Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Fly high in style with the best travel accessories for long flights in 2023

Modern air travel kind of sucks. But with the right gear, it doesn't have to. Get prepped ahead of your next flight.

Without a doubt, taking a flight is still the most convenient mode of transportation, but let's be honest, modern air travel kind of sucks. Thanks largely to the pandemic, it's only gotten worse in the last three years. On the list of humanity’s favorite pastimes, flying ranks just above listening to babies cry and just below eating a partially frozen chicken sandwich. Unfortunately, many flights feature both.

However, flying can be much less terrible if you're prepared with the right gear. If you’re fortunate enough to sit in first class, you're probably sitting comfy with a pre-flight bourbon, back rubs, and a complimentary amenity kit. For the rest of us plebs, however, we need to make our own. So recline your seat the full inch, put that tray table down, and check out this list of the best air travel accessories to pack for your next long flight.

Cocktail Kit
W&P Craft Cocktail Kit
Best Travel Cocktail Kit
Jump to details
Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD (2023 model)
Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD
Best Travel Power Bank
Jump to details
OnePlus Buds Pro 2
OnePlus Buds Pro 2
Best Noise-Canceling Travel Earbuds
Jump to details
Braun Series 9 Pro Shaver
Braun Series 9 Pro Shaver
Best Travel Shaver
Jump to details
Tuft & Needle Travel Blanket
Tuft & Needle Anywhere Travel Blanket
Best Travel Blanket
Jump to details
Fulton & Roark Total Package
Fulton & Roark Total Package
Best Travel Self-Care Kit
Jump to details
Xero Shoes Hana Slip-on Shoes
Xero Shoes Hana
Best Slip-on Travel Shoe
Jump to details
Nomad Universal USB-C Kevlar Cable
Nomad Universal USB-C Kevlar Cable
Best Travel Power Cable
Jump to details
Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Traveller Pillow
Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Traveller Pillow
Best Lightweight Travel Pillow
Jump to details
Apple AirTag
Apple AirTag
Best Luggage Tracker
Jump to details
Swiftwick Aspire Twelve
Swiftwick Aspire Twelve
Best Compression Socks for Travel
Jump to details
Bravo Sierra Antibacterial Body Wipes
Bravo Sierra Antibacterial Body Wipes
Best Body Wipes for Travel
Jump to details
W&P Craft Cocktail Kit (Old Fashioned) on a plain white background.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

W&P Craft Cocktail Kit

Best Travel Cocktail Kit

One of — if not the — best air travel accessories is booze. Thankfully, alcohol flows freely on most flights. But if you’re looking to take your sky-high drinking to the next level, that requires a proper portable cocktail “bar.” Each of these Craft Cocktail Kits from W&P includes all the accouterments for making one of several classic beverages, from Moscow mules to margaritas and more. Our favorite is the old fashioned with cane sugar, premium aromatic bitters, linen coasters, and muddling spoons all in the tin. Just add liquor. They make a great travel gift and are even TSA-approved!

Cocktail Kit
W&P Craft Cocktail Kit
Best Travel Cocktail Kit
Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD Portable Power Bank on a white studio background.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD

Best Travel Power Bank

The only thing just as — if not more — essential as booze for air travel is making sure you never run out of juice for all your devices. Goal Zero's latest Sherpa 100PD is more than up to the task. With nearly 100Wh of power on tap, you can keep your smartphone, tablet, digital camera, and more topped up en route. For mobile photographers and videographers, it’ll even charge the best GoPro accessories for travel. Bonus: This battery bank boasts a solid 15W of wireless charging.

Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD (2023 model)
Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD
Best Travel Power Bank
OnePlus Buds Pro 2 on a black studio background.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

OnePlus Buds Pro 2

Best Noise-Canceling Travel Earbuds

Few things elevate any flight, especially a long-haul flight, like a good pair of noise-canceling headphones. The all-new Buds Pro 2 from OnePlus are our new go-to favorite. The design is comfortable enough to wear for hours, while the adaptive noise-cancellation tech can drown out up to 48dB of sound, effectively silencing crying babies, chatty seatmates, and droning airplane engine noise. Plus the included charging case allows for a whopping 39 total hours of playback time — more than enough to take you around the world and back in blissful silence.

OnePlus Buds Pro 2
OnePlus Buds Pro 2
Best Noise-Canceling Travel Earbuds
Series 9 Pro Electric Shaver with PowerCase on a white studio background.
Braun

Braun Series 9 Pro Shaver

Best Travel Shaver

After (or during) a long travel day, nothing makes you feel better and more human than a good shower and a shave. Braun's flagship Series 9 Pro is our go-to for travel-friendly shavers with a gentle yet effective shave. It's precise enough to use in-flight when you want to maximize your time once you get where you're going. Plus, we love the included charger case that keeps the Series 9 topped up for even the longest trips.

