Aside from clothes and a couple pairs of shoes, I am packed and ready to go vacationing! These products have improved my air travel experience. There’s nothing on this list that I haven’t or wouldn’t’ use myself. I know that at least one of them will be new to you.
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Wireless Transmitter
This isn’t in a priority in my budget at the moment, but it’s on my list to buy before my next trip. I saw somebody talking about the AirFly, and I knew I needed it. A wireless transmitter is the tool that you will allow you to pair your headphones with the TV on the plane. Remember when everything had the same plug-in and you were always prepared? Well, now you need a solution for everything and this will stay permanently packed in my bag. The 2nd best part of this, is that you can pair your phone with your rental car, AND with the equipment at the gym using the AirFly!
Power Banks
I have 4 power banks and my very favorite is my Anker PowerCore 10000. This one is kind of short and fat, but it fits in my electronics pouch really well. It fits in my hand and my purse really well. I charge it before I leave for a trip, and it has lasts the whole time. Obviously, I bring the charging cable, just in case, and I use other methods to charge my phone, but this is a great back-up.
My second favorite is also an Anker, but this one has 3 USB ports and is a little heavier. The Anker PowerCore 26800 charges almost twice as fast and has more options for plug-ins. I mainly keep this one in my purse or backpack when I am doing a road trip or heading to the mountains. This one is about as long as my hand, and so it isn’t as compact, but it’s versatility makes it great for adventures.
Carry-On Luggage with Power Bank
My go-to carry on is the The Bigger Carry-On by Away. This has a built in power bank that means I can pack a little lighter on short trips. If you use my link, you will get $20 off your first order. This suitcase is super light, fits in every overhead bin that I have ever used, and is very durable. Santa gave this to me for Christmas and it is the luggage I get most excited to use.
Cord Storage Solution
If you are packing more than 1 charging cable, you HAVE to get a cord organizer. Mine is similar to this one, and it holds my power bank, headphones, an old Kindle, plug in converters, and all my gadget cords.
To keep everything wrapped up tight while traveling, I use Gear Ties. I bought them in assorted sizes and they are like a heavy-duty bread twisty tie! The small ones are great for headphones, while the bigger ones keep larger cables tightly wound. They have assorted colors if you like to organize your stuff even more. I use these at home to wrap cords up behind the TV. Gear Ties are great quality, and in 3 years, I haven’t damaged one.
Backpack
One of the best purchases of my life has been my Nordace Siena backpack. From the moment I saw this backpack, I would randomly watch videos on it, hoping I could find a reason not to buy it, but alas, it was everything I wanted, and I couldn’t resist.
It comes in 9 colors now; I went with green. The front has 2 pockets, one on each side, where I store my eye mask, glasses, face masks, cord organizer, and wallet. There is the main compartment that has additional pockets for storage. There is a seperate compartment to put a laptop, and on the very back is a strap that goes over your luggage handle with a secret compartment behind that. This slides right under an airline seat. I use this bag at home to take to work as well. I’ve gotten so many compliments on this bag, and I without a doubt, will purchase another one if I have to. So far, my bag has held up for 2 years, and I haven’t been kind to it.
Blanket
Even if you fly Premium Economy, airlines usually give you a thin blanket and little pillow for your trip, but personally, I need more than that. Whether I am at home or away, I like to be cozy. Plus, some accommodations have very poor bedding so I like to be prepared. I like big, soft blankets which means staying away from travel blankets. Instead, I go for one that is easily packable and big. Try this blanket from Amazon.
Socks
Again, I run cold, and if I am anywhere for more than 3 hours, I want to be comfortable. As soon as I get onto a long flight, I put on different socks. I love my fluffy ones that are great for staying warm. Additionally, compression socks are great for swelling, helping blood flow while sitting so long, and keeping your legs warm. I feel awkward walking around a plane just to stretch, so these socks can help you if you only get up periodically.
Silicon Bags
My first few trips I tried not to pack any kind of liquid because I was always confused by TSA, and they yell about everything! Now, in my infinite wisdom, I know they yell no matter what, so I pack whatever will make me comfortable. These are another item that I use at home and on trips. I like to pack my toiletries in a silicon bag that way spills are contained. These bags are sturdy and haven’t ripped on me yet.
The perfect items to pack inside the small bag include lip balm, lotion, tooth brush, tooth paste, a hair tie, and eye drops. If you like to freshen up your makeup, you can throw a little concealer, lipstick, and eyeliner in as well. If you use these at home, they are great to use as freezer bags.
Slip On Shoes
Again, to make my life simple, I like easy shoes. My go-to pair is my Rothy’s Sneakers. My 2nd go-to pair is my Rothy Loafers. If you use my link, you will get $20 off your purchase. These shoes are perfect for everything! They are easily washable, since they are made of recycled plastic just toss them in the washer. Personally, I have had the best luck with dark colored pairs, but I do own them in white, but I can’t keep them spotless. I wear a size 9, but I buy these in a 10 because my feet usually swell from the altitude change and walking.
My 3rd go-to pair is my Sanuk Yoga Sling sandals. I like these because the top of the shoe is cloth, so they don’t rub or cause blisters even after wearing them for 4 days. They are super light, cute, and easy to pack.
Let me know if you have a favorite item that I should check out! I am always looking for ideas to make my life better while traveling. I would really be interested if you have an item that makes long-haul flights better! If you enjoyed these products, I would also like to know! I do receive a kickback when you use my links, but that will help me, so I can continue to work on information like this full-time!