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Travel expertise is something that can only be gained over time, and seeing as flight attendants quite literally spend their days in the sky, it’s safe to say that they’ve developed the know-how to navigate air travel with ease. So, it only makes sense that when they recommend products, we’re going to listen — and they have no shortage of suggestions.
Thankfully, Amazon is a treasure trove of affordable travel gear, with many products earning a backing from air travel savants. Whether you’re seeking a high-quality carry-on for avoiding checked bag fees, or sneaky ways to make your next long-haul flight more comfortable, these 10 flight attendant-loved products start at $9 and will fill those gaps in your travel arsenal. Take it from the pros: you can never be too prepared.
Eagle Creek Pack-It Original Compression Packing Cubes
Traveling with packing cubes is the best way to make the most of the limited space available in your suitcase, and nobody knows this to be true better than flight attendants. So, when we saw that one airline worker raved that these “compact and expandable” cubes have proven to be “perfect for making your luggage go farther,” we took note.
These compression packing cubes are made from a durable yet lightweight material, complete with breathable mesh paneling to ensure that your clothes never get stuffy while tucked away, and they even flatten out to an impressive degree to optimize the room in your luggage. Top carrying handles make these bags easy to remove from your suitcase or backpack without tugging, and a two-way zipper creates an all-around smooth packing experience. Plus, if you’re searching for a set with more than two cubes, flight attendants have also thrown their recommendation behind this expansive set of eight cubes from Veken.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry-On
If there’s one person to take luggage recommendations from, it’s a flight attendant. And while this expandable carry-on suitcase from Travelpro has earned an impressive 9,000-plus five-star ratings at Amazon, it’s also earned a stamp of approval from airline workers as well. Case in point, one flight attendant dubbed this the “best lightweight suitcase” for travel, explaining that the compact design “can fit on any sized plane” with ease. And as a longtime fan of the brand, they even noted that you can trust that this model will “last you a long time.”
This softside suitcase expands up to an additional 2 inches to maximize space, and four smooth, multi-directional spinner wheels ensure that you’ll have an easy time carrying this bag along airport floors and cobblestone streets. Plus, it’s so lightweight that you won’t have to worry about luggage restrictions while traveling with this carry-on.
Apple AirTag 4-Pack
If you’re worried about your checked bag getting lost while traveling (who isn’t?), flight attendants confirm that shoppers should stock up on a set of Apple AirTags to reclaim their peace of mind while on the go. These small yet mighty trackers have earned more than a staggering 94,500 five-star ratings at Amazon, with one flight attendant sharing that they tuck one into their bag whenever they need to check it, and have found them to be “super easy to use and definitely worth the money.” The best part is, when you’re not traveling, you can simply transfer the AirTag to your favorite purse or wallet to keep an eye on your everyday belongings.
Charmking Unisex Compression Socks
Swelling and discomfort while flying is unfortunately fairly common thanks to the change of cabin pressure once your plane takes to the sky, which is exactly why flight attendants swear by a good pair of compression socks for maintaining healthy circulation during long-haul flights. This set of socks is a best-seller at Amazon for a reason, as each pair is made from a thick and comfy nylon and spandex blend to promote blood flow and reduce fatigue to allow for an overall more comfortable flight. And with more than 49,000 five-star ratings to back them up (as well as a handful from flight attendants), we’re sold.
Accmor Luggage Travel Cup Holder
Any good traveler knows that keeping your hands free is the easiest way to alleviate stress while hustling to your gate. Therefore, it only stands to reason that this packable cup holder will be a fan-favorite of flight attendants — especially since it simply slides over your luggage handle for quick access to your phone, beverages, travel documents, and more. Two spacious compartments are the ideal places to store your coffee and water bottle while heading to your flight, so you’ll never have to juggle your travel necessities again. Not to mention that one airline worker called it “flight attendant-approved,” explaining that they “travel almost every day with a hot tea or coffee,” and this product effectively keeps their hands free “in the terminal and at the gates.”
Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan
Multi-functional products are practically made for streamlining your travels, and this three-in-one fan from Jisulife will prove to be just that as the weather grows warmer and you begin to look forward to your spring adventures. Not only is this pocket-sized device a flight attendant-loved fan, but it even works as both a portable charger and a flashlight, securing its spot in your travel arsenal moving forward.
It will especially come in handy if your plane cabin is airing on the warmer side, with one flight attendant explaining that this fan has “saved me so many times.” They noted that “in the summer, the back of the aircraft can get extra hot,” and this fan helped keep them “cool” despite it all. In fact, they even went as far as to say that they “don’t leave home without it.”
Vigoport Luggage Hook Straps
Traveling with more than one piece of luggage may feel like a hassle, but those days are over thanks to these flight attendant-approved luggage strap hooks from Vigoport that allow you to attach your personal item to your rolling bag with ease. The sturdy design of these straps complete with a metal J hook means that you won’t have to worry about your luggage falling off while you’re trekking through the airport, and the adjustable buckle fits a wide range of suitcase sizes for your convenience.
Just take it from this flight attendant, who dubbed the straps “invaluable” to their travels because they are “sturdy and hold my bags together securely.” Not to mention that another shopper called them “flight attendant-approved” and a “must-have item,” seeing as they “make life so much easier” and are made of a “great quality and even better price.”
SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Backpack
A reliable backpack is one of the best travel companions, and with more than 19,900 five-star ratings, it’s safe to say that this TSA-friendly bag from SwissGear is fit for the job. The comfy and impressively spacious backpack features one large, primary pocket for storing your essentials, while a padded laptop pocket makes commuting with electronics (and going through TSA security) safer and easier than ever. Plus, one shopper noted that they have a friend who is a flight attendant and swears by this bag. In fact, speaking to its durability, they added that they have even “been using it for the last three years.”
Eachy Travel Makeup Bag
Keeping your toiletries and makeup organized while on the go will make it so much easier to settle into your destination once you’ve arrived. Thankfully, this best-selling bag from Eachy is currently on sale for just $24, and is loved by flight attendants and travelers alike for its roomy and incredibly efficient design. The interior of the bag features two primary compartments with a zippered divider down the middle, and when completely unfurled, it lays flat so you won’t have to make a mess to find exactly what you’re looking for. Just take it from this flight attendant, who explained that “everything fits inside” and they have “no loose things” in their suitcase while on the job. And to top it all off, it’s cute.
AceMining Portable Door Lock
Whether you’re traveling alone or with a group, safety should always be a priority during any adventure. Seeing as flight attendants often end up staying in various destinations around the world alone, it makes sense that they would have some additional tips for staying safe, and this portable door lock is at the top of their list. Simply slide the metal piece in between the door frame and the locking mechanism, and this best-selling device will keep intruders out while remaining easy to remove from the inside in case of emergency. Now you can rest easy knowing that your accommodations are as safe and secure as could be.
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