I love traveling to new places, but I have a confession: I hate flying. Not great for a travel blogger, right?

As soon as I step onto the plane, I feel uncomfortable and bored, just counting the minutes until landing. I can’t afford a business-class seat, but over the years of traveling, I’ve picked up some tips and gear to make the experience more bearable thanks to my years of traveling. 

So, here are my 15 must-have travel accessories to survive any flight, short or long!

 

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15 Must-Have Travel Gear to Upgrade Your Flight Experience

Struggling to fit in everything? Check out my best tips to pack and maximize space in your suitcase!

 

1. Neck Pillow

Because I sleep as soon as I get on the plane, I never board a flight without my neck pillow, whatever the flight duration.

The Cabeau Neck Pillow‘s 360-degree support keeps my head from bobbing around, and the memory foam feels like a gentle hug for my neck. It’s compact enough to fit in my carry-on and has saved me from countless stiff necks.

 

2. Sleep Eye Mask

I personally don’t use a sleep eye mask because I don’t need it to sleep. But several of my travel buddies simply can’t make it without one, especially on long hauls. If like them, you need to block out the world, make sure to have one with you.

This mask fits perfectly without pressing on the eyes, allowing for complete darkness. It makes it possible to get some quality shut-eye, even with the cabin lights on.

 

3. Noise-Canceling Headphones

I always have headphones wherever I go, especially when I travel. I always have music or a Netflix show playing.

My Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones are the best as they completely cut me off from the rest. The noise cancellation is so effective, it’s like being in my own little world, whether I’m listening to music or just enjoying the silence. They’re super comfy, even on the longest flights.

 

4. Portable Charger

My portable charger is a part of me when I’m traveling – it never leaves me. Thanks to it, I never worry about my devices dying mid-flight.

The Anker Portable Charger has a high capacity, which means I can charge my phone and tablet multiple times. Make sure to take this one or something of equivalent quality and performance because you don’t want to have to charge it all the time. It’s a lifesaver, especially on long journeys with limited outlets.

 

5. Air Tag

Since an airline lost my luggage on one of my trips, I’ve made it a point to always travel with an AirTag. This tiny device gives me such peace of mind by helping me track my luggage. I just slip it into my suitcase, and if it ever goes missing, I can quickly locate it using the Find My app on my iPhone. It’s especially comforting during layovers when luggage can easily get misplaced.

The setup is super easy, and the battery lasts for over a year. Knowing exactly where my bag is at all times has really cut down my stress.

 

6. Phone Holder 

The Klealook Phone Holder has truly been a game-changer for my flights. No more awkwardly balancing my phone on the tray table as this holder clips to the seat in front of me, giving me hands-free viewing. It’s perfect for binge-watching my shows or movies without any neck or arm strain.

The adjustable clamp fits various phone sizes and can even attach to other surfaces like the back of a car seat or the edge of a table, so you can use it for all sorts of travel situations.

 

7.  Airfly Duo

This is a must for me since my headphones are wireless, and I prefer using my own headphones instead of those provided by the airline. They’re uncomfortable and too big so they always hurt me. 

This Airfly Duo plugs right into the airplane’s headphone jack and syncs up with my Bluetooth headphones, so I can enjoy in-flight entertainment without the hassle of tangled wires. The best part? It lets two sets of headphones connect at the same time, which is perfect for sharing a movie with my travel buddy! 

 

8. Compression Socks

Ok, this isn’t new and I know it’s an essential travel gear for many of us. I have the chance not to have swelling legs, but I know it’s the case for a lot of people, including some members of my family, so I had to put it on this list. 

SB SOX Compression Socks are perfect to keep your legs from swelling and help with circulation, making you feel much better when landing. Plus, they’re comfortable enough to wear for hours! 

 

9. Inflatable Footrest

A footrest will support your legs and reduce swelling and fatigue, making it much easier to settle in and get comfortable. It helps reduce pressure on the lower back and keeps the legs and feet flexible and comfy throughout the flight.

The FunLake Footrest Pillow is 2 in 1. You can use it as a fo hammock or you can inflate it to make a small pillow that fits perfectly in the small space under the seat in front of you. Its compact size when deflated makes it easy to pack in your carry-on. 

 

10. Travel Slippers

In my opinion, slippers are necessary on long flights. I just need to remove my shoes to feel a bit more like home. And trust me, it’s better to have slippers on instead of walking on the plane’s dirty ground…

Make sure to take something foldable so it doesn’t take up too much space in your hand luggage. Also, choose slippers you could use during your trip. So for example, if you’re going on a beach trip, prefer a water-resistant material. 

travel slippers
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11. Travel Blanket

I don’t bring a blanket with me but my wife does because she’s always cold on long-haul flights. The blanket provided by the airline is too thin, so she needs something thicker to be comfortable. In the hotter seasons, she prefers packing a big scarf to use as a blanket. 

The EverSnug Travel Blanket and Pillow is ultra-soft and versatile as you can use it as a blanket, pillow, or lumbar support. It rolls up compactly, perfect for fitting in your carry-on and keeping you cozy. It makes the perfect travel gift! 

 

12. Travel-Sized Toiletry Kit

I know business class passengers often get luxurious amenity kits, especially on long-haul flights. So, if you want to upgrade your flight, why not create your own? 

If you want to do so, you should buy the NexCare Travel Size Toiletry Bottles Set and fill it with some beauty products such as lip balm, moisturizer, hand cream, toothbrush… A bit of self-care can make a huge difference during travel!

Honestly, it’s not my type but it’s definitely my wife’s so I’d make her one the next time we have a long flight.   

 

13. Reusable Water Bottle

I never buy water bottles, wherever I go and I always carry my Hydro Flask with me. I have a small kidney problem so I always have to be hydrated, and 1) bottles of water are expensive at the airport/on board and 2) it’s not sustainable. 

The Hydro Flask keeps my water cold for hours, and I can refill it at the airport water stations, right before boarding. I know not all airports have water stations, but you should take advantage of them when there are! 

 

14. Tablet or E-reader

I don’t need a tablet since I use my phone to watch my videos, but I never travel without my Kindle. Physical books are heavy and take up too much space so the Kindle is perfect for carrying my entire library with me. If you love reading and want your books on the go, a Kindle is a must-have!

On the other hand, a tablet is great for those who enjoy watching movies on a high-resolution screen without worrying about battery life. It’s also perfect for keeping kids entertained with games and videos during the flight.

 

15. Seatback Organizer

Having a seatback organizer is a must to keep your essentials neatly arranged and within easy reach during flights. It’s not my style as I never have much with me, but it’s useful for the messy ones or those who are always cluttered. 

It attaches to the seat in front of you with adjustable straps, fitting any airplane seat securely. With multiple pockets, it holds your phone, tablet, snacks, water bottle, and more, so you don’t need to rummage through your carry-on. 

 

Final Note

You see, flying economy doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. With the right travel gear, you can make even the longest flights more enjoyable. Investing in some items can help you feel more relaxed and less stressed, so you arrive at your destination ready to go.

So, I hope these 15 essentials can make a world of difference and make the journey as pleasant as the destination. For more travel tips and gear, check out my favorite travel gear here.

Happy travels!

 

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