Packing for a trip sounds simple—until it isn’t. You start with the basics like toothbrush, toothpaste, and whatever else is on your packing list. But then comes the decisions. What goes in your carry-on bag? What's worth squeezing in? And what ends up forgotten until after you've already checked in?

The real problem isn't what you're packing. It's how your travel essentials work together. Two well-matched items can do more than five last-minute add-ons. Less weight, less stress, and a much smoother trip.

This is where shopping online on Laneway comes in. You can pre-order travel must-haves made to work better together so you can start your trip feeling more prepared. The best part? It’s all duty free!

Are you the type of traveller who values comfort over everything else? The one who shows up in sweats, swears by their noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs, and has a perfectly packed carry-on travel bag? If that’s you, these duty free pairings are worth the space:

Compression socks + Travel Pillow

Long flights aren’t easy on the body, but a few well-picked essentials can make a big difference. Ostrich Pillow’s compression socks help with circulation and reduce swelling, especially on long-haul flights. Pair that with a memory foam neck pillow from Korjo for proper head and neck support while you rest.

Lip balm + Hand Cream

Cabin air dries out everything—your lips, hands, even the skin around your eyes. Good thing, Laneway stocks hydration-focused lip balms from Clarins and Elizabeth Arden. Even better, grab the Lano 101 Ointment in Green Apple—a multi-use balm you can swipe on lips, cuticles, and dry patches. For hand cream, try L’Occitane. They have options light enough to use in-flight, but rich enough to make a difference.

Eye mask + Facial Treatment Mask

This is the closest thing to self-care at 30,000 feet. Use a cooling eye mask from Estée Lauder to reduce puffiness, then layer on a hydrating facial mask from SK-II while you rest. They’re easy to pack and even easier to work into a mid-flight skincare routine.

Flying in? After a long international flight, it takes a few small essentials to help you feel ready to face the day. Pre-order on Laneway and grab these duty free pairings once you land. They’re easy to keep in your toiletry bag or daypack, and they’ll save you from scrambling for a post-flight fix.

Facial Wipes + Cleanser + Tinted Sunscreen

Start with a quick swipe of MAC facial wipes, followed by a gentle cleanse and a layer of tinted SPF. It’s an easy reset that takes two minutes and helps you feel less like you’ve just spent 15 hours in the air. Kiehl’s and Bobbi Brown have duty freee options that get the job done without drying your skin out.

Hydrating Mist + Lightweight Moisturiser

Cabin air is harsh. Rehydrate your face with a facial mist and follow up with a light moisturiser to seal it in. Great if you’re landing somewhere dry, or just want your skin to feel balanced again. Look for brands like Lanocreme or Jurlique for something that works but still packs light!

Tinted Lip Balm + Multi-Use Makeup Palette

Add some colour without overthinking it. A tinted balm plus a compact palette with blush, shadow, or highlighter is more than enough to help you look awake. Bonus if it comes with a mirror! Gucci, Givenchy, and MAC have multi-use palettes that don’t take up much room.

Hair Mist + Deodorant + Travel-Size Perfume

Frizz, flat hair, and that lived-in plane smell? This combo covers it all. Spritz on a Bvlgari hair mist, swipe on Clinique deodorant, and finish with a subtle spray of fragrance. Hermès, Maison Margiela, and Victor&Rolf offer minis that are made for moments like this.

Bonus Travel Tip: If you’re heading straight into a full day, Miffy has a tote bag that makes a great lightweight daypack for all your essentials. It’s also a good idea to grab a reusable water bottle (Kinto has cute options!) so you can stay hydrated through every adventure!

It’s one thing to pack your tech gear—it’s another to actually keep it charged, accessible, and secure. These duty free travel accessories help you stay powered up and organised, without digging through your bag or holding up the queue.

USB Power Hub + Charger and Power Bank

You’ve packed your charger and power bank but without a reliable adaptor, how are you charging your iPhone, iPad, and AirPods all at once? Korjo’s USB Power Hub has multiple socket options plus two fast-charging USB ports, so your gadgets are good to go wherever you land.

TSA Lock + Heavy Duty Luggage Strap

Bluetooth luggage tags help track your bags, but what about keeping them shut? Korjo’s TSA lock and luggage strap add a layer of physical security without slowing you down at check-in. It’s peace of mind that travels with you.

RFID Crossbody Bag + RFID Passport Holder + RFID Credit Card Holder

Stay hands-free and protected with a lightweight crossbody bag designed to block digital skimming. Pair your travel wallet with RFID pouches for debit/credit cards, so all your valuables stay close, safe, and easy to reach.

Bonus Travel Tip: Keep your tech organised in a simple pouch, and use compression packing cubes for clothing. It’ll make more space in your travel backpack and keep cables from getting crushed.

Last-minute gifts don’t need to feel rushed. Whether you're arriving to visit friends or leaving with a thank-you in mind, these pairings feel effortless and thoughtful.

Single Malt Whisky + Gourmet Chocolate

Rich, bold, and well-balanced—this duo makes a strong impression. Consider pairing the Aberlour Double Cask Matured 14 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1L) with a selection of premium chocolates from Patons. The whisky's deep, complex flavours complement the smooth sweetness of the chocolate, creating a luxurious tasting experience.

Smooth Red Wine + Dark Chocolate Coffee Beans

A smooth red paired with a crunchy, caffeine-kissed treat is an easy win. The Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet brings dark fruit, subtle spice, and balance—just right alongside Melbourne Cocoa’s dark chocolate-covered coffee beans. Refined but relaxed, this one suits any time of day.

Scent Diffuser + Body Oil

Great for gifting calm in a compact way. Jo Malone London has diffusers that fill the space with soft florals, while Endota’s Jojoba & Coconut Body Oil nourishes the skin. A thoughtful pairing for someone who needs rest more than things!

Silk Sleep Mask + High-Quality Candle

Perfect for someone who values comfort. Slip’s Pure Silk Sleep Mask feels light and soft against the skin, while Glasshouse’s no-silicone candles add a warm, ambient touch to any night-time routine. Small luxuries that make a big difference.

Disclaimer: Only passengers travelling internationally from/to Melbourne Airport can purchase goods via the Laneway. Please note that some goods may have minimum age requirements (for example alcohol/tobacco) and ID will need to be provided at the time you collect the goods from the relevant collection point. Purchases of alcohol and tobacco via the Laneway must not be made by any person who is under 18 years of age.

Whether you’re packing for comfort, a quick refresh, or a personal gift, the best travel essentials are the ones that work well together. With Laneway, it’s easy to plan ahead. Just pre-order your duty free must-haves up to 30 days before your flight, and as late as 24 hours out.

Start your next trip feeling sorted. Browse our collection online, subscribe to Melbourne Airport’s Shopping Deals newsletter, and follow us on social for the latest offers and duty free deals!