Flight Attendants Love These Journey Equipment

Want to improve those long, grueling travel days without splurging on a seat upgrade? No one knows how to make the experience better than flight attendants, who always have their carry-ons packed with an arsenal of essentials for better sleep, smarter organization, and peace of mind both in the air and between stops.

If you’re looking to refresh your packing list with flight attendant-approved picks, we’ve compiled the top 10 travel accessories that are sure to elevate your next trip. Even better, these items are all available on Amazon, with discounts of up to 40% off. From packing cubes to travel pillows, these tried-and-true items are guaranteed to change the way you fly.

J-Pillow Travel Pillow

Amazon

This uniquely shaped travel pillow is a flight attendant favorite. Designed by an actual flight attendant, it offers superior support compared to traditional U-shaped pillows. With a hook-like extremity that wraps under your chin, it provides optimal head and neck support. Over 10,000 travelers have rated it five stars, and one retired flight attendant declared it “tops all of them.”

Boodlab Bluetooth Sleep Eye Mask

Amazon

Both a sleep mask and headphones are essential for long journeys, and this clever device combines both into one. With built-in speakers in the ears, the Bluetooth sleep mask provides up to 10 hours of music, podcasts, or white noise on a single charge. Flight attendant TJ Kizuka told Travel + Leisure that it’s one of his top off-duty travel essentials and his go-to trick for preventing jet lag: “I pop on my Bluetooth sleep mask and listen to sounds of the ocean to get some much-needed relaxation.”

Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes 6-Pack Set

Amazon

Carin Ryan, a flight attendant with 10 years of experience, never travels without these packing cubes. She swears by their ability to double the amount of clothes that fit in a suitcase. These compression cubes have received over 7,700 five-star ratings on Amazon, and the current 10% discount makes them a must-have for any traveler.

Elefor Portable Massage Gun

Amazon

Flight attendants often suffer from aches and pains caused by lifting heavy carts and walking through airports with luggage. This affordable massage gun, according to Kizuka, is a favorite among his flight attendant colleagues. With 20 speeds and 10 different massage heads, it targets shoulders, back, glutes, legs, and feet. The portable device charges with a USB-C cable, making it perfect for travel.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Weekender Bag

Amazon

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Weekender is a favorite of Amazon shoppers, and it’s rarely found on sale for under $100. This 19-inch duffel-style bag is packed with pockets to keep your carry-on organized. The water-repellent fabric makes it easy to clean, and it’s large enough to hold all your essentials without being bulky. As one reviewer who travels 40 weeks a year says, “It holds a surprising amount without sacrificing style.”

Nesugar G3 Travel Steamer

Amazon

A portable steamer often ends up being the last item you toss into your suitcase—if there’s room. However, this Nesugar model has earned high praise from a flight attendant who calls it “hands down, one of the best purchases I’ve made for my travel needs.” Forget the old, dusty hotel irons that risk staining your clothes; this steamer is compact and effective, making it a travel essential.

Emdak Door Stop Alarm

Amazon

Safety is a priority for travelers, especially when staying in unfamiliar hotel rooms. The Emdak Door Stop Alarm is a flight attendant-approved security tool. Triggered by the door opening, it emits a 120-decibel alarm that alerts you immediately. For just $14, this compact device gives you peace of mind while traveling.

Charmking Compression Socks 3-Pack Set

Amazon

Although they may not wear them under their uniforms, flight attendants also rely on compression socks to improve circulation during long shifts. This $13 three-pack from Charmking is a bestseller on Amazon, boasting over 51,000 five-star ratings. A flight attendant shared in a review that the socks help keep swelling down during long flights, promoting better blood flow at 30,000 feet.

Bagsmart Foldable Jewelry Organizer

Amazon

This sleek jewelry roll has been designed with both convenience and space-saving in mind. It features finger-shaped ring holders, a grid for earrings, zippered pouches, and clips to keep necklaces tangle-free. One flight attendant shared that this organizer is much easier to pack than a bulky jewelry box and keeps everything neat and accessible during travel.

Vandbao Travel Cutlery Set

Amazon

Traveling frequently means you sometimes have to eat on the go, and this portable cutlery set is a flight attendant’s secret weapon. This durable stainless steel set helps reduce single-use plastic waste and is perfect for eating meals in your hotel room or on the plane. Though most travelers have had no issues with the included butter knife at TSA, it’s recommended to pack it in your checked luggage to avoid delays.