There's no place like home for the holidays. (Unless that place is a beach, somewhere warm and far away.) But whether you're traveling to see your family this December, or just trying to get far, far away from them, flying at this time of year isn't fun. On top of the usual stressors (looking at you, checked-bag fees), there are bigger crowds, longer weather delays, and the nagging feeling that you forgot to pack Grandma's Christmas present. No wonder the duty-free shops sell those massive bottles of whiskey.
But travel doesn't have to be a total nightmare. In fact, if you pack the right essentials, you'll not only feel prepared, but maybe even relaxed. While the best-packed carry-on can't guarantee your flight won't get delayed, it will help you stay calm (and even cozy) in the most chaotic airport. Here are six essentials that pay off big time — without taking up too much space.
Hear the baby crying over in 17B? Not anymore, if you're sporting Bose's noise-canceling headphones. Whether you're catching up on your favorite podcast or just looking for some actual peace and quiet, you'll be using these for flights (and years) to come.
Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Headphones, $349, available at Amazon.
Staying hydrated on a drying plane is key. Quench your thirst with plenty of water, and quench your skin with a quick spritz of rosewater. We love Mario Badescu's iconic spray in a travel-friendly size for the blast of calming hydration it provides at a budget-friendly price.
Mario Badescu Facial Spray With Aloe, Herb, And Rosewater, $5, available at Ulta.
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Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy
When you're running from the airport to your hotel to your family gathering, it's a good idea to stash your favorite scent in your bag for last-minute touch-ups. This fragrance from Juicy Couture contains notes of wild berries, gardenia, jasmine, and sandalwood for a light, fruity smell that'll get you all the compliments. Bonus: It's just small enough to be TSA-friendly.
Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy Eau De Parfum, $94, available at Ulta.
Consider this the holy grail of sleep masks: Made from silk, it won't pinch or crease your hair, and it actually soothes your eyes.
Slip For Beauty Sleep Pure Silk Sleep Mask, $45, available at Nordstrom.
Listen, stream, and Candy Crush to your heart's delight with the knowledge that your phone will see you through the entire flight. Mophie's Power Reserve 1x charger contains approximately one full charge and is the size of a tube of mascara.
Mophie Power Reserve 1x Portable Charger, $17.49, available at Best Buy.
Tuck yourself in on chilly planes with an oversized scarf; then, wrap it around your neck as you dash between gates (or when you get to your destination).
Modcloth Moxie At The Movies Scarf, $16.99, available at Modcloth.
If being in a metal tube of recirculated air with all of this season's various flus, colds, and sniffles makes you anxious, toss this little bottle in your bag. Aesop's rinse-free hand wash is non-drying, so you can stay clean without feeling dried out.
Aesop Resurrection Rinse Free Hand Wash, $10, available at Aesop.
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