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1. If you remember anything from this story — check into your flight ASAP! Don't wait 'til you get to the airport. You want to check in before other passengers to secure your seat assignment and avoid getting bumped from the flight.
Airlines overbook flights, and sometimes even when they don't, passengers can get bumped simply for the reason that they were the last to check in for a flight.
I used to be one of those people who refused to give up space on my phone for an airline app and would check into the flight at an airport kiosk before going through security. I stopped that a few years ago when I saw a fellow passenger find out that he didn't have a seat assignment, and the airline gate agent told them that they didn't have a seat because they were the last to check in to the flight. Now, when I'm ready to go on a trip, I plan accordingly to check into my domestic flight 24 hours before, and for some international carriers, I've been able to check in days beforehand (for example, EasyJet lets you check into your flight starting 30 days before).
This is something that many people (even people who fly at least a few times a year) don't know! Of course you can check in online instead of downloading an app, but I personally like to download the app for the airline I'm flying so you can get updates easily.
2. Check out SeatGuru for info on plane seats by carrier, date, and flight number so you find your perfect spot that suits your flying comfort level. (Do NOT make a TikTok complaining about your window-seat-that's-not-a-window-seat. That's your fault for not checking.)
3. Invest in an Apple AirTag for each bag to give you peace of mind — even if you're carrying on only because so many people who are in the last groups to board are forced to check their bags due to limited overhead space. This'll help you figure out just *where* the airline lost your bag in case that happens. (It happened to me and my AirTag helped me track my suitcase much better than any info the airline provided.)
Storytime: After traveling last summer carry-on only, and being a person who tries to carry on whenever possible, I finally bought a couple of Apple AirTags during Black Friday sales. And I am SO grateful I did. My normal carry-on bag was too big to fit the Lufthansa luggage requirements (and BOY, do they check that!), so I had to check my bags for a December 2022 trip to Vienna and back from Prague (with a layover in Frankfurt). My bag didn't make it onto the plane in Frankfurt, and once I landed in Newark, New Jersey, I pulled up the app on my phone and saw that yes, my backpack AirTag was indeed with me, but my suitcase AirTag was still in Germany. (The screen grab is from an Amazon review, but you get the gist.) The AirTag also helped me track FedEx's delivery of the suitcase to my parents' house, where I was spending the holidays immediately after my Europe trip ended. I was even able to see it on a highway less than an hour's drive from my parents' house. TL;DR: I think AirTags are very much a worthwhile investment if you travel a few times a year. And I'm not the only one who thinks so.
Promising review: "I bought a pair of these AirTags for a trip to France, and I’m so glad I did! First of all, the setup is super easy. I had zero problems, and both were done in, like, five minutes. I put one in my purse and one in my suitcase. On the way back home, the airline lost my luggage. Checked the Find My Friends app where the AirTag is tracked, and I could see that it never left the Charles de Gaulle airport. I felt more assurance being able to track my bag through the app as it made its way across the world back to me. 10/10 would recommend!" —Lindsay Kirby
Get it from Amazon for $29 (also available in a four-pack for $89).
4. TRIPLE check the size constraints for every single airline you'll be flying on your trip so you aren't forced to gate-check an oversized (according to the airline) bag.
5. Snap up a three-piece luggage set that comes in a bunch of colors so you can more easily eye your checked bags at the crowded carousel. It comes with a 28-inch large suitcase, a 24-inch medium suitcase, and a carry-on 20-inch suitcase for your travel needs. Each has a secure TSA lock and 360-degree wheels that'll make scooting along during a short layover a little easier.
Promising review: "This was my best purchase of 2023, so far! I recently moved internationally, and I purchased the four-piece luggage set in the pink(ish) color. All four pieces of luggage traveled very well. The locks are very convenient. Since I brought the luggage set in April, I have traveled from the US to East Africa twice. I have been able to visit three different countries, and I have traveled domestically within the US. I traveled with different airlines, and so far, the luggage is still holding up better than I could have anticipated. Of course, the TSA agents made sure to scratch and scuff my luggage as best they could. However, my luggage still looks and functions very well. I am very satisfied with this purchase. Scout's honor, you will not be disappointed in this luggage set. *I brought the warranty as well just in case." —Enn Cognito
Get it from Amazon for $179+ (available in 21 colors).
6. Prevent any costly surprises at the check-in counter with a digital luggage scale that'll help ensure you aren't slammed with an overweight luggage fee (ugh) or having to move stuff from your checked bag to your carry-on to avoid said fee (also, ugh).
You can also switch between pound and kilogram measurements.
I tested this digital luggage scale out when packing for a trip to Iceland — check out my demo of how it works on TikTok! Psst, it also works to help you figure out the weight (and therefore the cost) of packages before you drop them off at the post office or UPS.
Promising review: "We used this on a six-flight trip across Europe and it made it easy to know that we repacked our bags according to the various weight limits. Some bags were a 10-kg limit and some were a 50-lb limit so it was convenient to switch back and forth between units (even though dividing by 2.2 isn't exactly rocket science)." —Robert
Get it from Amazon for $9.39+ (available in five colors and a two-pack).
