12 Airplane Essentials From Amazon That You Should Always Pack

It’s not easy to relax and block out noises in-flight, particularly when you're elbow-to-elbow with fellow passengers. That's where noise-canceling earbuds come to the rescue, allowing you to rest on a red-eye flight or focus on work projects uninterrupted. This wireless set helps you avoid annoying tangles and allows you plenty of freedom to move. Bose also makes over-the-ear noise-canceling headphones if earbuds aren't your thing.

BUY IT: Amazon, $299

A 2015 study by TravelMath revealed that the seat-back tray table is among the most bacteria-laden surfaces on an airplane. (Um, ick!) Pack this travel-size mist from PlaneAire and give your tray table a few spritzes and a good wipe-down before settling in to your seat. This surface sanitizer is made from six organic essential oils known for their antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Even better, this mist has a fresh herbal scent, not a harsh chemical smell that may irk seatmates.

BUY IT: Amazon, $14.99

There's nothing comfortable about the headrest on an airplane, so do yourself a favor and bring along a neck support pillow, like this uber-popular Trtl Pillow. More than just a pillow, this super-soft travel companion supports your neck, yet looks more like a fleece neck gaiter you might wear on the ski slopes. Wrap this pillow around your neck with the neck support on your preferred sleeping side to keep your head in a comfortable ergonomic position while you doze.

BUY IT: Amazon, $29.99

There's nothing like being trapped in economy for eight hours to make you feel an overwhelming need for rehydration. A quick mist of mineral water facial spray (or as Evian calls it, "brumisateur") is enough to feel revived, at least until you can take a proper shower. Low moisture in plane cabins quickly dries and dehydrates, so a few spritzes of mineral water on your face can make you feel like a new person before deboarding the plane.

BUY IT: Amazon, $16 for two

While flight attendants usually dim the lights in the cabin, it’s never quite dark enough to take a good snooze — even a quick nap. A travel eye mask is a must-have for blocking out your surroundings. Look for an adjustable sleep mask like this one that keeps light from peeking in around your nose. As a bonus, this eye mask comes with ear plugs to muffle noise, too.

BUY IT: Amazon, $12.90

Some planes have power outlets in between seats, but this isn't typical, so a juiced up phone charger is essential to a good flight experience. Opt for a compact charger like this one from Anker that can revive electronics quickly. A fast charge is key when traveling with kids and multiple devices. No one wants to be in zero-battery situation on a crowded airplane.

BUY IT: Amazon, $27.99

Not every plane has a seat-back screen for movies and games. This is especially true on low-cost, no-frills airlines. So, it's a must to bring your own entertainment, like a Kindle device. Just be sure to charge your reader and load it up with books you actually want to read before you leave the ground. The newest Kindle models have enhanced features, like long battery life, glare-free reading and audiobook compatibility.

BUY IT: Amazon, $109.99

Keep your lips from drying out in the low humidity plane cabin with an organic lip balm, like these from Sky Organics. This six-pack of moisturizing lip balms boasts flavors like eucalyptus mint, tropical coconut and cherry bomb. Every member of the family can choose their own because dry, cracked lips are no fun, especially when trapped on a plane. Made from natural ingredients, these lip balms go on smooth, not waxy, and are an Amazon customer favorite with more than 1,100 five-star reviews.

BUY IT: Amazon, $9.95 for six

It's not easy traveling as a family, and honestly, you can't expect your kids to remember to bring everything they need. They won't forget their tablets, but it's easy to leave earbuds behind. Bring along an extra pair or two that are suitable for small ears so your kiddos can quietly watch a movie or play games on their tablets, if only to put their minds at ease while in-flight. This is a 30-pack, so at just over $1 a piece, you can even give them away to anyone else on the plane without a pair.

BUY IT: Amazon, $38.99

If you or your kids suffer from ear pain as the plane is taking off or preparing to land, a pack (or six) of sugar-free gum is an essential carry-on. It's also good to have on board for anyone else in or near your row who may also be suffering from air pressure changes in the cabin. Opt for mint-flavored gum to help tame your breath, which is never nice at the end of a flight, especially after a red-eye.

BUY IT: Amazon, $10.28

According to TravelMath, not only is the tray table a breeding ground for germs, so is the lavatory flush button, seatbelt buckle and overhead air vent. Yuck. You can either plan to not touch any of these on a plane or bring along a travel-size antibacterial hand sanitizer, like this five-pack from Bath & Body Works. These antibacterial hand gels come in sweet-smelling varieties like Peach Bellini and Cucumber Melon. As a bonus, these hand sanitizers soften hands as they kill off 99.9% of common germs.

BUY IT: Amazon, $12 for five

Airplane cabins are notoriously cold, regardless of the season, so a travel wrap that can double as a blanket is a must. This fashionable travel wrap from HappyLuxe is made from eco-friendly fabric. It's also extra-soft and breathable, making it a perfect addition to your carry-on bag. There's even a built-in neck warmer to help you stay warm. Off the plane, this wrap serves as a chic accessory whether you're going casual in jeans or out on the town in a stylish dress.

BUY IT: Amazon, $58