Flying economy doesn’t exactly scream comfort, but fear not – we’ve put together a list of the best travel accessories for economy, to add that extra bit of indulgence to your next flight.
The Best Travel Accessories for Economy Flights
1. Travel Pillow
Getting comfy on a long flight may not be the easiest thing, but for me, a travel pillow can make a big difference.
Having tested quite a few in my time, I recommend looking out for one that holds its form, ties at the front and packs down tiny. Having a zip on the side also helps if you want to turn it into a packing device…
If you’re looking to make an investment, this Cabeau travel pillow got me through a 13 hour flight to Singapore. It has straps that attach the pillow to your headrest and that really helped my head not bob around the whole place.
2. Foot Rest
This flight foot rest works as a mini hammock that clips to the foldable tray table on the seat in front. It helps relieve pressure on your lower back but also ensures your legs and feet remain flexible and comfortable throughout the duration of the flight – which is especially handy for long haul flights.
3. Noise Cancelling Headphones
A good set of headphone are up there with the best travel accessories for economy flights you can own. Whether it’s to allow you to listen to music, or simply block out the cacophony of sound going on around you, I’ve never regretted packing them for the trip!
These soundcore by Anker noise cancellation headphones come really well rated and are a great option if you’re looking to spend under £50. I love the super long battery life and the fact they have a transparency mode too for when you need to still be aware of what’s going on around you.
The Sony WH-CH720N noise-cancelling headphones are great for flights as they have a battery life of up to 35 hours and are super quick charging. I ordered both these and the ones below and was really impressed with what you get for under £90 with this pair. It comes in black and navy too.
The WH-1000XM5 is Sony’s fancy model which has added features like Alexa, Google Assistant and a built-in mic for calls. At just under £300, these are on the pricier side but make up for it with their hi-spec features. These are what I treated myself to recently and I love them because they’re super comfy and cheaper than their competitors offering similar features.
4. Airfly Duo
Wireless headphones are great but it’s annoying when you have to plug in to enjoy the entertainment on the flight.
Well, with this device you no longer need to! Plugged into the headphone jack on the plane’s media console, Airfly acts as the go between. You connect your bluetooth headphones to the Airfly device and it transmits the audio straight to you.
The Airfly SE is the cheapest option and works for connecting one device. Just check its compatible with the headphones that you use!
If you travel in a pair, I’d recommend the Airfly Duo since that allows pairing for up to two wireless headphones. This is useful for when you want to watch or listen to something with another person. This is super helpful for me and James since he has Apple headphones and I have Sony and so we can’t make use of Apple’s sharing audio feature.
I actually have the Airfly Pro model because that’s all the shop had in stock when I was buying. The main difference from the Duo is it allows you to transmit audio onto the device that its plugged into which could be helpful for a hire car without bluetooth capability. However, if I was to buy again I’d just go for the Duo.
5. Phone Holder
You’ve downloaded all your Netflix shows and now you’re balancing your phone (unsuccessfully) on the tray table. Well, you’re in luck!
6. Reusable Water Bottle
More and more airports have free water fill up stations which means this is a money saving tip too! However, having a water bottle on me has really improved my flights for me in several ways.
Firstly, when I have it on me I always remember to fill up! Secondly, you don’t have to wait for service to begin on the plane to get a drink. This ones so handy when you’re sat on the tarmac for ages! Thirdly, I love that if I’m all comfy or don’t want to disturb those around me, I’m all set for my journey with everything I need.
The main things to think about are: is the bottle leak proof and if you want to keep your beverages hot or cold, does it have those features too? There’s lots of budget options out there but here’s what I use if you fancy getting something that’s gonna last a long time.
I didn’t understand the Chilly’s fuss before but I have been charmed. Not only can it keep your liquids cool for up to 24 hours – or hot for up to 12 hours but… IT HAS THE NICEST MOUTH FEEL EVER. Ha ha haaa. I wish I was joking but honestly, drinking from this is a delight.
I love the loop at the top too which makes it easy to clip to my bags.
7. Sleep Mask
A good sleep mask can be a game changer when it comes to getting that much-needed kip on a flight.
This one from Alaska Bear is great as it’s made of memory foam, contours to the face and offers a complete blackout from any light. It also comes in a little case with ear plugs.
8. Ear Plugs
When the flight attendants dim those lights for bedtime, it’s the perfect moment to pop in some earplugs and drown out the chatter of your neighbours.
9. Powerbank
There’s nothing worse than your devices running out of battery halfway through a long flight! And in general, anything that takes away the stress of a travel day is always worth thinking about.
I’ve been through my fair share of powerbanks but this is one from VRURC is the first that really delivers without costing a fortune. It is a little chunky – but not too big – but it holds the charge so well. I turned it on a month after a trip once and it still had the 30% I’d left on it there!
I also love that the handle doubles up as a charging wire. I have the 20000mAh but there’s a 10000mAh for cheaper too.
10. Toiletries bag
I think we’re all jealous of the amenity kits the passengers in business class get so why not make your own? I like to pack in some beauty minis such as lip balm, moisturiser, hand cream, a face spritz and even a face mask. It makes such a difference to have that little chill moment!
You can use whatever toiletries bag you already have but if you’re in the market for a new one, I love these see through toiletry bags which *most* security staff will let you pop into your tray without having to take it all out.
Just remember you will probably need to keep to a 100ml liquid limit, but you can always decant what you need into mini pots.
11. Travel Blanket
Many short-haul flights don’t provide blankets, and the ones on long-haul flights are often thin and static. Make your journey more comfortable by bringing your own blanket; EverSnug’s travel blanket comes with a case that it can be stuffed into and used as a comfy pillow!
I like to always pack a big scarf which can double up as a blanket, but if you’re after something more heavy duty then this EverSnug travel blanket is clever as it can be stuffed into a bag and be made into a travel pillow as well!
12. AirTags
So technically they won’t make your flight feel any comfier, but you can be more relaxed knowing where your luggage! Honestly, Apple AirTags are one of the best travel accessories for economy flights for peace of mind. They operate by working with nearby iPhones to pinpoint your bag’s location, making them particularly effective in busy areas such as airports.
I’ve used them in the past to work out when they’re about to come out on the conveyor belt! However, I experienced my first missing piece of luggage recently and it was so helpful in first realising it hadn’t been put on the plane, and also in getting it returned back to me.
