Travelling with young kids is rewarding, but it’s also demanding — physically, mentally, and emotionally. While your carry-on might be packed with snacks, spare clothes, and entertainment for your little ones, your comfort and wellbeing are just as important.

When you feel calm, cared for, and refreshed, you’re able to show up more patiently and confidently for your family. These ten self-care essentials are easy to pack, don’t take up much space, and can make a huge difference in how you feel during and after a flight.

Here’s what we recommend every mum packs in her carry-on:

1. Compression Socks

Long periods of sitting can slow blood flow and cause swelling — especially in the feet and ankles. Compression socks help keep circulation moving, reduce the risk of discomfort or deep vein issues, and leave your legs feeling less heavy after a long flight.

Top Tip: Choose socks with graduated compression (firmest at the ankle) and a breathable material. They’re especially helpful if you're pregnant, postpartum, or carrying toddlers.

2. Noise-Cancelling Earbuds 

You might not get total silence, but reducing the background hum of the plane can help regulate your nervous system. Blocking noise helps ease overstimulation — especially during moments of turbulence, crying babies, or if you just need a sensory break.

Top Tip: Loop-style earplugs are a great travel option — comfortable, discreet, and effective at dulling noise without blocking it entirely.

3. Hydrating Face Mist or Spray

Low cabin humidity (usually around 10–20%) dehydrates your skin fast. A quick face mist boosts hydration and soothes tight, dry skin. It also gives you a cooling, refreshing moment — especially if the flight is hot or you’re feeling flustered.

Top Tip: Look for ingredients like rosewater, aloe, or cucumber. A fine spray bottle is ideal — small enough for your clear bag and refreshing enough for mid-flight pick-me-ups.

4. Lip Balm & Hand Cream Combo

Flying can leave your skin dry and uncomfortable. Having a nourishing lip balm and hand cream close by keeps skin soft, prevents cracking, and adds a layer of comfort — especially when washing hands often or handling wipes, snacks, and little hands.

Top Tip: Choose fast-absorbing, non-greasy formulas to avoid mess. Fragrance-free options are ideal if you're sensitive to scents while flying.

5. Electrolyte Sachets or Hydration Tablets

It’s easy to get dehydrated in-flight — and it happens faster if you’re nursing, tired, or drinking caffeine. Adding electrolytes to your water helps your body absorb it more efficiently, giving you more energy and helping avoid post-flight headaches or fatigue.

Top Tip: Choose natural or sugar-free options and pack a few extras in case your kids need a boost too (some brands are kid-safe!).

6. Aromatherapy Roller (Lavender or Peppermint)

Travel stress, tension headaches, or feeling overstimulated can all be helped with calming scents. An aromatherapy roller is a tiny but powerful way to reset your mood or ground yourself when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Top Tip: Lavender is calming and great for sleep; peppermint is refreshing and good for nausea or headaches. Roll on wrists, temples, or under your nose — a little goes a long way.

7. Reusable Eye Mask or Cooling Gel Eye Pads

When your child finally nods off, you should too. A soft eye mask helps block out light and distractions so you can rest — even just for 15 minutes. Cooling gel pads are ideal if your eyes feel puffy or strained after a long day.

Top Tip: Look for silk or satin masks to avoid skin creasing. If you have tired, heavy eyes, chill your gel pads before flying (if possible) or use them during a layover.

8. Chewing Gum or Mints

Aside from keeping your breath fresh, chewing gum helps relieve pressure during takeoff and landing — especially important if you're prone to blocked ears or sinus issues. Mints can also reduce nausea and give a quick energy boost.

Top Tip: Xylitol-based mints are dentist-approved and won’t dry out your mouth like sugary ones. Choose a flavour that soothes you — peppermint and spearmint are great in-flight options.

9. Mini Skincare Essentials

You may not have time for a full routine, but even a quick refresh can help you feel like yourself again. A mini moisturiser, brow brush, and lip tint can go a long way in making you feel fresh and polished before landing.

Top Tip: Keep it simple — 2 or 3 go-to products that make you feel confident and clean without needing a mirror or a full face of makeup.

10. A Good Book

Even if it’s just for a few pages during nap time or while you wait to board, reading offers a moment of mental escape. Having a book in your bag is a small reminder that you exist outside of parenting — and you deserve to enjoy something just for you.

Top Tip: Download the audiobook version too. That way, you can listen while holding your child or if your hands are full.

Packing for a flight with kids is already a mission, but slipping in a few small comforts for yourself can be the difference between arriving exhausted and arriving balanced.

None of these items are bulky or expensive, but they help you feel calm, clear-headed, and taken care of. Because when you show up as a rested, well-resourced mum, travel gets easier for everyone around you too.

So on your next flight, don’t just pack for your children — pack for yourself. You deserve it.