, I always aim to look put together at the airport, you never know who you’ll meet.

6. Download Entertainment Ahead of Time

Wi-Fi isn’t always reliable in the air and some airlines still charge extra for it. I usually fly JetBlue and I love checking out their in-flight entertainment. It’s a fun way to see what new movies are out, and there’s almost always find something worth watching. But just in case the screen isn’t working or nothing catches my eye, I always have backup. I download a few episodes of a favorite series, one or two movies.

Final Thoughts

Long flights don’t have to feel endless. With a few essentials and some pre-flight prep, you can turn even the longest journey into a calm, cozy experience.