Travel Essentials: Accessories For A Smooth Flight

must have airline travel accessories

Travelling can be a stressful experience, but having the right accessories can make all the difference. Whether you're looking for a more comfortable journey or a way to keep yourself entertained, here are some must-have airline travel accessories to make your next flight a breeze.

First things first, a good travel pillow is essential for getting some shut-eye during a long flight. The Ostrichpillow Go Memory Foam Travel Pillow is an excellent choice, with its adjustable design and handy storage bag.

Next, you'll want to block out the noise of the plane and other passengers. Sony's noise-cancelling headphones are a great option, with impressive sound quality and a long-lasting battery life. If you're looking for something more compact, Apple's AirPods Pro are a good alternative, and they have different-sized rubber tips for a comfortable fit.

To keep yourself entertained, the Amazon Kindle is a great way to go, with its glare-free screen and long-lasting battery. If you're more of a gamer, the Nintendo Switch is a fun portable option with a massive library of downloadable games.

For added convenience, a seatback organiser is perfect for keeping your snacks, gadgets, and documents organised and within easy reach.

Lastly, don't forget to stay hydrated with a reusable water bottle. The Stojo Titan Collapsible Travel Cup is a great option, as it's lightweight and collapsible, making it easy to pack away when you're not using it.

So, whether you're looking for a comfortable journey or some in-flight entertainment, these must-have travel accessories will help make your next flight a pleasant experience.

Characteristics Values
Type Travel pillow, portable charger, compression socks, earplugs, headphones, etc.
Purpose Improve comfort, sleep, and entertainment
Size Compact and portable
Material Memory foam, fabric, silicone, plastic, etc.
Features Adjustable, lightweight, waterproof, leak-proof, etc.

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Travel pillow

A travel pillow is a must-have accessory for long-haul flights. The best travel pillows are not only comfortable but also easy to pack and carry.

There are two main types of travel pillows: the U-shaped pillow that goes around the neck, and the traditional flat pillow that has been shrunk down for portability. The U-shaped pillow is designed to prevent lateral bending in the neck. According to Dr. Carla Fischer, director of quality and patient safety at NYU Langone Spine Center, "It's that move to sort of pinch the cell phone between your shoulder and ear...That bending to the side is the most important thing to prevent."

Memory foam is considered the most "accommodating" material for travel pillows, as it is neither too firm nor too soft. The thickness of the pillow is also important—the sides should come up to the height of your earlobes, and the back should be flat or only as thick as the distance between the back of your neck and your head.

Trtl Travel Pillow

The Trtl Travel Pillow is a unique design that combines a scarf with an Elizabethan collar. It features a plastic brace stowed inside its padding, which can be adjusted to provide support and prevent lateral bending in the neck. It is easy to pack and carry, and many users have reported having a comfortable sleep on long flights while using this pillow.

Cabeau Evolution Memory Foam Travel Pillow

The Cabeau Evolution is a more traditional U-shaped travel pillow made from memory foam. It has slightly raised sides to stop your head from slumping and provides support for your jaw to prevent open-mouth breathing. It also has a flattened back so that it can be flush with the chair and help align your spine with the seat. It comes with an adjustable strap to fasten it to a headrest and a stylish circular bag for easy transport.

Ostrichpillow Go Memory Foam Travel Pillow

The Ostrichpillow is another memory foam travel pillow that offers adjustable comfort and comes with a handy storage bag. It supports your head and neck as you snooze while seated, making it a great option for long flights and road trips.

Tallgo Travel Neck Pillow

The Tallgo Travel Neck Pillow is made of soft velour material and has an ergonomic design to support your head and neck during your flight. It is easy to pack and carry, and it comes with a storage bag.

J-Pillow

The J-Pillow is ideal for window seats as it has a main body that supports the crook of your neck and a cushion that extends below the chin to stop your head from sliding forward. It is made from luxurious, fleecy material and can be compressed to half its size for easy transport.

A good travel pillow can make all the difference when it comes to getting a comfortable sleep on a long flight. With a range of options available, you can choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences to ensure a restful journey.

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Noise-cancelling headphones

If you're looking for an all-round solid pair of noise-cancelling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is a great option. With excellent noise-cancelling technology and a comfortable fit, these headphones will make your flight much more peaceful. They also have a long-lasting battery life of up to 30 hours, and you can easily adjust the noise-cancelling settings and EQ to your liking through the Sony Headphones app. The only downside is that they don't fold up, so they might take up a bit more space in your luggage.

For those who prefer a lightweight option, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are a fantastic choice. They are exceptionally good at blocking out noise and have a comfortable, wide ear cup design that won't cause strain during long flights. They also come with a compact carrying case, making them easy to transport and store.

If you're an Apple user, the Apple AirPods Max is a stylish and comfortable option with excellent noise-cancelling technology. They have a battery life of up to 20 hours and easily switch between noise-cancelling and transparency modes with the push of a button. However, they don't fold up and require a separate purchase of a Lightning to 3.5mm adapter to connect to in-flight entertainment systems.

For a more affordable option, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 headphones offer decent noise-cancelling at a fraction of the price. They have a comfortable fit, impressive battery life, and support both wireless and wired connections.

Lastly, if you prefer earbuds over headphones, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) are a great choice. They have impressive noise-cancelling capabilities and are very convenient for travel due to their compact size. They also have a long battery life and are easy to pair with iPhones, making them an ideal choice for Apple users.

