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Must-Have Travel Accessories for Long Flights

Written by Dan

Updated on July 28th, 2024

What are the best travel gadgets for long flights? Survive a long flight with these carry-on essentials and airplane travel accessories.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Best Travel Accessories for Long Flights

Cabeau neck pillow

• Travel day fanny pack

Peak Design Tech Pouch

• Travel Blanket
• Ultrasoft Compression Travel Socks
• Merino Wool Travel Hoodie
• Priority Pass membership

Noise-Canceling Headphones

• AirFly Wireless Headphone Adapter
• Headphone Jack Splitter
• Ear Plugs & Ear Plug Alternatives
• Battery Backup pack or Power Bank

Reusable Water Bottle

• Audiobooks (via Audible)

Apple AirTags

Comfy socks

Travel locks

• Comfy pants
• Passport holders (wallet or pouch)

Travel Pillow

• Mini Massage gun from TheraGun
• Collapsible/nestable Tupperware or travel food storage

Long flights can be especially rough because you’re trapped for hours and probably not so comfortable. We’ve had various experiences on long-haul flights up to 16.5 hours (NYC to Hong Kong!).

A flight experience is definitely what you make of it and how prepared you are to not lose your sanity. I’m excited to share all of my favorite flight accessories that have helped me stay comfortable and entertained on long flights.

Let’s get started with the travel accessory essentials that could make or break your long-haul international flight experience. A lot of these gadgets and gear are also great for gifts for your favorite traveler!

Browse our 6 favorite picks

• Get better sleep on your flight Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow
• Cozy up while flying EverSnug Airplane Travel Blanket
• Prevent theft & track your valuables Apple AirTags (4-Pack)
• Keep flight essentials handy Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag (1L)
• Store your passport and cards Harber London Passport Wallet
• Read a whole book on the flight The New Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (8GB)

Cabeau neck pillow

The Cabeau travel pillow has been traveling with us since 2017. Becca wears it during all of the flights and long bus rides that we take together. She’s much better at being able to sleep on flights than I am.

We like this pillow because you can wash the zippered fabric cover, and the design is much more sturdy than any of the other pillows that we’ve used before. It’s also one of Becca’s recommended travel products for women .

The Cabeau neck pillow is designed to provide optimal neck support and comfort during long travel hours.

Travel day fanny pack

I don’t know how Becca (or I) would travel without her fanny pack. Because Becca has quite a few that she likes and uses them during our travel days, I’ll usually keep important things like my passport and maybe some money with her.

Check out the best-selling lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L , which is a great choice for a travel day waist pack.

I go more in depth in this lululemon belt bag review .

Becca keeps everything in her fanny pack, like tissues, pens (for filling customs forms), plastic silverware (this has come in SO handy), her phone, her (and my) passport and a tiny bottle of hand cream for curing the dry hands you get when you fly. She has tried quite a few fanny packs throughout the years, and listed the best fanny packs for travel, here .

Fanny packs, or waist packs/hip packs/belt bags (whatever you want to call them) help give you quick access to your most important and valuable items so you don’t have to have them too far from you, like under the seat in front of you or overhead.

This is crucial because you can have the fanny pack on your person during an entire long-haul flight (just loosen the strap around your waist), and have all your top valuables in plain sight.

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

The lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag combines vibrant style and practicality, making it the perfect companion for travel days.

Peak Design Tech Pouch

Because I travel with a lot of cords, cables and dongles, something like the Peak Design field pouch or the Peak Design tech pouch is a great way to stay organized and have quick access to everything that you need. I recommend both in my list of my favorite tech pouches for travelers .

Instead of throwing my phone cable, headphone wires, audio splitter, power bank, pens, my passport (when Becca doesn’t have it in her travel fanny pack ) and everything else into the bottom of my bag, I’ll organize it all with a tech pouch. You can check out more at my Peak Design Tech Pouch review .

The Peak Design Tech Pouch is a highly-organized, efficient, and compact storage pouch designed for carrying your tech accessories. It's an excellent accessory for travelers, photographers, or anyone who carries a lot of small tech gear and wants to keep everything organized.

Travel Blanket

Some flights now make you pay for blankets, and having one of your own is a great way to save money while traveling . A blanket is a nice way to help keep you more comfortable as you try to sleep on a long-haul flight.

Also, I’m pretty sure that airlines don’t wash those blankets (ew) and that they reseal them (can someone let me know if this is true?). Traveling with our own blanket ensures that it’s our blanket, and we know where it came from.

Traveling with my own travel blanket can also be useful for the travels at my final destination; it can be a better option than using comforters at hotels, or better than guest blankets (these are definitely never washed) anywhere else.

If you’re looking for other options, I would look into this travel blanket and this one from Cabeau .

Ultrasoft Compression Travel Socks

I learned that compression socks, when worn on flights, increase comfort when flying. On a flight, you don’t move around much and your circulation naturally slows down. So, it’s helpful that compression socks help transport blood from extremities to your heart and help you avoid blood clots when you’re sitting in a cramped space.

A solid pair of travel compression socks can be preventative for post-flight swelling as well. Becca tried a pair during our flight from New York to Vancouver . She thought they were so comfy.

They’re also ideal if you’re doing something like traveling while pregnant , like Becca was. See more ideas at our list of the best socks for travel .

Merino Wool Travel Hoodie

I started bringing a travel hoodie with me, and it’s been a good way to stay comfortable in cold airports and on cold flights.

During all times of the year, airports are typically cold. Flights can be really cold, too. Having a lightweight hoodie that packs away in your carry-on is a perfect addition to your flight kit, and the Aviator travel hoodie that I have has cool features like an oversized hood that helps become a sleep mask.

Becca and I have both worn the Aviator travel hoodies, and they became our favorite travel sweatshirts. See more at our Aviator hoodie review .

Travel Hoodie

Make sure to check this out and see if it's for you!

Priority Pass membership

We’ve mentioned this must-have in other parts of our site like all about our lounge experience in our airport lounge how-to guide . Our Priority Pass memberships have pretty much changed our travel experiences from “not so great” to “pretty awesome.”

If you have a long flight, and then if you have anywhere from a two-hour to a twenty-hour layover (also, don’t confuse these two, because that’s how I wound up with an unexpected night in Japan…) you will want airport lounge access.

For us, gone are the days when we sit around looking for outlets with which to charge our phones next to uncomfortable chairs near the gate of a departing flight. Also gone are the days when we buy a $5 water bottle and a $15 egg sandwich because we’re desperate for some food.

Priority Pass is a membership that gets us into airport lounges all over the world. We’ve enjoyed Priority Pass lounges during layovers in Lisbon en route to the Canary Islands , and in Hong Kong before the longest flight we’ve ever taken, which is HKG to NYC (16.5 hours — that is a LONG flight!).

Eating well, charging up and relaxing at an airport lounge puts us in a good mood before stepping on a flight. It also helps us reset in between long flights.

Again, Priority Pass is not quite a physical accessory, but it’s something you may like to have in your stock of “long flight essentials” in order to have the best trip.

For times when you want to sleep on flights, but the lights are still on, a good sleep mask is crucial. Becca claims that a sleep mask is the #1 way for how to get better sleep during travel .

I like this sleep mask because it has memory foam and doesn’t put any pressure on your eyes. It creates a solid seal to let in as little light as possible.

Travel in comfort and bring on the darkness with this sleep mask, designed to ensure restful sleep anywhere, anytime.

These Sony noise-canceling headphones are currently my top pick for headphones. On flights, they are the best because they block out a lot of noise from the airplane and other passengers.

When you have them on with the noise cancellation mode, it’s truly amazing how much of the plane’s white noise the headphones will block out. And, what’s the opposite of white noise? Is it black noise? These headphones help me block out the sounds of people snoring next to me, people having loud conversations, people who insist on talking on the phone before the flight takes off and more.

They come with a convenient carrying case, so you can make sure they stay in great shape while you transport them and take them in and out of your carry-on luggage.

Noise-canceling Headphones

Enjoy serene, uninterrupted audio with these noise-canceling headphones, a must-have for travelers and audiophiles alike.

AirFly Wireless Headphone Adapter

One thing that we wish we had much sooner was the Twelve South AirFly . It’s a device that you can plug into the headphone hack on the airplane media console and pair your own bluetooth headphones to it. This is amazing, for anyone whose flight experience could be elevated with this!

This is great for times when you have your AirPods, but don’t have a way to connect them to the airplane media console. We have it and we’re always excited to take it on flights with us!

AirFly by Twelve South

Enjoy wireless freedom with the AirFly by Twelve South, turning any wired audio jack into a Bluetooth connection.

Headphone Jack Splitter

If you’re traveling with a significant other , family member or friend, a headphone splitter is one of the best and smallest things that you can carry with you to enhance your flight. We recommend this in our guide for how to fly with multiple kids because it’s crucial for watching movies and videos together as an activity!

You can plug a headphone splitter into the arm rest to watch a movie with someone. You can also split the audio out of an iPad or a phone to watch something downloaded on any of your favorite streaming services. iPhone users will need this dongle and most other phones can use this dongle .

Headphone jack splitter

Share your tunes easily with this headphone jack splitter, a simple solution to simultaneous audio sharing.

Ear Plugs & Ear Plug Alternatives

I can’t seem to fall asleep on flights (nor anywhere) without blocking out annoying noises, conversations and any sounds that aren’t ambient. When the flight staff turns down the lights to try to simulate nighttime, it’s a perfect time to put in my ear plugs to block out noise from other passengers.

I’m currently using the Flare Calmer ear plugs , which reduce annoying sounds, but also don’t block everything completely so that you’re only blocking out what bothers you.

The “Calmer” ear plugs are great for busy places (while traveling), audio annoyances during flights or transport and any sounds that may trigger you in a stressful way. For smaller ears, there’s the Flare Calmer Pro Mini ! For sleeping, I use the SLEEEP line of ear plugs from Flare Audio.

See my full Flare Audio ear plugs review to see what they’ve done for me in my travels.

You can check them out on Amazon or directly on the Flare Audio website .

Block out the world and focus on rest with these ear plugs, your compact solution for peaceful sleep during travel.

Battery Backup pack or Power Bank

Some of the newer airplanes have power chargers under the seats. Aside from them being super hard to locate, your plug can often fall out, especially when you’re least expecting it.

It’s more on the rare side that the flights I’ve taken recently have these power outlets.

I like traveling with a power bank on long flights because I can charge my phone, iPad or headphones before they run out of batteries. For flights over the five-hour mark, this is important so that I can arrive at my destination with a fully-charged phone.

Battery back up

Stay prepared with a battery back-up, ensuring your devices remain powered during your travels.

Reusable Water Bottle

Water bottles are a must for me while being in an airport and on an airplane for an extended amount of time.

Airport water is expensive, and can sometimes be $4 or $5! It seems crazy to spend that when almost every airport I’ve been to has a water refilling station. But the catch is, you need your own bottle. When I’ve been traveling for super cheap , I’ve gotten the cheapest bottle of water so that I can reuse the plastic bottle!

To be a sustainable traveler , ask the flight attendants on your flight to fill your bottle instead of drinking several of those tiny water cups. You also want to make sure you’re drinking a lot of water, because it’s easy to get dehydrated on flights. We like to stay healthy while traveling !

I realized that the day after traveling a long distance, I never felt great, and I think that is because I never drank enough water on longer flights.

These days, I like to sit on the aisle so that I can get up, stretch my legs and have an easy exit to the bathroom if I need one.

Stay hydrated with a reusable water bottle, an eco-friendly solution for your hydration needs.

It’s typical for some types of airplanes to not have any entertainment on the backs of the seats. Or, if you get really unlucky, your entertainment center might not work.

On a recent flight that I took, the touch capability on the in-flight entertainment screen stopped working, and I couldn’t change the brightness of the screen. When my movie finished, I wasn’t able to watch anything new!

Luckily, I had my phone, and I was able to watch something on it because I had downloaded some videos. I wish I traveled with my iPad because it would have been much more enjoyable to watch something on a larger screen.

Also, if you are traveling with toddlers or kids, an iPad is a great way to keep them entertained. For times when flights do have entertainment on the seats, having an iPad with kids is still a good idea so that children aren’t bumping and tapping too hard on the seat neighbor.

I’ve found that this iPad stand is the best lightweight stand to travel with and prop a tablet or phone on the airplane tray table.

Experience technology at your fingertips with the Apple iPad, the perfect blend of productivity, entertainment, and portability.

For the readers in the group, a Kindle is a great way to travel with all of your books, but without carrying any of the weight.

On my most recent flight, I opted not to bring a book because I had no room in my carry-on. I did have room for a Kindle, though.

If you travel with a Kindle, be sure not to bring it to the beach during your trip and sit on it. I had a friend who did that, and she was pretty upset. Kindles do happen to be more ‘breakable’ than paperback books.

Amazon Kindle

Enjoy a vast library of books in a compact form with the Amazon Kindle, making reading on the go a breeze.

Audiobooks (via Audible)

Audiobooks with Audible are great. I am not a big text reader, but I really do enjoy listening to audiobooks as much as I can. Long flights are the perfect opportunity to catch up on all of your books and make a big dent into your queue.

As a free alternative, look into how you can rent books from your local library!

Audible by Amazon

Start streaming and downloading podcasts and audiobooks.

Apple AirTags

We have Apple’s AirTags (the 4 pack) for putting on our checked baggage. For those who don’t know, Apple AirTags are like tracking devices for your things. While traveling, they’re nice to attach to your overhead or checked bag, as well as backpacks (which will also save your day if something gets stolen).

They work by using other iPhones to help locate your bag, so they work the best in crowded areas where other iPhones are around.

In the rare event that there is a mix-up with your bag and someone else takes it by accident, you can see and track where your bag is, using your AirTags. A lot of friends have recommended putting AirTags on checked luggage, backpacks and the like.

For crowded flights, where your bag might be stored in a different part of the airplane, this can give you peace of mind that you can track down who took your bag in the event of that rare occurrence.

Regardless of whether you checked bags or not, having Apple AirTags can help put your mind at ease about being able to track your belongings and luggage. Take it from me: I once had my favorite book stolen from under my nose during a flight that wasn’t even so long.

What I’m saying is even if you doze off for 15 minutes and if there are dishonest passengers lurking in your plane, anything from your water bottle to your wallet could get quietly snatched.

Track your most valuable possessions with Apple AirTags, Apple's newest product for protecting against theft during travel.

Comfy socks

It took me a while to figure out that something as simple as comfy socks could make a huge difference in your flight experience.

Because you can be sitting for a long period of time, a good pair of socks can help your feet breathe, keep them warm and keep them cozy during those “nighttime” flight hours when people are supposed to be sleeping.

I’ve gotten to know the Swiftwick brand and recommend them for this reason! Check out the collection here .

Keep your feet warm and cozy with this selection of comfy socks, designed to cushion your feet at every step.

Travel locks

When traveling to different parts of the world, keeping an extra eye on your things is always a good idea. Becca once had a Lonely Planet China book stolen during a flight because she got up to go to the bathroom, and that’s pretty crazy. Travel locks are a default and are especially one of the best products for backpacking trips .

If I am traveling with my camera and my laptop, I like to put a small lock on my bag to give me extra security that no one can easily open and snoop around my bags, getting into all my mildly-expensive camera accessories .

If you’re sleeping, or if you’re not near your bags on a flight, it’s really easy for someone to open the overhead and grab something from your bag. Locks make it hard for someone to get in there without you knowing.

Ensure your belongings are secure with these travel locks, providing peace of mind on your adventures.

Comfy pants

After so many flights, I really wish I was wearing something more comfortable than jeans or shorts. Sitting for a long period of time isn’t always the most comfortable. Finding a good pair of pants to wear during a flight can make a huge difference in your comfort levels.

We have an article that talks in much more detail about the best travel pants .

We recommend joggers, as they have pockets, and look decent, but they feel soft, comfy and stretchy like savvy sweatpants.

Passport holders ( wallet or pouch )

A passport case doesn’t really help you travel, but it does help protect your passport from spills or accidents that happen inside of your bag or around you while you have your passport out.

Having a passport wallet is also a great way to stay organized and keep any additional travel documents, like connection flight tickets , visa information and other IDs all in one place. We keep entry papers, vaccine cards, boarding passes and other documents all inside a shared passport case.

Fun story: Becca was once in Laos during the spring new year festival when everyone throws water on each other, and her passport almost got soaked. A passport case or protective sleeve would’ve helped out with the stress of the constant water everywhere.

Our Harber London passport wallet is a travel security product that has spots for bills and cards, and also has RFID protection. It has a magnetic closure, which adds a luxurious touch. This passport wallet is the crème de la crème when it comes to how to safeguard your passport in a stylish way.

We also started using the Tortuga Passport Pouch , which is made of durable waterproof material and has an L-shaped zipper you can see here. If you want to really keep your passport dry and secure, opt for this one. You can see a few more photos in my Tortuga brand review .

Tortuga Passport Pouch

Store your passport with this essential waterproof sleeve that zips.

Travel Pillow

I actually have trouble with travel neck pillows . I’ve tried Becca’s Cabeau and never sleep comfortably with it. I usually want a real pillow and try to scrunch up whatever neck pillow I have to make it into a real pillow. Or, I’ll end up using a jacket or sweatshirt.

A pillow is generally a good idea to travel with. It comes in handy if you have any type of bus travel the roads are smooth enough to take a nap. Also, having a spare pillow is great if your accommodation has really flat pillows.

I would take a look at some of the camping pillows that Sea to Summit makes. They have a selection of inflatable and packable pillows that will pair nicely with travel as well.

Enhance your sleep during travel with a travel pillow, your ultimate travel companion.

Mini Massage gun from TheraGun

I’m always really sore after long flights and I’ll typically stretch, to try and stay loose. It’s been really nice to have access to a travel-sized massage gun to help with stubborn knots that are hard to get to with stretching.

I run a lot when I travel and this mini version of the original massage gun has been a great addition to help reduce injury. You can see above how the size compares to a passport. It can even fit in my personal item on the flight. I think it’s one of the best travel-sized fitness products for being able to work out during a trip .

Massage gun from TheraGun

Collapsible/nestable Tupperware or travel food storage

I started bringing my own food to the airport, and it’s been a game-changer. One time, I brought a sandwich to the airport to bypass needing to spend a lot of money on airport food. I put the sandwich inside of my bag, and lucky me, the sandwich got a little soggy and got my hoodie a little wet. Yikes.

I wish I had a sandwich box or some other more secure bags to keep my sandwich in, and something collapsible and foldable would’ve been amazing.

Becca brought one of our Tupperware containers from home with some nuts and dried fruit. She had a great experience with that, except once the snack was over, the empty Tupperware took up a bit of room in her bag.

Collapsible Tupperware and dining storage is a great solution for being able to bring your own food without needing to carry a lot of bulky food containers with you.

Nesting stainless steel snack containers might also work well if you want something more sturdy. We like the EcoLunchbox nesting snack containers because they have no-leak lids and are impossible to break.

Collapsible Food Storage Containers

Maximize space and maintain freshness with these collapsible food storage containers, ideal for meals on the go.

Why should you trust us?

We’ve been traveling the world, both separately and apart, and that has involved some VERY long flights!

Both Becca and I have been on flights from NYC to Hong Kong (that is a really long flight) as well as flights to Africa, India, the Middle East and Argentina, between the two of us. Having trusty gear to get you through those types of flights is crucial.

Becca prioritizes accessories that help her sleep, whereas I prioritize accessories that help me listen to and watch entertainment. Different aspects of flying are important to each of us, which is why this list reflects our preferences. Maybe you enjoy a little bit of both these ends of the spectrum!

For us both, we like flying to feel like an experience, even though the flight is simply the journey that gets you from “here” to “there.” Whether you plan to pack in as many movies as you can, or as many hours of sleep as humanly possible, we hope this list of travel accessories for long flights does the trick!

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Asalaam alaikum ! We’re Becca & Dan.

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Travel isn’t always as luxurious as the brochures make it seem. Sure, the destination may be intoxicatingly gorgeous, but the journey to get there is often one of cramped seats and uninterrupted noise. Traveling can be a gauntlet to be endured or, if you equip yourself properly beforehand, a mere speed bump to glide over. From travel pillows and noise-canceling headphones to luggage trackers, it turns out you actually can purchase peace of mind. These are the best travel accessories after years of traveling and testing.

