From the experience of seasoned travelers, we’ve put together a list of items that can make your time at the airport and your flight itself much more comfortable. Everything on this list is carry-on friendly. We’re skipping the basics, such as documents, boarding passes, or cash, and focusing only on practical travel hacks.
Flying often comes with changes in air pressure, and sometimes turbulence as well. This can cause ear «popping», nausea, or even headaches. You can bring over-the-counter medications to help relieve these unpleasant symptoms**.
**Important: Make sure to check the medication’s contraindications before use.
To relieve pressure, nasal sprays or drops that constrict blood vessels in the nasal mucosa and reduce swelling are effective. Even if you feel symptoms in your ears, the problem is usually with the Eustachian tube, which connects the ear to the nasopharynx. That’s why nasal (not ear) drops work best. Recommended active ingredients:
For nausea caused by turbulence Dimenhydrinate, Meclizine, or Cyclizine work well. It’s best to take them at the airport before the flight if you are prone to motion sickness.
Natural remedies for ear congestion include chewing gum or sucking on candy. For motion sickness ginger is recommended, either as candies or crystallized dried fruit.
You might need internet access as soon as you arrive in a new country to book a taxi from the airport, use GPS navigation, look up important information, or get in touch with family and friends. The most convenient option is to purchase a travel eSIM online for your destination before your trip. It is often cheaper and more convenient than buying a SIM card from local operators at the airport since airport SIMs are usually overpriced, require ID, and involve waiting in line. Plus, eSIM is far cheaper than roaming with your home operator.
You can get a PrimaSIM travel eSIM for a specific country like Italy or New Zealand or, if you have layovers in multiple countries, for an entire region. For example, PrimaSIM eSIM for South America or Europe.
If you have a long layover at the airport, it makes sense to get a small data package such as 1 GB, 2 GB, or 3 GB. This ensures you have internet access since stable free Wi-Fi is not available in every airport and, actually, it is safer than using public Wi-Fi.
Airports often have power outlets, but they are limited. Many are located in cafes where you have to make a purchase, while others are on separate stands where it can be difficult to sit comfortably. A dead phone, especially if your tickets are in electronic form, can become a real problem.
Power banks are allowed in your carry-on. However, there are often restrictions based on capacity: up to 100 Wh – allowed without restrictions; over 100 Wh up to 160 Wh – depends on the airline and may require approval (there is often a limit of two such power banks per passenger); over 160 Wh – usually prohibited on flights.
Don’t forget to bring several charging cables for your smartphone and other devices. Airport Duty Free shops often sell extra cables, but prices are higher than in the city, and stores may be closed if your flight is at night, early morning, or late evening.
If you have long flights or layovers (especially 6+ hours), a travel pillow can help prevent neck strain and allow you to sleep comfortably on the plane. There are several types recommended for airports and flights:
Travel Blanket – less popular but actually a very useful travel item, as airplanes and airports can often be cold due to air conditioning. The key factors are lightweight material and compact design. Many travel blankets are sold together with travel pillows. Look for blankets that:
On long layovers and flights many travelers rely on their smartphones, especially with internet access, or an e-reader. But there are also plenty of ways to relax offline, which can help reduce anxiety if you are nervous about flying. Our recommendations:
Your flight and time at the airport can be much more comfortable if you prepare a travel pillow and blanket, a power bank, a PrimaSIM travel eSIM, online and offline games, and other entertainment. It’s also a good idea to pack a small first-aid kit with medications for nausea and ear congestion, such as oxymetazoline or xylometazoline, Dimenhydrinate, Meclizine, and similar remedies. Of course, all of this complements the basics like documents, tickets, cash, and other essentials.