12 Smart Packing Items for Health and Comfort in Your Carry-On

5. Sleep kit: mask, ear protection, and neck pillow

Quality sleep on a plane shortens recovery time and improves comfort at your destination. A contoured sleep mask blocks light more effectively than a flat mask and reduces eye strain during naps. Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones cut cabin noise and create a consistent sleep environment, which matters more than you expect on crowded flights. A memory-foam neck pillow supports natural posture and reduces neck stiffness that often makes arrival uncomfortable. Choose a pillow that compresses for easy storage and a mask with adjustable straps for a snug fit without pressure. Layering soft, breathable clothing and a lightweight travel blanket completes the sleep kit and helps you adapt to cabin temperature swings. If you rely on sleep aids, check guidelines and discuss with a clinician beforehand; avoid heavy sleeping medications unless you know how they affect you in transit. Small investments in sleep-focused accessories yield outsized improvements in how you feel after a long flight.