Don't forget to check out our Best Travel Bags and Best Travel Adapters guides for more recommendations.

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Charge Ahead

Don't count on always finding an outlet. You never know when the café or airport you’re in will be outlet-deficient, and it's almost a running joke at this point at how often the airliners' onboard outlets are broken. The Nimble Champ Series 2 is our top recommendation in our Best Portable Chargers guide because of the company's environmentally friendly efforts in its manufacturing and packaging . Its light at 6.2 ounces, and we recommend the medium-size 10,000-mAh option, which can recharge a smartphone several times. There's a smaller version and a larger one too.

Charge Everything at Once

For the Apple devotee who travels complete with an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, consider picking up this 3-in-1 charger that can top off the juice in all three of your devices at the same time. No more prioritizing which one of your devices gets the precious outlet. No wonder WIRED senior reviews editor Julian Chokkattu raved about it in our Best Apple 3-in-1 Chargers guide . It comes with a felt pouch, plus a charging adapter and cable. There are three pads, one with a grooved spot for holding AirPods, one magnetic pad for MagSafe iPhones, and another for the Apple Watch.

Learn to Adapt

When I'm traveling, there are never enough power outlets. WIRED reviewer Simon Hill gave this model top marks in his Best Travel Adapters guide because of how securely plugs stick into this outlet. It has enough built-in outlet styles to charge devices in 200 countries. It also offers three USB-A ports, which deliver a maximum charging rate of 15.5 watts, and two USB-C ports, which deliver up to 18 watts through one PD and one QC 3.0 port. That's enough to juice up iPads and smartphones, but stick to the outlet for your laptop.

Tag, You’re It

Any little thing that makes a bag stand out from the acres of look-alikes on the baggage carousel, the better. These come in a snazzy rotating collection of designs by select artists, and they attach surprisingly securely by slipping the larger end through the hole after looping it around a baggage handle. Even after tens of thousands of airline miles, mine have held up without wear or tear. Call me paranoid, but you should have two luggage tags, in case one gets torn off. Good thing these come in a two-pack.

Keeping Track

We have mixed thoughts on AirTags, but if you have an iPhone, they are among the best ways to keep a digital eye on your bags. These trackers utilize the sheer number of iPhones and Apple devices out there to regularly report their location back to your device. Even if you don't plan on checking your bag, you might end up having to gate-check it on crowded flights. Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination.

AirTags don't work with Android devices, so if you use an Android phone , our recommendation is the Chipolo One ($25) . We have more details about it in our Best Trackers guide , but the setup is simple, and you can even get alerts if you leave the house without it.

Catch Some Z’s

I've never been one to fall asleep on a plane. It's not that the audience bothers me—I'll never see these people again—but rather that it’s impossible to fall asleep in a near-vertical seat. The Travelrest ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) is the ultimate neck pillow because it remedied this problem. Thanks to its high, contoured sides and a flat back that keeps it square against the seat, I can reliably nod off on any flight. The Travelrest easily beats those rounded, doughnut-shaped neck pillows for comfort and support.

To Safeguard Your Electronics

Some countries have less reliable electrical infrastructure, and you never know how well-wired that discount hotel's outlets are. Protect your device from getting fried with this compact, one-outlet surge protector. It has a lifetime warranty and $5,000 of coverage if your device is damaged from a power surge while using it. I haven't had to test that aspect of it, but the two USB-A ports are convenient when I've had to charge earbuds, battery banks, and other accessories.

A Better Pillow

Hotel pillows tend to have all the firmness and support of a wet roll of toilet paper that's been stomped on for 30 minutes. That tends to mean that vacation memories are accompanied by a stiff neck. Side sleepers like me need a firm yet poofy pillow. I've caught more good nights of sleep on this Therm-a-Rest than I can count. It rolls up into an integrated pouch, and a cinch compresses it into the size of a large water bottle for storage.

Tip the Scales

A scale is handy to have when you're packing a heavy bag for an upcoming trip. Avoid those enormous surcharges and make sure your bag is under the airlines’ weight limits before you arrive at the check-in counter. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even US airlines will be unforgiving about the weight of checked bags. I've used this scale for years, and I prefer the simplicity of not needing any batteries. It's accurate, easy to read the gauge, and the strap is strong enough in the long term to handle some seriously heavy luggage without fraying or breaking.

To Protect Your Laptop

Travel through enough airports without a case and it’s only a matter of time before a bare laptop or tablet picks up nasty scratches and dents. Protect your devices from banging around in the security bins against keys, phones, and belts with this slim laptop sleeve, available for laptops of several common sizes. The water-resistant zippers are smooth and slide easily, and the padded, non-scratch material protected our MacBooks from a few bouts of rough handling by over-eager TSA agents without any exterior damage. Even if you don't normally use one, consider picking one up just for travel. For tablets, check out the Zugu iPad Case for $50 . We have guides for choosing the best laptop backpacks and laptop totes , too.

Mosquito Guard

In much of the world, mosquitoes aren't just pests. They carry life-threatening diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Japanese encephalitis. Even in hotel rooms in certain places, you're not safe from them. When I traveled through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos last year, I brought this mosquito bed net with me. It's large enough for most two-person mattresses, and an elastic rim tucks underneath the mattress so that there are no gaps for critters to sneak through. The World Health Organization says a minimum of 156 holes per square inch are needed to keep mosquitoes out. This model has 500 tiny holes per square inch, making it that much more secure.

A Good Book, or 20

There's nothing like tackling a long ride on a train or plane with a good old book. But if you're a voracious reader or traveling on a long trip, a few books can take up a lot of room in your luggage. The Kindle Paperwhite's glare-resistant E Ink display is less harsh on your eyes than a typical tablet screen, so you can read for a long while before fatigue sets in ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). With 8 GB of storage, there's room for thousands of books. You can find more recommendations in our Best Kindles and Best Ebook Readers guides.

Top Up Your Devices

Not all USB cables are made equal. This Cable Matters cord came out on top in our testing (read more in our Best USB Cables guide ), thanks to its ability to handle 100 watts—enough to charge a power-hungry laptop. It also can transfer data at an impressive 40 Gbps. The 6.6-foot cable is an active cable too, which means it has a chip inside to push data further without degradation. It supports DisplayPort Alt Mode (DP Alt Mode), meaning you can use it to connect your laptop to a portable monitor, along with USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) and Programmable Power Supply (PPS), so that certain devices will fast charge through the cable. Seriously, it's the one USB-C cable to rule them all.

Maintain Your Sanity

Anyone who's spent time on public transportation knows that the cacophony of shouting, crying, and other people's loud devices can be maddening when you're stuck in your seat for the next few hours. The Sennheiser Adapt 660 ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) are our favorite value noise-canceling headphones . WIRED associate reviews editor Parker Hall says they are comfortable and one of the lightest headphones he's tested. You can count on excellent sound quality for up to 30 hours of usage.

For Compact Peace and Quiet

WIRED reviewer Simon Lucas praised these Bose earbuds as having hands-down the best noise-cancellation. It's the top pick in our Best Wireless Earbuds guide, though they are expensive. He says their “naturalistic, vivid sound” is untouched by any counter-signal or audio evidence that the noise cancellation is working to muffle unwanted background sounds. That means you can enjoy that movie or album without jet engines and passenger chatter disturbing your peace.

Whether you'd like to plug directly into the seatback entertainment system or just don't feel like juggling one more device that needs frequent charging, wired headphones are by no means obsolete. These nabbed the top spot in our Best Wired Headphones guide , thanks to the excellent sound quality of the two 7-mm, full-range dynamic drivers that deliver punchy, finely detailed audio at a reasonable price. WIRED associate reviews editor Parker Hall reports that they're comfortable and secure in his ears, and the detachable cable is braided for durability.

A Nice Travel Sling

You don't want to tote around a heavy bag when you're seeing the sights at your destination. Pack the small version of the Wandrd Roam ( 3 liters ) and you'll have plenty of space for a compact camera, a spare lens, cables, a phone, a wallet, and more. The YKK weather-resistant zippers ensure things will stay dry in the rain. Available in 3, 6, and 9 liters , you can size up if you feel like you want to carry a little bit more on your journey. Read more about it in our Best Camera Bags guide .

An All-Day Stash

Think past the journey to the destination and consider how you'll keep your devices, maps, snacks, and charging accessories handy when you're at your destination. The Tour is our best all-day waist pack and another great mini bag to consider aside from the Wandrd Roam. Thanks to pockets galore, WIRED editor Michael Calore says he can fit a change of clothes and a couple of ready-to-eat meals in there, with room to spare. Two water bottle pockets and a zippered phone pouch maintain the essentials, and when the pack gets too heavy, an included shoulder strap turns it into a sling.

Entertainment is awfully limited if you rely on the seatback video system of an airplane, and its absent on trains, most buses, and some low-cost carriers. If you're feeling particularly active and want something other than a book or movie, delve into any fantasy world of your choosing with the Nintendo Switch OLED ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu found the 7-inch OLED screen fantastic and the kickstand much-improved over the old model. It’s stable, secure, easy to pull out, and adjustable to a wide range of angles, and you can get that long gaming session in by propping it on your meal tray, no matter how far back the guy in front of you reclines his seat.

Bring Your Best Friend

More of us are taking our four-legged pals with us on our journeys these days, but the trials of travel are no easier on them than they are on us. WIRED senior reviews editor Julian Chokkattu loves this pet carrier for how stable and soft its base is. He says the straps are thicker than most competing bags, and they stayed on his shoulder securely. You can clip a leash to the built-in carabiner, and there's a small stash pocket for poo bags. The best part is how well-ventilated it is, and there are multiple ways to open the bag and check on your pet. It's compliant with most major airlines’ policies.

Make Yourself Understood

It's tough to learn a new language, especially if it's just for a vacation booked a few months in advance. But you really should know the basics of conversation to be a good guest. WIRED contributor Christopher Null reviewed the Pocketalk Plus Voice Translator ( 7/10, WIRED Review ), which translates conversations between different languages in real time. He praised how reasonably quickly it provided translations, its intuitive interface, and the number of supported languages. This kind of device makes sense only if you're traveling to multiple destinations in a year. Otherwise, you can probably get by with Google Translate.

If you want to work toward learning a new language yourself, check out our Best Language Learning Apps guide .

Connect the Unconnected

Love your wireless earbuds but hate that you can't connect them to the screen embedded in the airplane seat in front of you? The AirFly is a Bluetooth adapter that plugs into a standard headphone jack and connects to your wireless buds. I used the AirFly SE model, and I found no noticeable change in audio quality, at least from a few feet away when I took it on a flight. You get volume control buttons so you don't have to tap on the screen, and a double-tap mutes the audio too. Twelve South claims 20 hours of battery life, and although battery life can differ based on usage, it felt like a pretty accurate estimate in my experience watching movies and listening to music on the plane.

For Chilly Flights and Nights

You can't count on your hotel being as warm as you might like, and don't get me started on how cold they keep airplane cabins. Forget the scratchy blankets they sell on board and bring this lightweight, packable travel blanket if you're prone to the chills. I like how my feet fit in the “leg pockets,” my hands in the hand warmers, and how securely it stays around my neck with the button snap. The zippered pocket was perfectly sized for my AirPod case and for at least a few of those free snacks I felt like saving for later. It's also a great blanket to bring for road trips, in case you plan on sleeping in the car.

Don't Forget the Toothpaste

Consider this alternative to conventional toothpaste, especially if you find yourself butting up against the TSA's 3-1-1 rule . WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano enjoyed these toothpaste tablets while she was running tests for her Best Electric Toothbrushes guide. You just bite down on them and start brushing. You also get bonus points for reducing the amount of plastic waste you'd otherwise generate via toothpaste tubes—the packaging here is all glass bottles and compostable pouches.

Stay Hydrated

Travel, especially air travel, puts you in a bit of a bind when it comes to cutting down on your usage of single-use plastics. While you can't show up at the airport with your own drinks, you can do your part after you've passed through security. In my search for the best travel mugs , this Hydro Flask Coffee Mug came out on top. It's insulated, so it'll keep your coffee warm for longer than any flight. It's narrow enough to fit any cupholder, and no matter how much I banged it around, the tough powder-coated metal showed neither a scratch nor a dent. Unlike many water bottle manufacturers who use lead in their bottle construction , Hydro Flask has been lead-free since 2013.

Get Steamed

Hotels often have an iron and ironing board available, but I find it quicker and easier to steam my clothes. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano and I both have been using Urpowers for years. For a tiny thing, it's powerful and effective at steaming practically anything in a minute or two. You just need to refill it often; one reservior is enough for one or two garments, at most. If you're going to another state or country for an important event, like a wedding, this is a must-have.

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Top 15 Best Travel Accessories for Long Flights in 2022

It’s 4:30 in the morning, and your alarm clock wakes you up from a lovely dream. You are convincing yourself to sleep again but see your zipped suitcase and with a sleepy groan say: “Oh! I have a flight to catch!” 

Surviving a long-haul flight is not an easy deal, let alone the comfort we get on the plane. Being on the plan for a good 12 hours (or more) can be draining, and that’s why I emphasize choosing the best travel accessories . Your carry-on is your best friend up in the air, above the clouds. So, make the most of it by packing all the long essentials and gear up for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Table of Page Contents

Best Travel Accessories for Long Flights 

From clip lenses for phones and smart devices to cozy necessities, we have a list of some of the best travel gadgets which are considered must-have items while you travel on your never-ending flights.

1. Noise Cancellation: Sony Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone

Children are crying, and the person right next to you is snoring. 

You can opt for noise-canceling headphones. Immerse yourself in your favorite media, or close your eyes during the flight which makes it a smooth journey.

The headphones come with cushioned ear cups and are lightweight, so you can wear them for a good time. In a crowded aircraft, these headphones do their best job. Murmurs, engine, and passengers’ noise, babies crying-all these noises can make your travel uncomfortable. But thanks to the headphones, you can cancel out all the unwanted noises. And the best thing, is some of these come with good battery power enabling you to enjoy your peaceful time for a good 30 hours or more.  

Such headphones deliver a terrific mix of performance, convenience, and price. With their ergonomic design, the headphones deliver high-quality sound. 

2. Collapsible Water Bottle

The collapsible water bottle is one of the best accessories for long flights. It would be best if you focused on keeping yourself hydrated, and this collapsible water bottle helps you do so. 

This bottle is better than plastic bottles or those tiny cups provided during flights. With no stinky odors, it is safe for both cold and hot liquids. It has 2 mouths ergonomically designed to make the water filling and drinking easy.  Check the best travel water bottles here .

3. Airplane Foot Hammock

Long flights can be pretty uncomfortable and can cause inconvenience as you have to sit in the same posture for an extended time. Moreover, it can be trouble for your legs too. In cases where one is already suffering from swollen legs syndrome or has sensitive veins, it becomes significant to elevate their blood circulation legs.

To make your journey more comfortable, we have picked one of the best air travel gadgets known as the airplane footrest. Hang it on the seat in front of you and adjust it as you please. The footrest is foamy and made of a thick cushion, which will relax your feet in no time. Moreover, you don’t have to exert pressure on your legs to use this footrest. 

It helps improve blood circulation, calming your legs and calves. It does not take more space, and you can easily carry it in your bag. And the best part? You don’t have to uncomfortably wave your legs in the air as this footrest is specifically designed to provide a realistic experience for travelers of all sizes.

4. iPad Holder

When you are on a long flight, it becomes difficult to kill your time. For time-killing hours, entertainment becomes necessary.

Those who fly regularly, they see that there is limited entertainment on flights. They often find that they have watched this movie before, and then they have nothing to do. Having your own entertainment during flights is valuable. For that matter, your iPad is the best choice, and when it comes to having an iPad, it also needs a holder. It would help if you had a quality holder, making it smooth and easy for you to watch. Check the best iPad Holders on Amazon.com

5. Manta Sleep Mask

In a long flight, even the heavy sleepers are restless and face trouble in sleeping. Sometimes the environment around is not comfortable, or sometimes there are people who are a source of distraction. And not to forget the constantly changing light .

Yes! For those travel freaks who want to enjoy a peaceful sleep on the flight, this sleep mask is essential and one of the best travel accessories for long flights. A good set of eye covers is all you need if you want a good sleep during the flight. These masks are lightweight and give a good cover to your eyes.

Imagine a mask smooth and silky falling over your eyes, keeping all the distractions away. It will let you sleep comfortably, and you will wake up fresh. The eye mask does its job effectively and allows you to sleep comfortably without pills. You can adjust the elastic strap, so it comfortably fits on your eyes.

6. Travel Neck Pillow for Airplane Sleeping

During a long flight, you have to place your neck on the not-so-comfortable seat. The trouble multiplies when you want a good sleep, but you can not confine your head in a suitable position. And in case you sleep, you cannot fix your head in a single place. Here is when the neck pillow comes to the rescue.  

When your neck suffers a lot in an economy seat, the neck pillow helps you get a decent sleep, especially during a long flight. It prevents your head from slipping. The material of its foam is certified and is chemical-free. Moreover, you can wash it anytime.

Fold the pillow and place it in your handbag; easy. Its super comfortable foam will make your neck feel cozy and prevent neck strains or any painful occurrence. Get the neck pillow along with you, wrap it around your neck, and voila! 

7. Mini 5000mAh Portable Charger

You are about to end the mission of your favorite game, and your phone turns off. To your dismay, you come to know that the battery died.

Smartphones and other devices are of significant importance while you are traveling. Running out of power is the nightmare every traveler has, and they need to make sure that the devices don’t run out of battery. Your device might be fully charged, but the problem arises when you use it for a long time. This can result in the consumption of the battery.

Nobody wants to lose their device due to a low battery, and a portable power charger is what you need to keep your phone up and running. The power device helps you charge devices and is handy. It will let you update your Facebook during the flight or send an important e-mail to your client. Such chargers have enough power to charge your devices fully. 

Never run out of battery, and keep this game-changer charging device with you during your flight.

8. Basic Care Ibuprofen Tablets

Keeping a pack of pain killer becomes necessary when your flight is for a long duration. During your travel, you might develop a headache due to changing altitudes or pain in the neck due to strain. Moreover, pain killers are a lifesaver, especially when you are traveling in an economic class. It is usual to feel joint pain or leg pain after spending a lot of time merely sitting in the seat doing nothing.

You can soothe your pain by taking a painkiller during travel .

9. Colgate Max Fresh Wisp Disposable Mini Toothbrush

Wait; what? Yes! This is true. Brushing your teeth while you are on a flight gives you a feeling of freshness, and you feel amazing. While the regular toothbrush might be in your luggage, you can opt for a disposable one, which is easy to carry in your bag.

Some brands have launched mini toothbrushes for your ease. Just take the toothbrush out and start brushing. And you don’t need separate toothpaste for this, as these brushes have a pre-pasted toothpaste bead in the middle. The bead will dissolve when you start brushing. And no need to rinse your mouth afterward as the bead dissolves. Once used, dispose of the brush.

Go clean with the super affordable mini toothbrushes and enjoy fresh breath.

10. spAIRTray Travel Shelf

Want to stay organized during the long-haul flight? A game-changer gadget for those who want to improve their traveling experience, the window shelf is all you need. This shelf allows you to increase the space of your window seat by 33%.

You can effortlessly fit this shelf into your handbag and can easily install it in a go. Just insert it into the shaded track of the airplane’s window and enjoy the space. Place your phone on the shelf, or a book or a glass? Your choice.

11. Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe

One of the best travel accessories for long flights preferred by the ladies mostly is the facial mist. Flights are at high altitudes, which can make you wear out, and you might end up looking all tired. Your skin tends to look super dry as it is not getting enough moisture. Moreover, the long flight is itself a tiring experience. 

Facial mists, as the name indicates, are used to hydrate your face, and you can carry it along in your handbag. These mists make your skin look soft, clean, and hydrated again. Regain your freshness and make yourself look like you hardly traveled. 

Moreover, this mist is made of fragrant herbs and rosewater. And the best part; it won’t destroy makeup .

