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1. An external battery so powerful that it can charge your phone up to three times before it needs to be charged itself. This is perfect if you're stuck in the back of economy with no working outlets in sight, and if your phone dies, you'll have no way to entertain yourself until you get to your destination.
Promising review: "I use the cable that came with my phone charger with my battery bank, and it charges my S9 Galaxy well. The speed of the charge isn't astounding, but when used to prevent going into very low percentages, this product will extend your battery's life dramatically. I use it mostly when I'm on long flights for work (Boston to Hawaii or San Diego most commonly), and it's never dead by the time I land, and neither is my phone. Perfect." —Ethan Lee
Get it from Amazon for $25.98.
2. A seat back organizer that'll keep all the essentials you need for the duration of the flight organized and easy to grab. Sure, there *technically* is already a seat back pocket, but those are notoriously small, and there's a good chance you may forget something in the bottom of them. With this, your water bottle, snacks, tablet, magazines, and more will be at the ready. And as a bonus, when you land, you can simply unhook the organizer and stick everything in your bag, leaving nothing behind.
Airplane Pockets is a small business that created this organizer to make flying easier.
Promising review: "Every time I whip this thing out, someone leans across the aisle, asks what it is, and then makes a note to buy one when they get home. On a long-haul flight, it's simply a must for organizing your reading materials, headphones, sanitizing wipes, etc. One seat back pocket just doesn't do the trick! My favorite use for this thing, though, is when I've fallen deep asleep along the way only to wake up in a fog and in a rush to deplane. Instead of having to hastily dig things out of the seat back pocket (and wherever else I've squirreled things during the trip), I just slip the entire thing off of the tray table, pop it in my bag and worry about sorting things out when I get to where I'm going — safe in the knowledge that I didn't leave anything behind because it's all in the pouches. Love it!" —justinglen
Get it from Amazon for $29.99.
3. An LED reading light you can wear around your neck instead of switching on your overhead seat light. Now, you won't disturb the people next to you when you can't sleep and are also enthralled with your current read.
Promising reviews: "I was able to bend this small light to my book on a long flight from Florida to Washington State. So nice to be able to read without disturbing the person next to me!!!" —debbie frankenfield
"I couldn't be happier with this light. I use it for reading in bed and when I travel. It's comfortable, has multiple settings, is easy to use, and the battery stays charged for a long time. You can turn on either one or both sides of the light and its flexibility allows the light to be adjusted easily. I highly recommend this light for reading in bed, for outdoor walking at night, and for doing close work that requires good lighting." —Jean G
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in eight colors).
4. AirFly, a wireless transmitter that'll connect your AirPods (or any other wireless headphones) to the headphone jack on the flight so you can enjoy all the free entertainment without being forced to bring two sets of headphones or use the crappy ones they have the AUDACITY to charge for on some flights.
It also comes with a USB-C charging cable, travel pouch, keychain holder, quick-start guide, and a manual.
Twelve South is a small business that has been creating innovative tech accessories since 2009.
Promising review: "This is essential for long flights. I love to wear my AirPods for music and being able to connect my AirPods with the in-flight entertainment is just perfect. I'd definitely recommend this." —Leonardo N.
Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in four styles and in black and white).
5. Or a hands-free (rotating!) phone mount if you don't have a screen on the seat back (or just want to watch your own downloaded shows). You can mount this to the tray table or seat back so you're able to watch movies and TV shows without straining your neck.
Perilogics is a small business.
Promising reviews: "Made a long flight so much better. I bought two of these for my family to use on a recent flight. At first, I was not so sure how well they would hold our phones in place as they seemed to be all plastic and perhaps cheap. I was happily surprised that they could be pivoted to use as either a tray stand or eye level stand using the seat back in front of you. So nice to have your hands free and to not have to be looking down. The guy across the aisle asked me where I got it after he had to hold his phone to watch his movie. This was worth the money!" —Tahoe Dude
Get it from Amazon for $12.97 (available in five colors).
6. A mini size of Tower 28 Daily Rescue facial spray made without any alcohol, oil, or fragrance, so it's safe to spritz on all skin types to help soothe dry and irritated skin, which flying for hours always seems to make worse. Not only will your skin feel refreshed after a spritz or two, but it may make you feel a little more alive, as well.
Tower 28 is a LA-based woman-owned small business that creates nontoxic, vegan, and cruelty-free beauty products for all skin types.
Promising review: "I love this product — it has absolutely changed my skin for the better. My skin feels hydrated and clean, and I swear it makes my other products work better. I never get on a plane without the travel size in my purse. It is especially wonderful for long-haul flights." —erinemily
Get the mini size from Amazon, Sephora, or Tower 28 for $12 (also available in a larger size).
7. Silicone earplugs designed to help reduce the pressure in your ears because sometimes you can't avoid getting an ~earful~ when the plane is taking off (and from the woman sitting next to you).
