Staff, Courtesy of Matador
As someone who flies at least once a month—or did, prior to 2020—I’ve felt the pain of being in the middle seat for a 16-hour flight. But it doesn’t take nearly that long to make a flight feel uncomfortable if you’re bored, sore, and forced to listen to the sounds of nearby kids squabbling or your fellow flyers chewing a bit too hard on their complimentary pretzels. The right travel accessories can make you forget all about the roomy business-class seats you walked by on the way to the back of the plane.
I also know the right gear can make hotel stays more comfortable and explorations of a new city on foot easier. Whether it’s airplane pillows or toiletries, I’ve tested a lot of gear and have some dedicated favorites that make both international and domestic travel far more enjoyable.
What to Consider When Buying Travel Accessories
The best travel accessories eliminate the inconveniences and annoyances of life on-the-go. For me, this includes headphones that drown out engine noise (or crying babies) and carrying containers that allow me to bring my favorite soap and shampoo on the road. Consider what you value most and look for accessories in that space.
No matter what you’re looking for, don’t overlook size and weight. The TSA limits the amount of liquid you can carry on to a plane. Look for containers that hold less than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and pack them into one quart-sized bag. As for luggage, make sure any travel bags you intend to carry on are less than 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Checked bags must weigh 50 pounds or less. Even if you aren’t checking a suitcase, you’ll have an easier, more comfortable experience with less to lug around.
Finally, a word on price. Some travelers don’t want to spend too much money on items they might accidentally leave in a seat-back pocket, whereas other people tend to take better care of things that cost more. I generally recommend ruling out the very cheapest items in most categories, lest you find your shampoo bottle started leaking mid-flight.
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Travel Safety During COVID-19
After months of being cooped up at home, many of us are ready to visit family, friends, and get back to our adventurous lives. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends delaying domestic travel until you are fully vaccinated, which is two weeks after receiving your final dose. Per CDC guidelines, people who aren’t fully vaccinated should get a COVID-19 test one to three days before their trip. Rules and recommendations vary for international travel. Be sure to check with the authorities at your destination prior to departure.
Regardless of your vaccination status or destination, you are required to wear a face mask on planes, buses, trains, and other public transportation, as well as while inside airports and stations. You can also help stop the spread and avoid contracting the infection by practicing social distancing and frequent hand washing.
How We Selected
In addition to my own experience using these products as a travel writer and gear tester, I weighed consumer reviews, market research, and thorough evaluation of their price, features, and overall value. If you’re looking for stuff to make your next trip easier and more comfortable, start with this list.
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