12. Compression Socks for Your Comfort

During the flight, you need to take the utmost care of your legs. These unique copper-infused socks do wonders and are a must-have for frequent travelers. While gently pressing your lower leg, it helps in improving blood circulation. 

Next time you think of jetting off, try replacing one or two of your colored socks with these compression socks. We assure you that you won’t regret it. Take care of your legs, and do them a favor by keeping a pair of compression socks with you. Check the travel socks on Amazon .

13. Travel Wallet with RFID Blocking

Keep all your essentials, such as credit cards, passports, and others in one place with the help of a multi-purpose valet. This is the best air travel accessory, and with this, you don’t have to worry about rummaging for your boarding pass or other necessities. 

These wallets are handy, spacious, and come with various small compartments. No need to check all of your pockets for finding cards or passes, you can check the wallet instead, and you are good to go. Moreover, these wallets are not only useful but a style statement as well. Hence you can carry it around anywhere, let alone air travel.

Don’t have a multi-purpose travel wallet? Grab here on amazon.com .

14. Alcohol Based Hand Sanitizer Gel

Nobody wants to carry germs along with them to their destination or eat food with dirty hands. Airplanes are a dirty place, and you have to spend a lot of time in them. Hand sanitizers are one of the best travel accessories for long flights which will help you make germ free.

These sanitizers usually come in small bottles providing you ease to use them during flights. This sanitizer is free from harsh synthetic chemicals, which makes it safe for children as well. Moreover, it is infused with jojoba oil, aloe vera, and Vitamin E, which leaves you smooth.

15. Face Mask Due to COVID_19

Traveling post COVID_19 will not be easy for most travel geeks. Face masks will be necessary at most airports and inside the airplane. This practice will continue for at least a few months after the coronavirus pandemic is over. There are many types of masks available in the market, but you should choose one for yourself, which is easy for you to wear during your long haul flight. I won’t recommend the N95 mask because that’s only for medical staff who are working in intensive care units. You could get the standard face mask for yourself.

I’m sure you will have the best long flight after reading this article. I wish you the best of luck with your next long flight. Happy traveling and thanks for reading.

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20 Best Travel Accessories to Make Every Trip a Breeze

The tried and true essentials T&C 's jetsetting editors never travel without.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

In order to properly fulfill this mission of ours, we need to travel— a lot . And inevitably, over the course of so much globetrotting, T&C 's e ditors have amassed an arsenal of travel essentials they will never take off without. Editor in chief Stellene Volandes, for instance, swears by only this brand of blazers to keep her looking sharp wherever she is in the world. Executive travel editor Klara Glowczewska knows how to turn a toiletry bag into a clutch and fashion and accessories director Dania Ortiz trusts one summer carry-all to take her from the beaches of Miami to the high jewelry presentations in Europe.

In other words, we've got tips. So whether you're looking for a sleek passport cover that will last forever, or a portable steamer that actually works (not to mention fits into your carry-on), or a pretty jewelry case to keep your valuables organized, see below for 20 of the best travel accessories and essentials that have been tested and approved by T&C .

Tumi Raina Backpack

Executive travel editor Klara Glowczewska relies on her Tumi backpack to take her around the world, from South Africa to Bhutan, French Polynesia to Anguilla. “ It holds everything I might want easy access to—laptop and other devices, book, magazines, toiletries and make-up, travel documents, hair brush, water bottle, shawl, scrunched up hat, socks, sunglasses, you name it. It has many logically organized compartments and dividers, inner and outer, which means that once you decide where things go, you never have to rummage for anything.” And here's a pro-tip: “Get one of the larger, top-of-the-line ones.”

Dimensions: 16.5" x 11.0" x 6.3" Weight: 2.4 lbs.

Smythson Passport Cover

For frequent fliers, an elegant passport cover that is not only chic but will also survive constant use is key. Yours truly has had the same Smythson cover for 14 years—and it still looks brand new.

July Hanging Toiletry Bag

A good hanging toiletry case solves several problems. Limited hotel bathroom counter space, for one. And if it's designed well with spacious interiors, multiple pockets to keep everything organized, and clear and leak-resistant PVC lining for good visibility, it does away with the inconvenience of having to unload everything just to re-pack it all in just a few days.

Dimensions: 10.24" x 7.09" x 3.54" Capacity: 4.2L

Mark & Graham Fillmore Vegan Leather Luggage Tag

You're not seeing things. Everyone has the same suitcase. Never risk someone mistakenly carting off with yours with a colorful luggage tag. Mark & Graham offers so many options—and personalization styles—that it will be hard to settle on one.

Paravel Packing Cube Quad

Anyone who has discovered the magic of packing cubes will tell you it has changed their lives. It has certainly changed mine—so much so that I have gifted monogrammed Paravel sets to every member of my family and all of my closest friends.

Dimensions: 18" x 3.75" x 12" (large); 12.75" x 3.75" x 10" (medium); 8.2" x. 3.75" x 6.25" (small)

Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow

There is no greater airport faux pas than to be caught walking around a terminal with a cheap neck pillow around your shoulders. Or strapped to your bag strap. Or really, anywhere that is visible to the human eye. Ostrichpillow solves this problem. Its version is made of a memory foam core that offers much better in-flight comfort and, best of all, coils into a compact shape so you can keep it out of sight until you're on the plane.

Dimensions: 9.8" x 6.7" x 2.7" Weight: 12 oz.

Prada Re-Nylon pouch

“I don’t know what I’ll do if Prada ever stops making these, although so far, mine has survived seven years of constant use admirably well—that Prada nylon is almost indestructible,” Glowczewska says. “In addition to my phone, it holds all my small travel essentials—lip gloss, hand-cream, toothbrush and toothpaste, pens, sunglasses, so on. And it doubles as an evening clutch, which you can elegantly slip over your wrist and be hands-free.”

Dimensions: 11.5cm x 20cm x 9cm

Kiehl's Since 1851 Creme de Corps Body Moisturizer

Spending so much time in an airplane cabin will wreak havoc on your skin. And not all moisturizers are created equal—some will even make you drier. Kiehl's is ubiquitous for a reason. “It’s the longest-acting moisturizer I know, with a lovely scent and rich, creamy texture,” Glowczewska says.

Anker Power Bank

For such a slim size and low price point, this Anker is supremely popular on Amazon, where it is highly rated for its 10,000mAH battery power and fast charging time.

Dimensions: 5.87" x 2.68" x 0.55" Weight: 7.5 oz.

Longchamp Le Pliage 18" Large Travel Bag

Even for those who vow to be carry-on only, sometimes it's just impossible. A lightweight Longchamp will give you room for error—say, if you did too much shopping abroad and need a convenient surplus bag—without taking up a lot of space thanks to the way it ingeniously folds up like origami into something so compact you can take it with you anywhere.

Dimensions: 17.75" x 13.75" x 9" Weight: 0.9 lb.

Away The Laptop Sleeve

There is a reason so many frequent fliers swear by Away. Functional, thoughtful design is the brand's MO, and this exemplifies that perfectly. Made from a water-resistant nylon, it can fit up to a 13" laptop, and is layered with several pockets for keeping chargers, cords, keyboards, pens, and notebooks neatly organized.

Dimensions: 13" x 1.6" x 9.6" Weight: 14 oz.

Mark & Graham Small Travel Jewelry Case

It goes without saying that jewelry should never go into a checked suitcase. Keep your valuables close—and well-organized—in a case that is compact enough to fit into a tote or carry-on but with still has plenty of compartments to store your rings, necklaces, and earrings.

Dimensions: 4.5" x 4.5" x 2.25"

Apple AirTag

Other brands might be getting into the Bluetooth tracker game but the first-to-market AirTag still reigns supreme. We have all heard plenty of horror stories about lost luggage, and while there is no way to prevent it from happening to you, consider this an inexpensive way to buy a little peace of mind .

BlueHills Travel Blanket

If the thought of using those blankets they give you on the plane gives you chills (who knows where they have been?), consider a BYO approach. Don't be fooled by the low price of this Amazon option: it's super soft, folds neatly into a pouch that doubles as a pillow, and comes in 13 different colors. Plus, you won't feel so bad if you accidentally leave it behind.

Dimensions: 60" x 43" (case: 11.5" x 10") Weight: 1 lb.

White + Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap

“A miracle accessory,” Glowczewska raves . “The wrap is huge—really, it's an almost seven-foot-long blanket of seven-gauge, two-ply knit cashmere. I sleep under it on airplanes and its softness and warmth transform even an economy-class flight into a nearly pleasurable experience. But it’s so light, you can easily stuff it into it a travel backpack or an average-sized handbag. You can wind it several times around your neck or shoulders and it never feels bulky. Start with black, then get more; the colors are delicious.”

Dimensions: 81" x 36"

Paravel Cabana See-All Vanity Case

Just as everyone has a specific packing method she swears by, those who spend enough time on the road will also have their own best practices when it comes to organizing their toiletries. Paravel's structured case protects things from getting smushed, it holds a lot , and its clear sides and all-around zip means no annoying rummaging required.

Dimensions: 8.5" x 5.5" x 3.75" Weight: 0.38 lb.

Precious Tails Cat & Dog Bed

“If our dog had its way, he’d ride in the driver’s lap,” says Norman Vanamee, T&C 's articles director—and our resident expert on family roadtrips . “This dog bed with a seatbelt keeps him in one place and relatively happy."

Dimensions: 20" x 14" x 11" (small); 26" x 24" x 13" (medium); 30" x 22" x 14" (large)

EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

No more overpaying at the airport for emergency adapters because you forgot (again!) that your EU plug won't work in the UK. This one has 4 plugs that cover 150+ countries, plus 5 USB ports for charging multiple devices simultaneously.

Dimensions: ‎2.8" x 1.97" x 2.04" Weight: 5.4 oz.

Bose Bose QuietComfort Headphones

Screaming toddlers. Zillennials watching TikTok videos on full volume. Bickering couples. Leave the world behind with these Bose headphones, which are wireless (but also come with a cable), have an impressive 24 hours of battery life, and are built with various custom modes to suit whatever you're listening to (or tuning out). Another perk: they come in a range of fun colors, like dark green, lilac, and light blue.

Nori The Nori Press

T&C 's deputy digital lifestyle director Roxanne Adamiyatt calls this steam iron a “a genius invention.” Its list of standout features is long: dual iron plates to simultaneously press both sides of a garment, a pointed tip for hard-to-reach places, six heat settings plus even a steam function, and it all weighs less than 1.5 lbs.

Dimensions : 14" in length

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

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The best travel accessories to pack on every trip

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Packing lists will vary based on where you're going and how long you're travelling for, but the best travel accessories can improve every trip. From tech gadgets to keep your electronics powered up and luggage accessories that ensure you're not hit with an overweight baggage charge, having the right gear means a smoother journey, every time. Below, we've rounded up 27 essential items to pack inside your carry-on bag , weekender , or checked luggage . Consider these the travel gear staples to bring on your next trip – and all your future holidays after that.

• A trusted tote
• A travel wash bag
• Packing cubes
• Jewellery case
• Reusable travel bottles
• Hydrating skincare products
• A portable charger
• A power adapter
• A luggage scale
• A way to find your luggage
• An e-reader
• A portable fan
• A portable steamer
• An eye mask
• A neck pillow
• A shawl or blanket
• Hand sanitiser and wipes
• A reusable water bottle
• Snack containers
• A passport holder
• A back-up travel bag
• An umbrella

1. A trusted tote

A tote bag is the ideal personal item. It's roomy enough to store all your odds and ends, and everything you'd want with you during a flight, and is usually pretty pliable, meaning you can squeeze it under the seat without taking up all of your foot room. Look for one with comfortable shoulder straps, should you overload it with snacks. A trolley sleeve is a nice feature, too, so you can slide it over your suitcase while cruising through the airport.

2. A travel wash bag

A travel wash bag is key to staying organised — and avoiding spills in your luggage. We like these options from Away and Bagsmart for their water-resistant materials and ample space for your toothbrush and toothpaste, razor, soaps, and more. A hanging bag, like those below, also allows you to keep items tidy and off the bathroom counter.

3. Packing cubes

Don't underestimate the power of a good packing cube . Articles director Lale Arikoglu has waxed poetic about her love of Paravel's packing cubes (other editors are fans of Away's set ), which come in a range of sizes to store everything from bathing suits and socks to T-shirts.

4. Jewellery case

A rule to live by: never check your valuables, especially jewellery. Keep necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings safe and neatly organised inside a jewellery case. We like Monica Vinader's for smaller accessories; if you're packing sunglasses and watches, you'll want something slightly bigger, like this Smythson option.

5. Reusable travel bottles

Rather than buy plastic travel-sized toiletries , get yourself a set of leakproof travel bottles that allow you to bring your at-home favourites on the go. They're great for storing toiletries and beauty products, and tubs can also be used to keep small items like jewellery or vitamins.

6. Hydrating skincare products

Even if you're not the type of person with a multi-step in-flight skincare routine , a few basics can go a long way in keeping your skin happy and healthy after a long day of travel. Since hand sanitiser remains a travel essential, a hand balm to apply once or twice a day is equally important to keep them moisturised. Aesop's smells incredible, and will last for several trips to come — a little bit of the thick, creamy balm goes a long way. Don't forget a hydrating lip balm, either.

7. A portable charger

There's nothing like a dead battery to slow down a trip. Keep all your accessories charged up with a power bank — Anker is our favourite, but iWalk's mini charger is a great option if you're short on space.

8. A power adapter

For international travel, a power adapter is a must to make sure you can get devices charged up in the airport and your hotel room. Apple's World Travel Adapter Kit comes with seven AC plugs with prongs that fit into different electrical outlets around the world, and each one is labelled with the regions they are compatible with. (As for compatibility, it works with Apple USB-C power adapters; MagSafe and MagSafe 2 power adapters; 10W, 12W, 30 and 35W USB ports; and portable power adapters.) We also recommend this Bluetooth converter , which lets you use your regular cordless earbuds to watch a movie in flight.

9. Headphones

Whether the plan is to listen to music, watch a movie, or just drown out noisy neighbours, most of us won't board a plane without headphones. Make sure you have your go-to on hand, plus a pair of corded earbuds (if you don't have one of these Bluetooth adapters ).

10. A luggage scale

Give yourself some added peace of mind with a digital luggage scale; it’ll let you know how much damage your souvenirs did before arriving at the check-in counter on the way home.

11. A way to find your luggage

Speaking of luggage, the Tile Pro and Apple AirTags can help locate lost bags (or wallets, or keys, depending on what you attach it to). In fact, a luggage tracker is one of the items contributor Harrison Pierce wishes he had when he began travelling full-time .

12. An e-reader

Even travellers with a library full of books at home have to admit it: E-readers are an essential travel accessory for bookworms . They are so much lighter than even one paperback book, and let you bring as many options as you want along for the ride.

13. A portable fan

If you're headed somewhere warm, or just tend to run hot, do yourself a favour and pack a portable fan. Whether you choose a handheld option or one you can wrap around your neck, it'll give you the breeze you need whether you're in the back of a crowded bus or van, standing in line at Disneyland, or kicking back in a beach chair .

14. A portable steamer

If you're travelling to a wedding or heading out on a business trip, you may want to bring a portable steamer along to make sure your formalwear looks its best after you take it out of your suitcase. Traveller contributor Erinne Magee put nine travel steamers to the test to find out which ones are the best options for travellers — below are two of her favourites.

15. A tech kit

All of those tech items mean you're going to have plenty of charging cubes and cables to keep track of. Save space in your backpack — and save yourself the headache of digging through your bag — by keeping everything wrapped up in a tech kit like the ones below.

16. An eye mask

For a comfortable journey at 30,000 feet — especially one where you hope to get some shut-eye —an eye mask is crucial. For more help sleeping, try the Bluetooth sleep headband recommended by US contributor Iona Brannon, which lets you listen to music or white noise without anything in or around your ears; in a pinch it can even double as an eye mask, she says.

17. A neck pillow

Another comfort essential: a travel pillow . It can take some time to find the style you like best, and your pick might vary depending on whether you're in-flight or in a car. Two we like: The classic memory foam wraparound neck pillow, which can be tightened or loosened per your preference, and the innovative fleecy neck wrap recommended by commerce writer Charley Ward .

18. Cosy socks

We love a good pair of compression socks to fight that pins-and-needles feeling that comes from sitting still for too long, be it on a long-haul flight  or a road trip . For those who prefer a cosier option, we recommend socks from Barefoot Dreams .

19. Earplugs

When you need some peace and quiet, swap your noise-cancelling headphones in for earplugs. This set comes with multiple sizes, so you can find the right fit, and share with any family members you're travelling with. See our full Loop earplug review here .

20. A shawl or blanket

For those who run cold, an oversized scarf will get plenty of use in transit, and can even double as a blanket. Opt for a quality material you can pack for years to come, like cashmere.

21. Hand sanitiser and wipes

As for general wellness, hand sanitiser is a must — buy a set and drop one in all your most-used totes and sling bags so you're never without. Some biodegradable wipes are nice to have on hand too, especially if you're travelling with little ones .

22. A reusable water bottle

Rounding out our collection of the best travel accessories are some odds and ends, like a good reusable water bottle, so you can stop buying overpriced bottles at the airport (and be kinder to the environment).

23. Snack containers

If overpriced airport snacks aren't your jam, come prepared by filling reusable Stasher bags with popcorn, crackers, fruit, or whatever else you'd like in-flight before you leave your house. A reusable utensil set is another nice-to-have travel accessory that'll allow you to turn down the plastic cutlery you might be handed in the airport or elsewhere on the road. The spoon and chopsticks are particularly TSA-friendly (while utensils are technically allowed through security , it's at the discretion of the agent if they'll let plastic knives or forks).

24. A passport holder

Also handy: a high-quality passport holder (bonus points if it has space to hold your credit cards) to keep your most important document protected. Aspinal's can be personalised with your initials for an added £20.

25. A back-up travel bag

For trips where you plan to shop, something lightweight, like Paravel's Fold-Up Bag or Baggu's Cloud Bag , is a smart addition to your packing list. Stuff it with souvenirs on your way home, or use it for overnight or weekend trips within a longer holiday.

26. A travel umbrella

Depending on your destination, a travel-size umbrella might be worth the space in your luggage. And if you're driving, tossing one in the backseat is a no-brainer. Contributor Claire Volkman tested out around a dozen options on our US sister site to determine which are the sturdiest and most compact. Shop two of her favourites, both available in the UK, below.

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23 Best Travel Accessories for Every Kind of Trip

Whether you’re crammed in economy class or on a long drive, these gadgets and accessories will make the time pass quickly.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

Whether you’re a frequent traveler or you save up for one trip every few years, chances are you already know that what you pack impacts your comfort, your enjoyment, and, perhaps most important, your stress levels both while traveling and when you’ve actually settled in at your new destination. That’s why it’s critical to pack useful, helpful travel accessories. Take the wrong ones, and you may find yourself carrying extra weight for gear you never end up using.

As a full-time travel writer, I enjoy the wonderful perk of being able to travel quite a bit. While chasing down stories, I’ve stayed in five-star suites in the Maldives and slept on the top bunk of a 15-hour budget sleeper train in Vietnam . So I’ve experienced quite a variety of travel conditions while using what’s likely hundreds of travel accessories in the process.

Over time, I’ve been able to narrow down my must-have travel accessories to include a perfect blend of ones that are useful, easy to carry, and multifunctional. For example, a packable mini- backpack can serve as a lightweight bag for day hikes or as an extra carry-on if you buy too much abroad.

These are the 23 best travel accessories I recommend to all my friends planning their next weekend or bucket-list getaways.

