Traveling can often feel stressful, especially for those who don’t do it regularly. Yet, frequent flyers like flight attendants and pilots navigate airports with ease, all thanks to their well-honed packing strategies and trusted accessories. For anyone planning trips this year, 2025, learning from these seasoned travelers could make your next adventure smoother and more enjoyable.
First up on the must-have list is the portable air purifier. Flight attendant Saraih Taylor, who suffers from severe allergies, emphasizes its importance. “I’ve noticed a dramatic change since using one at home. A portable version would help alleviate symptoms on the go,” she explains. This compact device, which weighs less than one pound and can filter air for up to 12 hours, is perfect for smaller spaces—like hotel rooms.
Sleeping on planes can be difficult due to cramped quarters. To tackle this issue, Courtney Acree advises investing in a sleep mask and travel pillow combo. “It offers great neck support and keeps your head stable as you rest, preventing those annoying jolts awake,” she notes. This dual-purpose accessory helps create the comfort of your bed, even at 30,000 feet.
Another clever addition to your travel arsenal is the travel iron. Not all accommodations provide reliable irons, which can sometimes damage clothes. Acree has added this item to her wishlist to keep her outfits crisp and wrinkle-free on the road.
Hair care is particularly important for many travelers, especially those with curly or textured hair. Taylor swears by the reversible satin sleeping bonnet, which protects hair during long flights and hotel stays. “It’s adjustable and keeps everything secure. Plus, it fits easily in my suitcase,” she shares.
Noise-canceling headphones are also on the packing lists of many flight crew members. Pilot David Shapiro recommends the Sony model for its comfort and sound quality. “They help unwind during layovers and block unwanted noise,” he states. With 30 hours of battery life, these headphones can handle long travel schedules.
When it’s time to shield against the elements, high-altitude travel can wreak havoc on your skin. To combat dryness, Shapiro suggests Jack Black’s Intense Therapy Lip Balm with SPF. This product keeps lips hydrated and protected against the sun, which is particularly important during prolonged flights.
For those with numerous travel documents, a sturdy passport holder is recommended. Flight attendant Jason Beaumont favors one with multiple compartments for organizing his passport, ID, and credit cards, keeping everything accessible yet secure.
Keeping your devices charged is also high on the list of travel priorities. To address this need, Beaumont suggests investing in a 3-in-1 charging station. “It condenses charging multiple devices down to just one electrical outlet,” he explains, making it streamlined to power up everything from cellphones to smartwatches.
For those sweltering days on the runway or when air conditioning fails, Beaumont has his eye on portable rechargeable fans, which offer immediate relief when temperatures rise. “They are compact but powerful,” he says. With two settings and lasting up to 22 hours on one charge, they’re perfect for long-haul or back-to-back flights.
Lastly, taking care of your skin is important during travel. La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios sunscreen is noted by former flight attendant Deep Westacott as a key item to include. “Due to the UV exposure at high altitudes, protecting the skin is non-negotiable for me,” she insists. This broad-spectrum sunscreen absorbs quickly and is packed with antioxidants, ensuring skin retains its moisture and health.
Traveling can be simplified significantly by adopting some of these essentials used by flight crew members. From clever packing accessories to skincare products, there are practical solutions ideal for unburdening the travel experience. Carrying these tools not only improves personal comfort but also enhances confidence during the entire trip. So, as you plan your adventures for 2025, keep these recommendations from the pros on your packing list for smoother travels!