Everything I need to survive my yearly flight back to the UK

There aren't many downsides to moving to Sydney from London – the weather's warmer, the beaches are closer, and the energy is more relaxed. But there is one thing that looms each year: the 24-hour flight back home.

Fortunately, there are always tips and tricks bandied around the expat community to help ease the discomfort, fatigue, and brain-melting boredom of the 24-hour trip (particularly if you're like me and often fly solo).

So, if you're about to tackle a long-haul flight, these are some expat-approved sanity saviours.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Keeping as comfortable as possible

Trying to stay comfortable on such a long flight (have I already mentioned how arduous it is?) is no simple task. Particularly when wedged into and wriggling around an economy seat.

My first tip would be to try your luck at an upgrade – no harm in asking. Failing that, these are some of my foolproof comfort options.

lululemon Groove Nulu Super-High-Rise Flared Pant

$139 | lululemon

These lululemon flares are designed for yoga and Pilates, which is ideal given the amount of flexibility you need mid-flight, trying to tuck and cross your legs. They're super soft and mould to your body without being restrictive. I also bloat like crazy on flights (probably due to boredom eating), so the stretchy high-waist fit is perfect.

Airplane Foot Hammock

$12.99 | Amazon

If there's one thing I hate most about economy class, it's not being able to move the position of my feet. An aeroplane foot hammock, which conveniently attaches to the tray table, allows you to kick your feet up, adjusting the height to your preference. Alternatively, pack a squishy bag as a carry-on and rest your feet on that.

Ölend Ona Soft Crossbody Bag

$169 | END Clothing

Speaking of soft bags, the Ölend Ona Soft Crossbody Bag is the perfect option. Not only because it went viral on TikTok, but also because of its versatility. You can wear it three ways: as a shoulder bag, a crossbody bag, or a backpack. With a magnetic clip, interior and exterior pockets, and enough space to fit a 17" laptop, it's a great on-flight bag.

Beating fatigue

There's something about sitting down for hours on end that is truly exhausting. As day bleeds into night, you can be left feeling zombified, but there are a few ways to fight the feeling.

Frank Green Ceramic Reusable Bottle

$69.95 | Frank Green

I cannot stress how important it is to stay hydrated on a flight if you want to feel even half-alive. I pack two water bottles for the flight, so I always have a drink to hand, and I don't have to hassle the flight attendants to refill my bottle too many times.

AirPods Pro 3

$404 | Amazon

Sleep can be a rarity on a plane, particularly if you're sitting amidst noisy conversation, crying babies or towards the back of the aircraft where it's notoriously loud. Noise-cancelling headphones are a must. The new AirPods Pro 3 are a great bet; when wearing them during take-off, I could barely hear the rumble of the plane.

The JBL Tour One M3 Smart Tx headphones are also very flight-friendly. The audio transmitter allows you to connect your headphones to the entertainment, saving you from having to wear those flimsy ones provided.

Mavogel Cotton Sleep Eye Mask

$9.49 | Amazon

This cotton eye mask is lightweight, breathable, and ensures that all outside light is blocked, allowing you to sleep undistracted. Simple, yet very necessary.

Travel toothbrush

$12.01 | Amazon

There's nothing I hate more than feeling grubby – it actually makes me feel sick. When embarking on any long-haul flight, I make sure to pack my trusty travel toothbrush to ensure I feel clean. It comes with a case, so it can be easily stored in the bathroom for when you need it.

I also pack face wash, face wipes, moisturiser, and deodorant to cover all bases. It truly keeps the misery at bay.

Tackling boredom

It gets to that point during a long-haul flight where I can't bear to watch another film – my eyes have glazed over, and my brain has shut down. Time for some new stimulation! But, what?

Kindle

$179 | Amazon

I once found myself lugging three books around in my carry-on – how ridiculous is that? When I finally caved to the Kindle hype, I was converted. Top tip: Download a few different books pre-flight so you have options depending on your mood.

Crochet set for beginners

Buy here

This might seem really random, but trust me. Not only is crocheting having a total moment right now, but a bit of arts and crafts is a great way to distract yourself from the glacial passing of minutes, seconds, and hours.

Wordle Challenge Book

$25.99 | Amazon

A puzzle or games book is always great to have to hand on a long flight. I find they're an effective way of keeping the brain ticking as well as making the time pass faster.

READ MORE: The suitcase that made travelling a million times easier