Best Travel Accessories

• Best In-Flight Bluetooth Audio Adapter: Twelve South AirFly Pro
• Best Travel Footrest: Airplane Footrest
• Best Cord Organizer for Small Items: Bellroy Classic Pouch
• Best Containers for Toiletries: Cadence Weekender Bundle
• Best Blanket for Cold Flights: Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

The Expert: I’m a freelance travel writer and editor who usually focuses on adventure travel. That’s led me to take some pretty lengthy flight patterns (most recently, 54 hours of travel on the way to Rwanda) and fairly remote road trips (through central Alaska). But traveling frequently doesn't mean anything goes. Like everyone else, I have my personal annoyances while traveling: I get cold easily, I’m sensitive to noise when sleeping in new places, and I always need to be able to work on-the-go. What all of that means is that my experience with travel accessories isn’t just about finding those that make flights more comfortable, but also those that improve my productivity, help me enjoy myself in new destinations, and make packing as painless as possible. I think I've used just about every type of travel product out there, and truly feel the ones I have selected are the best of the best.

What to Consider When Buying Travel Accessories

The best travel accessories eliminate the inconveniences and annoyances of life on-the-go. For me, this includes headphones that drown out engine noise (or crying babies), containers that allow me to bring my favorite soap and shampoo on flights, and anything that makes long trips more comfortable. Consider what you value most and look for accessories in that space.

No matter what you’re in the market for, don’t overlook size, especially for liquids. The TSA limits your liquids to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) per container and prefers them all packed into one quart-size bag. As for luggage, make sure any travel bags you intend to carry on are no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches, and checked bags no heavier than 50 pounds. Even if you aren’t checking a suitcase, you’ll have an easier, more comfortable experience with less to lug around. Most of the accessories below are relatively lightweight, but they’ll add a few pounds combined.

Finally, a word on price. Some travelers don’t want to spend too much money on items they might accidentally leave in a seat-back pocket, whereas other people tend to take better care of things that cost more. I generally recommend ruling out the very cheapest items in most categories, lest you find your shampoo bottle started leaking mid-flight.

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How We Selected These Travel Accessories

In addition to my own experiences using these products as a travel writer and gear tester, I weighed consumer reviews, investigated market research, and did a thorough evaluation of each product's price, features, and overall value. If you’re looking for stuff to make your next trip easier and more comfortable, start with these recommendations.

Twelve South AirFly Pro

Given how small and lightweight this Bluetooth adapter is, I make sure to pack it for every flight where I expect to watch a movie. The adapter plugs into airplane screens and pairs via Bluetooth so you can use your preferred noise-canceling earphones with the in-flight entertainment.

It has excellent battery life, but the connection does suffer from some lag. I’ve noticed a very slight audio delay in older planes—and you may need a two-prong adapter on older entertainment systems.

If you plan to use the AirFly only for sending audio to your headphones, you can get by with the less-expensive AirFly Classic, which has slightly better battery life. But if you want to use Bluetooth to send audio to the AirFly (for example, to play audio from your phone in a car without built-in Bluetooth), you’ll need the Pro.

Sekoess Airplane Footrest

My foot hammock is probably the nerdiest travel accessory I own, but it's a lifesaver—or should I say leg saver. The adjustable-length hammock attaches to your airplane seat's tray table and eases pressure on your low back, knees, and glutes.

I'm much less stiff after flights when I use the foot hammock and have never noticed it bothering the person in the seat in front of me, even while making adjustments. You can also buy versions with more rigid footrests, though I find the more flexible, hammock-style footrest is easier to stuff into a carry-on.

Bellroy Classic Pouch

Whether it’s a road trip or an international flight, I always use a small, simple zippered case for my tech gear so I don’t have to fish around for it in the bottom of my bag.

Cord organizers have become trendy lately, but some have so many straps and pockets that I still have to search for the exact item I need. Instead, I just use a small case like the Bellroy Classic Pouch. Since I have a separate case for my computer charger and cord, this one has enough space for most of my other small items, including the AirFly and Bose earbuds in this roundup. It has a few basic organizational pockets and zips wide enough so you can find what you need in a hurry.

Oh, and if you want a case to fit your computer charger as well as all your other travel accessories, never fear: There’s a larger option. The Bellroy Tech Kit is deeper and longer, with a clamshell-style opening, so it can hold slightly larger accessories like computer charger cubes or a GoPro camera.

Cadence Weekender Bundle

Carry-on-only travelers are familiar with packing small amounts of their favorite toiletries, but mini squeeze bottles make it challenging to use gels and creams that get stuck to the bottoms.

Fortunately, you can alleviate that issue with Cadence’s magnetic honeycomb-style capsules, which stick together and take up little space. These convenient containers are made from ocean plastic cleaned from beaches, and you can customize the tile labels and colors of each capsule. I recommend the six-pack for carrying both hair and skincare products, but you could connect three times that number if you so desire.

Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

I carry a packable insulated blanket on almost every trip, even to tropical destinations. Aside from being useful as a plane blanket, it comes in handy in hotels where the A/C is definitely working or when there’s only a sheet on the bed.

I like the Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket since the fill is light and compressible. It’s on the smaller side at roughly 4.5-feet by 3-feet, but it’s worth the trade-off for the packability (less than 4-inches wide when packed.) I usually carry it in one of the bottle pockets on the side of my carry-on backpack.

Because it’s not a full-size blanket, the NanoLoft is best as a lap blanket on cold flights or car rides, and works well as a pillow when packed. For more coverage, consider the full-size NanoLoft (6- by 14-inches packed, $179+). I recommend getting a tiny stuff sack or compression packing cube to make it into a more manageable carry-on size.

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

The Osprey Ultralight Stuff Sack is proof that the best travel accessories don’t have to be high-tech or overly complex—just useful. This is a water-resistant, packable backpack with mesh straps, a side pocket, and one small internal pocket. That’s it.

Because it’s so simple, it folds down incredibly small to about 5- by 5- by 3-inches. I often wear it when sightseeing around a city when I don’t want to carry a purse or shoulder bag.

But even if I don’t have a plan for using it, I toss it in my luggage every time. It can come in handy when you’re packing in a hurry and can’t fit everything as neatly into your bag as you did the first time, or if you’re road tripping and want to pull over and walk to a quirky roadside attraction. Most of my other ultra-packable bags are totes, but I prefer the security of a zippable backpack.

Cabeau S3 Evolution

These pillows are phenomenal, and reviewers say they're the only way they can ever get some sleep when crammed into a middle seat.

An adjustable headrest strap keeps the pillow upright and in place, and the comfortable foam never seems to lose its shape. Though most people wear the Evolution around their neck as intended, it works well as a traditional pillow, especially considering the gap in the middle leaves room for bulky over-ear headphones.

Alongza Portable Charger

I take thousands of vacation photos per trip, and often, the only camera I’m carrying is the one in my cell phone. To avoid running out of battery before getting back to my hotel room, I carry the ridiculously small Alongza charger.

It holds about two phone charges, and it won’t power bigger devices like laptops. But because it’s roughly the size of a credit card (though a smidge thicker), it’s easy to carry and is able to charge my phone while walking around.

I find most power banks too big to fit in my pocket, but this is probably the tiniest one I’ve ever used. I also like the built-in UBC-C and Lightning connectors so I can leave my cords at the hotel.

HiBar Maintain Shampoo and Conditioner Set

If carrying a 3-ounces of shampoo won’t get you through a whole trip, consider using a solid shampoo and conditioner bar that won’t raise any eyebrows going through the TSA checkpoint.

There are five different sets for different hair types, each safe to use for color-treated hair. Be sure to toss them into a plastic bag if you’re planning to pack them before they’re dry.

I have very thin, fine hair, and find the HiBar Volumizie set works just as well as the far more expensive salon set I use in my home shower.

Bose QuietComfort Noise Canceling Earbuds

I love my over-the-ear headphones, but on long flights, they can start to feel a bit sore on my ears. I took a risk on the Bose QuietComfort headphones, since at nearly $300 they’re even more expensive than Apple AirPods. But I’m glad I bought them.

They provide a level of noise-cancellation I never thought would be possible from an in-ear headphone, and the case can fully charge the headphones three times before it needs to be plugged in again—enough to get you through even the longest of trans-Atlantic flights and chatty seatmates.

The only real minus is the size, as they don’t sit as closely to your head as the popular Apple AirPods. But the sound quality more than makes up for it.

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Flex Sip Lid Bottle

At this point, it’s a given to carry a reusable water bottle, but I’ve started bringing my own coffee mug too, especially since I like my coffee piping hot. In many countries, coffee is served in a teacup and not guzzled like I’m used to, and having my own mug is a great way to fill my coffee once at the hotel without bothering the staff to bring more and more.

I’ve recently been using the Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Mug. It keeps coffee hot, but most important, it has a tight seal. I can buy coffee in the airport, put the mug in my carry-on, and pull it out mid-flight without worrying that it leaked in the bag I have shoved under my seat.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Over-Ear Headphones

When it comes to audio, two big names still reign supreme, at least in my book: Sony and Bose. Bose makes my favorite in-ear headphones, but Sony’s WH-1000XM4 is far and away the best over-the-ear option. The battery life is impressive at 30 or more hours per charge, and the charging is quick—20 minutes powers about 8 hours of listening.

The noise canceling is fabulous, as I’ve learned when trying to talk to someone wearing them, and they fold into a flat case. That said, they’re still a bit on the bulky side, stored or worn, but if you’re planning to carry over-the-ear headphones, their size probably isn’t your top priority.

JBL Clip 4 Speaker

I work remotely and set my own schedule, which means I’m often working for a few hours here and there in hotel rooms on vacation. I also love to listen to podcasts when I’m getting ready in the morning, so I always make sure to pack a small Bluetooth speaker.

The JBL Clip 4 has better sound than expected for its size, including strong bass. The built-in clip makes it easy to hang on a shower rod or suitcase handle, and because it’s waterproof, it’s ideal for use around pools, beaches, hot tubs, and whatever other amenities you may avail yourself to on vacation.

The negative: it uses a lithium ion battery, which means you have to take it in your carry-on, not in your checked bags.

Panasonic Lumix G7 4K Camera

I’m constantly amazed by the quality of photos you can get from an iPhone, but when it comes to shooting in suboptimal conditions (or trying to show depth and scale in landscapes), you’ll probably want a more advanced camera.

The Lumix G7 is a ridiculously good camera with a surprisingly low price, especially considering it’s mirrorless, which makes it lighter and smaller than non-mirrorless options. It shoots photos and videos in 4K, has Wi-Fi so you can send your photos straight to your phone or computer, and has multiple auto settings for beginners, including one specifically for night-sky photography.

It’s packed with features and is the number one camera I recommend to all travelers who want to take better travel photos without spending more serious money on a camera, even if you don’t have any actual interest in using its more professional features.

Peak Design Packing Cube

I’ve become a big fan of Peak Design. The brand's packing cubes are the its first item I ever tried. They have strong zippers that don’t seem to get caught in the fabric while compressing as much as other cubes, and you can fit far more than you’d expect into each one.

I prefer the small size, as it’s easier to stack in a suitcase and fits better in a backpack or shoulder bag. These packing cubes are also light and thin, so you can throw an empty one in your bag (as I found especially useful in Patagonia) just in case you end up buying an extra sweater during your travels.

Pro packing tip: Don't pack small clothing items like underwear, socks, and swimsuits in the cubes. Instead, shove them into negative space around the cubes to maximize all available luggage areas.

Thule Subterra Carry-on Roller

Hard-sided carry-on spinners have become all the rage in the last few years, and while I do love my July bag, I’ve found two drawbacks to hard-sided bags: the second set of wheels eats into the luggage space and there’s no ability to stuff them into an overhead bin or car if they don’t quite fit.

Fortunately, I’ve had the Thule Subterra for a while now and it’s become my most-used bag. That’s thanks to a built-in compression panel with pocket; a small front pocket for passports, keys, and sunglasses; and durable back wheels that seem to have no problem crashing over curbs and steps.

I’ve also come to appreciate its slightly smaller size. While some travelers may balk at the idea of not maximizing their carry-on capacity, I find that it's actually easier for travel, especially when I see my fellow travelers’ larger bags getting forcibly gate checked on smaller planes.

Baseus Blade

I’ve used plenty of backup chargers while traveling (who hasn’t?), but the Blade from Baseus is the one I rely on most. That’s partially because I have a computer with a USB-C charging port, and the Blade is optimized for quick charging of USB-C computers.

I can charge my MacBook Pro from 0- to 100-percent with about a 20-percent charge left on the Blade (which is enough to almost fully charge my iPhone).

Other features I appreciate are its slim design (so I can travel with it in my laptop pocket), a display that shows you both how much battery is left and how much time until the Blade is fully charged, and the fact that it takes only about 1.5 hours to fully charge it.

If I use the entire capacity on a flight, as long as I have at least a 1.5-hour layover, I can be back up and running on the next flight.

Ombraz Armless Sunglasses

I've broken more than a few pairs of sunglasses by shoving them into the pocket of an overstuffed bag or sitting on them at dinner if I put them in my back pocket after a day of sightseeing. That's why when traveling, I nearly always carry Ombraz sunglasses. If I bring a fancier pair, it stays in a hard case in my luggage.

The smartly designed Ombraz shades have a soft adjustable cord in place of arms, so they’re nearly impossible to break or bend. They slide into a flat padded case and come in five unisex styles. You can also buy side shields (ideal for reflective surroundings, like snow or water) and have your prescription added.

The only downside is that you’ll need both hands to put them on, but to me, it’s worth it. I’ve had the classic pair for about three years, and they haven’t showed much wear or abrasion—but there’s a lifetime guarantee on the cord and frame if they ever do.

CM Pack of Two Mini Pouch Case Bag

I almost always have my laptop with me when I travel, and since the chunky MacBook charging cube and long cord are too bulky to store with the rest of my small cords, I used to just toss them into my bag. But then I found these tiny travel pouches sized for a computer power adapter.

I can easily fit my computer power adapter and cord in one pouch, and now, I don’t have to pull everything out of my bag to untangle the laptop cord, or use tweezers to remove dirt from the bottom of my backpack that got stuck in the charging port.

The pouches in this set are as simple and lightweight as can be, which is why I like them. They’re also useful for other small items such as GoPros, flash drives, memory cards, and camera batteries.

Originally from the East Coast, Suzie Dundas is a Lake Tahoe-based freelance writer and editor who now splits her time between enjoying the outdoors and writing about them—she's the senior outdoor editor at Matador Network and a regular adventure and travel contributor at TripSavvy.com . She has written feature stories for publications like Outside Magazine , SkyLife Magazine , Playboy , Frommers, INSIDER, and more, and contributes couples travel and honeymoon content for TheKnot.com . Suzie co-authored Lonely Planet Sustainable Travel Guide and is the author of 2021's "Hiking Lake Tahoe." She has undergraduate degrees from the University of Maryland and an M.A. in media and political communication from George Washington University. Follow her on Instagram at @HikeUpYourSkirt or find more of her work at suziedundas.com . 

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The 21 best carry-on accessories that travel writers say they never fly without

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A stocked carry-on bag is a lifeline while traveling. From mid-flight entertainment to post-landing refreshment, having the right products by your side is a must for flying comfortably. Since most airlines have luggage size restrictions, it's a challenge to find the right cocktail of essential items that will maximize every inch of your carry-on bag and personal item.

To find the best carry-on accessories, we spoke with Insider Reviews reporters and editors as well as travel writers and travel content creators. According to our well-traveled experts, these are the must-bring items for your next big trip, from portable bidets to stylish headphones.

A tool for tracking your belongings

Apple AirTag

Losing important items can be especially stressful while traveling. Some smart travelers have opted to use AirTags to keep close track of suitcases, wallets, and more. "An AirTag is something that you really need in case you have to check in your luggage. Especially with non-American airline companies." said Ivonne Morales , a travel content creator.

A small but powerful charger

Baseus Portable Laptop Charger

Seeing your phone or laptop battery drain while traveling is a nightmare, whether you're watching a movie or getting in a last minute email. TikTok travel content creator Adam Boro uses the Baseus Portable Charger when trying to do work on the plane — it can charge three to five devices simultaneously and is strong enough to charge a laptop.

A portable bidet

Brondell GoSpa Travel Bidet

James Brains has reviewed several bidets for Insider and has them installed in all the toilets in his house. Now, he never travels without this travel bidet. "Since bidets are still pretty rare in the United States, I make do with this travel bidet. It doesn't do as good as the bidet attachments I have at home, but it's much better than using toilet paper on the road," Brains says.

A stylish set of headphones

Apple AirPods Max

Headphones can be used when flying to drown out loud noises and to wear while moving around an airplane. Our former senior tech correspondent, Lisa Eadicicco, reviewed the Apple AirPods Max and found them to be stylish with excellent audio and noise cancellation. 

Briona Lamback received the headphones as a Christmas gift and plans to use them while traveling. "I need to go back to over-the-ear headphones, specifically for travel. I've been on a plane at least two times, fallen asleep with my AirPods in, woke up [and] the AirPods are nowhere to be found."

A one-size-fits-all travel wallet

Bellroy Travel Folio

Finding a travel wallet that can fit your passport, boarding passes, and foreign currency can be difficult. Luckily, Bellroy's Travel Folio can hold travel documents, credit cards, and even a notebook and pen. 

Execute editor Sally Kaplan always travels with this passport holder from Bellroy. "It fits my passport, my wife's passport, all the IDs and cards that we need to keep handy for the airport, and has room for cash, boarding passes, and more. It also comes with a little notebook and micro pen for jotting down confirmation numbers or anything else you want written in one place. It even has RFID protection, so I use it as a wallet while we're out and about on trips."

A chocolate flavored melatonin

Good Day Chocolate Natural Melatonin

One of the best ways to pass time on long flights is to sleep, but it can be difficult to fall asleep on a loud and tightly packed plane. Luxury travel content creator Daniel Mann uses Good Day's Chocolate Melatonin to catch some zzz's on flights. 

"Those have been helpful in terms of sometimes taking red-eye flights and having to stay up later than I would like to before traveling. And then when I get on the plane a lot of the times I want to be able to knock out so that I can arrive refreshed at the destination, so to me that's a must-have," said Mann.

A TSA-friendly refillable water bottle

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle with Flex Cap

Airports are notorious for expensive prices on food, drinks, and water. Bring your own empty water bottle to skip buying an overpriced one. Most of the editors and reporters on the Insider Reviews team swear by Hydro Flask's wide selection of water bottles, including the Wide Mouth bottle. 

"Do not underestimate the importance of bringing your own water bottle to the airport!" said deputy editor, Lauren Savoie. "You can take it through security empty and then fill it up before you board the plane. I love my Hydro Flask because the metal interior feels much cleaner than plastic, it keeps my water frosty cold for hours, and it fits a whopping 32 ounces of water."

An inflatable travel pillow

Cocoon AIR CORE Hood/Camp Pillow

Another key to getting better sleep while flying is having a comfortable neck pillow . While most neck pillows can take up a lot of space in your carry-on, this inflatable travel pillow can be folded down, making it a favorite for frequent flyers. 

"I got this inflatable travel pillow and it compacts down to a really small size. And then you can blow into it and it becomes a neck pillow," said Adam Boro.

An in-flight entertainment connecting device

Twelve South AirFly Pro

The AirFly Pro connects to the plane's in-flight entertainment system using Bluetooth instead of a wire. The connector also has a 16-hour battery life, making it a great choice for long-haul flights. 

Travel content creator Ivonne Morales is a big AirFly fan: "It's so annoying when someone needs to go to the bathroom and you need to move or you have to go to the bathroom and you have to move and figure out how to dangle your headphones[...]. With my AirPods, I just leave them in and I love that."

A duffel bag for your souvenirs

Nike Brasilia Small Duffel Bag

Another quick and easy way to double your packing space is to bring along an empty duffel bag and fill it with souvenirs, dirty clothing, or other items on your trip back home. The Nike Brasilia Bag was also selected as our pick for the best duffel bag due to its durability and storage capacity. 

"Sometimes if I'm really going to be gone for a while or going a far distance I'll bring a duffel bag," said Daniel Mann. "Typically I'll put my drone in there and any electronics and snacks in the duffel bag. I like the duffel bag too because it's not a set shape, and it can kind of shift and mold and it's easy to maneuver."

Space saving packing bags

Ziploc Vacuum Sealer Storage Bags

While some travelers swear by packing cubes, compression bags can be useful for packing extra items of clothing in a small carry-on suitcase. Invonne Morales swears by vacuum bags for cold weather trips especially: "I went to France and it's obviously cold there so I have sweaters and chunky coats, and that was a lifesaver for me, especially in a carry-on."