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Travel blanket

A travel blanket is a must-have for any journey, whether it's a long-haul flight, a road trip, or even a quick train ride. Here's why:

Comfort and Warmth

First and foremost, a travel blanket provides an extra layer of warmth, especially when you're travelling at high altitudes or in cold climates. The right travel blanket should be made of soft, lightweight, and breathable materials like fleece, merino wool, or a silk-wool blend. This ensures you stay cosy without feeling stuffy or restricted.

Compact and Portable

Versatile and Multi-Purpose

Beyond just a plane or train ride, a travel blanket can be used in a variety of situations. It can make a hostel bed cozier, provide a clean surface for a picnic, or even double as a pillow when packed away. Some travel blankets also come with handy features like a foot pocket, a Cape Clip to keep your hands free, or a luggage strap for easy transport.

Hygienic and Easy to Care For

Bringing your own travel blanket also ensures you have a clean and familiar option, as traditional airline-provided blankets may not be washed between uses. Most travel blankets are also designed with convenience in mind, featuring materials that are machine washable and stain-resistant, so you can easily keep your travel companion clean and fresh.

Product Recommendations

When choosing a travel blanket, look for options like the Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket, which offers superior warmth and comfort while remaining lightweight and packable. The Gravel Layover Travel Blanket is another great option, made from recycled water bottles and featuring a built-in foot pocket and snaps to keep the blanket in place. For a more affordable option, the Brookstone Travel Blanket is a compact and portable choice that also includes a handy packing case.

So, whether you're looking to stay cosy on a long flight or want a familiar companion for all your travels, investing in a quality travel blanket is definitely worth it. It's a simple addition to your travel kit that will make a big difference in your comfort and enjoyment during your journeys.

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Travel socks

There are many types of travel socks available, but compression socks are the most popular. Compression socks are designed to apply gentle pressure to your legs, which can help improve blood flow and reduce swelling. They are usually made from a blend of materials such as Coolmax, Lycra, and nylon, which help to wick away moisture and keep your feet comfortable.

When choosing travel socks, it's important to consider the level of compression. Most travel socks offer light to moderate compression, ranging from 10-20 mmHg. However, if you have specific health concerns, you may need a higher level of compression. It's also important to ensure you get the right size by using the size chart provided by the manufacturer.

In addition to improving circulation, travel socks can also provide other benefits such as odour control and blister protection. Some travel socks are treated with silver-ion technology to keep your feet dry and prevent odour-causing bacteria from forming. Seamless construction and a Y-gore heel design can also help prevent blisters and ensure that your socks stay in place during your journey.

Whether you're taking a long flight or just sitting for extended periods, investing in a good pair of travel socks can help keep your feet comfortable and healthy.

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Travel-sized toiletries

Packing Smart

When packing your toiletries, opt for travel-sized versions of your favourite products or invest in a set of refillable travel bottles. This will save space and weight in your luggage, ensuring you don't exceed those strict airline limits. Remember, the TSA limits liquids to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) per container, and all liquids must fit into a quart-sized bag.

The Basics

Your travel toiletry kit should include the essentials: toothpaste, a toothbrush, soap, shampoo, and conditioner. You might also want to pack body wash, sunscreen, body lotion, dry shampoo, face wash, makeup remover, and cleanser. These items will ensure you stay fresh and comfortable throughout your journey.

First Aid and Sanitation

It's always a good idea to be prepared for minor ailments or accidents. Include a small first aid kit with items like band-aids, sanitizers, sprays, and creams. This can be a lifesaver if you need quick relief from headaches, insect bites, or minor cuts and scrapes.

Oral Care

Oral hygiene is important, even when travelling. Pack a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash to maintain your dental health on the go. Listerine offers travel-sized versions of its mouthwash, and you can also find compact oral care sprays, like the Listerine Pocketmist Cool Mint Oral Care Spray, to keep your breath fresh.

Skin and Hair Care

Travel can be harsh on your skin and hair, so it's worth investing in some travel-sized skincare and hair care products. Sunscreen is a must, especially if you're heading to a sunny destination. Face wash, cleanser, moisturiser, and lip balm are also good additions to combat dry skin caused by airplane air. For hair care, in addition to shampoo and conditioner, consider a travel-sized version of your favourite styling product, be it hair spray, gel, or dry shampoo.

Other Considerations

If you're particular about your fragrance, pack a small bottle of your favourite scent. You might also want to include cotton swabs, which have multiple uses, from hygiene to minor first aid. For women, adding some feminine hygiene products is a good idea, ensuring you're prepared for any surprises.

Where to Buy

You can find travel-sized toiletries at most drugstores, superstores, and online retailers. Websites like Minimus.biz and Walmart offer a wide range of options, and you can also check out Target, which has a collaboration with Ulta Beauty for travel-sized beauty products.

So, there you have it! A well-stocked toiletry kit will ensure you're prepared for any eventuality during your travels, big or small. Happy adventures!

Frequently asked questions

Here are some travel accessories that can make long flights more comfortable:

- A travel pillow

- Noise-cancelling headphones

- A footrest

- Compression socks

- A portable charger

If you want to stay organised, you might want to consider:

- A travel organiser or packing cubes

- A seatback organiser

- A travel wallet or passport holder

- A luggage scale

To keep yourself entertained during a long flight, you could bring:

- A Kindle or tablet

- A Nintendo Switch

- A pair of earplugs

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