Rana Good is the founder of Naïra NYC. A writer for publications such as Forbes, Travel + Leisure, Coveteur, Mens Journal and others, she created her own platform celebrating women of color.
I love traveling for the most part but I’m not going to lie, long haul flights can be tough both physically and mentally. I just returned from a trip to Santorini where my flight home involved a 30-minute flight to Athens at midnight, followed by a six-hour nighttime layover in the airport until I could board my ten-hour flight back to NYC. For reasons unknown, I thought I would be able to sleep at the airport comfortably laying on a bench for a few hours which was not the case at all. First of all, approximately 100 people had the same idea as me, secondly, the benches all had dividers so no actual laying was possibly (unless you did some weird folded banana move like me which resulted in both my legs and arms falling asleep — me not so much), and there also happened to be a lot of construction, (think drilling and sawing) in the terminal so to say it was loud is an understatement.
However, even during this very challenging day of traveling, there were a few items that really helped me retain my sanity and made me feel better along the way. Here’s a list of the best travel Amazon accessories that make flying a lot easier and better for me.
1. Inflatable Footrest Cushion for Travel
This is my absolute favorite when it comes to Amazon travel accessories because it allows me to sleep practically anywhere comfortably. I don’t use this as a footrest but instead as an inflatable pillow for my head. When you prop it up against your window you can comfortably lean your head on the pillow for a nap and unlike softer pillows, this one is firm enough to hold your head up. No weird head death drops with this pillow which is what I frequently see with those wraparound neck pillows. I don’t understand why they’re so popular, to be honest. If you’re more of an aisle person, then you could also use this pillow to sleep on your tray, however this only works if you’re relatively short. Also, make sure to wipe the tray with an antibacterial wipe because airplane trays are the filthiest.
2. Homeoplasmine Magic Cream
Yes, it’s called Magic Cream for a reason! Homeoplasmine is a thick clear cream is the absolute best way to keep your lips from becoming the dry disasters they often turn into on airplanes. Put this on before you go to sleep on a long-haul flight and hours later your lips will still be moisturized, as unlike other products it doesn’t dry out. It’s also something that you can use on cracked skin or dry cuticles.
3. Cashmere Wool Pashmina Shawl
I always bring my own large scarf to travel for two reasons. One, planes can be really unpredictable with temperature and I definitely do not want to be cold. Shivering in my seat is my worst travel fear. I also never ever use the blankets given by airlines because — THEY DON’T GET WASHED. Don’t let the shrink wrap fool you, the blankets are usually collected and re-used after flights which is horrifying. A soft scarf will always be your own personal blanket and can also help stay warm if you arrive at a destination and it’s a little colder than expected.
4. Fleur & Bee Rose Water Toner (pictured above)
This all-natural (vegan, sulfate, and paraben-free) toner is filled with rose petal flower oil which doesn’t just smell amazing, it makes your skin feel soft and hydrated even during a long flight. Spray some of this on during to feel refreshed or end your trip with this spray to perk up your complexion. Added bonus, it has a fair price tag.
5. 3D Sleep Mask, New Arrival Sleeping Eye Mask for Women Men
Yes, the ability to sleep plays a huge role in my airplane travel items because I think getting to your destination rested can really make or break your trip. Also on a flight that’s eight-plus hours long, there’s only so much you can do and catching zzzs is the most effective thing to me. This sleep mask is super comfortable, unlike the masks you get on airlines which feel flimsy and press up hard against your eyelids. This one is contoured so there is no pressure on your eyes and provides complete darkness, even if your seat neighbor wants to read a book the entire flight.
6. Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
It’s extremely hard to stay hydrated on the plane and only getting a few drinks during service on the plane is definitely not enough. Your body is working overtime to make up for the dry air in the cabin so you should be drinking a lot more water than usual. If you don’t want to lug a huge bottle onto the plane, use this hydration multiplier in your water to drink the equivalent of two to three bottles when you’re only drinking one.
7. Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré
This French cream is equally good on your face and body and perfect for dry skin while traveling. Lait-Crème Concentré is beloved by dermatologists and makeup artists and has been a popular product since 1950. Bring a travel-size tube with you to use.
8. Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, Cleansing and Make-Up Removing Solution
This is the holy grail of makeup remover and the original micellar water that launched so many other lines. Bioderma’s micellar water comes in a travel size and easily takes off any foundation or mascara, perfect if you’re the type to remove your makeup inflight or just notice that your makeup has smeared before landing (this happens to me frequently). This is an essential to bring with you and works in all climates.
9. Wedderspoon Organic Manuka Honey Drops, Lemon + Bee Propolis
Whether it’s the dry air or that person next to you that’s coughed nonstop, it’s easy to acquire a sore throat in flight. These drops made from high-quality Manuka honey will help soothe your throat and make the travel companion. They also taste amazing and will perk you up with a little sweetness after the flight.
10. OLLY Sleep Melatonin Gummy
My last tip for you, and yes, this one is also devoted to sleep duh. If you aren’t the best plane sleeper these tasty gummies can help you out. They are natural and made with melatonin, theanine, and botanicals like chamomile and lemon balm which help you with your natural sleep cycle and allow you to arrive at your destination well-rested.
Check out my Amazon travel accessories storefront here