To get your clothes compacted, simply use a vacuum to pull out extra air. Hand-rolling the bag can also do the trick if you don't have a vacuum on hand at your destination.

A pair of comfortable slides

Under Armour Men's Locker IV Slides

Get even more comfortable on your next flight by keeping a pair of slides in your carry-on bag. "I love traveling with slides instead of wearing my shoes. It's more comfortable on the plane. I have these slides that I swear by they're lightweight [and] you can put it into your backpack pretty easily," said Adam Boro. This pair from Under Armour is flat enough to tuck in between your laptop and toiletries case. 

Circulation improving socks

SB SOX Lite Compression Socks

Compression socks are a must for long haul flights, and can improve your leg circulation while sitting in a plane seat. This set was our pick for the best budget compression socks , making them a great option for travel — they're easy to replace and perform just as well as more costly options. 

"On short flights or especially long flights, your feet always swell, your body always swells when you're up there. So having compression socks has been so good. I wear them and then I take off my sneakers." said Ivonne Morales.

A multifunctional pocket fan

Portable Pocket Fan wth Flashlight

If you're planning to travel to a warm destination, a portable fan will help you keep cool. Both deputy editor Lauren Savoie and travel writer Briona Lamback strongly recommend picking up a fan before your next trip. This model from Amazon can also be used as a phone charger and a flashlight.   

"If you're like me and run hot, a portable fan is a must for long plane rides. I like this little one because it folds away compactly, can be placed on your seat tray, and has a backup battery bank for charging your devices. Plus, a handheld fan is inevitably helpful when you get to your destination, especially if you're traveling in the summer," said Savoie.

Hydrating flavored water packets

Liquid I.V. Hydration Supplements

Instead of trying to keep up your water intake and having to constantly use the airplane bathroom, these supplement packets will keep you hydrated throughout your flight. Adam Boro also recommends the packets and enjoys the caffeinated version for a boost in energy. 

Ivonne Morales agrees: "I use Liquid IV because you get dehydrated every time you're on a flight and you're thirsty. I hate going to the bathroom, especially on an airplane."

A refreshing face spray

Evian Facial Spray Travel Duo

Airplanes are notorious for being extremely dry, making it super important to use hydrating skincare products while in the air. 

Executive editor Sally Kaplan takes this mist everywhere. "The super-fine mist is so refreshing and it brings me to life whenever I feel like I'm overheating or drying up like a slug. It's a great pick-me-up on the plane, but it also comes with me in my purse whenever I'm out and about."

An old school way to capture travel memories

Kodak 35mm Disposable Camera

To capture memories from the moment you step into the airport, consider picking up a disposable camera. While most disposable film cameras are okay to go through airport scanning machines, you may want to ask a TSA agent to hand scan your camera if you're looking to be extra cautious. 

"Kind of old school, but I always bring a disposable camera," said Briona Lamback. "I've been doing it for a few years. You know film is kind of back and I just think it's fun. So I usually bring a disposable camera and my instant Polaroid camera too."

An organizer for tangled tech wires

Calpak Tech Organizer

Keeping chargers, headphones, and other wires organized can be tricky when traveling. This organizer from Calpak will help keep all of your cords in order and stop you from accidentally leaving any behind. 

Insider travel reporter Monia Humphries loves her cord organizer. "I recently brought a cord organizer on a 20-day trip abroad, and I'm never traveling without one again. I used to get so frustrated digging through my backpack in search of the right cord to charge my phone, headphones, battery pack, or laptop. Typically, I'd pull out a tangled mess of all of the above. One like this Calpak organizer is large enough to store all my chargers while compact enough for a small backpack."

A secret travel stash bag

Kapai 1.5L Hip Pack

Sometimes no matter how big your carry on and personal item are, you may find yourself needing a little bit more space. Insider's Sally Kaplan uses this Cotopaxi bag to sneak a third bag onto flights. 

"I just wear a small fanny pack under my sweatshirt, and then I take it out during the flight. I use it to stash things like headphones, my phone, lip balm, Advil, and a snack so I always have my most-used items close by. I have a lot of fanny packs, but this one from Cotopaxi is my current go-to," said Kaplan.

A set of cooling eye masks

Topicals Faded Under Eye Masks

Arrive at your destination feeling and looking refreshed thanks to these patches from Topicals. The set includes six eye masks, which contain cooling hydrogel and can be worn for as short as 15 minutes or as long as your entire flight. 

For her upcoming trip to Ghana, Briona Lamback is trying to get her hands on these. "It's a straight flight but I'm trying to look cute and fresh off the plane."

A spacious convertible bag

Baboon To The Moon Small Go Bag

Baboon To The Moon's Go Bag is an attractive option for travelers looking to travel light or maximize their carry-on space. The brand's small bag can hold enough items for a three to five-day trip and be carried as a duffel bag or worn as a book bag. 

Founder of Buoyant Travel and travel writer Briona Lamback loves the Go Bag: "You can just fit so much stuff in there and [have] it still be a carry-on...I've used it as my full bag and not taken anything else, because it's pretty deep. But I've also used it as a carry-on in addition to a hard suitcase. I love the colors too."

What size is carry-on luggage?

Carry-on luggage size requirements can vary widely by airline and location. For most US-based airlines such as Delta , JetBlue , American Airlines , and United Airlines , the standard size allowance is 22 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches high. This includes the handle and wheels on the suitcase. Many luggage companies have measurement guidance listed on their websites, which typically compare the brand's products to airline standards. When flying with international and budget airlines, we strongly recommend checking the airline's website for measurement guidance to avoid paying extra baggage fees.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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17 Travel Gadgets That Will Make Your Next Trip Smoother

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Figuring out what you need to pack for a trip can be challenging—especially if you like to travel carry-on only . But whether you’re heading for a weekend away with your best gal pals or a week-long jaunt to a new city, the tech you pack is important. From portable batteries and small location devices to headphone adapters for planes, we’ve tested multiple items to see what the best travel gadgets really are, and which ones simply aren't worth the space.

We promise the products below merit a spot on your packing list . Keep them in a pouch or near your suitcases so you know exactly where they are at all times, and can grab them when the need arises. The best part? All of these accessories are available on Amazon , and most on Prime, so you can get your hands on them quickly in advance of your next trip .

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Madison Flager.

This under-$20 Amazon find has completely upgraded my in-flight entertainment experience. When I fly, I usually watch movies or downloaded videos on my iPhone so I can continue to use my noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphones. This means I’m usually rotating between holding my phone in my hand and (unsuccessfully) propping it up on the tray table. This pocket-size phone mount clips onto the top of your seat tray table and perfectly holds your phone in place so you can watch movies, TV shows, or podcast videos hands-free. It features 360-degree rotation, allowing travelers to view their screen vertically or horizontally. The 1.5-inch clamp can be attached to tables, desks, gym equipment, and a variety of other surfaces. While I originally purchased this carry-on essential to use on airplanes, I’ve also attached it to my luggage handle while waiting to board a flight and on a train ride from Lucca to Florence. —Meaghan Kenny, associate commerce editor

If you've been on a group trip, you know the struggle of trying to get ready when there are too few mirrors available compared to the amount of folks in the house or hotel room. Eliminate the hassle with a portable travel mirror, like this fold-out option available on Amazon. It shifts to varying heights, has three light settings (warm, cool, and natural daylight), and folds up flat, weighing less than a pound.

Associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny calls this small wireless device “a complete game-changer—I'm never going back to the days of dry hotel rooms and dehydrated skin post flight.” She's found that sleeping with it, both at home and on the road, leaves her skin less dry and helps her to wake up feeling more refreshed. It's easy to use, too: “For as compact as the humidifier is, it can still fit 11.3 ounces of water—more than enough needed for a continuous cool mist throughout the day or night.”

Read a full review of this product.

Sure, many totes , backpacks , and small duffels now come with a trolley sleeve to secure it to a suitcase handle, but when you find yourself using a bag without that little sleeve, keeping your things together and upright becomes a balancing act. A Cincha travel belt is the workaround: It slips over your suitcase handle, then wraps around most any bag like a seatbelt, with adjustable straps to tighten or loosen as needed.

There’s nothing worse than getting onto an airplane and your wireless headphones not connecting to the seatback entertainment system. That issue is easily averted with this wireless audio transmitter and adapter . The small device pairs to your headphones via Bluetooth and then plugs into the tiny TV on the airplane so you’re never without entertainment on long-haul flights . I keep this Amazon gadget in my pre-packed go-bag, then charge it the night before I fly so I know it's fully charged before heading to the airport. Even better is that the device can pair with two sets of headphones, so if I'm traveling with someone we can both watch the same movie at the same time.

Gimbal stabilizers come in a variety of sizes and price points. If you’re testing the waters with the smartphone travel accessory , you may want to consider this under-$50 option. The anti-shake, one-axis stabilizer allows you to capture smooth videos and crisp photos of your travels without having to think about keeping your hands perfectly still and balanced. One perk of this particular stabilizer is that it doesn’t have a corresponding app that you need to use to make the device work, so you can just pop your phone onto the handle and go. At just 7.5 inches and less than half a pound, the stabilizer can fit easily into your day bag without weighing it down.

We’ve all experienced those long, twisty lines at the airport coffee shop that take longer than expected and leave you rushing off to your gate, juggling an iced coffee and your phone, all while somehow wheeling your carry-on bag behind you. Make that scenario a memory of the past with this luggage cup holder. The hands-free pocket slips over the handle of your luggage to hold up to two drinks and your phone. The adjustable cup holder has a Velcro opening that can be tightened or loosened to fit your suitcase handle and stay securely on your luggage as you traverse the airport. I keep this in my go-to personal item at all times, that way I know where it is before I head to the airport. Even better, if I do somehow spill a drink when using this, the cup holder is completely machine washable; I’ve throw it in with a load of towels to keep it clean.

If you’re headed somewhere warm, be it a theme park or Europe in summer, one of the best travel gadgets to bring along is a mini handheld fan. This VersionTech handheld fan is my absolute favorite of all of the ones I’ve tried. It charges quickly with an included USB charger (you can also use any micro-USB cords you're already packing), and has three speeds to keep air moving and keep you feeling refreshed. The handle of the fan can be folded back to allow it to sit on a table if you stop for a meal or coffee, or find yourself on a hot bus or train. I always have this in my backpack or fanny pack in the summer—when I whip it out and have a cool breeze blowing across my face, my travel buddies are instantly jealous that they don’t have one too.

Keeping your phone charged while traveling through airports can be difficult—not every airport has charging ports integrated into the seats at the gates, and most of the time people are huddled around the one or few outlets near the gate. I love this phone charging passport holder because I can charge my phone with an included power bank, and it has an integrated cable holder, and elastic bands to keep my phone in place as I traverse the airport. I also appreciate that the holder has a space for your passport and RFID blocking credit card slots for added protection.

No matter how meticulously you pack your clothes, pieces always end up wrinkled and looking like you slept in them on the other end. That problem is easily solved with this handheld garment steamer . The small electronic device weighs in at just under two pounds, so it won’t add much weight to your luggage. The steamer takes just 35 seconds to heat up, and has a removable water tank that’s easy to fill and an adjustable steam head so you can get wrinkles out no matter how your clothes are hung up. Leave this at home if you’re headed on a cruise, though; these portable steamers are not allowed on any cruise line.

Find more portable steamer recommendations .

Whether you’re traveling internationally or domestically, having a travel adapter is always a good idea. The universal adapter allows you to plug in your devices to outlets, no matter what country you’re in. There’s also a built-in surge protector and two USB ports so you can charge your phone or watch without having to unplug something bigger like hot hair tools or a laptop.

There’s nothing worse than misplacing something or finding out that your luggage got lost in transit on the way to your hotel or Airbnb. With an Apple AirTag , you can have constant eyes on your belongings, even if they aren’t technically with you. The tiny puck-like devices pair with your iPhone or iPad and use geolocation to let you know where your belongings are. I like that I can check on the location of my luggage, purse, or whatever else I've dropped an AirTag into with the Find My app. This is especially helpful after a plane lands and I want to be sure my luggage made it to my final destination.

Is there anything worse than checking into a hotel room and tossing and turning all night because of loud noises from neighbors or city streets? With this portable white noise sound machine, you can easily drown out the sounds of people, cars, or snoring companions. The machine has three sound options, and multiple volume settings so you can find the option that’s best for you. And because it’s so small at just 3.5 inches in diameter, it can fit in a backpack or carry-on bag with ease.

An electric handheld luggage scale is without a doubt one of the best travel gadgets, especially if you’re prone to overpacking and always have a checked bag at the airport like me. The handheld scale uses a strap to attach to the outside handles of your suitcase. Then you simply pull up with both hands using even force for the scale to display how much your luggage weighs. This is my easy way to avoid overweight fees or having to open my luggage on the airport floor to take things out and squish items into my backpack before racing off to my gate.

After flying through the friendly skies and making your way to your perfect vacation destination, your phone is likely showing that annoying red battery indicating that it’s almost out of power. With this wireless portable charger , you never have to get below 10 percent charge again. The charger can support wireless charging or charging with a connecting cable and can support Apple and Android products. iPhone users will be glad to know that with one full charge of the power bank, the device can charge an iPhone 12 at least eight times.

Keeping your personal information safe should be a top priority while traveling. One easy way to do that is with an RFID-blocking wallet, so skimmers in the pockets of nefarious patrons can’t get your credit card info just by walking by you. The wallet has multiple slots for credit cards, plus two zip pockets that are great for coins and paper money. Everything is further protected with a snap that covers both zippers and keeps the wallet closed.

Another popular travel wallet option: the Slim Mint ultra-thin RFID-blocking wallet. The compact case can hold cash and whatever essential cards you need on you—credit cards, hotel room keys, metro cards—so that they are easily accessible. When empty, it weighs just 3.2 ounces.

These 25 Travel Accessories Make Roadtrips and Long Flights So Much Easier

From a one-hour roadtrip to a cross-country flight, traveling is so much easier when you have the best editor-tested travel accessories on hand.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

If there's one thing that can make or break travel (other than cancelled flights), it's being prepared. My props to anyone who can just walk into an airport with having pre-planned every aspect of their travel experience, but that is not me. I fall firmly into the category of person that believes that a successful travel experience to and from your destination can make or break a trip, so I'm always prepared to make any flight or roadtrip as pleasant as possible. And there are a handful of must-have accessories that you'll always find me taking.

The Best Editor-Tested Travel Products

this sleep-saving fan

Battery operated stroller fan.

the best travel bag

Weekend bag.

these genius containers for creams

Contact lens case.

While some of these essentials are pretty specific to long flights, most of them make even the shortest roadtrip so much more pleasant. Whether you're sitting pretty as passenger princess and want to make the most of your next few hours or you need to prioritize getting whatever sleep you can before landing in a different time zone, you'll be thanking me as soon as you arrive because of how much easier these accessories make traveling.

More top traveling tips:

• The Best Camping Gear Buys for a More Comfortable Adventure
• 12 Things to Do at the Airport Terminal to Pass the Time

Was bringing a stroller fan on an airplane with me a bit extra? Yes, but when you're landing in a new country at 7 a.m. after a six hour flight and you can't go take a nap because #jetlag, then sleeping as comfortably as possible is absolutely essential. And, for me at least, having air blowing on my face is a necessity to sleep well. I didn't use this exact model, but the fan itself is almost an exact match. This fan has a flexible tripod attachment that can wrap or stand independently, versatility that was needed because I wasn't sure where exactly I'd be able to put it. For one flight I propped it up on the tray table and for the other I slipped it into the chair pocket.

Using a stroller fan while on a flight.

I love this bag so much that I immediately told my mom (who travels far more than I do) to buy it ASAP. It fits regulation size as a personal item but is a full weekender-style bag with plenty of room. The bottom portion is zippered for shoe storage and it also has a zippered trolley pocket that was perfect for stashing away passports. And the space—don't even get me started. This bag has a small zippered pocket inside and two open pockets with a main bag full of space. We brought home 5 souvenirs and I was able to fit all of them into this bag with everything originally packed inside with ease.

My one caveat with this bag is that I would not recommend using it if you won't have your rolling luggage at all times. If you plan on checking a suitcase, then you're probably better off with a backpack. Even with the long carrying strap in use, this bag can be heavy and bulky to lug around when not attached to rolling luggage.

The weekender bag packed as a personal item for airline travel. I have my travel pillow, toiletries/makeup, a book, extra set of clothes, eye mask, passport, wallet, and two pairs of shoes packed.

I have never worn contacts in my life, but I keep lens cases on hand because they're perfect for storing creams and gels when traveling. Anything from face cream, sun screen, foundation, and hair gel has made it into these and saved so much room in my suitcase. I prefer the colored cases like this because I try to match original packaging color to case color to help remember what is in each (you could always just write on them with marker, though).

Using a contact lens case for face moisturizer.

Tech Organizer Travel Case

I couldn't count on one hand the number of times my husband said on our trip, "This tech organizer was such a good purchase." Say goodbye to the days of digging through your bag on the cramped airplane floor trying not to bump the people in front of you frantically looking for your phone charger. This organizer wrangled two power banks, two phone charger cables, two headphone charger cables, and the stroller fan cables.

The tech organizer packed with the Anker portable charger, three charging cords, wireless earbuds, and a charging block.

4-Piece Compression Packing Cubes

If you haven't gotten on the compression packing cube train, now is the time. Not only do they reduce the size of your clothing by forcing all of the air out of the cube, but they also helped me to stay organized. I used a cube for tops, one for pants, and one for pajamas, so unpacking at three different hotels was honestly a breeze. If you really want to make the most of your space, consider investing in some vacuum travel cubes (though I'm not sure I'd advise these if you're hotel hopping).

Packing cube that is fully stuffed and compressed.

Veja Campo Sneaker

I didn't wear a single other pair of shoes on my trip other than these. They fit perfectly with my most casual outfits of jeans and a linen button down to my most formal silk skirt and sweater. While I loved them for the versatility and have zero regrets buying them, but would recommend getting insoles (which is probably smart to have on hand in general). Or, if you have time, purchase these shoes a few weeks in advance of your trip. They do have a bit of a breaking-in period. After a few weeks of use, though, I found them perfectly comfortable to wear all day.

My Veja sneakers after years of wear.

FOMIN Paper Soap Sheets

The number of times I encountered empty soap dispensers while traveling was honestly astonishing. And relying on hand sanitizer alone just won't cut it sometimes. I'm so happy I had a pack of dissolving hand soap sheets like these on hand so I could quickly and easily wash up.

Adventurist Sidekick Crossbody

If your trip involves being outdoors or moving around rugged terrain, you might prefer a slim purse that can hold up against the elements, like this one our editor used in Costa Rica. "It's an excellent price point and held my wallet, passport, keys, phone, and a snack with room to spare."

Apple AirTag

Despite hearing all the horror stories of lost luggage in recent months, I thought I could get away with not needing an AirTag to slip into my suitcase if I needed to track it because I wasn't checking any bags—or so I thought. My very first flight ended up being full, so my bag had to be checked and I simply had to cross my fingers and hope it found its way to me three flights later. All of this to say, here's your word of warning: even if you're not checking a bag, you should still consider slipping one of these bad boys into your suitcase just in case.

Sleep Number Travel Pillow

I hesitate to even call this a travel pillow because the comfort level is far more akin to a traditional pillow than any travel pillow I've ever tried. It's firm enough to keep your head supported against something but soft enough that you probably won't be able to tell a difference in this and your regular pillow. And if this one isn't your style, here's another travel pillow option that also comes highly recommended by another editor.

EverSnug Travel Blanket and Pillow

This might just be the softest blanket I own, and I own A LOT of blankets. I would highly advise getting this instead of relying on those itchy airline-given blankets on an overnight flight. It has a trolley pocket so it fits right over your suitcase handle but also has a karabiner if you prefer to attach it to your bag. When you're done with it, it easily (no stuffing or zipper yanking required) packs into the carrying case which, plot twist, can double as a pillow.

