When traveling for the first time, you think that you pretty much need everything including your kitchen sink and even that one lipstick you haven’t used since Halloween of last year. Personally experiencing this, I learned the things that I absolutely need and could have left at home.

One of the biggest things that people tend to realize is what they will exactly need in their little carry on bag that would make life so much easier.

1. Extra Shirt

I know this sounds kinda weird, but if you are getting on a long flight, or even multiple flights, there is nothing like being able to throw on a fresh t-shirt to make you feel a little bit better. This is a big help when getting on the next flight or when you are having to sit at your terminal for the sixth hour because your flight got delayed…again.

2. Mascara

There is nothing like being able to throw on some mascara to freshen up how you look. If you are anything like me, when something goes wrong, I freak out and my only reaction is to cry. Being able to throw on a coat of mascara can make you feel better after something like this happens.

3. Headphones

Even if there is no music on your phone, this is something that will usually give you some peace if needed. If someone is constantly trying to talk to you, throw in your headphones and they usually will leave you alone.

4. Pain Meds

There is nothing like being stuck 3,000 feet in the air with a headache or back pain. Being able to get easy access to some Tylenol or Advil is something that can help with that headache brought up by the 3-year-old screaming and kicking your seat for those wonderful three hours.

5. Portable Charger

I feel that this one goes without saying. If you are one to listen to music or read a book on your phone, you want to be able to get into contact with people who are picking you up from the airport or be able to call a taxi.

6. Hair Bow

Some people call these “hair ties” or “twisties.” Whatever you call them, keep one on your wrist when flying. The planes can get hot and your hair can get annoying. This is something that I personally like to have because nothing says “you are really annoying me and I wish you would leave me alone” like a woman pulling up her hair with the look of harted on her face.

7. Sleeping Meds

This is for those long flights that are going to be overnight or even early in the morning. Being able to take something to help you fall asleep faster is something that is worth the few extra dollars for the fact that usually by the time you are being woken up, you are either getting food (always a good thing) or landing at your destination.

These are just a few of the many possibilities of things that you might need when on your flight, but they are some of the most important things that I feel most people need to feel better or at least look like you don’t actually hate every second of the flight that you are on.