As much as we would love to be comfortable in business class getting served fancy drinks and delicious meals, usually our trip budget or miles can never cover flying luxuriously or very comfortably…sometimes extra legroom is still not the most comfortable although still better than being cramped. Below I have listed a few items I like to keep in my carry-on or personal bag to make my flight enjoyable (or even bearable) no matter how long the flight time is.
Purchasing a sleeping mask to use on flights was a complete game changer for me. It is very aggravating when you are trying to take a nap and the lights turn on suddenly for the flight attendants to come around asking if you would like a drink or snack. My silk eye mask helps me sleep comfortably and in darkness without any light disturbances and is very comfortable.
I have trial and errored many uncomfortable airplane pillows and have finally landed on one (no pun intended) that fits easily and does not cause me to head bob! I like that it is compact and can be stored in your personal bag. If you are not a fan of foam or tempur-pedic like pillows than I would stay away from this kind of support, otherwise I highly suggest trying it out on your next trip!
I didn’t understand the hype around Air Pod Pros until I put them in my ears and realized that the noise cancellation does wonders. Whether am I am traveling on plane, train or bus, the amount of noise that gets through is minimal to none (with the expectation of a wailing baby screaming a row behind me on my flight back to NYC from Orlando).
If you are budget conscious and want some noise cancellation without a podcast, music or entertainment playing in the background then grabbing yourself a regular pair of noise cancellation ear plugs can help the deafen the sound of the toddler tantrums or seat buddy conversations on your flight that disturb your beauty sleep.
Although my personal bag has a ton of room to fit my wallet, keys, airplane accessories and more, I am always irritated rummaging through my bag trying to find the small accessories that get lost in the pockets. I also try to put my bag in the overhead bin, so I have room for my feet in my seat when I take a nap. Having a small belt bag to store any small accessories you may need during your flight (my must have items on me include: air-pods, phone, charger, eye mask, passport or wallet, and Kindle) will minimize the hassle of going through your personal item and keep you organized!
I’m not sure if I am getting older or my body is starting to hate cabin pressure, but recently I have had to invest in compression socks as my feet swell up when I fly! I have been on an airplane since before I could walk and this has never happened before, so it was a huge surprise when I had to start taking my running sneakers off midflight because my ankles hurt.
In-flight Entertainment Adapter
Anyone else sick and tired of our electronics constantly changing their port outlets, the Bluetooth setting not working on the screens of your assigned seat, or simply having to bring (or forget to bring) headphones on the plane? Me too. This adapter changes the game by being small, compact, and easy to use with all headphones! Now you can relax, and binge watch all the movies or shows you want!
TSA Approved Collapsible Water Bottle
Although I love my stainless-steel water bottle that keeps my water oh so cold and fresh, I absolutely despise traveling with it and leave it home. Why may you ask? It takes up a lot of precious space in a personal bag. The discovery of collapsible water bottles was my newfound love. Not only do I not have to pay an outrageous amount for bottled water, but now I can save room in my bag with this more sustainable option! Not to forget that I can also use it all throughout my trip while sightseeing and exploring as it is easy to dump, refill and store.
For all of our travelers who like to have their feet up while taking a cat nap or slumber on your flight, this foot rest is for you! Don’t use that weird seat belt hack on TikTok and just spend a couple of dollars to have your feet swing comfortably, while you sit back, relax, and enjoy the flight.
Other than crying children and sitting in a middle seat, getting on an airplane with no screen or entertainment is on top of the list of worst things to experience on a flight. The solution? A phone holder to prop your phone on the seat in front of you to watch your favorite shows or play some video games!
Although this is a no brainer, you would be surprised how many people don’t carry a portable charger on their trip. I’m sure these travelers had wished they had one of these portable chargers when they come to find out the charger at their seat doesn’t work, or even when there are no more free outlets in the airport while waiting to board! Just buy one as you can use it on your flight, on your trip, on your commute, literally anywhere and thank me later.
