Air travel may be convenient, but it can also be uncomfortable, cramped, and chaotic, especially if you're stuck in economy [1]. You can get some amazing deals [2], but with low-cost airlines continuing to add extra costs to just about every element of the journey, anything you can do to make the journey more enjoyable is worth it. Luckily, there are some great products out there that will significantly improve the time you spend in the air and make things easier when you get to the other side. These little problem solvers will help you sleep, give you more space for your stuff, and help block out the noisy passengers around you. Next time you fly, make sure you slip these in your hand luggage!
The Trtl Pillow
It's time to wave goodbye to those bulky inflatable or bean-filled horseshoe neck pillows. This baby does exactly the same job, without moving around or taking up so much space. The Trtl Pillow [3] (£25) may look like a fleece scarf, but it's got built-in supports that help to keep your neck upright and supported as you sleep. When you're not using it, it folds down almost flat and slips right into your hand luggage.
4-Port USB Charger Plug
Hotel rooms and airports never have enough plug sockets. For phones, tablets, e-readers, and other USB gadgets, you can charge in bulk (and do away with packing multiple plugs and adaptors) by investing in this 4-port USB Charger [4] (£12). It comes with slip-on plugs for each type of international electrical outlet. Extra bonus? It works at home too, so if you've still got gang extenders trailing across the floor, maybe it's time for an upgrade?
Mark Ryden Laptop Backpack
This Mark Ryden Huge Laptop Backpack [5] (£33) is almost as big as a carry-on suitcase, and easily holds enough for a few days away, making it perfect for those who're tired of wheeling along a tiny suitcase every time they go on a short trip. It has two compartments; one of which has a padded laptop sleeve (the "digital zone"). The whole thing has multiple pockets throughout to keep you organised, including an anti-theft pocket for valuables that sits against your back. There's even space for a power bank that leads to an external USB socket, so you can charge your devices straight from your bag.
Duronic Luggage Scale
With the increasingly tight restrictions on luggage, particularly on budget airlines, spending a few quid on this Duronic Luggage Scale [6] (£8) is definitely worth it, especially if you have a tendency to go a bit overboard on the souvenirs. Use it to weigh your bags before you leave, the slip into the case to weigh before you travel home, too. May you never pay an excess luggage fee again!
Vikenner Travel Cable Organiser
Even if you don't travel with 5 USB flash drives, 2 pairs of earbuds, and 3 USB cables like this person seems to, the Vikenner Travel Cable Organiser [7] (£4.50) is an absolute bargain, and will stop your assorted cables and chargers from getting tangled up in the bottom of your bag. It's flexible enough that most adapter plugs and power banks will fit in it too.
Cstom Portable Foot Rest
If you're flying economy, chances are your seat won't have a built-in foot rest, but bringing along your own could really change how you sleep on a flight (not to mention how you feel when you land). The adjustable straps on the Cstom Portable Foot Rest [8] (£9) fasten over the tray table, and the slightly padded base acts as a sling for your legs. It works on most types of aircraft, and should be suitable for all but the tallest folk.
The Airhook
Some clever airlines are now adding separate drop-down cup holders into their seat-backs (love you, Emirates!) but many of us still find ourselves having to pull down the whole tray table just for somewhere to keep our coffee or Coke. Step forward the Airhook [9] (£21) which clips onto a stowed tray table to hold a drink, and also provides you with a place to secure your phone or tablet if there's no entertainment system. It's simple, but game-changing!
Noise-Cancelling Headphones
We all know those airplane headphones they hand out aren't fit for purpose. You need to bring your own headphones if you want to hear anything properly. But even if you're not planning to use in-flight entertainment, it's worth packing noise-cancelling headphones. They'll dramatically reduce the buzzing noise you get on planes, not to mention blocking out the travellers around you. Over-ear styles will be comfier if you're wearing them for a long time. These Sony Overhead Noise Cancelling Headphones [10] (£32) are affordable, comfortable, and surprisingly compact, as they fold inwards to sit flat in your bag.
The Spair Tray Travel Shelf
If you've prebooked a window seat, slip one of these babies into your bag and turn your window into extra storage space. The Spair Tray Travel Shelf [11] (£19) clicks into place on the window to give you the perfect spot to stash your phone, drink, and any other in-flight essentials. Just beware of turbulence!