Sure, it might be a placebo effect, but more than 3,700 reviewers swear by them for helping make flying more comfortable.
Promising review: "I have to first say, I had a few steps in my anti-ear popping process. First, I took a decongestant starting 48 hours before my flight going by the regiment on the box. The day before my flight, I used Debrox to unclog my ears according to the regiment on the box. The day of my flight I put the Earplanes in while we were on the ground and kept them in the entire flight. When I say I had NO EAR POPPING!!! I was on a long flight with a layover, and for the first leg, I had a little popping (like a painless crackle), but for the rest of the flight and the return, I had absolutely no popping. For one of my flights. I didn’t even realize we were landing because I was watching movies with no pain! I have used ear plugs before but there is something about Earplanes that set them apart from regular ear plugs. I normally get really painful popping (I mean scared to sneeze or cough because they hurt so bad), but I had absolutely no pain. I will be using this combination EVERY TIME I fly from now on." —jahnese
Get a pack of one from Amazon for $6.99.
8. A sleeping mask designed with a 3D-contoured shape, which just means there's more space where your eyes go so there's no pressure on them (you can also even open them). It still provides total darkness so you can try and catch some ZZZs and wake up refreshed and ready to take on your destination.
Plus, it comes with a set of earplugs to block out all the noise around you!
Promising reviews: "Purchased this recently for a long haul flight and really enjoyed it. I was able to get some really cozy rest using this. Highly recommend." —Max
"This is an essential travel item for me. I purchased to use for travel. Best sleep on a flight I’ve EVER had. It helps me zone out. Loaned them to my daughter for her trip to Hawaii. She can NEVER fall asleep on flights but, with these, she slept like a baby! Adjustable and lightweight. Carrying bag can easily be dropped into travel tote or carry-on luggage." —Sharee A. Armstrong
Get the set from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in seven colors).
9. A JetKids ride-on carry-on suitcase I'm pretty sure is about to become your new favorite product for traveling with kids. Not only does it have wheels, but it's designed so your toddler can sit on it, making it easy for you to wheel them through the airport. Then when you get on the flight, it easily transforms into a leg rest or in-flight bed to keep your kids comfy while in the air. How neat is that???
It's recommended for kids ages 3–7 and fits most standard economy seats. Plus, it has an adjustable strap so you can carry it over your shoulder, a top handle, and a mattress inside that can be removed and used while in the flight. Parents have even used this product while in the airport waiting for the flight to keep their kids comfy and happy.
Promising review: "This is a lifesaver for long flights! My son enjoys riding and pulling it around, and he also loves the stickers that comes with it. The Bedbox is very sturdy, and it's way better than the inflatable foot rest. I'm getting another one this year for my second child." —AliS
Get it from Amazon for $229 (available in six colors).
10. An affordable pair of wireless Bluetooth earbuds with more than 238,800+ 5-star ratings, proving just how great they are. You'll be able to block out most of the surrounding noise on your flight. (Looking at you, screaming toddler and jet engine noise!!!)
The earbuds come in a wireless charging case with up to 14 hours of charge. The earbuds themselves can play for up to four hours on a full charge, which means you may have to recharge during your flight, but reviewers do say the buds charge in the case very fast. You also get different sized silicone tips to make sure these fit your ear perfectly.
Promising reviews: "I bought these for a long flight and the sound was great and cancelled out the noise around me. Very impressed given the price point!" —Kelsey
"Best decision! These are the greatest headphones ever! I saw them on TikTok months ago and added them to my wishlist. I got a new phone that doesn't have the headphone port so I decided it was time to finally buy them. They are amazing and I probably won't ever take them out of my ears! 😂" —Kate Arnold
Get it from Amazon $22.99+ (available in five colors).
11. Or wireless sleep headphones if your goal for the flight is to "get as much sleep as possible." You'll be able to listen to music, a podcast, or even white noise to help you fall asleep without having to rest your head on uncomfortable earbuds that make a loud "doo doot" sound when they die.
The headphones connect via Bluetooth and have 33 feet of wireless range (meaning your phone doesn't have to be right next to you). The controls are on the forehead, which makes it comfortable for back and side sleepers, and they are made to block out ambient noise.
Promising review: "I purchased this product to be able to listen to affirmations as I fall asleep. It has been great for that and has also been very beneficial on long airplane flights when my ears hurt from the air pods being in for so long, also a great option when you are sleeping in a room with someone who snores! My kids keep stealing this from me so I purchased two more to get them for Christmas!" —Dawn Cooperider
Get it from Amazon for $15.99 (available in 27 colors).
12. A pair of compression socks to help stop your feet and legs from swelling up as much as Violet Beauregarde did in Willy Wonka's factory.
