Fashionable and Practical Must Have Travel Necessities When Flying

Any frequent flyer knows that you cannot simply pack a carry-on bag without thinking about all of the things you will want or need on a flight. This task gets increasingly difficult depending on the length of the flight itself. There is an art form to figuring out how to fit all of your travel necessities into a carry on to wheel along with you.

When you have an eye for style, it makes it even harder to decide which accessories stay and which (begrudgingly) have to go. To make that task a little easier, here are seven travel accessories that bridge the gap between fashion and practicality. In other words, throw them in the bag, sit back, relax and enjoy your flight. 

Sunglasses (The Darker, The Better)

Obviously, you’re going to need sunglasses before and after you get on the plane. But your shades might also come in handy while you’re on board, especially if you plan to spend your flight snoozing. Sunglasses are the perfect way to dim the glare of the cabin lights or natural sunshine that’s flooding in around you. As an added bonus, they look way more stylish than an eye mask.

A Large Scarf

Every fashionista has a favorite scarf and, chances are, that scarf is extra long. There are so many ways to style a blanket scarf, so wear one on your next domestic or international journey to add a little bit of pizzazz to your comfy airport outfit. As the name implies, your blanket scarf will do double duty if you happen to get chilly in-flight.

Not-So-Basic Headphones

Here’s another accessory that can do double-duty: your headphones. You probably have a pair of plain earbuds laying around, but a statement set of headphones will really, well, make a statement. There are some seriously cute and fashionable options out there. You might also find that the bigger, more noticeable headphones do better to block out the loud noises that come with being on a plane.

Glare-Resistant Glasses

Especially on a long flight, there’s no doubt that you’re going to be looking at a screen for a good majority of the trek. Whether it’s the small TV on the seatback in front of you, your tablet or your phone, you will be constantly looking for digital entertainment to help pass the time.

Of course, all of this binge watching isn’t great for your vision — some research has shown that the blue light emitted can damage your vision. Fortunately, there are fashionable glasses designed to block unhealthy rays. And, once the flight’s over, glasses make a perfect distraction if your makeup is looking less-than-stellar after your journey.

Slip-on Sneakers (and Extra Socks)

You probably have a trusted pair of sneakers or shoes that are the most comfortable things in your closet. But, they may not be the best choice for the airport. Since you have to go thru security and possibly take them off — those laces and buckles can really hold up the lines.

There’s a perfect solution here that’s both fashionable and functional: slip-on sneakers. They’re just as comfy and make security requirements a breeze. If you’re afraid your feet won’t be warm or cozy enough, throw a pair of thick socks into your bag and wear those until the flight’s over.

A Smaller Bag for Odds and Ends

You have your carry-on bag and a purse with you, and it’s got its fair share of stuff inside. But how are you going to locate, say, your phone charger if you need it in a pinch? Wires, chargers, change, bobby pins… just about every small, useful thing has a tendency to get lost or tangled in your big bag. Be sure to grab a smaller bag — cosmetics bags are the perfect size — to hold little things that tend to get lost.

A Cute Carry-On to Hold It All

Now that you’ve got everything ready to pack, where will you put it? A look so curated should come with a bag to pull everything together, of course. Plenty of fashion designers understand that their clients want to look great in all situations, airport included. You’ll find so many options on the market that seamlessly bring together fashion and function.

With a tried-and-true airport packing ritual, you’ll be ready to hit the skies whenever you have to — or want to. And, since you’ve thoughtfully chosen every piece of your look, you’ll be fashionable AND practical while you’re on-board.