Braun Series 9 Pro Shaver
Braun Series 9 Pro Shaver
Best Travel Shaver
Tuft & Needle Travel Blanket on a plain studio background.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Tuft & Needle Anywhere Travel Blanket

Best Travel Blanket

Airplanes are notoriously cold. First-class passengers get dibs on lavish extras like pillows and hand-sewn alpaca wool comforters (so we've heard). Economy class passengers, on the other hand, might get lucky to score a blanket. But it’ll probably be the size of a cocktail napkin and about as warm. Tuft & Needle's new Anywhere Travel Blanket is a lightweight blanket with a quilted design that's soft, durable, and packs down small. A built-in loop allows for hanging on your rollaboard, and a sewn-on pouch allows you to fold the blanket into itself for easy portability. Plus, it’s machine washable and dryer-friendly, so you can give it a deep clean once you return home.

Tuft & Needle Travel Blanket
Tuft & Needle Anywhere Travel Blanket
Best Travel Blanket
Fulton & Roark Total Package toiletry kit on a white studio background.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Fulton & Roark Total Package

Best Travel Self-Care Kit

Air travel is brutal on skin. Leave the discount products at home, and come prepared for your next flight with a proper self-care regimen. The Total Package from Fulton & Roark includes four essentials — solid fragrance, bar soap, aluminum-free deodorant, and their exclusive Formula 5 Oil. The latter is one of this year's most versatile travel-friendly self-care products that can be used as a beard oil, a skin and scalp moisturizer, and even a low-hold hair styling product. This one kit will keep you feeling and smelling fresh, even after hours in Economy.

Fulton & Roark Total Package
Fulton & Roark Total Package
Best Travel Self-Care Kit
Xero Shoes Hana Men's Slip-on Travel Shoe (black) on a white studio background.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Xero Shoes Hana

Best Slip-on Travel Shoe

When you're spending hours running through airports and crammed into an Economy class seat, taking care of your feet is critical. Xero Shoes Hana is a near-perfect travel shoe. At just eight ounces each (for a men's size 9), they're incredibly lightweight and flexible enough to be tucked and crammed into your carry-on without losing their shape. The 5.5mm rubber sole feels more like a sandal than a thick-soled shoe, guaranteeing a more natural feel on your feet. But, we especially love the simple, slip-on design that makes for easy-on and easy-off at airport security, on the plane, and once you reach your final destination. The best part? They're a steal at under $100.

Xero Shoes Hana Slip-on Shoes
Xero Shoes Hana
Best Slip-on Travel Shoe
Nomad Goods Universal-USB-C Kevlar Cable on a white studio background.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Nomad Universal USB-C Kevlar Cable

Best Travel Power Cable

We're all traveling with a whole lot of tech these days, and that means packing a whole lot of cables, too. Nomad Goods helps simplify the usual rat's nest of wires and cables with its Universal USB-C Cable. The streamlined design features USB-C, USB-A, and Micro USB adapter tips that can be easily swapped in and out as needed. So you can connect, charge, and power up virtually any modern device all with a single cable. Bonus: The Kevlar version features a double-braided outer sheath for extreme durability.

Nomad Universal USB-C Kevlar Cable
Nomad Universal USB-C Kevlar Cable
Best Travel Power Cable
Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Traveler Pillow on a white background.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Traveller Pillow

Best Lightweight Travel Pillow

If you're actually able to sleep on planes, first of all, god bless you. It's a skill this writer has yet to master. One of the best travel accessories for long flights (and even domestic short hops) for you is a comfortable travel pillow. Sea to Summit’s Aeros Ultralight Traveler Pillow is plush, lightweight, and packs down to about the size of your palm. The soft fabric provides a perfect shelf for resting your face while two oversized arms embrace and support your neck and head.

Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Traveller Pillow
Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Traveller Pillow
Best Lightweight Travel Pillow
A look at both sides of the Apple AirTag.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Apple AirTag

Best Luggage Tracker

If you tend to lose stuff easily, panic when something goes missing, or you simply like to keep tabs on all your items, including your luggage, then Apple's latest AirTag is a must-have travel accessory. Place them on everything from your keys to your backpack to see their location on your Find My network. We know all too well the anxiety that comes from the hustle and bustle of the airport. AirTags can help alleviate those feelings.

Apple AirTag
Apple AirTag
Best Luggage Tracker
Swiftwick Aspire Twelve compression sock on a white background.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Swiftwick Aspire Twelve

Best Compression Socks for Travel

Most people think compression socks are only for elite athletes or old folks. But if you travel far enough while sitting for extended periods of time, DVT blood clots can be a very real threat. Swiftwick’s Aspire Twelve compression socks provide just the right amount of support throughout the entire calf. The compression is strong enough to encourage blood flow and minimize swelling without feeling too restrictive. Plus, the thin, lightweight design and cushioning are comfortable for all-day wear.

Swiftwick Aspire Twelve
Swiftwick Aspire Twelve
Best Compression Socks for Travel
Pack of Bravo Sierra Antibacterial Body Wipes on a white background.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Bravo Sierra Antibacterial Body Wipes

Best Body Wipes for Travel

Antibacterial wet wipes were important for air travelers even before the pandemic. Now, they’re mission-critical. Bravo Sierra’s Antibacterial Body Wipes are soft, extra thick, and designed to be used on even your most sensitive parts. With natural germ-fighting ingredients like citric acid and leaf juice, they can even replace your ordinary hand sanitizer. The fact that they’re tested and approved by our active military personnel is testimony enough for us.

