Top 10 Items to Have in Your Flight Bag, That You Probably Don’t (2024 Reviews)
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Living out of a suitcase isn’t always easy. We’ve created a list of products to make life on the road a little easier. Even better, they are all under $30. They also make great gifts for a pilot!
Bagail 6-Set Packing Cubes
Lewis N. Clark AM/PM Folding Pill Organizer + Supplement Case for OTC Medicine
Another great addition to our bag has been the Lewis N. Clark Folding Pill organizer. It keeps our medicines and supplements neatly separated in this extremely lightweight and durable case. The 9 slide-locking pockets are clear for easy identification. However, the pockets are not very large, so you may only be able to pack a few days worth of large daily supplements. You may also have to make your own labels if you can’t recognize your pills. This organizer is a huge improvement over carrying individual bottles, pill boxes or a small plastic bag. You can buy a 16-slot version as well.
Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier, Electrolyte Powder, Easy Open Packets, Supplement Drink Mix (6 Count)
Most of the time, water is enough to stay hydrated. However, there are times when a boost is helpful to combat dehydration and avoid that headache. Flight crew are especially susceptible to dehydration. We operate in the dry environment of high altitudes, lack scheduled breaks, and have short turn-around times. We carry the Liquid I.V. Hydration mulitplier. Most important, these packets are small, contain half the sugar and calories of traditional sports drinks, and provide 2-3 times more hydration than water alone. They include essential vitamins and come in a variety of flavors. We have tried them all and prefer the lemon-lime. Mix with water and you’ll hydrate faster and more efficiently than water alone. These packets always help on the hot, non-stop days.
Anker Power Bank
After arriving at the hotel, the crew decides to go out for dinner and explore. You forgot to charge your phone on the plane and your battery is less than 10%. Straightaway, you rush to plug your phone in and get 15 more minutes of charge before heading out. Most crew have experienced this less-than-ideal situation. Avoid it in the future by carrying a power bank.
There are many to choose from. We own and recommend the Anker Power bank because it’s ultra slim, light, compact and does not get hot. It fits in our pocket so we can take it on the go. We verify that it provides over 2 complete charges for the iPhone XS, as advertised. We like that is has a thorough safety system to protect devices. Furthermore, it even has a separate “trickle charge” mode better for low power devices. Note, there is only one USB connector port to charge a device. It does take several hours to fully charge the power bank itself.
J-Pillow Chin Supporting Travel Pillow
Chromecast with Google TV
Most hotels have HDMI-compatible TVs, perfect for plug-in portable streaming devices. Stream your favorites movies and show to the TV, and watch on the big screen instead of your laptop, iPad or phone. The Chromecast is our choice because it is extremely lightweight and small. Your phone can work as the remote, so even though it comes with one, no need to carry it outside the house. (Other “sticks” need a separate remote) Note, there is a 4K capable model for a slightly higher price.
Some hotels use a web-based interfaced for accessing WIFI, and this can be problematic. In this situation you’d need to create your own WIFI hotspot or use a travel router.
Zephyr Aviation Pilot Wallet
A must have for frequent jumpseaters. Present all your IDs quickly and professionally. As pilots know, the FAA requires them to carry all their documents. Should they make a random inspection, it is crucial to produce the original hard copies. The Zephyr Wallet is the only product designed to neatly hold them all in one wallet. Choose from a compact size made of synthetic leather, or a full size “Pro” made from premium hand-made Italian leather. They come in a variety of colors. Stay organized, clean up space in your wallet, and gain peace of mind knowing you have everything with you, all in one place.
Condor H20 Pouch
Whether you bring your own water bottle, or rely on catering, the Condor H20 is the perfect carrier. Save space in your regular luggage or cooler, and use this pouch to store your 32oz water bottle or thermos, hands free. It attaches securely to webbing with 2 snap-button straps, and also has 2 metal D-rings. It’s not the smallest accessory to add to your bags, but it beats chasing the water bottle that fell off the top of your bag down the airport escalator.
UCO Switch Spork 2-Piece Integrated Camping Utensil Set
Settling in your hotel room and heating up your meal, only to realize you forgot to get plastic utensils along your way is a major disappointment. Pick up this utensil set and avoid extra trips to the front desk or hotel restaurant. It includes a full-size fork, and spoon-knife combination. They can be separated for use, but nest together for compact carrying. It’s made from BPA and phthalate free durable nylon, that’s both dishwasher and microwave safe. Perhaps most importantly, they won’t fall into the hands of the TSA. If you’d rather a one-piece utensil, check out the humanGear Gobites Uno.
Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes
Galleys are stocked now more than ever with hand wipes, but it’s worth having your own. We like that in addition to killing 99.99% of germs, these are hypoallergenic and enriched with skin-conditioning aloe. They come in convenient and portable travel packs that will easily fit in a zipper compartment or mesh pocket. Cockpits are notoriously dirty and used by multiple individuals on a daily basis. Don’t let yourself get sick from a trip, or worse, on a trip.
