Keep Calm and Carry On
by Jackie Shannon
photography courtesy of Ece Yavuz
No matter how prepared you are, packing is always stressful. Here is everything you need to keep nearby during your flight, beyond your obvious go-to items. No matter how far you are traveling, these accessories will keep you relaxed and prepared—from security to the air to landing.
A Carrying Pouch
First, get a pouch to store all of your essentials. If your suitcase is overflowing and you need to pack the rest of your clothes in your carry-on tote, do not worry. All you need is a small pouch that you can throw into your bigger bag. These pouches can be found in solid colors and patterns so that you can fly in style.
Phone Charger
Long, boring flights often mean a lot of screen time on your phone. However, this can quickly become problematic upon landing when you need to call an Uber or contact family members, but your phone is dead. Be sure to pack a phone charger for the flight. Since many flights do not have outlets, it is also a good idea to pack a portable charger. Mophie offers long-lasting and high-quality chargers for various types of Apple and Android devices. Amazon sells cheaper alternatives. Always be sure that the extra battery is charged ahead of time.
Headphones
It is also a good idea to pack your own pair of headphones. While some flights offer headphones, they are often low-quality or can be an additional charge. Consider investing in a pair of noise-canceling and comfortable headphones instead of earbuds.
Earbuds can also be more damaging for your ears since the sound waves from them rub directly against the fibers in your ear canal. “Inside your ear, there are lots of tiny fibers that help you hear. Over time, loud noise can damage these fibers — and once they’re damaged, they can’t ever be fixed,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Health Products
Throw a travel pack of antibacterial hand wipes, a travel-size bottle of hand sanitizer and a pack of tissues into your pouch. If you forget or run out of these items, you can easily restock at the airport. Wipe down your seat, safety belt and tray table with the wipes before you settle in. The hand sanitizer is best to use before eating a snack.
Eyewear
Pack sunglasses in your pouch. If you’re not sitting in a window seat, the shade is out of your control. Be prepared for the sun’s midday glare by packing your own shades. Likewise, throw an eye mask into your pouch so that you can rest with comfort and privacy.
Gum and Mints
Keep some gum or mints on standby to freshen up your breath upon landing. Based on personal experience, chewing gum or sucking on lollipops will also help your ears pop because it produces more saliva.
Facial Products
Facial wipes are a smart substitute for lotions and cleansers because they take up virtually no space in your pouch and you do not need to worry about the Transportation Security Administration’s 3.4-ounce limit on liquids. Keep your face fresh by packing individually wrapped cleansing facial wipes. These towelettes are available in various scents, which can help you relax during your flight. Lastly, since it is easy to become dehydrated on flights, pack your favorite moisturizing lip balm to keep your lips hydrated.