ANRABESS Two Piece Lounge Set

I will never travel in anything other than this lounge set (unless it's 90 degrees F in which I'll wear one with shorts). The material is honestly cozier than 50% of the sweaters in my closet. I sized up so the waistband wouldn't dig in at all and to give the cropped top a bit more length. I loved the wide leg pants because they allowed a bit of a breeze.

Vapur Collapsible Water Bottle

Buying plastic water bottles everywhere is 1. kind of expensive after a while and 2. very far from eco-friendly. I love that these have karabiners that make them easily attachable to backpacks but also serve double duty to make sure the bottle is as tightly and securely wound as possible when not in use.

DELSEY Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage

This suitcase is a bit of a splurge, but high-quality luggage is 100% worth the investment if you use them even just a few times a year. It's incredibly durable, with a handle that doesn't budge when you pull and wheels that glide effortlessly over surfaces. My suitcase fell off the luggage rack of a high-speed train, so it didn't come out of the trip unscathed, but dents easily popped out without leaving color damage to the shell. This piece was checked on three different flights and had not a single scratch from that process. If you're looking for a cheaper luggage set, I recommend this suitcase that my husband took. It showed a bit more wear and tear and you can tell the shell is not as durable just by touching it, but I do like that it has reinforced edges to prevent dents on the corners. Plus, it's a bargain.

Hannah Jones is the Commerce Editor for Country Living. Her eye is always on the next up-and-coming products to include in gift guides and she's ready to test everything from dog beds to garden tools for product reviews. When she’s not scoping out the latest and greatest items on the market, you can find her hanging with her two rescue dogs.

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Long Haul Flight Essentials: 20 Best Travel Accessories for Long Flights

Being on a plane for 12 hours can be draining to say the least and that’s why I put so much effort into choosing the best travel accessories for long flights. My list of long haul flight essentials will see you through an international flight keeping you comfy, fresh and relaxed throughout.

If you’re wondering what to take on long haul flights to stay fresh and comfy , pick up these travel essentials for the plane and you will have all the carry on essentials for long flights that you need.

Living in New Zealand means whenever I travel it takes a long time to get there so I know how to survive a long flight . I’ve done eight 12 hour flights just in the last seven months, so take it from me, these 20 items are long flight essentials.

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Long Haul Flight Essentials: 20 Best Travel Accessories for Long Flights

Noise cancelling headphones

Neck pillow

After sleeping so well in economy on a recent flight from Auckland to LAX, I’m convinced that a travel neck pillow is among the best travel accessories for international travel. Getting a decent block of sleep on a long haul flight is invaluable and having a neck pillow that keeps you comfortable and stops your head from slipping is absolutely key to this.

One of the best travel neck pillow for long flights is the Cabeau Memory Foam Evolution pillow because it’s soft, supportive and comfortable. It also folds up easily. You can check prices on it here .

One of my top accessories for a long flight – a travel neck pillow!

Reuben sleeping on an airport bench with eye mask and neck pillow after long flight from Auckland to Shanghai

Compression socks

If you are flying long haul you really need to wear compression socks. They do wonders to stop your legs feeling tired, achey and swollen from spending a long time sitting down.  Here’s a link to the Wanderlust Air Travel Compression Socks above.   Read my full guide to choosing compression socks and why you should use them here.

Regular socks

In addition to compression socks, one of my top long flight accessories is just a regular pair of socks. My feet are often cold on planes, even with compression socks on (which are more a stocking material).

Also, if you’ve been traveling a lot and have stinky feet, it’s kinder to your fellow passengers to put a fresh pair of socks on once you board the plane and kick of your shoes to get comfy. Seriously, I get stinky feet and I’m so conscious of the smell. I also wrap my sneakers in the plastic bag that they give out the blankets in so that people can’t smell them!

Onboard a flight from Auckland to LAX with one of my long flight essentials – my spotty pashmina!

Collapsible water bottle

Hand sanitiser.

Airplanes and airports can be disgusting and the longer you have to spend in them, the more gross stuff you have to touch. Hand santiser is one of my must haves for long flights.

Another long flight on Air New Zealand – We’ve done SO many long haul flights this year!

A small tube of hand cream is one of my long flight travel essentials. I always find the plane very drying to my skin. Using hand sanitser also really drys out my hands so I like to use it throughout the flight and travel days.  This is my favorite hand cream by l’Occitane . It’s such a small tube so it’s great for travel but a little goes a long way!

If someone asks me what to bring on long flight, one of my first answers is always lip balm. The air filtration and conditioning systems on a plane can make your lips feel very dry. Lip balm is one of my top airplane essentials for long flights.

Facial mist

Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist is life! This is one of the best beauty products for long haul flights. It refreshes your face and keeps you feeling hydrated and clean.  Here is a link to Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist on Amazon but note this is a 100ml bottle which is fine for travel internationally (go metric system!) but if you’re in the US TSA says 3 oz so this is slightly too big. You can decant it into a small travel-sized spray bottle like this if you don’t want to risk it.

Baby wipes are totally a travel essentials for long haul flights for me… and not just because I travel with kids. Baby wipes are essential for staying fresh and clean on a long flight.

Wipe of your make up once you’re settled in for the long haul and your skin will thank you for it for the next few days. It’s also worth wiping down your tray table, control pad and arm rest as they are often dirty.

I always freshen up in the bathroom when I wake up on a night flight so I feel fresh before we land. Doing a quick “wash” with a couple of baby wipes helps me feel semi-decent especially if I have to go sit in the airport and wait for a connecting flight.

Hazel waiting to board another long flight, Auckland to Tokyo on Air New Zealand

It’s easy to forget about this but one of my most important things to take on a long flight is deodorant. Once you’ve wiped yourself down in the bathroom, put on a fresh layer of deodorant.  A baby wipe off and slick of deodorant can make you feel good as new!

Folding toothbrush and travel sized toothpaste

And while you’re at it, brush your teeth! It’s amazing how good cleaning your teeth can make you feel! I always carry a folding toothbrush and a small tube of toothpaste in my bag of long haul travel essentials.

Small packing cube

For more info on using packing cubes to help you pack like a pro, read this post.

Change of clothes

If I’ve checked a bag, I usually carry a change of clothing in my carry on. Having a fresh pair of underwear or a clean t-shirt is the best travel gear for long flights. You never know when turbulence is going to knock a sticky drink on your lap or when your child is going to pee their pants. If you’re one hour into a 12 hour flight, trust me, you will want to change your clothes!

If I’m traveling with only carry on luggage, I always put a fresh pair of underwear in my small packing cube with my toiletries that I mention above. This way I don’t have to dig through my carry on suitcase and can just quickly whip out my small packing cube, go to the bathroom and change my underwear when I clean up and get ready to disembark at the end of the flight.

Onboard our long flight from LAX to Fiji, Hazel bought her own snacks of course! We flew Las Vegas to LAX to Fiji to Christchurch all in one go so it was a long travel day. Everyone got a wipe down with baby wipes and a change of clothes before the overnight flight though.

Honestly, don’t trust that the food on board your flight will be remotely edible. On our recent flight from Shanghai to Auckland we figured that the food would be good considering it was Air New Zealand but what we were served for both dinner and breakfast was basically inedible.

If you or your kids are fussy eaters or have specific dietary requirements like vegan or gluten free, you should definitely pack your own snacks for a long flight. Even if you’ve ordered a special meal, there is a chance that it won’t be loaded on the plane. Always bring your own snacks!

Herbal tea bags

One of my personal in flight essentials for long haul flight is a few herbal tea bags. I like to drink a cup of peppermint tea after meals to help digestion. Steering clear of tea and coffee with caffeine in them will also help you stay hydrated on the flight.

If you’re a real coffee snob then I would suggesting bringing your own coffee sachets on the plane, like a Starbuck VIA, because in general the airplane coffee is awful. If you are fussy about the coffee you drink then this will be one of your best long haul flight accessories.

Flying from Auckland to LAX last month – Long flights like this are a recipe for jet lag!

No Jet Lag Tablets

Melatonin is the best sleep aid for long flights. If you’re not familiar with it, Melatonin is a hormone that the brain releases to signal sleep. You can buy Melatonin tablets, drops or even gummies and chocolates to help you get to sleep on a flight and also combat the effects of jetlag when you arrive at your destination.  You can read more about melatonin here.

Please note I’m not a medical professional and this is simply my opinion on the best sleep aid for flying. You should consult your doctor before taking Melatonin. 

Flying into Fiji on Fiji Airways

I hope you’ve found my list of travel must haves for long flights useful! These essentials to take on long haul flight will really help you feel clean, fresh and comfortable.

I think these are the 20 best travel items for long flights but if you’ve got a suggestion then please let me know. I’d love to hear what you think are the best travel gadgets for long flights. What are your essential travel items for long haul flights?

If you’ve got questions on things to take on a longhaul flight or how you decide what to take on a long haul flight then do let me know in the comments or join my packing tips group on Facebook .

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Thank you! I love the smart ways you’ve found to keep your family comfortable and fresh and happy during long flights! I’ve ordered a number of things that you recommended as I plan for our Hawaii trip and feel so much more prepared. Thanks again!

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As film festivals, awards shows and coronavirus vaccinations continue, so do flights carrying Hollywood stars and insiders to their destinations. A record number of travelers have passed through TSA checkpoints in recent months, with nearly 2.4 million people (the highest so far in 2022) going through on July 1, according to the U.S. agency .

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Luxury airline Aero has seen business take flight since its U.S. launch in February 2021, when it began offering private flights from Van Nuys Airport in Los Angeles to Aspen. (It launched in Europe in 2019 with flights between Ibiza and Mykonos.) It rolled out flights last summer from L.A. to Sun Valley, Jackson Hole and Napa Valley and a route to Las Vegas debuted in October, while European offerings have expanded from London to Ibiza and Nice, Aero chief executive officer Uma Subramanian tells The Hollywood Reporter .

“We have seen demand continue to increase since Aero launched and throughout the pandemic,” says Subramanian. “[The coronavirus] has really illustrated that travel is essential to who we are as human beings, and so there is enormous pent-up demand for new travel experiences. At Aero, we are excited to welcome new and repeat guests on our routes in the U.S. and Europe.”

Aero’s luxury-loving clients are “clamoring for a seamless travel experience to visit destinations like Los Cabos,” adds Subramanian. “Aero’s guests are seeking a radically better air travel experience. They are discerning customers who value service, time and the quality of the experience. In Europe, our clients have told us they want to go to places like Nice, Ibiza, Mykonos, and Lake Como.”

Whether you’re jetting off on a private plane or looking to recreate the luxury experience, we’ve rounded up some of the best long-haul travel accessories (but they’ll work just as well for your short trips, too). Ahead, check out our go-to flight essentials, including traveler-approved backpacks , handy toiletry bags , luggage brands that frequently fly with A-listers, must-haves for sleeping soundly and more.

1. State Lorimer Fanny Pack

A fanny pack version of State’s best-selling Lorimer carryall, this convenient crossbody bag now comes with a longer strap. This compact but mighty bag can hold your essentials (like a phone, charger, wallet, sunglasses and lip balm) and a 12-ounce water bottle, making it easy to keep your must-haves in reach (or pass them through the security check) while you’re traveling.

2. Comrad Recycled Cotton Compression Socks

These cozy and stylish socks are nice on your feet and Mother Earth. Comrad uses recycled cotton for these compression socks, which come in a variety of colors and help to relieve swelling and boost circulation. They’re also great for post-workout recovery and the contoured design and stretch make them easy to put on and take off. (Brie Larson and Karlie Kloss have reportedly worn the brand.)

3. Amazon Kindle Oasis

The Kindle Oasis is available with or without ads and can hold thousands of e-books (or 35 to 160 Audible books), and a single charge gets you up to six weeks of battery life.

4. Béis The Seatback Organizer

Never forget your stuff on the plane when you use Béis’ Seatback Organizer , which has plenty of compartments for your tablet , favorite novel (or e-book ), snacks, stationery and more.

5. Ostrichpillow Go Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Our go-to for long flights and road trips , Ostrichpillow’s memory foam travel pillow supports your head and neck as you snooze while seated. We like the adjustable design so you can customize your comfort, and it comes with a handy storage bag.

6. Olika Ultra Hydrating Hand Sanitizer

Olika ‘s charming bird-shaped hydrating hand sanitizer has saved us from hastily digging to the bottom of our bags, thanks to the convenient clip and portable size. It’s available in a variety of scents or in a fragrance-free version for those sensitive to smells. (The product is currently sold out on Olika’s website , but it’s in stock at Walmart and Bloomingdale’s .)

7. Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier

8. pakt the travel backpack.

Designed in collaboration with gear reviewer Chase Reeves and with the input of over 300 travelers, Pakt’s travel backpack boasts more than 20 features that make it essential for keeping your stuff organized on long flights and other trips. Made of water-resistant fabric spun from recycled single-use plastics, this carry-on-sized pack has a cool dual-compartment clamshell design with a mesh divider, a separate laptop compartment, a waterproof section for toiletries (or items that might leak), an exterior water bottle compartment, a hidden back pocket for important documents, a luggage pass-through and plenty of easy-to-adjust straps to keep you comfortable.

9. Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 Noise-Canceling Bluetooth Headphones

For when you need to tune out engine noise (or a loud seatmate), Bowers & Wilkins’ redesigned PX7 Bluetooth headphones are a must for traveling audiophiles. With a battery life of up to 30 hours, these headphones are equipped with excellent adaptive noise canceling and ambient pass-through, while the retooled 43.6mm drivers deliver incredible depth and full clarity — you’ll forget you’re 30,000 miles above, and not in the studio with your favorite musician. They come with a 35mm audio cable so you can plug into your plane’s entertainment center. And if you’re low on juice, a 15-minute charge gets you five more hours of listening or quiet time.

MORE BUYING OPTIONS Bowers & Wilkins | Amazon

10. Allbirds R&R Sweater

We’re fans of sustainable lifestyle brand Allbirds’ R&R collection ($98 to $118), which includes sweaters, hoodies and sweatpants in women’s and men’s sizes. The pieces are made of a special blend of organic pima cotton, hemp and Tencel, so expect to lounge on the plane in comfort while you’re wearing the classic fitted sweater and slim-fit sweatpants . Best of all, everything is carbon neutral.

11. Anker PowerCore 20100 Portable Charger

Ensure that all of your devices are powered up during and after that long flight with this high-speed portable charger by Anker . It’s got enough juice to charge smartphones five to seven times (depending on which model you have), and it recharges in as little as 10 hours when you use a two amp charger.

12. Dagne Dover Essentials Clutch Wallet

Dagne Dover’s travel clutch doubles as a crossbody wallet for when you want to stay hands-free. The sleek leather carryall has eight card slots, zippered pockets for your phone and other essentials and a handy wrist strap.

13. MedicPro N95 Masks

For extra peace of mind and safety, MedicPro’s NIOSH-approved N95 respirator face masks will filter out 95 percent of airborne particles, including droplets, dust and debris. They’re particularly handy if you’re heading to a dusty destination.

14. Etekcity Luggage Scale

The last thing you need before a flight is to get stuck unpacking (and repacking) your belongings when you’ve exceeded the luggage weight limit. This portable luggage scale is an essential travel accessory to keep on hand so you can skip the hassle at check-in and weigh and reassess your baggage ahead of time.

15. EltaMD UV Lip Balm with SPF 36

16. moon dissolving teeth whitening strips.

For those who want bright pearly whites for all of those vacation selfies, these dissolving teeth whitening strips from Kendall Jenner-approved oral beauty brand Moon can be used wherever you are — whether it’s mid-flight or on the ground. The company says they’ll whiten teeth up to seven shades in about two weeks. (We like the fresh peppermint flavor, too.)

17. Barmes Freebase Suitcase

For digital nomads who literally live out of a suitcase, Barmes Design’s genius Freebase luggage functions as a mobile office and carry-on luggage in one sturdy hard case, so it’s convenient for layovers. It has a 45-liter capacity and includes seven accessories for organizing your goods, including three removable bags for your essentials and laptop, two packing cubes, and gym bag and a convenient liner bag for easy customs inspection.

18. Sony LinkBuds S Truly Wireless Noise Canceling Earbuds

For those who prefer to drown out sound with pocket-sized earbuds (as opposed to bulkier over-ear headphones), we’re fans of Sony’s newly-released LinkBuds S , which offer excellent noise canceling on planes, convenient and intuitive touch controls, and smart features that automatically adjust the settings depending on your environment. The Integrated Processor V1 promises immersive sound quality for audiophiles, and they boast IPX4 water and sweat resistance. (If you do prefer headphones, we also love the company’s noise canceling WH-1000XM5 Bluetooth headphones that include a 35-millimeter jack for plugging into onboard entertainment.)

19. Amazon Basics 3-Piece Hardside Spinner Luggage Set

You can’t beat the price of Amazon Basics’ three-piece luggage set , which comes with 21-, 26- and 30-inch scratch-resistant spinner suitcases, which roll comfortably from the terminal to the tarmac. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full matching set without breaking the bank, and each piece has four double spinner wheels, telescoping handles and fully-lined interior organizers with dividers. The luggage can also expand up to 15 percent so you can fit more when you head home.

20. Dimj Packing Cubes, 8-Piece Set

Keep your belongings organized with these best-selling travel packing cubes , which come in a range of colors and eight- or nine-piece options. The sets include three sizes of clothing cubes, organizers for your tech accessories, shoe holders, and smaller zippered bags for your pocket-sized essentials.

21. Gravel Layover Travel Blanket

22. away medium check-in suitcase in lavender.

Travel in one of this year’s most stylish hues with Away’s medium suitcase , which is now available in lavender. (The rest of the brand’s luggage also comes in the new colorway.) This check-in bag features the direct-to-consumer travel gear brand’s signature features such as a lightweight polycarbonate hard shell, 360-degree spinner wheels, an interior compression system and a water-resistant laundry bag.

23. Calpak Luka Waist Bag

If you prefer to keep your essentials on your person, Calpak’s Luka waist bag (available in other colors) is a comfortable and convenient choice. It’s made of lightweight fabric and features plenty of interior compartments and a hidden exterior pocket, and it can be worn as a fanny pack or crossbody.

24. Bose QuietComfort 45 Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones

If a premium audio experience (or the ability to block out noise) and comfort are your top flight priorities, you’ll want to pack Bose’s QuietComfort 45 wireless headphones . Whether you’re connecting to your own device or to on-flight entertainment, these around-ear Bluetooth headphones offer up to 24 hours of battery life (15 minutes of charging gives you up to three hours of listening time), and you can choose from Quiet and Aware noise canceling modes.

The dual-microphone delivers clear sound on calls, and you can personalize your audio settings and switch between devices with Bose’s app. The headphones are also compatible with Amazon Alexa, so you can control your music, ask for information about your destination and more.

25. Enro Tech Face Mask

We’re fans of Enro’s comfortable and stylish face masks , which are available in two styles and in a range of sizes (including for kids), colors and prints. The brand says independent lab tests have found that its washable face coverings filter 99 percent of particles (including viruses and bacteria), thanks to the built-in PM0.1 filter. Thee masks have a water-repellent outer layer and an adjustable nose bridge and ear loops.

26. Roam Expandable Luggage

If you’re the type of traveler that always ends up coming home with more baggage, Roam’s expandable line of luggage will help you carry the extra load. The travel brand offers four carry-on and check-in suitcase sizes that can now carry up to 28 percent more, so you can pack light on the way and stuff your bag on the way back. You can also completely customize Roam’s luggage colors from the handle to the body to the wheels, and finish it with a monogram, too.

27. Stojo Titan 24oz Travel Cup

Avoid getting parched while reducing waste with Stojo’s collapsible 24-ounce Titan silicone cup , which we’ve taken with us on nearly every flight and used at coffee shops whenever we travel. It’s great for throwing in your bag when you know you’ll need to drink up later as you can’t bring water through the TSA checkpoint. If this size is too big for your liking, the company also has 8-, 12- and 16-ounce options.

28. Manta Sleep Eye Mask

Get light-free shut-eye with Manta Sleep’s blackout eye mask . It has adjustable modal eye cups that mold to your face (without preventing you from blinking), so you can enjoy your snooze session in comfort.