7. If you have as stroller-aged kid, consider a stroller that'll fold up and fit in the overhead on a plane so you don't have to gate check your stroller and wait around to start on your grand family adventure.
It folds up so small that it was awarded a Guinness World Record in 2014 for the most compact stroller. It can hold kids who weigh up to 55 pounds and the stroller only weighs 9.5 pounds.
Promising review: "100% the most crucial item that we took on our 3-week trip to Europe with our 2-year-old. The wheels lock to maneuver uneven surfaces, and it’s super light weight. Buy a backpack style bag for it. You can also buy a cup holder attachment. Being able to put it in the overhead compartment on the plane was a game changer. No more waiting at the gate for a checked stroller or worse, having it sent with your luggage. Takes just a little practice folding up, and sometimes a little elbow grease but put your weight into it and you’ll get it." —Kesley
Get it from Amazon for $149.95+ (available in two styles and two colors).
8. Consider a set of compression bags if you're not beholden to carry-on weight limits (sometimes that's a thing for European flying) and tend to overpack. Here's your sweet spot ;). And in the event that security has to go through your bag (it happens!), this'll make it a bit easier for them to sort through your stuff.
And they come with a hand pump for travel!
Promising review: "This is a great product. I have a memory foam pillow that I try to take on trips, due to neck issues, so I purchased this product and put it to the test to see if it could flatten the pillow so I can also carry my clothes and the pillow in the same bag, carry-on size travel bag. The pillow's been sitting in the vacuum pack for the last three days now and hasn't let any air into the package at all. The pump removed so much air that the foam is as solid as a rock with less that an 1/8 of an inch of give when I press on it firmly with my thumb." —4-H Shooting Sports Instructor
Get a pack of five from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in four sizes).
9. Or invest in a collection of compression packing cubes you can use over and over again without having to remember to pack a pump for sucking out the air.
Again, just be sure to look up any weight restrictions on carry-on luggage. I ran into that problem in summer 2021 (it was in Croatia while flying British Airways, btw), but the person at the airport check-in counter that gave me some trouble about my bag just seemed to care about my roller carry-on. So I'd suggest using these in a backpack or tote bag you plan to put under the seat.
Promising review: "Easy to clean, lightweight material. All of the compression bags have a mesh front which makes it easy to see what’s inside, plus there is a small clear vinyl pocket on the front for a label. I tested one of the medium bags with four sweaters (one long and bulky, plus three medium-thickness pullovers). They fit in the bag nicely with the bag zipped closed (not compressed yet). It was not difficult to zip the compression closure, although I did take special care to push down and 'help' the zipper along. No signs of strain or damage to the zippers once fully closed. These bags seem very sturdy. As seen in the pictures, there is a significant size reduction! Will definitely use in my travels and would highly recommend." —Clarissa Sheats
Get two medium-sizes ones from Calpak for $48 (available in 19 colors/patterns and a variety of sizes).
10. Make the best use of your personal item (that'll fit under an airplane seat) with a Beis backpack that zips open like a suitcase without *looking* like one of those backpacks that does that. It's sleek and minimalist on the outside while allowing you to pack a weekend's worth of stuff into it (unless you're an overpacker). OK if you're an overpacker, it's just an overnight bag.
I snagged this backpack after hearing my colleague Chelsea Stuart sing its praises. I had a trusty (now discontinued) InCase backpack I used as a personal item and served me well on dozens of trips for about five years. But I wanted a bag for some upcoming travel (2.5 weeks in Europe with *just* carry-on for five flights) that opens up like a suitcase for easier packing. Since buying, I've taken it on two long weekend trips (Amtrak to Newport, RI, for a wedding and regional train to a CT country lake house) with no complaints. In fact, for both of those trips I packed MORE than I needed.
Inside, you'll find a mesh zippered pocket and a plastic pocket perfect for your toiletries. I can fit enough wet toilet toiletries in the second pocket as I'd be allowed to carry-on for a plane. In the mesh pocket I put other necessities like cotton swabs, medicine, eye glasses, etc. The main compartment is deceptively deep so you can easily roll clothes and Lego-fit them in together without using packing cubes. In fact, I fit all of the stuff in the second picture in that section (a romper, PJs, a bikini, sunscreen, five pairs of undies, a pair of jean shorts, nap dress, three pairs of socks, two pairs of sandals, two T-shirts, a slip skirt, sleep mask, curling iron, mini flat iron, makeup bag, and tote bag). AND it has stretchy X-straps to keep it all secure like you'd see in a roller suitcase so when I unzip it, everything stays put. But before I forget, there's a separate cushioned laptop pocket close to the backpack straps that I found works well for books or a Kindle if your travel leaves you laptop-less.
