Pack These Six Items if You’re Flying This Winter

Make flying in the winter easier on yourself by remembering to pack these six items.

Flying is hard enough as it is—and colder weather can make it even more complicated. Why not make it easier on yourself? This winter, keep these items top of mind while packing.

Your next adventure will thank you.

1. Hand sanitizer and wet wipes. Remember to use a generous amount of hand sanitizer before digging into your delicious airplane snacks. Want to go one step further? Use wet wipes to clean off the tray table and armrests before using them.

2. Cough drops. Even if you're feeling fine, the air on planes is especially dry during the colder months and you never know when your throat is going to start feeling like the Sahara. You'll also be able to offer one to the passenger next to you, should they get hit with a hack attack.

3. A small throw blanket. Even in the summer, it could be cold on a plane. It's always a good idea—especially for longer flights—to bring along something to provide an extra bit of comfort. Not cold? Fold up the blanket and have it double as a travel pillow. You may even consider packing a pair of gloves to keep your hands toasty warm.

4. Earplugs or noise cancelling headphones. Dealing with a headache or simply looking to read in silence? Bring along some squishy earplugs or noise cancelling headphones to drown out the sounds around you. So whether you're listening to a podcast, watching a movie or reading in silence, you won't be at the mercy of the sounds around you.

5. Portable charger. Winter weather can be unpredictable (to say the least), with delays and cancelations being an unfortunate reality. Don't stress out over trying to find an open outlet: Bring your own charging bank. While many planes have USB chargers these days, there's no guarantee they'll always be working as they should. Better safe than with a dead phone!

6. A mask. Whether you're already planning to wear one on your next flight or not, a mask is an item you'll always want handy on your travels. They especially can come in handy if you get seated next to someone who has a cough or is sneezing often. While you can't control who you get sat next to on a plane or sometimes motorcoach, you can control the actions you can take to keep yourself as healthy as possible.

REMEMBER: If you're traveling somewhere cold, layer up and wear your bulkiest items—sweaters, puffy coat, snow boots—on the plane to save space in your luggage.

Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for Groups Today.