29. Tallgo Travel Neck Pillow

This memory foam neck pillow will make your mid-flight nap a more comfortable one. It’s made of soft velour material and the ergonomic design helps to support your head and neck when you’re sleeping in your plane seat. It comes with a storage bag and can be easily stuffed away when it’s time to deboard.

30. Bellroy Travel Folio

Keep your passport, boarding documents, vaccine card and other travel essentials in one sleek spot with Bellroy’s leather folio . It comes with RFID protection, a mini pen (as well as space for a full-sized one) and plenty of interior slots for your ID and credit cards.

31. Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

For essentials that you want to keep within arm’s reach on the flight, Everlane’s ReNew Transit backpack (available for preorder for late September and early October shipping) is compact enough to be stowed under your seat. Made of recycled polyester with a water-resistant finish, the backpack has comfy straps so you can breeze through the terminal, and the luggage pass-through strap lets you attach it to the handle of your rolling suitcase with ease. Inside, it’s got a compartment for a 15-inch laptop, a water bottle holder and two organization compartments; outside, there’s a large zippered pocket and an external bottle pocket.

32. Travelsox Flight Travel Socks

These travel-friendly socks are made of a blend of Coolmax, Lycra and nylon, which help to prevent moisture build-up. The compression design helps to reduce mid-flight foot swelling, stimulate blood flow and keep your feet comfortable while you’re seated for long periods.

33. July Carry-On Pro Luggage

Australian luggage brand July is the latest name in stylish travel accessories to land in the U.S. The company’s Carry On Pro suitcase is ideal for frequent travelers who prefer a sleek design and like to travel light and efficiently. This 26-liter luggage has a TSA-friendly lock, an ejectable USB charger and a detachable front sleeve for quickly removing your laptop (or whatever else you decide to stow in it) at the airport. Inside, a hidden laundry bag, convenient twin-strap compression system and storage compartments make it easy to organize your belongings.

34. Monos Carry-On Pro Plus

Another luxury luggage option for stylish travelers, Monos’ Carry-On Pro Plus is for frequent flyers who also want to take advantage of the brand’s summer sale. (Brandi Cyrus was recently spotted flying out of Nashville with the same suitcase.) Made of aerospace-grade polycarbonate, this style fits a 15-inch laptop in the front compartment and fits in most overhead bins. It’s finished with vegan leather accents, super-quiet 360-degree wheels and a sturdy telescoping handle.

35. Travelpro Maxlite Air Hardside Expandable Luggage

36. samsonite stryde 111 carry-on spinner.

When you expect a late-night arrival, Samsonite’s new Stryde 111 carry-on spinner will keep your path illuminated, thanks to the brand’s built-in eVision LED lighting in the handle. USB ports keep your devices powered up when you add your own battery charger, and the inside includes three removable accessories to keep your items organized.

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31 Best Travel Accessories for Any Trip

If you're an anxious flyer, these are for you.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

There's no need to stock a full suite of power adaptors—even if your travels take you all over the globe. A universal adaptor is a must, says Delia Monk, a tour director for group travel company EF Ultimate Break . This single device can be used to charge all of your electronics no matter where you are.

memobottle Reusable Slim Water Bottle

The lack of humidity in a plane's recirculated air can leave you parched, or worse, dehydrated. And that small cup of water? It's not going to cut it. This slim water bottle fits neatly in the seat-back compartment. "It's so much more practical," says Anne Scott, founder of Girl Gone International , the world’s largest community of women who live, travel, and move overseas. Plus, for every bottle sold, the company provides one person in need with clean drinking water for one month.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader

An e-reader not only provides entertainment en route, and a chance to catch up on buzzy books , but also helps you actually pause and relax while on vacation. "With my Kindle—or any eReader, for that matter—it’s easy to unwind anywhere," says travel blogger Lisa Stentvedt .

Mossio 7 Pack Lightweight Luggage Cubes

If you tend to throw everything into a bag when you're traveling, let these cute pink leopard print packing cubes help you organize and save space in your luggage. It even comes with three matching laundry pouches and a shoe bag.

yoozon Selfie Stick Tripod With Bluetooth

You may roll your eyes, but the selfie has become a routine part of any vacation. And there's no denying that a selfie stick helps you get a better shot. This one has an integrated tripod option, a wireless remote shutter, and is compatible with a wide range of devices, says travel blogger Maria Potehina .

supergoop Supergoop! x Gray Malin Everyday Getaway Kit

Headed somewhere warm? This kit comes in a water-resistant pouch featuring a whimsical print from famed photographer Gray Malin, and is packed with travel sizes of Supergoop! sunscreen (a favorite amongst Oprah Daily editors). There's also a handy SPF balm for your lips .

Anker Portable Charger

When you're using your phone's map app all day, you'll zap the power in a flash. A portable power bank can save you from having a dead device. This one can charge seven times before needing to be charged itself. In fact, it's so reliable that husband and wife travel bloggers Katie and Ben Zweber carried theirs with them to Everest's base camp.

YUNI Beauty Shower Sheets Body Wipes

Took the red-eye and have no time to shower before a big meeting? Or maybe that walking tour has you sweating bullets. Either way, body wipes can save the day. They'll keep you feeling and smelling fresh, despite the fact that they're non-toxic, plant-based, biodegradable, compostable, and free of harmful ingredients, says Scott.

Sharpty Inverted Windproof Umbrella

Unfortunately, rain happens—even when you're on vacation. Be prepared when the weather turns with this clever umbrella. It's a traveler favorite (it has over 1,500 five-star reviews!), because the lightweight frame folds inside out to keep drips contained.

Maaji Calm 5-Pack Face Coverings

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, face masks are a wise choice to take on your travels. Instead of the surgical looking masks, upgrade to this set of 5 pretty face coverings that the whole family can wear.

Seat Covers in Check Me Out

If airplane, train, or bus seats have always made you a tad skittish, keep them covered with this whimsical, washable set. If you're not a gingham gal, it comes in numerous other colors and patterns, including dinosaurs for the little ones.

Rothys White Rainbow

When you're logging a few miles a day, you need shoes that can keep up. These flexible fabric shoes are easy to pack. Plus, they're machine-washable.

Belkin SurgePlus USB Swivel Surge Protector and Charger

It's hard enough to find one available outlet in a busy airport terminal, so what are you supposed to do when you need a charger for your phone, your laptop, and your e-reader?! Carry a simple old-fashioned power strip, says Samantha Brown, host of the Emmy-nominated PBS show "Samantha Brown's Places to Love." Any basic power strip will do, but this one, with three three-prong receptacles and two USB ports, is a step above the rest.

Baby Shusher Sleep Miracle Soother

There's nothing more stressful than walking a screaming baby up and down the aisles of a plane. Thankfully this handy tool can help. It uses a real human voice to lull your baby to sleep with a calming sush. "This has been the only way we have been able to travel with our newborn without her screaming the entire ride," says one reviewer. "It's small enough to keep in the diaper bag. Worth every penny," says another.

OPTP Super Pinky Ball Massage Ball

When your feet are sore from logging dozens of miles touring a new city or your back is in knots from a cramped plane seat, this simple pink ball can help. "I put two balls on the floor, lay my back on them, push up with my knees, and roll them down my back, quads, and back of legs," says Brown. "They work out all the kinks, knots, and sore muscles."

URPOWER Dog Seat Belt

Bringing your furry friend along on your family road trip this summer? Don't forget to get them their own seat belt to make sure they're safely and securely strapped in.

trtl Soft Neck Support Travel Pillow

Anyone who's dozed off while sitting up knows the subsequent neck pain is real. "This travel pillow gives you better ergonometric head and neck support than a regular U-shaped neck pillow and adapts to fit anyone," says travel blogger Sveva Marcangeli . Need proof? "I slept for 10 hours straight on a 16-hour flight from New York to Hong Kong." Plus, unlike U-shaped travel pillows, this one is compact and only weighs half a pound to conserve space.

Polaroid Now Instant Camera

Capture all those precious moments on summer vacation with an instantly-rewarding polaroid camera. This one comes with autofocus, a self-timer and flash to help you get the most out of your pics.

Yoobi Hand Sanitizer - Set Of 50

Sometimes it can be bulky to carry around a bottle of hand sanitizer when traveling—and that's when these small individual sized packets come in handy. Slip a couple into your toiletry bag every day, and you'll thank yourself come lunch time.

Roku Streaming Stick

You no longer have to choose between splurging on expensive on-demand movies or settling for basic cable. Travelers say this small USB-powered device is a game-changer for evenings in hotel rooms. It plugs into any USB-enabled TV to give you access to all your favorite streaming services, even when your own couch is thousands of miles away.

Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.

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Rest, Play, and Relax With the 30 Best Travel Accessories [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

823 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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Table of Contents

The best travel accessories, final thoughts.

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The trick to really enjoying every trip is being able to take control of your own well-being from the outset.

From keeping your important documents neatly organized in transit to finding accessories that will make your life so much easier while you are away, there are lots of awesome bits of gear out there that will help you to rest, play, and relax a little more easily on the go.

1. Travel Organizer

Keep your passport, cards, and cash all in 1 place with a handy and secure travel organizer . Compact and slim, they offer practical and well-thought-out storage space throughout.

Made from tough and durable material, a travel organizer features oversized slots to keep your passport, boarding pass, and travel documents neatly organized, as well as cardholders and zippered compartments.

A good travel organizer will not only keep your most important items close at hand, but it will also keep your cards and data safe from theft or fraud by offering RFID-blocking linings . Make it easier to access your passport, cards, and other essentials on the go by investing in a dedicated travel organizer for your next trip.

2. Passport Holder

Protect your most important travel document with a dedicated passport holder . Designed to help protect your passport from the wear and tear of regular travel , these holders come in a huge variety of styles and designs to make them easy to find in your bag.

Not only does a passport holder offer protection for your passport, but they can also offer additional storage space that lets you keep your boarding pass, tickets, and even your credit card close at hand.

Made from durable materials, a passport holder will last you through many adventures to come, and for super style-conscious travelers, you can even buy passport holders that match the style and design of your travel bag or carry-on.

3. Power Bank

With more and more backpacks and carry-on cases now offering USB charging ports as standard, a portable power bank is fast becoming a must-have accessory for tech-loving travelers.

Small, lightweight, and easy to use, a power bank will give you the extra charging power you need to give your phone or tablet a reliable power source on the move. Simply charge your power bank using a USB before leaving home to deliver anything between 1 and 4 full charges in transit .

Compact and highly capable, you can find power banks that are as slim as a credit card for emergency top-ups or invest in a slightly larger model that lets your phone, camera , or tablet charge up as you travel.

Bottom Line: These super-useful little packs of power can also be used to charge your phone while you are out sightseeing, chilling back at your hotel, or simply for portable charging back at home.

4. Neck Pillow

Avoid a stiff neck and enjoy a more comfortable sleep with a dedicated neck pillow . Made with memory foam or beaded interiors and soft and washable covers, these ergonomic and easy-to-carry portable pillows will help to support your head and neck while you snooze, read, or relax.

Designed to help relieve pressure points , these travel pillows are perfect for use on long flights or road trips, and the lightweight design makes them super easy to attach to your luggage or slip inside their own compact carry case. With lots of colors and designs to choose from, it’s easy to find the right travel pillow to keep you feeling comfortable no matter how long your journey is.

5. Sleeping Mask

Another great way to stay comfortable and relaxed in transit is by adding a sleep mask to your travel kit.

Designed to shut the world away, these easy-to-wear face masks completely cover the eye area to help you regulate your sleeping pattern. Keep bright light to a minimum and recreate a relaxing nighttime vibe, even in the middle of the day, while also helping to alleviate jet lag as you travel across different time zones.

Available in a variety of different styles and made from a wide range of materials, your eye mask needs to be thick enough to keep the light out while still feeling lightweight enough to avoid putting any pressure on your eyelids.

6. Earplugs

Earplugs are another great addition to your travel kit, and there are many different types to choose from. Wearing earplugs while you fly can help to relieve the discomfort associated with the air pressure changes that you can experience during the flight.

They also help reduce noise levels, which can offer you more peace and quiet to help you enjoy a much-needed sleep along the way. If the discomfort of “popping” in your ears while you take off and land is really uncomfortable for you, filter earplugs can equalize the pressure against your eardrum to help reduce the pain.

Easy to use and incredibly portable, there are earplugs out there to suit all ages, preferences, and budgets.

Traveling can feel like a dirty business, and sometimes it’s nice to be able to just freshen up on the go. Face and hand wipes can make you feel clean and fresh again after a long flight, are compact to carry, and are super easy to use and dispose of.

Without the need for access to water, you can carry handy packs of wipes with you on the plane to clean your hands before and after you eat or to freshen up before you land. Made from skin-friendly formulations with fresh, natural scents , a pack of hand and face wipes is a must-have for every travel bag.

8. Compression Socks

These specially designed, tight-fitting, knee-high socks are designed to help reduce the risk of developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis) while you are flying.

If you are likely to be in the air for more than 5 hours at a time, investing in a pair of compression socks can help to not only mitigate the risk of DVT in pressurized cabins , they can also be used when back at home as well.

Perfect for use by men and women, compression socks can reduce the pain and discomfort of swollen legs that can be caused by a lack of movement, help with the pain of swollen legs, and even aid with faster recovery after exercise and surgery.

9. Hand Sanitizer

A little bottle of hand gel, foam, or spray makes light work of staying clean and hygienic. Easy to use and available everywhere, hand sanitizer is a must-have item for your travel bag.

Perfect for use when you have no easy access to water or just want to keep clean without leaving your seat, these specially formulated hand sanitizers contain at least 60% alcohol and have been designed to kill many viruses, bacteria, and microorganisms on the hands .

Quick and effective, you only need to rub the sanitizer together on your hands until they are dry for a quick clean-up. A bottle, a pump, or a spray sanitizer should be a priority item for frequent travelers.

Hot Tip: Due to COVID-19, hand sanitizer containers of up to 12 ounces are now allowed through TSA. Learn more about nearly 500 items you can and cannot bring through TSA Security in our detailed guide.

10. Travel Adapter

Wherever you are headed, you will probably still want to keep in touch with the folks back at home. Depending on your destination, you may need to take a dedicated travel adapter away with you .

With a range of different plug styles available, you can power your phone, laptop, tablet devices, hairdryers, and other electronics with ease, provided you choose the right type of travel adapter.

Designed to work with different voltages, you may find that a simple travel adapter or plug-to-plug adaptation is all you need, but in some cases, it may not be enough to safely power your personal devices. If this is the case, you will need to invest in a travel power converter, too.

11. Travel Converter

Not only do different countries and continents favor different-shaped power sockets, but in many cases, they also have a different range of electrical voltages charging through their wires. In the U.S., for example, power runs on 110-120 volts, whereas many other countries run at 220-240 volts .

The higher the voltage, the more at risk your appliances are from frying, so it is important that your converter makes them safe to use. There are many dual and multi-voltage appliances and converters out there, so carefully research before you buy.

12. Luggage Tags

Make your suitcase super easy to identify with a personalized luggage tag . From simple leather fobs through to brightly colored, witty, and whimsical patterns and slogans, your luggage tag offers a personalized appearance that is easy to identify at the reclaim bay .

What’s more, these tags can also be used to make a record of your personal information, so should your cases or bags go astray, they can easily find their way back to you.

Without a luggage tag, it is very easy for bags to be the innocent victims of mistaken identity, and before you know it, your personal effects could have made it home with somebody else! Be kind to your luggage, and keep it close with its very own luggage tag.

13. Money Belt

Keep your cash close at hand as you go with a tight-fitting, super-secure money belt . With some designed to weave their way through your belt loops, these super discreet storage belts offer just enough room to keep your notes and cards safe from would-be pickpockets.

Made from tough and durable materials, they function well as a regular belt, and with modern-day criminals not just looking for cash, some of these belts even come with RFID-blocking protection built into the fabric of the belt that will protect your cards from being cloned while you roam.

Bottom Line: Stylish, practical, and easy to use, a money belt is an excellent choice for busy airports and crowded tourist destinations.

14. Electronics Organizer

Long journeys can fly by with the help of your laptop, cell phone, tablet, or other electronic devices to keep you amused.

With more and more travelers taking a wide range of devices away with them, including cameras and GoPros, keeping your charging cables, power cables, and other accessories neatly organized is more important than ever.

An electronics organizer offers plenty of mesh and zippered compartments, storage loops, and dedicated pockets to keep your cables, SD cards, USBs, adapters, and other accessories easy to find and nice and safe.

Compact enough to keep close at hand in your carry-on, a well-designed electronics organizer will allow you to shoot, play, and stay entertained wherever you are headed.

15. Travel-Size Bottles

Stay on the right side of the TSA travel restrictions by investing in a set of travel-size bottles . Designed to fully comply with the TSA 3-1-1 rule , you can purchase specially-made sets that allow you to carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. These containers can fit in a 1-quart-size bag that complies with the U.S. carry-on rules, making it easy to breeze through security without being stopped along the way. Suitable for use on both domestic and international carriers, these TSA-approved travel bottles will quickly become one of your most trusted travel items.

16. Toiletry Bag

Enjoy a few home comforts even while you are away by taking your favorite shower gel, shampoo, and other cosmetics and toiletries with you.

Whether you choose to take full-size products or decant your best-loved lotions and potions into smaller containers, these toiletry bags come with waterproof, wipeable linings and lots of zippered compartments to help you keep your toiletries well-organized.

Some come with hangers that let you easily see and access all of your products in the bathroom, and others are sizable enough to let you carry brushes and other cosmetic items with you, too.

17. Travel Hairdryer

If you don’t want to leave your crowning glory to the mercy of a hotel hairdryer, take your own hairdryer away with you. More compact than your regular full-size dryer, there are plenty of small yet incredibly powerful travel hairdryers that offer superior performance in a smaller package.

Choose from foldable models or those with reduced dimensions , and look for dryers that come complete with diffuser and nozzle attachments for even greater versatility.

Offering high-end features such as ionic technology, multiple heat and speed settings, and even a cool shot button to fix your style, these portable appliances won’t take up too much room in your suitcase. Remember, you may need a travel adapter/converter to use your dryer, so check the voltage details before going.

18. Jewelry Organizer

Get dressed up and glow with your very best bling kept carefully tucked away in your travel-size jewelry organizer .

Made with protective exteriors, these reduced-sized jewelry boxes come with soft-lined interiors and zoned areas for different items , as well as secure clasps or zippers to prevent them from opening up and spilling out.

With multi-layered inserts, lots of space for bracelets, brooches, necklaces, rings, earrings, and even more, a travel jewelry box will let you look your best without weighing you down as you go.

19. Travel Laundry Bag

Keep your clean clothes clean and away from unwanted dirty odors with a dedicated lightweight travel laundry bag . With the ability to fold up super small when not in use , these super practical bags can be used to store your dirty undies, wet socks, and other nasties neatly out of the way until you can reach a washing machine.

Made from breathable fabric, they come with drawstring closures that can also be used as carrying handles for trips to and from the laundromat and may have additional pockets for keeping smaller items organized.

20. Packing Cubes

These different-sized packing cubes are perfect for organizing your clothes and belongings before you put them in your suitcase or rucksack.

Available in a selection of sizes, these nylon bags let you group together items by type or use and let you maximize your packing power to suit the size of your suitcase. Lightweight and easy to store when not in use, these super useful packing cubes can also help to compress your clothing to let you store more in them while reducing overall space in your suitcase .

If you are traveling light, a packing cube can also double up as a pillow or a laundry bag, and they are an excellent way to keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones on the way home.

21. Travel Towel

Sometimes you want to have your own towel with you while you travel. Made from super-absorbent microfiber materials, these travel towels can be folded up really small and are lightweight and easy to carry around with you .

Suitable for showers at the airport, hostels, camping grounds, and wherever you need a quick freshen up, they can also be used to sit on while you’re at the beach or as an emergency blanket should you start to feel the chill. With superfast drying properties, you won’t need to worry about carrying a damp towel around with you, either.

22. Daypack

When you reach your destination, you will want a smaller bag that you can use on daily excursions and sightseeing trips.

A dedicated daypack will be able to fold up nice and small when not in use and offer the space you need to keep your wallet, cell phone, camera, snacks, and other essentials close at hand on city streets and out on the trails.