I love that this backpack has DEEP side pockets so your umbrella or water bottle won't fall out. In fact, I stuck a flashlight and an umbrella in one side pocket. (You could always use a flashlight.) Plus! It has a generously sized pocket on the front of the backpack with easy access for sunglasses, snacks, writing pens...all sorts of those little extras you need to access quickly. To top it all off, the backpack straps and top handle are STURDY. I felt totally secure toting it around and slinging it into overhead storage compartments on the trains. I love the look and construction of it with faux leather and sturdy black canvas, and the trolley passthrough to easily fit on my roller suitcase I'm about to drag through a bunch of airports. At nearly $80, this isn't the cheapest backpack option but if you're a frequent traveler, you'll get so much mileage on it and seriously save on some baggage fees, making it well worth the cost. This backpack and I are going places, for sure.
NOW when it comes to air travel, you won't be able to put your wet toiletries in the waterproof pocket (as I have in the above pic for a train trip). But! Lots of nonliquid toiletries and essentials fit in there just fine.
Get it from Beis Travel for $98 (also available in six colors).
11. Or maybe a wheeled carry-on bag small enough to qualify as a personal item on super stringent airlines. It can fit underneath an airplane seat! You can avoid checking a bag, glide through security, *and* don't have to hurt your shoulder by carrying a duffel bag that'd also fit strict bag measurement policies. Take that, Spirit Airlines.
Now you won't even have to pull your suitcase outta the overhead!
Promising review: "This works out so well for me. I’m a flight attendant, and I’ve had an infinite amount of day trips over the summer. I got tired of carrying around my regular TravelPro spinner, so I finally ordered this. SOOOOO MUCH BETTER FOR ME. It’s light, has enough pockets, and can easily fit under a seat if needed.
The ONLY picky thing I can think of is how loud it sounds going across rough concrete. The wheels aren’t as silent as others, but that won’t stop me from buying another in the future." —Kayla T
Get it from Amazon for $50.88+ (available in four colors).
12. Download the TripIt app. The free version consolidates reservations from your email inbox. But the Pro version includes fare and point trackers, international travel tools, a two-month free CLEAR trial, AirHelp partnership and access through SAP Concur (if that's something you use for work).
13. Take screen shots of all your travel confirmations and make two physical copies of your essential travel info because you never know.
14. And keep a copy of your physical travel docs in a trifold travel wallet so you're not wearily holding up the line when it comes time to show the TSA agent your passport and boarding pass.
The wallet has a passport pocket, boarding pass compartment, three credit card slots, an ID slot, a slim card pouch, slim pocket, a ticket slot, a cellphone pouch, a coin zippered pocket, key holder, and pen holder.
Promising review: "Guys, I'm beyond happy with this. I've been looking for a passport and ticket holder for a while but had never found the right size until I decided to try out this one. Besides, the material feels high quality and long-lasting, the red color is even better in person and it's wildly pretty." —BazantSol
Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in 33 colors).
15. Try out a belt bag that'll double as a travel belt with a pass-through trolley loop so you can use it to secure your personal item to the top of your roller suitcase. And then when you're out and about at your destination, you can use it as a purse!
Cincha Travel is a small business in California that develops adjustable travel belts made out of vegan leather. The brand donates 100 airline miles for each purchase, which are used to reconnect separated migrant families.
Check out a TikTok of the Cincha belt bag in action. When flying with this, I rec leaving it on as the belt for your suitcase while boarding your flight. On a few flights I've been on this year, I've heard gate agents make people put their belt bags worn around their waist or cross-body into their personal item. So just be mindful of that!
Promising review: "Great little double-duty bag. Highly recommend. I could fit four passports, an iPhone, a slim wallet, and many more things in my new travel bag. A must for your next adventure." —Lindsay
Get it from Cincha Travel for $67.50 (available in four colors/patterns).
16. If you're flying internationally, just use a plain old plastic baggy for your toiletries so you aren't forced to sacrifice your beloved face serum at security.
I have a gorgeous reusable toiletries bag that I constantly travel with domestically in the US. But every single time I try to use it when going through security in a European airport, I'm made to switch to a plastic bag that's the EXACT size constraint. On a recent trip from Grand Cayman, agents were making *most* passengers switch over to plastic baggies. I've learned my lesson and have just started keeping the plastic baggy left over from a trip to pack my toiletries in from the jump. Yes, it's more wasteful but rules are rules!
17. Get some hand-free caffeination without dumping coffee all over your travel docs thanks to a luggage-mounted cup caddy with a pocket for your bagel or croissant (look at you being fancy so early in the morning!).
Promising review: "Bought it for several planned trips and glad I did. Most of the airports I stopped at did not have cup holders. In the past, I'd place my drinks on vacant chairs, my lap, balancing on my carry-on, in my purse, etc....and hope it didn't spill. This product is easy to place on my hand-carry and easy to stow away when needed. I can also leave my drinks in the travel cup holder when moving from one gate to another. Great purchase!" —Betty C
Get it from Amazon for $15.99 (available in various and patterns).
18. If you prefer a purse as a personal item, a soft faux-leather tote will be perfect so you don't even have to pack it in your carry-on! And it would be useful as a day bag (of course keep your valuables zipped up concealed and tucked away inside) with plenty of room for your souvenirs.
Promising review: "Bought this bag last minute for a uniform compliance as a flight attendant, and it’s sturdy and a great bag. For the material and the price, it’s a great purchase. I’ve had it over four months." —Amber
Get it from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in a variety of colors and two sizes).
