Preparing for a long trip is very nerve-wracking. There's always the excitement of the final destination, but there's also an ever-growing packing list, last-minute errands to run, and the thorny dilemma of how to make the most of every minute you're on the flight. This comfort issue becomes even more important if I were sitting in the dreaded middle seat.
Luckily, I've got most of the challenges of in-flight travel down to a science, thanks to some go-to products that make travel less taxing and learning how to ride the unpredictable waves. Travel isn't always a luxury. It's a grueling time that leaves the body exhausted and dehydrated. Waking up to a new time zone and adjusting to a seat that may or may not recline. Travel requires a lot of preparation, and a lot of patience and grace for others as everyone tries to figure out how to make the most of their time in the air.
As a travel writer, I've called many airport lounges and airlines my second home, and I've earned SkyMiles as a Delta One fan on my 15-hour business trips to Japan (sometimes three times a year). I spent nearly 26 hours on her plane (including several boat trips) to write about the Maldives' precious gin-colored waters. This June, my first trip to Vietnam will take nearly 20 hours of flight and layover time, but I'll be at sea at the jungle-side retreat of InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort and the palatial Capella Hanoi. If it comes to you, it will be well worth it. — He was named the 3rd best city hotel in Asia by T+L in 2023. And it doesn't hold me back even with long flight times. From amazing hotel stays to impactful cultural exchanges, travel offers transformative moments.
The products I use to prepare for these amazing experiences and make the journey there more bearable include moisturizing skin care, useful tech gadgets, and buttery softness. This includes clothing, etc.
hoka bondi 8 sneakers
As with everything in life, a good foundation is important. Cloud-like HOKA shoes are the perfect companion for long trips. They also helped me understand that the cause of my knee pain was from poorly constructed shoes in the past. do not have Days of long travel. The cushioned sole increases shock absorption and makes your feet feel lighter. I also like that the material is breathable.
Champion Lightweight Jersey Lounge Pants
If there's one item you can't go wrong with on a long-haul flight, it's soft, comfortable pants. These sweatpants from Champion achieve that feel with a lightweight jersey-cotton blend and a relaxed, wide-leg cut. Or, if you want to splurge a little, his Vuori performance joggers made of elastane and recycled polyester are a dream come true, especially on long flights. I often tell people that they are more comfortable than most of my pajamas.
ostrich pillow go neck pillow
To prevent bobblehead sleep patterns on airplanes, it was important to find a pillow that prevents your neck from shaking. The Ostrichpillow Go meets that demand with its 360-degree ergonomic design and customized Velcro closure that allows you to adjust your neck to better support your spine. Comes with a travel bag for carrying and has easily removable fabric for washing.
Physics Gear Compression Socks
I wear Physix Gear compression socks to keep my circulation going on long flights. Through trial and error, we found that they are a great option to prevent swelling without the tightness and discomfort that compression socks often cause. Made with moisture-wicking material, these socks target and support muscles from your feet to your calves.
Travel Rest 4-in-1 Travel Blanket
I froze on planes many times and couldn't leave the house without a travel blanket. This option of travel rest can be worn as a poncho or regular blanket, and can also be used as a pillow in the included drawstring pouch. It comes with a carrying case and is made of soft polyester material and is machine washable. Best of all, it's actually large enough to cover most of your body, yet weighs only 20 ounces.
Aonimi Wireless iPhone Charger
Like when I first discovered packing cubes, this wireless charger has been a game changer for me. I used to carry around clunky options that were heavy on my purse and hands, but now I don't. This lightweight option from Aonimi charges my phone quickly. and It takes up less space in your bag, giving you more room for other essentials you'll need during a long flight.
Sony ULT Wear noise canceling headphones
The sound of airplane engines is one of the most unsettling aspects of air travel for me, and Sony's noise-canceling headphones make the roar more bearable with ultra-bass boost, allowing me to immerse myself in Beyoncé's music. cowboy carter My millionth album. Thermal foam design forms a comfortable cup around your ears, and the rotating folding design makes packing easy. Is there another perk for long-haul flights? 30 hours battery life.
Perilogics Universal Inflight Phone Mount
Compatible with most mobile phones, this convenient mount eliminates the need for unstable support for your phone on board. It attaches to the tray on the seat in front of you, rotates 360 degrees to adjust your phone to the desired angle, and folds compactly for easy carrying in your bag. Speaking of bags, this crossbody phone case from Banolier is a great option for people like me who somehow always end up misplacing my phone, even when I'm stuck on a plane for hours on end. This brand is known for its functional wallet phone cases and wrist straps, which I find especially useful when traveling.
Troubadour Apex Compact Backpack
This compact backpack from Troubadour has all the compartments and space you need to store your laptop, books, and other items you'll reach for repeatedly during your flight. Made from recycled materials, this sleek-looking bag is lightweight, waterproof, and easily stows under the seat in front of you. If you'd prefer to swap your shoes for something more comfortable, like slippers, or keep them in your carry-on closet, Troubadour also offers a compact duffel bag with separate shoe storage and large enough for discreet storage.
Bagsmart toiletry bag
I keep my skin moisturizer, my trusty NuFace mini, vitamins, lip gloss, and inevitably a few pieces of gum or candy in this handy water-resistant pick from Bagsmart. I like that the large opening makes it easy to access things inside. It has a handle for easy carrying and also has multiple sized pockets to store different items.
Mujjo leather case for AirPods
Mujjo, known for fashion pieces paired with technology, is back with a leather case for AirPods that supports wireless charging and is made from premium vegetable-tanned leather. It's also equipped with a clip that can be attached to your bag or clothes, relieving you of the worry of losing your AirPods when you're out and about.
Naturopatica Carrot Seed Soothing Facial Oil
A must-have for on-board hydration, Naturopathica's Carrot Seed Oil instantly hydrates your face. It's formulated with gentle, antioxidant-rich ingredients like vitamin E and evening primrose oil, making it especially ideal for sensitive skin like mine. For those who want to avoid oils, Dieux Skin's Instant Angel is my go-to product. Enriched with fatty free acids and ceramides, use in conjunction with the Forever Eye Mask to soothe the effects of sleepy eyelids and jet lag. On transcontinental flights, I often whip out my favorite travel companion, his NuFACE mini, for a hydrating microcurrent facial before a business meeting after landing.
Lanolips 101 Ointment Multi Balm
My image of purgatory is being stuck on a plane for over 10 hours with dry lips. That's why I never leave the house without this super moisturizing ointment from Lanolips. Petroleum-based products can also be used on the cuticle and areas of rough, dry skin. Lanolin oil mimics the oils in our skin to provide the extra hydration needed on board.
Son & Park Beauty Water Facial Mist
My love for the soothing benefits of Korean skin care knows no bounds, and these perks are especially useful on a plane. I was first introduced to the hydrating benefits of Korean beauty products by Charlotte Cho, founder of Soko Glam, before a 20-hour trip to Seoul. One of her best sellers on her site is her Son & Park Beauty Water Mist. Revitalize your skin by spritzing your face with this moisturizing mist containing Damascus Rose Water and Her 20 Antioxidants. The scent is subtle and pleasant, enough to spray on the seating area if you're unlucky enough to be seated near the bathroom. For another her favorite staple, try Evian's Facial Her Spray. It's packed with mineral water to moisturize your skin and is packaged in a compact size for travel.