Made from water-resistant materials, these bags usually have a capacity of around 20 to 25 liters , and with lightly padded shoulder straps, internal pockets, and even space for a hydration bladder, a dedicated day pack is a must-have for eager adventurers.

23. Water Bottle

Stay hydrated wherever you are headed with a travel-size water bottle . Made from food-grade, BPA-free plastic materials or stainless steel, these water bottles are perfect for keeping close by your side.

Leakproof and lightweight, having your own personal water bottle with you alleviates the need for buying single-use plastics while you travel, and with a huge variety of designs and styles to choose from , you can even add ice or fruit to cool and flavor your water.

If you are really short on space in your travel bag, you could consider looking at a collapsible water bottle that flattens and condenses when empty to ensure it only takes up a tiny bit of room in your rucksack.

24. Bug Spray

No one likes itchy bug bites, and a reliable bug repellent will help to keep them at bay. If you are traveling to hot and humid conditions or camping out in the open, there is every chance you could end up being a bug’s favorite dinner.

These repellent sprays or creams will help to repel insects and mosquitoes by making your skin less attractive to them. Using either chemical repellents such as DEET or natural oils doesn’t just help avoid unwanted nibbles. They can also help to protect you against the more serious side effects of bug bites, including severe allergic reactions, Lyme disease, and even malaria.

25. TSA-Approved Lock

The Transport Security Administration suggests that you lock your checked baggage using a TSA-approved lock . Baring the Travel Sentry logo, you can choose from dial or key locks that are designed to be easy to open by agents to enable them to inspect your baggage and relock your bags should they need to.

Easy to use and readily available, there are lots of brilliant TSA-approved locks to choose from, and many suitcases come with them already built-in. Ensuring that your luggage has the right kind of lock on it will prevent the risk of damage from TSA agents eager to have a good look at your belongings for security purposes along the way.

26. First Aid Kit

A portable first aid kit is a must-have accessory for every traveler, regardless of where you are headed. Suitable for use both at home and away, a compact first aid kit will keep you well-protected. Consider what you may need before you go and pack your kit accordingly .

As a bare minimum, you should pack care supplies like cleansing wipes, gauze pads, bandages, Band-Aids, antibiotic cream, Tylenol, a cold compress, and anything else that you or your family may need while traveling.

Hot Tip: You can buy a premade kit or make your own, but do keep all of your emergency medical supplies in a dedicated first aid case or pouch if you can, making it easy to identify when you need access to it in a hurry.

27. Luggage Scale

Avoid the stress of overweight baggage fees by taking your own portable luggage scale with you when you travel. Easy to use and incredibly accurate, these small and highly portable luggage scales will let you know just how heavy your bag is before you hit the road .

With easy-to-use hanging hooks, highly accurate sensors, digital display units, tare and load functions, lock weight results functions, backlit functions, and easy-to-read weights and measurements, you can keep an eye on the weight of your checked luggage. You will never get stung with overweight baggage fees at the airport again.

28. Portable Safe

Suppose you are worried about leaving your most valuable possessions such as your passport, cash, ID, and credit cards back at your accommodation while you are out exploring. Why not consider investing in a travel safe ?

Lightweight and easy to carry with you , you can choose from bags and boxes that are made from steel wire mesh fabric that can be securely locked using a TSA-approved lock. With cut-proof wire locks that can be attached to a stationary object, you can safely leave your most precious items back at the hotel without having to worry about their safety.

29. Footrest

If you have a long flight ahead of you, you might want to look at ways to increase your comfort without having to upgrade to business class. These portable foot hammocks can be hung from the seat in front of you while allowing you to raise your legs and feet for increased comfort while you fly.

Easy to use and incredibly comfortable, these sling-style portable footrests come with their own carry bag and can be set up super quickly to help you elevate your legs for increased blood flow and comfort.

Take more pictures and let your memories last forever with a dedicated tripod . Made from versatile and durable materials, a small standing tripod will hold your cell phone or tablet to let you take awesome photos from a wide range of angles .

With 3 legs and adjustable holders, you can take incredible pictures or videos without having to worry about camera movement, for improved picture quality.

Capture breathtaking landscapes, fun family snaps, and a wealth of images with a travel-size tripod that is lightweight, portable, and suitable for use with smartphones, GoPros, and cameras alike.

Keep your important belongings close and your favorite items closer still with this brilliant list of travel accessories that will help you sleep better, play harder, and enjoy every second of your next big adventure.

From passport covers to footrests and packing cubes to jewelry boxes, all of these items will help you to stay organized and comfortable on the go.

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The 14 best flight accessories for sleeping on a plane (even in economy!)

By: Author Monica

Categories Blog , Travel Tips

If you want to get some shut eye on your next flight then here are the best flight accessories for sleeping on a plane.

To sleep on a plane you need to be:

• Comfortable
• Warm (but not hot)
• Able to block out everything around you

Thankfully there are plenty of flight accessories to help you sleep.

Here we go, the best products for sleeping on a plane.

Let’s start with the comfort…

U-shaped memory foam flight pillow.

I’ve tried so many flight pillows, from weird and wonderful shapes to different fillings, textures and materials. All of them.

I’ve found the best pillow for a flight is a U-shaped memory foam pillow . They usually sell these in the airport but they’re much cheaper to buy online.

• Ultimate Comfort on Long Flights: Our travel pillow is made with premium memory foam that adapts to your neck and shoulders, providing superior comfort and support. Perfect for airplane seats and...
• Easy to Clean and Maintain: Keep your travel pillow fresh and ready for your next trip. The removable cover is machine washable on a gentle cycle, and you can tumble dry it with no heat.
• Compact & Portable Design: Lightweight and easy to carry, our neck pillow comes with a convenient travel bag that fits in your luggage or can be carried by hand, making it an ideal travel companion.

Stay warm and cosy during your flight

The temperature on most flights is between 22-24 degrees Celsius, but it can often feel much chillier when you’re sat still for hours on end.

I recommend wearing:

• A cosy sweatshirt
• An oversized blanket scarf
• Or a travel blanket that packs into a small pouch
• Warm socks (if you won’t already be wearing some)

• THE PERFECT TRAVEL COMPANION: Forget thin airline blankets that never keep you warm, the EverSnug Travel Blanket is a lightweight and extra comfy all-season blanket that is the perfect travel...
• PREMIUM MICRO PLUSH FABRIC: Our carefully crafted Microplush Blanket is ultra soft and lush, you wont want ever take it off! Made with our exclusive premium microfleece yarns, creating a velvety and...
• USE IT AS A PILLOW OR A BLANKET: Not only does the travel blanket keep you warm when needed, the Microplush carrying case can also act as the perfect place to rest your head.

Read more: 7 stylish airplane outfits and inspiration for comfy travel outfits

Noise cancelling headphone too block out everything around you

To block out the noises and lights around you you’re going to need a good pair or noise cancelling headphones and an eye mask.

When it comes to noise cancelling headphones, you have two options:

• Over ear headphones

Personally, I prefer ear buds because they’re small and easy to travel with. I know they can get a little uncomfortable after hours of use and it can be difficult to lean on your ear if you have an earbud in. But I’ll still take earbuds due to the convenience of them being small.

Over ear headphones are bulkier but generally comfier on your ears, although they’re also awkward if you want to lean on one side of your head while you sleep.

I have the JBL Live Pro+ TWS earbuds and I love them.

I also have the Beats Studio 3 wireless over ear headphones and these are great.

• Live Pro+ TWS wireless headphones are small but powerful, with 11 mm dynamic drivers for incredible JBL Signature Sound all day, every day and are compatible with Hey Google, Alexa, iOS and Android
• Adaptive noise cancelling ensures zero distractions when you focus on your studies or get your groove on, while Smart Ambient allows you to hear the world around you without removing your earphones
• Live Pro+ TWS wireless earbuds feature 3-mics technology with a feedback mic for wind suppression and environmental noise reduction and dual beamforming mics to capture your voice with crystal clarity

• High-performance, wireless earphones
• Compatible with iOS and Android devices
• Up to 8 hours of battery life for when you’re on the go

What’s the best eye mask to sleep on a plane?

You’ll also want an eye mask but don’t get any old eye mask. The best masks for planes are ones with slightly raised 3D pockets for your eyes . The 3D shape ensures things stay dark without the mask feeling tight, restrictive or weird when you try to blink.

• Blocking Light: Are you bothered by light when you sleep, this eye mask by onaEz can help you solve this problem, blocking light from entering in all directions and helping you get a high quality...
• 3D Sleep Eye Mask for sleeping: The 3D eye socket design can avoid pressure on your eyes. In addition, the deep eye socket design won't smudge your make-up and rub your eyelashes
• Comfortable to Wear: The sleep mask filled with soft and breathable memory foam, it is soft to touch and comfortable to wear without without stressing your face

The 6 things you need to help you sleep on a plane (even in economy!)

Realistically, there are just 6 things you need to help you sleep on a plane…

• U-shaped memory foam pillow
• Cosy sweatshirt
• Travel blanket
• Noise cancelling headphones
• 3D eye mask

But are there any other gadgets, gizmos or accessories that might help you sleep on a plane?

The best products for sleeping on a plane are…

A portable footrest

There are two types of portable footrests you can get for planes. 

One is a hammock footrest which loops onto the arms of your food tray. I think some airlines could moan about this (Ryanair, I’m talking to you) but the reviews are good and it would be easy to hide (especially if you have a window seat) as it sits under your tray. 

The other is an inflatable footrest . You can half fill this to whatever height you like, or fully inflate it so it’s as high as your plane seat and can make a little bed for babies and toddlers.

• 【Multi Occasions】Wherever you are,this Footrest will give a super comfort to your feet.The hanging footrest will relieve the stress on your back,knees,improves body circulation.Works great in...
• 【Lightweight and Compact】Weight:3.2oz (90g),folded size 8.66*2.36*1.97 inch.This space-saving designed easily fits into your carry-on luggage or favorite flight travel bag.Includes a handy...
• 【High Quality Travel Gadgets】This airplane footrest is crafted with high-quality soft premium foam material,greatly enhance your travel experience.It’s like sitting in a recliner with your feet...

Weighted blanket

A weighted anxiety travel blanket

Many people find weighted blankets to be comforting and therefore help reduce stress and anxiety and help you sleep. This weighted blanket comes with a small canvas bag which makes it easier to travel with.

• A MOMENT OF BLYSS - Goodbye stress, hello Blyss. This weighted anxiety blanket is ideal for stress relief, insomnia and restless leg syndrome. It provides Deep Pressure Stimulation similar to a gentle...
• BLISSFUL NIGHT’S REST - This heavy blanket’s 7-layer design and noiseless glass bead inner evenly distribute weight to your body. This helps put you in a state of ultimate relaxation, helping you...
• KEEP CALM - The heavy comforter helps to ground you, letting you produce blissful hormones that can leave you more relaxed and in a better mood. Ideal for alleviating the daily effects of depression,...

White noise apps

If the silence of your noise cancelling headphones isn’t working for you, but the noise of the plane is…well too noisy then try white noise apps.

Personally, I find them really irritating and can’t listen to them! But my husband loves them.

Download a couple of free ones to find the ones you like.

Lavender scented products

If certain scents help you relax then it might be worth getting something like a lavender pillow mist, essential oils, balms or moisturiser.

Personally, I wouldn’t say any of these products help me sleep but they are lovely and help me to relax. They make nice gifts for frequent travellers too!

Feather and Down Travel Essentials Gift Set

L’Occitane Lavender Hand Cream (travel size)

NEOM Perfect Night’s Sleep Pillow Mist

• UK's No.1 Sleep Brand*
• Encourages a state of calm and tranquility
• The perfect way to help you relax and unwind before bed.

• Lavender hand cream: leaves skin nourished and protected.
• ENRICHED WITH: Shea Butter (nourishing & moisturising), Lavender Essential Oil from Haute-Provence (relaxing)
• ADVICE: Apply to hands any time of the day and massage in to absorb.

• HELPS YOU RELAX AND SLEEP - thanks to the expert blend of 14 purest possible essential oils including English Lavender, Chamomile and Patchouli
• 88% CUSTOMERS HAD A BETTER NIGHT’S SLEEP on the Neom Sleep Programme. Consumer research trial involving 65 women undertaken July 2015
• FORMULATED WITH 100% NATURAL FRAGRANCES - that not only smell wonderful but also have a relaxing effect on the mind and body

Phone or tablet holder

If you’re the kind of person who likes to fall asleep while watching a film or TV show then get yourself a phone or tablet holder so you can hang your device from the seat in front. You’ll then be hands free to fall asleep in peace.

It’s worth noting that most sleep experts agree that the light from phones and tablets actually makes it harder to sleep so it’s best to avoid this if possible.

• Version 2.0 of TabletHookz is the latest model designed to fit more modern airline cabins in addition to older cabins.
• TabletHookz allow you to create your own hands-free entertainment anywhere
• TabletHookz can be used on planes, trains, cars and at home

My top technique for sleeping on a plane – Fake it ‘till you make it!

If you looked at me on a plane you’d probably think I was a Pro Plane Sleeper! But the truth is that I’m usually faking it.

I’ll be sat there with my eye mask on, my noise cancelling headphones drowning out the noise, my blanket wrapped tightly around me and my neck pillow helping me sit comfortably. But I’m probably not asleep. Not yet anyway!

My trick is simply to pretend I’m asleep and – as if by magic – I’ll be there soon enough.

Is there any benefit to resting without sleeping?

One thing that keeps me in this restful state while I pretend to be asleep is the knowledge that resting is also beneficial. 

While resting is no substitute for sleeping, calmly relaxing helps to conserve energy so you will feel more refreshed when you come out of the quiet wakeful state.

I like to remind myself of this when I start getting stressed that I’m not falling asleep.

We’ve all been there. You’re anxiously wriggling in your seat, fretfully trying to fall asleep while feeling stressed that you’re not asleep and counting down the hours before your red-eye flight arrives back into London and you need to go straight to work. You REALLY need to get some sleep! But the harder you try, the more sleep pervades you. 

Flight accessories for when you wake up

When you wake up after sleeping on a plane you’re going to feel gross.

The three things you really need will be water, caffeine and to brush your teeth ASAP. Brushing your teeth instantly freshens you up and just makes the world a better place.

I always travel with a large insulated water bottle (don’t forget you’ll have to empty this to go through security), a travel toothbrush and toothpaste and I’ll grab myself a coffee at the earliest opportunity.

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Flight Attendants Swear by These 10 Clever Travel Accessories — and They're All on Sale at Amazon Today

We found them hiding in the sale section for up to nearly 40 percent off.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

Want to learn how to improve those long, grueling travel days (without dropping major money on a seat upgrade)? No one knows how to enhance the experience better than flight attendants, and you can bet their carry-ons are always pristinely packed with an arsenal of gear to ensure better sleep , smarter organization, and peace of mind in the air and between stops. 

Want to give your packing list a flight attendant-approved refresh? Here, we've compiled a list of the 10 best travel accessories with a stamp of approval from the cabin crew. Lucky for you, they're all available at Amazon and on sale for up to nearly 40 percent off. From packing cubes to travel pillows , these tried-and-true picks will transform the way you fly. 

J-Pillow Travel Pillow 

This uniquely shaped travel pillow is one of the most flight attendant-loved products on the internet. In fact, the pillow was designed by an actual flight attendant. Unlike the classic U-shaped pillows you see overpriced at airport newsstands, this one has a unique hook-like extremity that wraps under your chin for optimal head and neck support. More than 10,000 travelers have given it a five-star rating. According to one retired flight attendant , who has tried lots of different pillows, the J-Pillow “tops them all.”

Boodlab Bluetooth Sleep Eye Mask

A sleep mask and a pair of headphones are both must-haves for long journeys, and this clever accessory combines them into one nifty device. With speakers built into the ears, the Bluetooth eye mask gives you 10 hours of music, podcasts, or white noise — whatever your in-flight preference is — on a single charge. Flight attendant TJ Kizuka previously told Travel + Leisure that it’s one of his go-to off-duty travel essentials , noting that it’s also his trick for fighting jet lag: “I pop on my Bluetooth sleep mask and listen to sounds of the ocean to get some much-needed relaxation.”

Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes 6-pack Set

A flight attendant of 10 years, Carin Ryan never travels without these specific packing cubes. “The brand says these help people fit double the amount in their suitcases, and I couldn’t agree more,” she said, naming the Bagsmart Packing Cubes as one of her 15 favorite flight accessories . The compression cubes have earned more than 7,700 five-star ratings at Amazon, where this set of six is up to 10 percent off right now. 

Elefor Portable Massage Gun

Kizuka also told T+L that this affordable massage gun gets passed around among his roommates, who are also flight attendants. “Pushing heavy beverage carts and traversing across airports with heavy luggage can put a lot of stress on your body,” he said, “and this massage gun helps with those flight attendant-related aches and pains.” It has 20 speeds and comes with 10 different heads for the shoulders, back, glutes, legs, and feet, for example. It charges with a type-C USB cable, which makes it ideal for travel. 

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Weekender Bag

Travelpro’s Maxlite 5 Weekender has a big following among Amazon shoppers, and it's rare to find it on sale for under $100. This 19-inch duffel-style travel bag has pockets galore, making it easy to keep everything in your carry-on organized and accessible. The material is water-repellent and wipes clean with no effort. “It’s good quality, the zippers glide smoothly, and it holds a surprising amount of cargo,” wrote one reviewer , who travels 40 weeks out of the year. Chiming in, a flight attendant added that it offers “extra space without compromising good appearance is always appreciated.”

Nesugar G3 Travel Steamer

A portable steamer is often one of the last things you throw into your suitcase — if there’s room. But, according to a flight attendant , this one from Nesugar is “hands down, one of the best purchases I’ve made for my travel needs.” In fact, it was this shopper review that has us convinced that it's a packing list nonnegotiable: “I’ll admit I’m one of those people who’d get to the hotel room [and] drag out their ancient, dusty (sometimes dirty) ironing board and iron. I got tired of the rigamarole and worrying about their iron staining my expensive business suits and making the fabric shiny.”

Emdak Door Stop Alarm

Yes, even people who travel for a living keep safety top of mind when they’re staying at a hotel in an unfamiliar place. “There have been so many stories I’ve heard of people opening other people’s hotel rooms,” a flight attendant wrote in their Amazon review of the Emdak Door Stop Alarm. “I wanted something loud and annoying that’s going to alert me right away as soon as it’s cracked. It’s perfect.” These door stops come in a pack of two and hit 120 ear-piercing decibels when triggered. Believe us, the $14 is worth it for the peace of mind.

Charmking Compression Socks 3-pack Set

Although you might not notice it under their uniforms, flight attendants wear compression socks (or stockings), too. This $13 three-pack by Charmking happens to be an Amazon best-seller that has earned an astonishing 51,000-plus perfect ratings. “These help keep swelling down while I’m working,” one flight attendant shared in their review. They have a compression rating of 15 to 20 millimeters of mercury (i.e., units of pressure), promoting better blood flow above 30,000 feet.

Bagsmart Foldable Jewelry Organizer

Unravel this cute jewelry roll and you’ll find finger-shaped ring holders that snap in place, a grid just for earrings, three zippered pouches, and clips to keep necklaces tangle-free. No more unknotting chains or hunting for missing earring backs in your suitcase. “I used to have a box case to hold jewelry, but it’s much bulkier/harder to pack, and there was no way to store necklaces,” explained a flight attendant . “This one has all that in mind. It’s slim and lays flat, which makes it so easy to pack in any bag." 

Vandbao Travel Cutlery Set

When you travel as often as flight attendants do, it’s necessary to carry your own cutlery. This stainless steel set comes in handy when there’s nothing else around to eat with, and even better, helps keep single-use plastic out of landfills. “I bought this set to use in my hotel room for flight attendant training [and] absolutely fell in love,” one Amazon reviewer wrote . “Not only does [it] hold true to the test of time, the sleek design and modern look of the black stainless are to die for.”

Note: Most travelers said they didn’t have a problem getting through TSA with the butter knife included, but others did report that they were flagged for it. You might be better off slipping it into your checked bag to avoid getting held up at security.

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