Bravo Sierra Antibacterial Body Wipes
Bravo Sierra Antibacterial Body Wipes
Best Body Wipes for Travel

Editors' Recommendations

Mike Richard
Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He's kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South…
Study: First class flights may be less expensive than you think (especially if you fly this airline)
American Airlines is the most budget-friendly option for travelers seeking first class luxury
An American Airlines plane in flight in a cloudy sky

For many travelers, the allure of first-class air travel is undeniable. The extra legroom, gourmet meals, and personalized service create an experience that's a world apart from economy class. However, the cost of upgrading to first class can often be a deterrent. But what if we told you that there are budget-friendly options for first-class flights? A recent study by Upgraded Points sheds light on the best airlines to fly first class on a budget within the United States.
The study
Upgraded Points conducted an extensive study analyzing the price variations in first-class tickets across four major U.S. airlines and twelve of the busiest domestic flight routes. The study meticulously gathered ticket price data from Google Flights, focusing on the 12 busiest domestic flight routes within the U.S.

To ensure a comprehensive representation of pricing trends, both peak and non-peak departure dates were considered. The costs were then averaged to determine one-way ticket prices for both economy and first-class seating. It's important to note that the study excluded U.S. airlines that do not offer first-class or lacked sufficient data on the analyzed routes.
Delta Air Lines first class
Delta Air Lines emerged as the front-runner in the study, but with a caveat - it charges the highest premiums for first-class tickets. Passengers opting for first class can expect to pay $284.55 more for a one-way ticket compared to economy. Despite the premium, Delta Air Lines has recently upped its game by introducing new first-class seats with privacy partitions, adjustable neck cushions, and additional storage space, making it a competitive choice for those willing to splurge.
Alaska Airlines first class
Alaska Airlines stands out not only for its high first-class ticket price differences ($281.25) but also for its unique amenities. The airline goes above and beyond by serving food in its first-class cabins on flights as short as 550 miles. This catering to shorter flights sets Alaska Airlines apart from most other legacy carriers that typically reserve in-flight dining for journeys longer than 900 miles.
United Airlines first class
United First Class offers a more budget-friendly option for travelers looking to experience first-class comfort without breaking the bank. With a price difference of approximately $250.23 between economy and first class, United Airlines provides an enticing opportunity to enjoy an elevated flying experience.
American Airlines first class: The Most Affordable Deal
Among the airlines studied, American Airlines first class is the clear winner in terms of affordability for travel. Passengers can expect to pay just $235.85 more for a one-way first-class ticket compared to economy. This makes American Airlines an attractive choice for those seeking a premium experience without a hefty price tag.
Average Premium for first class
On average, passengers traveling within the U.S. can anticipate paying a premium of $262.97 per flight (one-way) or over $525 (round-trip) when choosing a first-class ticket. This figure underscores the appeal of budget-friendly options like those offered by American Airlines and United Airlines.
Conclusion
While the lap of luxury may come at a price, there are notable exceptions for travelers seeking first-class experiences on a budget within the United States. Delta Air Lines, despite its premium pricing, offers cutting-edge amenities, making it a top choice for those willing to splurge. Alaska Airlines' unique dining options and United Airlines' budget-friendly fares are also worth considering. However, the title of the most affordable deal goes to American Airlines, which provides a premium experience without a substantial price difference.

Read more
Brilliant travel hack could save you a ton when booking international flights
A few clicks could save you a ton on travel
Man waiting for flight at airport.

We all want to make everyone else jealous with our photos from our exotic overseas vacation. But when it comes down to actually booking the trip, we go into panic mode over the amount of money we're going to spend. From the flights to the hotel to local transportation to sightseeing tours, all we see are dollar signs flying away, and for some, that's enough to turn things into a staycation. Traveling internationally doesn't have to be so expensive, and this one hack could save you a ton of money on your flight (and possibly other areas of your vacation abroad). 

The travel tip is so simple
It's an easy two-part setup to get this money-saver for international flights

Read more
TSA PreCheck adds 4 airlines to program – and here they are
If you're traveling abroad, this is a big deal
TSA security line.

Everyone who has a flight to catch will agree on one thing — that going through airport security is the least fun part of flying. From having to strip down to walk through the scanner to trying to remember if you have any liquids or other items TSA is going to ask questions about, once you get in that line, the anxiety starts. That's why more passengers are hopping in the TSA PreCheck line, so they don't have to worry about any of that. To spice things up and speed up airport security wait times, the Transportation Security Administration just added four more airlines to their PreCheck program to make flying a heck of a lot easier for a lot more travelers.

What TSA PreCheck gets you
Why would you want to be a TSA PreCheck member when you travel? There are so many perks besides a shorter line, though that is the main draw. 
The reasons to be a member

Read more