After a decade of travelling, I’ve created a checklist of travel essentials, gadgets and accessories to make flights as comfortable as possible. Whether it’s a short or long haul flight, these 12 travel essentials will help you feel refreshed and energised for your holiday.
Compression socks
Sitting for extended periods during a flight can cause poor blood circulation and lead to swollen ankles and feet. Compression socks are designed to apply gentle pressure to your lower legs, promoting blood flow and reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They are particularly beneficial during long-haul flights, providing comfort and reducing the likelihood of leg discomfort and swelling.
Earplugs
You might think earplugs are only useful for flights where you’ll be sleeping, but if you struggle with your ears popping on decent you should also consider buying earplugs too. Wearing earplugs on decent can help with reducing air pressure in your ears.
Noise cancelling headphones
For an unparalleled in-flight entertainment experience, noise-canceling headphones are a game-changer. These headphones actively reduce external sounds, allowing you to enjoy your favorite movies, music, or podcasts without disturbance. They also help minimize engine noise and background chatter, enhancing your overall comfort during the flight.
Phone holder
A phone holder, either a stand or a wearable design, is beneficial for keeping your hands free while using your phone. It can be attached to the seat in front of you, making it easier to watch movies or video chat without having to hold your phone for extended periods.
Drinks holder
A drinks holder that clips onto the tray table is a handy accessory to keep your beverage secure and prevent accidental spills during turbulence. It offers a stable platform for your drink, freeing up space on your tray for other items.
Cable organiser
With various electronic devices and chargers, keeping cables tangle-free and organized can be challenging. A cable organizer helps you neatly store charging cables, earphones, and other cords, ensuring they’re easily accessible when needed.
Eye mask
Not all sleep masks are created equally. It’s worth spending a little more to get a sleep mask that’s a lot more comfortable and actually blocks light out.
Flight bag
A flight bag is a compact and organized solution to keep all your in-flight essentials in one place. It should be big enough to accommodate your passport, boarding pass, travel documents, wallet, phone, and other small items you may need during the flight. Having everything in a flight bag saves time and prevents you from rummaging through your main luggage for essentials.
Water bottle
Staying hydrated during a flight is crucial, as the cabin air can be dry and dehydrating. Bringing a refillable water bottle ensures you have access to water throughout the flight. Most airports have water fountains where you can fill your bottle before boarding, and flight attendants can usually refill it during the flight.
Neck pillow
Getting quality rest during a flight is essential, especially on long journeys. A neck pillow provides much-needed support for your neck and head, helping you maintain a comfortable sleeping position. It prevents stiffness and soreness, allowing you to arrive at your destination feeling more refreshed.
Power bank
In today’s digital age, our devices play a significant role in keeping us entertained during flights. A power bank is a lifesaver when you’re unable to find a charging port at the airport or when the in-flight entertainment system isn’t working correctly. Keeping a fully charged power bank ensures you’ll have sufficient battery power for your phone, tablet, or other electronic devices throughout your journey.
Tray table pocket
If you’ve ever struggled to fit all of your travel essentials in the back seat pocket, you should consider a tray table pocket. It has designed pockets so you can fit more and it keeps your tray table clean if you don’t have sanitiser to hand.
