Let’s be honest: flying takes a toll. My skin dries out, my hair turns into a bird’s nest, and I inevitably land looking like I’ve just survived a 12-hour wind tunnel But after years of trial and error, I’ve found my holy grail lineup of in-flight grooming essentials.
These 12 picks never leave my cabin bag — and trust me, they’ve saved my travel day more times than I can count.
Here’s everything I swear by to arrive fresh-faced and totally unbothered by turbulence.
1. Le Labo Santal 33 Travel Perfume – AED 520 (15ml)
This is my secret weapon for smelling divine at 35,000 feet.
Santal 33 isn’t just a fragrance — it’s a vibe. The woody, smoky scent instantly lifts my mood, and the 15ml size is perfect for slipping into my clear liquids bag. One discreet spritz mid-flight, and I go from stale-air sad to effortlessly cool. It’s genderless, sophisticated, and lingers beautifully — perfect for arriving at your destination with flair.
2. Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask – AED 175
This is my holy grail for keeping my face plump and glowing on long-hauls.
I slather a thin layer on after take-off and let it work while I sleep (or pretend to). No rinsing needed, and it never looks greasy. The hydration is real — this mask literally revives tired skin and erases signs of altitude-induced stress. I’ve landed in Dubai, Bali, and even chilly London winter looking like I just came from a facial.
3. Foreo Luna Mini 2 – AED 580
When I feel gross mid-flight, this tiny device is my skin saviour.
It’s gentle yet powerful — I use it with a waterless cleanser or micellar water. Even in a cramped airplane loo, this gadget makes my skin feel fresh, smooth, and properly cleansed. It’s especially amazing on red-eyes or back-to-back flights. The charge lasts forever, and it’s hygienic too.
4. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Lip Protectant – AED 90
Cabin air is brutal on lips, but this balm is a miracle.
I’ve tried everything, but this one is thick, comforting, and lasts through meals, naps, and even a whole flight. It adds a subtle shine, smells nostalgic, and heals cracks overnight. Bonus: I use it on dry cuticles and brows too. It’s a classic for a reason.
5. Patchology Rejuvenating Eye Gels – AED 70 (Pack of 5)
These are my in-flight pick-me-up for tired, puffy eyes.
Pop them on before landing, and you’ll look like you actually slept. They feel cooling, de-puff instantly, and don’t slip down your face while you’re seated. I always get compliments after using these — even from flight attendants.
6. Tangle Teezer Compact Styler – AED 95
My hair gets wild in recycled cabin air — this saves the day.
It fits easily in my hand luggage and glides through knots like magic. No pulling, no frizz, just smooth hair and no drama. I’ve even brushed through post-beach tangles with this after landing somewhere tropical. Lifesaver.
7. Rituals The Ritual of Sakura Hand Balm – AED 55
My hands get so dry on flights, but this is pure luxury.
It smells like spring and absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky mess. Every time I use it, someone nearby asks what the scent is — it’s that good. It’s also small enough to slip in your seat pocket for quick top-ups.
8. Huda Beauty Mini Obsessions Eye Kit – AED 135
I love landing with a fresh face, and this set makes it effortless.
The pigments are insane, and it’s so compact. I swipe on a neutral shimmer shade before landing and instantly look polished. Plus, it’s from Dubai’s own makeup queen, so it feels right at home on Gulf routes.
9. RXBAR Protein Bar (Blueberry) – AED 13
Airline snacks rarely do the job — this bar does.
Packed with real ingredients and enough protein to keep me from turning hangry. I always keep one in my tech pouch, and it’s perfect if the flight gets delayed or they run out of decent meal options. Bonus: it actually tastes good.
10. Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise-Cancelling Headphones – AED 1,499
These are worth every dirham for the peace they bring.
Crying babies? Cabin announcements? Gone. I put these on with a playlist or white noise and I’m in my own world. The sound quality is next-level, and they don’t hurt my ears even after hours of wear. Game-changer for long-hauls.
11. Book: “Atomic Habits” by James Clear – AED 62
Flying is the perfect time to reset — this book inspired me.
It’s not just motivational fluff. Every chapter has practical tools to improve your life. I love re-reading sections mid-flight to get inspired or feel productive, even when I’m stuck in seat 22B.
12. Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Wipes – AED 45
If I could only bring one thing, these wipes would be it.
Gentle, refreshing, and never sting my eyes or dry out my skin. They remove makeup, sunscreen, even stress. I use one before applying moisturiser or masks mid-flight and feel instantly human again.
Final Boarding Call: Pack Smart, Land Glowing
These are my personal travel must-haves. From skincare to sanity-savers, each item helps me step off the plane feeling like I just owned the flight, not fought it!
