Essential In-flight products to keep in your carry-on to make your flight more comfortable.
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1. A packable jacket with a hood.
The in-flight temperature is unpredictable and unreliable. A compact jacket is essential to keep on hand to save space in your carry-on and be there when you need it. I don't remember the last time I sat through a flight without wearing a light jacket.
When I am packing light, I like to bring my North Face ThermoBall Jacket(affiliate link). It's insulated enough while being able to "pack away" into its own pocket.
I would choose the option with a hood, so you have something between your head and the window.
2. A blanket-scarf
I cannot remember where I purchased mine. It works as a blanket, scarf with some neck support if you're without a pillow or a light wrap. Honestly, it's more of a blanket than it is a scarf because of the size.
Here are some possible options available on Amazon ( All of them have excellent ratings and many color options to choose from):
3. A neck pillow
The one I usually use is one I purchased at the airport, and it was overpriced. However, I highly recommend you buy one before your travel if you're on a budget. Whatever you decide, I recommend choosing one that comes in a case- to protect it and make it more compact.
I usually clip mine to the outside of my backpack.
This one by Cabeau (affiliate link) looks the most similar to the one I use.
Here are some other great options with great reviews, and they look like they offer enough neck support:
4. Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones
As shared in my post, Top 8 Essentials for Travel & Sleep, Mack's silicone putty earplugs (affiliate link) are my favorite. Compared to all the ones I've tested over the years, these do the best job at blocking out the noise without hurting my ears. The kid's size is my preference.
Although, I am on a quest to find reusable earplugs to be more eco-friendly.
Noise Cancelling headphones
I have not yet personally tried either of these, but I've heard raving reviews from fellow travelers:
5. An eye mask
I love using a nice silk eye-mask. I own several masks from Slip, Brooklinen, and Quince. Honestly, I have not noticed a significant difference in quality amongst the varying price ranges. I would make sure of the material used.
This one is not made of silk, but it has phenomenal reviews as an eye mask for travel:
6. Headphones with an aux cord
I know! Headphones with an aux cord it's so old school. ;)
I advise having a pair with a cord online for free in-flight entertainment. Any headphones provided by the airline are usually uncomfortable.
I believe most wireless headphones come with a detachable aux cord, so if you have that, make sure it's on hand.
Personally, I have not found over-ear headphones that don't hurt my head, but many of my old coworkers on the road loved their Bose QuietComfort.
7. USB cable, USB plug & portable charging block
It's not always guaranteed that you'll have a working charging port near your seat. If you do, make sure you have a USB cable & USB plug. Sometimes there may be an outlet for you and your neighbor to share, so bringing a plug with multiple USB ports would be courteous.
Sometimes you may end up at a seat, and the charging options don't work.
I would highly recommend bringing at least one (preferably two, a backup) charging block for your travels.
Not all USB plugs are equal. I recommend looking for ones with "fast charging." It's often you'll be provided a port that charges your electronics just enough to keep from dying, but it seems impossible to get the full charge. This is another reason I recommend bringing a charged, portable charging bank.
I own several different charging banks, including a few from Anker that I've liked. However, I won't post those versions because they've come out with better and more efficient models over the years.
I recommend having a larger bank that can charge your device 5x and a tiny one that can fit in any purse without taking up too much room.
8. Hand sanitizer, face mask, disinfecting wipes
You know the deal now, and this pandemic is not going away if more people don't do their part in preventing the spread.
Wear a mask. Listen to the CDC. Respect others' space and desire for safety.
If you still believe this whole thing is a hoax - then this blog probably isn't for you.
Another issue is the environmental impact of disposable - one-time use items.
I personally use reusable masks. I have enough for every day of the week so that I can toss it into the laundry at the end of the day.
The wipes below are all biodegradable:
These are the masks I use from Target that I've liked. They fit well and do the job.
I tried out silk masks that I wanted to love, but I would practically eat them when trying to speak.
I'm not going to try listing masks available on amazon. I have not liked any that I have purchased, and there are too many options with "high ratings."
9. Lip balm
I stocked on the Laneige website when they had a great sale. It's been a travel and nightstand staple for a few years now.
8. A compact water bottle
Okay, here I am a bit of a hypocrite ve because ethe bottlebeen using is definitely not compact. It's more been wishful thinking. It usually doesn't stay in my backpack, and has become more of a habit. At home I use this gigantic chute from cambel back that holds 1500ml/ 50oz. Sometimes I'll bring that one on the road or my 25 oz.
Some great options on Amazon with great reviews:
9. Sleep Aid
I only use these on the long haul 10+ hr flights, over night flights to prevent jet lag, and make sure you get some sleep. It could be dangerous to take if you're on a short flight and have to drive after.
Please ask your family physician if you have questions.
10. Snacks
Other ideas to make your flight more comfortable:
A seat cushion for those long routes:
A hammock or puff to rest your feet:
Lumbar support:
Alternatives to the neck pillow:
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