Whether we like it or not, this time of year many of us find ourselves on airplanes. By choice, I’ll be embarking on many long flights of my own this week with my final destination being very South… in Antarctica. To keep my comfortable and sane throughout my travels here are four of my staples that go with my every time I take flight. Whether it’s across the continent to the East Coast or approaching the other end of the world, keeping a few key items close by makes all the difference.

Emilia Travel Set – this cashmere travel set has your comfort essentials, a blanket and eye mask. The zippered bag can double as a pillow, and acts as a great case for the blanket in your carry-on.

Gucci pouch – a pouch worn diagonally across the body is the safest way to carry your passport, blackberry or iPhone, cash, and credit cards. The security of a money belt (depending on your location and travel savvy-ness you might want to wear a hidden money belt as well), while maintaining the style of a fashion lover. You’ll never scrounge around in a big purse or carry-on to try to produce your passport or boarding pass. It’s so small you can comfortably keep it on while using an airplane washroom (never leave your passport anywhere you aren’t while in transit). I swear by this Gucci bag I bought in Singapore, but you can also opt for an $everyday investment with LeSportSac’s belt bag. I have this one in black patent and I wear it working out and hiking.

LeSportSac Large Weekender – the tried and true weekender comes in small, medium, large and extra large. Large is the perfect size for carry-on (extra large will also fit most airlines guidelines as long as it’s not fully stuffed, but be careful as you’ll lose the structure). As much as I love a big leather carry-on (mO851 weekenders being my go-to), I don’t worry about stuffing LeSportSac under the chair in front of me or in an overhead compartment. The plastic patent is so durable.

Klean Kanteen – whatever bottle you choose, while traveling and flying you need to be in control of your own hydration. Never board a flight or get into a car without water. Having a reusable container allows flight attendants to offer you refills and won’t add to plastic bottles sitting in landfills. As well as the considerations of harmful ingredients in plastic and non-PBA-free metals.

Other items to keep in mind are: an endless supply of unread books and magazines, a fully charged iPod with new play-lists, sound proof headphones (I swear by Bose), snacks, vitamins and loads of face, hand cream and lip salve. Sleep when you can and take deep breaths in long airport lines.

Travel safe!! ♥