Read more about compression socks for travel at Johns Hopkins and The Huffington Post.
Promising review: "These socks do the job and have become essential travel gear for my wife and me. They help prevent tired and bloated feet and legs on long flights and ensure our feeling safe from the attendant risks of poor circulation from lack of movement on these fights (which we take regularly). Have immediately purchased pairs for friends." —Burt
Get them from Amazon for $14.32+ (available in unisex sizes S–XXL and in 18 colors).
And check out our full Physix Gear compression socks review here.
13. Or a short version designed to help decrease swelling and fatigue by providing targeted compression throughout the foot. Reviewers say this option is comfortable to wear all day and on long flights, too.
Promising review: "This is my third pair over five years, and I love these socks. I still have and use my first pair. They reduce my ankle swellings and are comfortable to wear all day and on long flights. I would highly recommend." —AGP
Get them from Amazon for $10.95+ (available in four sizes and nine colors).
14. A 2-in-1 travel blanket and pillow because you never really know if you're going to step on a sweltering or freezing airplane, but either way you'll be prepared with this. You can use it as a pillow if it's warm but unzip it and use it as a blanket if it's cold. Plus, it has a convenient handle pass-through that slips right on your suitcase to easily take it with you through the airport.
Promising review: "I bought this product before taking a six-hour flight, and it was a lifesaver. The pillow has a strap behind it to put it on your luggage so that it doesn't have to be carried. Very convenient when traveling. The blanket kept me warm on the plane and when the blanket is folded into the pillow it is also comfortable. Would definitely recommend." —Robynn
Get it from Amazon for $29.95 (available in six colors).
15. An inflatable foot rest both adults and kids love because it gives them the ability to keep their feet up. The foot rest can be inflated to three heights and comes with an eye mask, earplugs, dust cover, and drawstring bag.
Promising review: "This footrest pillow is essential for those who travel very long distances. It is not only uncomfortable but unhealthy to leave feet dangling down for many hours or days at a time while traveling. I purchased this pillow to situate between my airplane seat and the seat in front of mine. It is wonderful to be able to prop my feet up, with bent knees, while watching movies or sleeping. I regularly fly the same route that is about 30 hours (including layovers), and when I am unable to get a seat upfront, this footrest pillow keeps me more comfortable at the back of the plane." —Yvonne N
Get it from Amazon for $22.49+ (available in four colors).
16. A pack of Wisp brushers because, honestly, there's not much worse than the feeling of grimy teeth after being on a plane for hours and hours. And if you don't want to use the tiny airplane bathroom, these don't require any water or rinsing. Just give your teeth a quick brush, and you'll feel SO much better.
Promising review: “These come in so handy on long flights. Much easier than trying to brush your teeth in a small airplane bathroom. The are small and discrete but do a great job of getting your teeth clean. I also, use these at work and even have a few in my car!” —JustANormalWoman
Get a 24-packs from Amazon for $7.29.
17. A Trtl pillow made with fleece so you can sleep cozily in whatever position is the most comfortable for you. Plus, it only weighs half a pound and can easily be thrown in your carry-on without taking up a ton of space.
Promising review: "I travel on international and domestic flights quite a bit and have tried different kinds of travel 'pillows.' This is by far my favorite. I've read lots of reviews about an inferior brand. My first time to order the Trtl Pillow, I received the style most people prefer; the three-finger style. Anyway, it's an amazing product, and it really helps me actually sleep on long flights! I won't use anything else now. It fits in my backpack fine, but I can also strap it to the outside if I'm packed full. I bought it on the recommendation of a friend who also uses one for long distance air travel. I'll also be taking this on car trips as well!" —M. Summers
Get it from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in five colors).
And check out our full Trtl Pillow review here.
18. Or a twist memory foam pillow one reviewer says is a great option if you have a shorter neck because you can mold to in any position to help you comfortably sleep on any long flight.
Promising review: "I was born with my c2 and c3 vertebrae fused together and often have neck pain. I took this travel pillow a 5-1/2-week trip to New Zealand, traveling an almost 30-hour trip from the east coast of the US. This travel pillow supported my neck beautifully, and I loved that I could change the shape. Sometimes I would place it around my neck like a typical travel pillow and sometimes I would fold it in half (almost) and lean my head against it that way. It was also great for when I arrived in NZ. I laid it out straight and used it as support for the back of my neck while sleeping on my back at night. It survived the travel both to and from NZ. I love the functionality of this pillow, now it can be shaped to use in multiple ways. I highly recommend this travel pillow for neck support! It is very comfortable!" —JG
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in four colors).
19. Or an inflatable travel and neck pillow if you're a side sleeper to your core and want a little extra support to get comfortable. This rolls up small and can even attach to the handle of your suitcase. It easy inflates and straps around your body, so your head won't do that awkward bobbing that always leaves you with a neck-ache after you land.
