Jo’s In-flight Essentials
My favorite accessories for air travel, including tried-and-true carry-on luggage, tech solutions to keep me occupied, and items to make the travel time more comfortable.
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Of course, everyone has a different opinion on what is “essential” on a trip. I thought I would share some of my favorites that have consistently earned a spot in my personal item bag.
My favorite “personal item” luggage
Every airline, domestic and international, has different requirements for personal item sizes. For reference, I have flown with these bags on Delta, Virgin, British Airways, American Air and Frontier without a problem.
I have picked up and carried my under seat rolling tote past the counter employees when I know I am on a smaller, regional jet. They often say “anything with wheels” must be checked. If you are carrying it and it isn’t a traditional, larger rolling bag, they don’t seem to have a problem with it.
London Fog Rolling Tote Bag
I switched from a tote bag to a rolling tote a couple of trips ago and I have no regrets! This is SO MUCH easier on my back and it can still be carried up steps or sits on top of my larger, rolling luggage. Overall dimensions: 15.5” x 13” x 8”
Golf Supags Laptop Backpack
When I did carry a backpack…this was the one! It’s inexpensive, lightweight, and fits every international size restriction I ever encountered. This would be a great graduation present! Overall dimensions: 16.14″x4.7″x11.14″ or 17″x12.2″x4.7″
Go-Getter Tote
If you want to go the traditional tote route, I really like the organization the Go-Getter offers you. I also like that it comes in so many different colors. I used this a lot when I was traveling for business since it looks very polished. Overall dimensions: 13”x 15”x 7”
Tech accessories to curb in-flight boredom
I am an Apple fan, so my in-flight tech choices are definitely geared towards their product line. My mom and husband both prefer reading on their Kindles, and the electronic paper is nice on the eyes, but you’ll see below why I will always prefer my Apple Mini for travel.
AirFly Bluetooth Transmitter
When they offer in-flight movies, I love to tune in! I prefer using my noise-cancelling AirPod Pros and this Bluetooth transmitter allows me to do just that.
iPad Mini
A lot of people prefer an e-reader but I am a fan of the Mini because it allows me to read my books, browse the internet, get my email, and my Apple+ News subscription gives me access to magazines! I don’t travel with a laptop because the Mini does everything I need.
AirPods Pro
What can I say? I am an Apple girlie and I will not leave home without my noise-cancelling AirPod Pros. I gave some to my dad who has difficulty hearing when there is a lot of background noise. The new feature it has to help him hear dinner conversations has improved his quality of life so much!
How I stay comfy on a long flight
Comfort is key for me when it comes from getting from Point A to Point B. As I have aged, my ability to sleep anywhere at anytime has disappeared and all of these aches and pains have been appearing. I would rather forget my electronic devices at home than be caught on a flight without my comfort choices!
Portable Fan
Hot flashes are part of my life now, so a portable fan is a must! I have multiple types of portable fans for different occasions but I like this one for air travel because I can also use it as a phone stand.
Bombas Compression Socks
My legs and ankles swell horribly if I don’t wear compression socks while flying. These Bombas socks are my favorite. They come in wool or cotton and are very comfortable. I also wear them at my destination if I am going to be doing a lot of walking.
Foot Hammock
I have sciatica problems and this foot hammock helps relieve pressure on my lower back when flying. I am 5’9″ and I am able to use this. It did not bother the person sitting in front of me (I asked) and it doesn’t interfere with the operation of your tray table. This is a MUST if you are flying economy!
Quick beauty options to take on board
Airplane air can be dry and travel is always rough on the body. Keep basic skincare in mind and you’ll arrive more refreshed at your destination.
Lanolips
I use this every night before I go to sleep and my dry lips are no more! It’s especially great for overnight plane flights where that cabin air is bone dry or when you have a head cold and are breathing through your mouth more than normal. It comes in a lot of different flavors and mint is my favorite.
La Roche-Posay Moisturizer
Before peri-menopause, my skin was super oily but now it is dry so I had to switch up my skincare regime. I started using La Roche-Posay products for normal to dry skin and the change on my face and neck was dramatic. I now have travel bottles full of this lotion in every purse and carry-on bag.
Disposable Toothbrushes
These are great for brushing your teeth on those overnight flights. They are also handy if your luggage gets lost and you find yourself without your toiletry bag. I always keep a pack in my car just in case.
What are your favorite in-flight essentials when you travel? Share them in the comments below, because I love to hear about new finds!
Comments
I agree with Jo on the moisturizer! It is remarkable what a difference it makes on dry skin.