19. And use a handbag organizer with LOTS of pockets to help you easily track down your ID, a pouch to take off those giant earrings before going through security, that half-drunk bottle of water you've gotta toss, and just about anything else you'll need to take out and put in a tray.
Promising review: "I love this!! I bought it purely to organize my work tote. I’m a flight attendant and I have so much stuff that I need for work that I didn’t want to carry in my nice purse. So I bought a huge black tote but the biggest problem was the lack of organization. This organizer has plenty of places for all the things I need and helps me find things very quickly." —Jamie H
Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in sizes S-L and in 27 colors).
20. Keep anything you'd need ASAP in a Keyper lanyard keychain you can use to attach smaller bags to your personal item, or even secure your (of course, anti-theft) bag to whatever chair you're sitting in at an outdoor cafe or in a crowded restaurant so ppl can't quickly slip off with your whole bag.
Keyper is a woman-founded and -owned company.
I have one of these (in the snow leopard) and have used it just for keys but also to attach bags as I'm traveling. (I also ONLY carry on so I try to stay organized as possible.) My pal, also named Elizabeth, uses hers to attach her bag to her chair when she's out and about traveling. Yes, you still want an anti-theft bag. But this can make for an extra level of security!
Get it from Amazon for $27.90+ (available in six colors/designs and more materials, styles). You can also grab a bag that works with the keychain. A clear bag, like the one seen on the left, is a great option for toiletries when flying. But! It's also super useful as a purse for a stadium concert or sporting event with security bag restrictions.
21. Get as comfy as possibel in-flight with an inflatable foot rest you might have to buy several of so everyone in the family has one of their own. You can inflate it to three different heights!
Promising review: "I was hesitant to order this for our upcoming travels to Europe, but I'm so glad I did. The foot rest pillow is sturdy, inflates very easily (with a choice of two different heights), and once deflated, folds into a small carry pouch. The footrest came with a contoured sleep mask and ear plugs." —Maria N.
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in four colors and also in a two-pack).
22. Nuzzle up with a neck pillow you can stuff with clothing — even a whole outfit — to give you some comfy flexibility and help get around super strict carry-on size restrictions. The listing says you can even pack three days' worth of clothes in it! Which would especially be welcome if your carry-on-only budget doesn't exactly align with your fashionista status.
Check out a TikTok showing how someone used a similar neck pillow to just take that and a personal item onto a RyanAir flight that was charging for hand luggage.
Promising review: "Took it on my trip to Europe. I went carry-on-only and this tube was a true gem! I fit one full outfit in it and it’s so valuable when traveling with only carry-on luggage. On the plane I used it as an arm support. It’s really helpful on a 10-hour flight. What an excellent idea to take something out of the weighted luggage!!! I was able to fit three T-shirts, two light long-sleeve sweatshirts, and one pair of underwear. I usually like to have a change of clothes with me on the plane, especially on transatlantic flights, so I can change it on the layover, just feels fresher." —Happy Shopper
Get it from Amazon for $43.95.
23. Or if you'd rather use a pillow with some structure, a Trtl travel pillow that, thanks to its scarf-like construction, you can easily adjust to your perfect comfort level and tilt angle to get some Zzzzzs while someone else gets you to where you're going.
Ciera Velarde, a former editor here at BuzzFeed, also loves this! She says: "I've used this for the past few years and swear by it! Before this, I always found traditional neck pillows uncomfortable and would end up ditching them halfway through the flight and getting frustrated. The Trtl pillow is adjustable — you wrap the pillow around your neck and secure it with Velcro, and if you find it's too loose, just make it a bit tighter! I've truly never slept better on a plane than with this pillow."
Get it from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in four colors).
24. Or if you prefer to lean on something as you sleep, try an inflatable wedge pillow. This easily fits on your tray table and reviewers even say they used it upon arrival and their destination!
Promising review: "I traveled to Europe and they had very flat pillows where I was at. I opened this up and put my flat pillow on top and it literally saved me. I have to have a nice full pillow to sleep or I don't sleep. Im happy I had this to save me from no sleep for an entire month!" —Megan Widdig
Get it from Amazon for $24.99.
25. If flying tends to give you a sore behind, try a memory foam seat cushion with an ergonomic design and gel layer for some major cradling. After all, you don't want a sore behind once you get to your destination.
26. Upgrade your long-haul blanket situation or just make an hour-long flight extra cozy with travel-friendly blanket-slash-pillow. Oh! And it clips onto your backpack or carry-on.
Check it out on TikTok.
Promising review: "This blanket was the best for traveling to Europe this summer! It kept me warm in the airport and on airplanes. The blanket and case are easy to throw in the wash and they are very soft! It comes with a clip to clip onto your backpack or purse." —Ashton Moore
Get it from Amazon for $29.95 (available in six colors).
27. Sport a fashionable travel scarf that, yes, will help add that one last accessory your ensemble needs and keep your neck toastier. But! It also has secret pockets so you can stash stuff you'd need throughout your flight. And then when you're at your destination, you can stash your valuables inside, away from unsuspecting pick pockets. Cue the ATTENZIONE PICKPOCKET TikTok sound.
