With spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, we're all eager to switch on our "Out Of Office" messages and go into vacation mode. If you are one of the lucky ones who has a trip planned and booked, your mind has probably turned to a packing list as long as a CVS receipt. We talked to the people who have literally made flying their job — flight attendants — to get their expert recommendations on travel products.
Cindy Kowalewski, a private flight attendant with 10 years of experience, has traveled to 100 countries including Seychelles, Myanmar, Maldives, Slovenia and many more. Valerie Fraser is an in-flight crew member, photographer and foodie who catalogs the best dishes for every layover and leisure trip on her secondary Instagram account, @flightattendantfoodie.
Now let's get ready for takeoff with their tried-and-true must-haves.
"My must-pack items are an inflatable neck pillow, Mack’s Dreamgirl earplugs, a big warm scarf that can double up as a blanket and a sleeping mask. I love Bucky 40 Blinks Eye Masks, because they have molded cups, cute colors and patterns, and are so comfortable," says Kowalewski.
"Flying can dehydrate your skin like no other, so I have to have a good lotion on hand," says Fraser. "One of my favorites is from La Roche Posay."
"I always bring a hydrating lip balm when I fly. A flight attendant friend just gifted me the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, and I really like it," Kowalewski says.
"I always pack extra underwear in case of delays, a swimsuit for sunny destinations and a pair of leggings, so I can run downstairs at a hotel without putting on a full outfit. I also make sure to pack a comfortable pair of sneakers for walking," says Fraser.
"I keep a mini steamer in my bag when I travel because hotel irons aren’t the best," Kowalewski says.
"When you’re really on the go, Panama-style hats can hide a lot of things — especially that unwashed, messy hair — and will still make your outfit look fab! Rag & Bone has an exceptional one," says Kowalewski. For a more affordable option, try Nordstrom's $39 version. (It comes in four colors, too).
"I really love my Herschel packing cubes. The set I have comes with a wet bag too, which is perfect for when I have a bathing suit that didn’t dry completely," Fraser says.
"For an everyday travel bag, I cannot live without my Longchamp. It’s waterproof — and with travel something always explodes in my purse — so it’s easy to clean up," Kowalewski says. "Be sure to pack your carry-on with possible delays or detours in mind. Bring a snack, refillable water bottle, change of clothes and a great book." Kowalewski isn't the only one who loves this tote — it happens to be a favorite of Kate Middleton, who's been a fan of the bag since her college days and has been spotted carrying it throughout airports. Talk about traveling like a royal!
"I love all the colors of Away luggage," says Kowalewski. "I have pink and it's easy to spot when it comes through the baggage carousel because it's unique. The lie-flat design and two compartments easily separate my clothes to stay organized." Trying to save some souvenir money? This Traveler's Choice carry-on is a great affordable option.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