Promising review: "This was great for long flights, I am a 'head bobber,' so struggle with finding a pillow that can stay in place and support me when I start to doze off. It was nice because you can leave it in place even when you aren't ready to fall asleep, and if you start to doze off, it is there. I also didn't have to worry about losing it because it deflates and goes in your bag, whereas other pillows I tend to lose because you have to carry them or attach them outside of your bag." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $29.95 (available in four colors).
20. *ORR* an inflatable wedge pillow for the stomach sleepers out there. This comfy pillow will make it so you can fully conk out and catch some ZZZs. Plus, if you aren't ready to sleep yet, you can put your phone inside it and use it as a comfy way to watch your favorite comfort show (that will hopefully help you fall asleep).
Promising review: "I am a very frequent traveler and had lived through many 13+ hour flights prior to purchasing this pillow. After using it for the first time on my 13 hour flight to Tokyo, I will never fly without it again! It was comfortable not only for sleeping leaning forward, but also for leaning against the window on the larger international plane. If you're traveling with a companion, it was also very comfortable being used between two people. I especially love how there are holes for your arms and can be used at different angles/positions. It made for a very restful flight overall." —Elizabeth B
Get it from Amazon for $24.99.
21. A HappyLuxe travel wrap designed to be used as both a chic scarf and then as a blanket when it gets super cold on the plane and you want to sleep comfortably.
Promising review: "This is truly the best purchase I have ever made for travel and life in general!! It is the perfect size, and is so soft and packable! I was able to stay warm on a very long flight. I have used it as a beach cover-up, a shawl in chilly restaurants, and the office environment, a scarf. In a pinch, I wore it as a top over a cami with jeans for an impromptu girls' night out. It has also been used for an infant who needed to be snuggled and comforted. I have purchased one for a friend who travels frequently, and she also loves it! I am planning on ordering several more for friends and family for Christmas presents!!" —tk1
Get it from Amazon for $46+ (available in nine colors).
22. A Melissa & Doug Water Wow! pad for a fun and mess-free activity to keep your child occupied. Each pad has four reusable pages and it comes with a refillable water pen that brings the "magic" colors to life. As an added bonus, you won't have to worry about getting marker or crayon all over the tray table.
Promising review: "These are amazing!! Got them for our 3.5-year-old boy and 1-year-old girl for long flights, and they far exceeded our expectations! Both kids love them, and it kept my 3.5-year-old busy for over an hour! Now we bring them with us to restaurants." —Marmar39
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in six bundles).
23. A freezable snack box designed with built-in cooling technology that you can fill with snacks that will stay cold all day long, even if your flight's delayed. Reviewers say this is not only great for storing snacks for littles, but also for people with food allergies, and even breastfeeding people who need to store milk while away from home.
Promising review: "I love these bags!!! They stay frozen for a long time and hold a good bit. My son loves cheese, and we were traveling to Asia, so I bought this to take cheese for him on the 13-hour flight. It fit over four packs of cheese sticks and had room to spare. I’d highly recommend this for anyone who needs chilled snacks on the go!" —Jasy
Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in 13 colors and prints).
24. A hoodie made with a built-in eye mask. Talk about a game-changer. Put on your hood on your flight, close your eyes, and you'll be at your destination in no time.
Plus, it has a hidden pocket inside the kangaroo pocket to safely hold your valuables (phone, keys, headphone case). Reviewers do say it has an oversized fit, so size down if you want a closer fit.
Pond Los Angeles is an Asian- and woman-owned small business that creates bags and clothing perfect for traveling.
Promising review: "Best hoodie for long flights. I had a long flight planned and started seeing ads for this hoodie. It looked very comfortable, so I decided to give it a try. I love it, it is very soft and comfortable, and I love using the hoodie to block the light (even with headphones on). It is pricy, but it will definitely be my go-to hoodie for long trips in the future!" —Leire M.B.
Get it from Pond Los Angeles for $102.40 (originally $128; available in women's sizes S–XXL and in four colors).
25. An acupressure anti-nausea wristband to make nausea and motion/morning sickness disappear so you can go on with your day without feeling awful and fighting the urge to throw up after riding that super-awesome roller coaster everyone recommended.
The band applies pressure on the P6 acupressure point that is said to help relieve nausea and vomiting. Read more about acupressure and nausea at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Promising reviews: "They really work for me. I like to travel but do not like to take flights because I get sick on planes all the time. I used them on a 15-hour long flight, and I didn't get sick from the very first time I was on a flight. Furthermore, one day I woke up in the morning with severe dizziness and could not stand up. I laid back down to the bed and put them on. It was amazing. I was able to stand up after 10 minutes and felt like nothing happened. I would recommend everyone who has the same issue to try these." —Grace
Get a pack of two from Amazon for $8.54.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.