Waypoint Goods is a small biz that specializes in travel accessories.
Promising review: "I absolutely LOVE my travel scarf. This piece is perfect for every occasion. Whether I am traveling on a plane or a road trip, at work, or trying to dress up an outfit to go out, it is perfect and functional. My phone, credit cards and keys fit seamlessly in the pocket without changing the look or fit of my scarf. At times I have put all of that plus a boarding pass and passport in the pocket!!" —Caroline
Get it from Amazon for $14.95+ (available in 14 styles).
28. Catch up on all your stories with a hands-free (rotating!) phone mount to help you watch what you want or take advantage of the movies available online for those budget airlines without TVs in the back of the seats. It'll work on the plane, train, or bus, *or* while you wait to board.
Perilogics is a small biz.
Promising review: "I bought this nifty gadget about six months ago for a multi-leg, ultra-long-haul trip and it more than held up the entire duration. I was able to finagle it to fit the tray tables on different planes and like others, I find the height just nice when clamped onto a stowed tray table. It also works on my roller carry-on handle during layovers. However, I find myself using it a lot outside of travel, too! With work, I've clamped it onto my office desk shelving to hold my phone at eye level beside my computer. At home, I simply clamped it to a deck of cards and it turns into a versatile stand that I can place on any flat surface. Heck, I've been using it to hold my phone comfortably at eye level while watching videos in bed. It's extremely well-built and I find myself fidgeting with it all the time. Thus far it still feels solid and I don't anticipate breaking it any time soon. Even if it does break, I'll be happy to buy another one or two of it!" —Earendil
Get it from Amazon for $10.38.
29. Or if you're working with some actual in-flight TVs, use an Airfly wireless transmitter that'll let you connect your Airpods or any wireless headphones to your airplane seat...even without Bluetooth!
You can also connect up to two pairs of earbuds at a time, and it has 16+ hours of battery life for suuuper long flights.
Twelve South is a husband-and-wife-owned biz based in Charleston, South Carolina, and has just 20 team members! They've been designing accessories inspired by and made for Apple products since 2009.
Promising review: "I was a little nervous that they wouldn’t connect but once I got on the plane ✈️ plugged it in and pressed AirFly (four seconds) then pressed and held AirPods Pro back button. Voila, connected YAY 😀! Now I can get caught up on a couple of movies 🎥 I missed. LOVE IT 💚. Volume is loud and clear." —Nicole J
Get it from Amazon for $54.99.
30. Swap out your space-hogging over-the-ear headphones with some highly popular wireless Bluetooth earbuds that often get prepared to AirPods for significantly cheaper. I was able to wear mine comfortably under my bucket hat while I slept on a very rocky bus ride from the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland. And while I was out exploring, the charging case easily fit in my coat pocket. I never leave home without mine!
These come with a wireless charging case that provides up to 14 hours of charge (with the earbuds able to play for four-plus hours with each full charge).
I also use these on the reg in my everyday life to listen to Spotify and podcasts, and even talk on the phone. I have to charge them about once a week and always keep them in my coat pocket.
Promising review: "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! 😂" —Katlyn D Arnold
Get it from Amazon $22.09+ (clip the "15% off coupon" on the product page for this price; available in five colors).
31. Make more space for your essentials you want within arm's reach with an airplane seat back organizer because those seat back pockets are NEVER as big as you need them to be. With this you can actually store your snacks, water bottle, and so much more without having to get up and get stuff out of the overhead throughout your flight.
32. Plus a drink holder if you're a window seat person (what a view!) and never have all the room you need during beverage service on that tiny tray table. You can also put your phone, glasses, headphones, and other essentials there too.
Heads up — you can only use this if you're sitting in a seat that has access to a full window!
Promising review: "I used this for the first time on a 737. It was fabulous! It didn't intrude into my sitting space nearly as much as I expected. Because the actual window is recessed from the side wall, this only sticks out from the side wall about an inch. If you're considering this, you likely fly enough to know that seats aren't always aligned with the windows. If your window happens to be right beside your seat or the seat in front of you, this won't be of much use. But because it doesn't jut out as much as I thought, you can use it in more situations than I expected. And when you can use it, it's great! I love not having to have my entire tray table down just to hold a 3-inch cup. My only suggestion would be to add a place to hold trash until the flight attendant picks it up. This is very small, very lightweight, and very useful. I'll be taking it on every flight from here on." —JBC
Get it from Amazon for $17.99.
33. Slip into something stylish *and* cozy like this off-the-shoulder jumpsuit suited for just about any sightseeing needs. But it'd also make an incredibly comfy flight outfit so you'll get a number of wears out of it on one trip.
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime, you can give this a spin before you buy it!
Promising reviews: "It is a favorite among our flight attendant group when we are traveling. We call ourselves the sisterhood of the traveling jumpsuit! I absolutely love it, it’s comfortable, inexpensive, easy one piece, dress up or dress down. I add a belt and it’s perfect! I am planning to purchase more colors!" —Floridagirl0611
Get it from Amazon for $37.99 (available in sizes S–3X and 31 colors/patterns).
34. If you prefer to fly in loose clothes, you should also consider investing in a pair of the famous Target "office sweat pants" for a pulled-together look that'll feel as comfy as PJs.
35. Pack a collapsible silicone water bottle that can help make sure you stay hydrated (drink water on that flight!) without making you sacrifice other things in your bag or running the risk of leaving water in your bottle as you go through security.
I bought this water bottle before a 2.5-week trip to Vietnam (where you don't drink tap water) and Malaysia (where you do). I didn't want to bring one of my ride-or-die S'well bottles because it would take up extra room in my bag when I wouldn't be able to use it during the majority of the trip. This handy silicone bottle did just the trick! It's very easy to roll up and *stays* rolled up thanks to the just-stretchy-enough loop. Said loop was also very handy while walking through airports and just around sightseeing. The bottle is easy to clean and doesn't make my water taste weird. I'm now using it as my daily water bottle and feel confident it'll serve me well for a long time. Plus! With a collapsible water bottle it's easier to remember if you left water in it before you go through security.
Get a pack of two from Amazon for $9.99 (available in 12 colors/styles).
36. Keep your devices going with a 3-in-1 foldable magnetic wireless charger that's compact enough for your plane seat tray or hotel nightstand to keep your precious devices (iPhones, AirPods, and Apple Watches) powered and go, go, going with you.
See it in action on TikTok here.
Promising review: "I use this product to charge my iPhone 13, AirPods, and Apple Watch. Prior to this 3-in-1 compact purchase, I have purchased three different kinds of 3-in-1 chargers — I frequently travel between school and home with carry-on bags on airlines and all of the previous stand version chargers doesn't fit well in my bags or I am always worried I would break. This is compact and folds so well that I can fit in my carry-on or in any zipper pockets without having to worry about breaking anything. Charger works really well and it is the best compact one you can find in market. Love it and been using it for two months now and no issues!!" —SBREDDY
Get it from Amazon for $33.99 (available in nine colors).
37. Stash all the cords you and your fam may possibly need with an electronics organizer chock full of spots for charging cords. No more getting everything tangled up while searching for that ONE cord.
Promising review: "I am a flight attendant and I LOVE this organizer! I keep my iPad, passport, cords, paperwork, and hand sanitizer in here. It keeps me organized! Definitely recommend to anyone who travels and needs to keep organized." —amazonislife
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in four colors and two sizes).
38. Pack a portable handheld fan that's also a power bank *and* flashlight. So you'll be sure to find all sorts of uses for it. (I just used mine while an already-boarded flight was delayed and sitting at the airport for an hour in hot hot hot summer heat.)
Check out a TikTok of the portable fan in action.
Promising review: "This fan works so well, keeps me cool when I’m on the beach or sitting outside in the sun. The battery life is amazing but it takes a while to charge up." —Amanda Clerk
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in four colors).
39. Freshen up during a loooooong day of air travel with an I Dew Care "Tap Secret" mattifying powder shampoo that tackles greasy roots without the aerosol formula. Cheers to skipping a morning wash for an early flight...and still being able to carry on some dry shampoo without making room for it in your toiletries bag. (I recently used this to great success on a sweaty trip to New Orleans.)
Promising review: "I was looking for a dry shampoo that would be easy to use on the go for a trip I was taking. I had no issues taking this through TSA and it was so easy to use on the go. You literally just pat the poof on your scalp and then rub the powder in. I do have black hair so dry shampoo is usually very visible in my hair, but I didn't have any harder time than usual rubbing this powder in. It did a really good job of soaking up all the oil and giving my hair volume. I'm not a fan of the price for the amount that you get, but it is lasting longer than I thought it would. I would definitely recommend and will purchase again." —Teresa
Get it from Amazon for $16.
40. Keep the essentials as close as possible with a set of storage scrunchies for helping you stash your lip balm, cash, keys, and more while you're out and about. After all, you don't want to spend precious vacation time on making your hair look like you got a $$$ blowout.
See them in action on TikTok here!
Promising review: "I bought this because of someone on TikTok who had purchased this. Extremely convenient and cute! They’re very soft and I’ve been using mine to hold cash and lip balm. I wish there were more colors!" —Michaela
Get a pack of three from Amazon for $11.99 (available in two color combinations).
41. Pack a waterproof Kindle that'll let you bring a TON of reading material (without a stack of books hogging space in your carry-on) or swapping out physical books during a long flight.
Promising review: "I have never been a fan of eReaders and have always considered the physical book to be far superior. I didn't see the point in having one. Boy was I wrong! I bought this after several friends recommended I get the Paperwhite for traveling; easy library checkouts, esp. when libraries are closed; and for reading at night/in the car/while laying out. I'm reading more than ever now, switching between physical and eBooks. If you're a skeptic that struggles with trying to pack too many books when traveling or wants to read even when your surroundings are dark, just take the chance and buy it. You'll be glad you did." —Jeff Simmons
Get it from Amazon for $129.99 (available in 8GB and 32GB and in four colors).
42. Slip on a pair of compression socks because since you saw Karl and Frank from Succession snap on their own, you've thought "Hmm, maybe I should get some of those."
Read more about compression socks for travel at Johns Hopkins and The Huffington Post.
Promising review: "Bought these to wear on a three-leg flight to Europe. My legs are thin and the socks were tighter than I anticipated when I put them on. Was a little concerned they might be uncomfortable but I have to say I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived at my destination 15+ hours later with NO swelling in my ankles/feet. The only downside is they are thin, like thick stockings. I wore ankle boots over them which was great on the plane but not so comfortable walking around when I arrived at my destination. Should have changed to (or added) thicker socks at that time so boots would fit better and feet wouldn't get sore from sliding forward in shoes." —LJA
Get them from Amazon for $13.08+ (available in unisex sizes S–XXL and in 13 colors).
And check out our full Physix Gear compression socks review here.
43. If you get jet lag, try a set of homeopathic jet lag pills made to help you fight off time zone changes and disrupted sleep schedules. Plus, you can actually sleep while taking these. I've taken them on a couple of red eyes and I think they help!
According to the instructions, you should take them at take-off and then every two hours and then again once you arrive to help with relaxation and combat sleepiness.
Promising review: "My husband and I have used this product now for five years for a number of trips overseas and these really work. How do we know? We've forgotten to use them on a couple of legs and there has been a night/day difference in our energy levels. We use precisely as directed, setting timers on our phone when possible to remember the doses. On a few occasions we've slept through the timer, so missed the timing of a couple of doses, and we've been fine. Our last trip to Australia was 34 hours door-to-door on the outbound. We would have been a complete wreck without these. As it was, we arrived late morning, remained awake and lively (enough) through dinner, and then got a good night's sleep. The next day we felt as good as new.." —motokat
Get a pack of 32 pills from Amazon for $9.93.
44. If you're traveling with kids, pack the (very compact) Games on the Go, which includes 50 different activities to prevent your kids from constantly asking "are we there yet?" (as you check the flight tracker every 10 minutes because it runs in the family).
Promising review: "For a quick and convenient game that can literally be taken anywhere, this game is perfect! The cost was great, and the games are fun, quick, and can be played by kids and adults of all ages. I would love to see families pulling these cards out while waiting for dinner at a restaurant or while sitting in the subway together rather than everyone pulling out their iPhones! These fun interactive games will get the whole family talking and playing together. Love it! I did notice that on a couple of the cards, my daughter, who’s 8-years-old, had to read the card a couple of times or hand it to me to explain to her, but once I read the directions, she was good to go. Overall, a great purchase!" —Julie
Get it from Amazon for $11.99.
45. Plan on bringing back some wine? Buy some reusable bottle bags because did you even go to the Champagne region if you didn't bring back some goodies? Even better: If your bottle breaks in this, the bag catches the spill!
JetBag is a small business specializing in creating bags to protect your wine and your stuff. It's designed with absorbent padding on the inside, so in the event that the bottle breaks, it won't get everywhere in your luggage.
Promising review: "Bought to bring wine from France home from vacation. We bought three bottles (one of which was champagne). All three made it on the Eurostar and two flights in perfect condition." —Katie
Get a set of three from Amazon for $13.99 (available in four colors).
46. Get some *actual* quiet time during your flight with a pair of Mack's Earplugs that'll seal out noise on a plane, in a hotel room, or wherever else you need to get some sleep.
Check them out on TikTok here.
BuzzFeed editor Emma Lord swears by these and raves: "The moldable silicone of Mack's Earplugs contours easily to the shape of your ear to block out noise much more effectively than other foam or plastic varieties, and the noise reduction is so good that if I pair them with a white noise machine (or just like a white noise loop on Spotify) I genuinely don't hear noises from outside my room. Not only that, but once they're in place, they stay locked there until you decide to pull them out.
Granted, I can still hear my alarm and like, if the fire alarm went off or something, I'd definitely wake right up. But noises that are distant and loud are pretty easily canceled out by these.
I've also *loved* these for traveling — if you put these babies in on a plane not only does it help reduce some of the YIKES factor when the plane takes off (it's loud!!), but it cancels out the murmuring noises of passengers on the flight and makes it easier to get some shuteye."
Get 12 pairs from Amazon for $12.99.
47. Make working on the flight a bit more seamless with an attachable elastic laptop accessory belt. Cheers to taking advantage of your work's WFH policy by going on ALL the trips.
Beblau is an Italy-based, family-owned small business specializing in products for digital nomads.
Check out a TikTok of the laptop belt in action.
Promising review: "This product is a lifesaver for a teacher on the go. I use it for my iPad Pro and my school issued laptop. I no longer drop things as I move place to place! Just the basics will fit, pen, cards, small writing tablet." —Elementary Techy Teacher
Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in four colors).
48. Pack some snacks, like a variety of CLIF bars I bought for a trip to Iceland where I was trying to cut costs. I ate a few on my flights and then kept others in my coat packets for snacking when I was on the precipice of hanger but driving between waterfalls in the south of Iceland, where it's a bit harder to find a snack on the road.
Psst, if you're packing your own snacks avoid packing nuts because sometimes flights are no-nuts due to other passengers' allergies.
I learned a long time ago that you should pack a snack bag for a trip because you can never predict the food sitch in a new-to-you locale. In an attempt to really stick it to Icelandair and avoid paying $100 for a checked bag, I parked very smartly and ended up sticking these CLIF bars in any available space in my backpack or coat pockets. Toward the end of my trip I actually found two of the bars in an inside coat pocket I always forget I have. What a nice surprise! To me, the size of these bars and the nutrition content staves off hanger and also works as breakfast in a pinch when your 7 a.m. route to the bus stop for a day trip doesn't take you by a coffee shop to pick up breakfast. In fact, I bought this pack again for a trip to Vietnam and Malaysia.
Get a 16-pack from Amazon for $27.81.
49. And pack some Pedialyte powder packets because flying can majorly dehydrate you and landing feeling hydrated will put a pep in your step for your big trip. I always pack these for trips and have never regretted it. And they're much tastier than electrolyte tablets you dilute in water. Go through security FULLY hungover knowing you can fill up your water bottle with this *right* after.
Promising review: "I always have it with me. I travel a lot and I’m super busy so I will forget to drink enough water (I live in a VERY hot climate) so these drink packets save the day often." —ashley v
~Trust me~ when I tell you that these will work in a pinch. I bought them a few years ago to take on a bachelorette party to New Orleans, and everyone in the Airbnb was grateful I did. Since then, I've always had them in my carry-on bag when going on a trip. They REALLY came in handy when I went to the Greek islands for 10 days with an apparent mission to eat every piece of seafood and cheese within sight while washing it down with jugs of wine. These are powder in small individual packets, so they're so easy to pack! And also you don't have to lug around a bottle of Gatorade to feel better.
Get a 24-count from Amazon for $25.59.
50. Sign up for a five-year Global Entry membership that'll *also* include TSA PreCheck for when you're getting out of Dodge. It'll seriously shorten your security line times and end up being a great value if you get out of the country at least once a year and fly domestically a few times annually. (This combo is $22 more than five years of PreCheck alone.) I recently used mine to go through customs in five minutes, whereas my friends who didn't have it had to wait 1.5 hours.
I put off getting TSA PreCheck and even Global Entry for YEARS despite flying ~10x a year because I'm a person who likes to get to the airport early and have getting through security down to an efficient routine. However, my breaking point was July 2021 when I had to wait soooo long at the airport when coming back to the country from Croatia (I had Mobile Passport at the time, but the machines were broken so I had to wait in line with everyone else). I went to Italy about a month later after signing up for Global Entry and coming back into the country was a breeze. I just had to let a machine take my picture, print out a receipt with said picture, and then place it in a nearby TSA agent's open palm. Then onto baggage claim! I've since used the Global Entry portion seven times and the TSA PreCheck about two dozen times since getting it. So I feel as if I've already gotten my money's worth in less than two years.
Apply with the Department of Homeland Security for $100. Once you're approved, you have to do an in-person interview and if approved on the spot, you can have your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry privileges available immediately. I just so happened to find a date for my interview the day before I flew to Italy and was able to update my boarding passes and flight reservations with my info to reap the benefits ASAP.
BTW, check out my tips for travel during the pandemic.
51. If you really wanna go the distance (metaphorically, not in the security line), also sign up for Clear Plus. It's much pricier than Global Entry/TSA PreCheck ($189/one year vs. $100/five years), but it'll help you zip to the front of the line — even past the TSA PreCheck folks.
52. And double-check to see if your credit cards grant you access to any airport lounges *and* if said lounges are in your terminal before you pay $14 for a chilled chicken caesar wrap that someone made eight hours ago.
Go get those free glasses of Diet Coke and prosecco! (And tip your lounge bartenders.)
53. Use ALL the pockets of your outerwear to stash all kinds of odds 'n' ends you'd need while in the air. It'll also cut down on what you have in your personal item.
I used this trick with a coat that has TONS of pockets on my trip to Iceland where it was going to cost me a LOT of money to bring a roller carry-on or check a bag (due to the airline's strict luggage requirements). I was *so* good at filling up said pockets, that I found some CLIF bars in a pocket on the way back to the U.S.!
54. And if you're in LOVE with that idea but flying during warm weather, wear a fly fishing utility vest with tons of storage pockets on it as an extra layer on your plane that'll let you technically carry on much MUCH more than what you can cram into your personal item. And depending on your trip's adventures, it'll come in handy for all kinds of wear!
Awhile back I saw a TikTok where someone wore one on a plane and thought it was genius, but I sadly can't for the life of me find that TikTok to link now. Though lo and behold, earlier this year while flying out of Newark, I saw someone using this hack in action! I did something similar on a trip to Iceland where I loaded up my coat pockets to avoid paying to bring a carry-on bag for my flight.
Promising review: "Very nice light wear, very comfortable and convenient during traveling, good quality and good looking/design! Just order your regular size!" —xiao jie wang
Get it from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in men's sizes S–3XL and nine colors).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.