Flying doesn’t have to feel like a battle between discomfort and travel anxiety. I’ve been there—sitting in a cramped seat, clutching the armrest and hoping I don’t accidentally doze off on the stranger beside me. But guess what? With the right products, flying can actually become a cozy, calming experience for the nervous flyer. Or at least not terrifying!
Below are my favorite flight essentials that help me stay more relaxed in the air. Let’s jet-set into these must-haves.
If you have a fear of flying fear, don’t forget to also see my 8 Tips to Help Conquer Your Fear of Flying.
Comfort Products for Your Flight
Dr. Teal’s Calming Spray
Ever wish you could bottle relaxation? Dr. Teal’s Sleep Spray does just that. With a dreamy blend of melatonin, lavender, and chamomile, this little spritz works wonders on frazzled nerves. Just spray it on your travel blanket or neck pillow, and it’s like a personal spa in the sky.
Mindful Mandala Adult Coloring Book
When I’m too anxious to sit still, I whip out this coloring book. There’s something super therapeutic about filling in intricate designs—kind of like a mental massage. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to practice mindfulness (and distract yourself from turbulence). Pro tip: pack colored pencils, not markers—no one wants an ink explosion at 30,000 feet.
If you need more in-flight distraction ideas, read about my things to do on a plane during a long flight.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 Noise-Canceling Headphones
Planes are noisy, but these AirPods are my secret weapon. Pop them in, and suddenly, the crying baby in row 22? Gone. With adaptive noise cancellation and transparency mode, they let you toggle between silence and staying aware of announcements. I swear, they make flights feel like a private sound bubble.
Cup of Calm Tea Sachets
There’s just something peaceful about sipping tea mid-flight, especially one loaded with soothing herbs like chamomile and lavender. Ask the flight attendant for hot water, and you’ll have yourself a mini tea ritual. Bonus: peppermint tea can calm an upset tummy, too—just in case pre-flight jitters got the best of you.
Go Neck Pillow
Do you get nervous about waking up mid-flight, drooling on your neighbor? Yeah, me too. That’s why I recommend traveling with this neck pillow. It wraps snugly around your neck with 360° support, so you’ll sleep like a baby without the embarrassment.
Pre-Downloaded Podcasts
If you need to get out of your own head, podcasts are a great way to go. I love downloading a few below a flight, especially from Mel Robbins—her soothing voice is like a pep talk wrapped in a blanket. Plus, you don’t need Wi-Fi, so no panicking when airplane mode kicks in. It’s like a personal coach in your earbuds.
Boacay Cozy Travel Blanket
Airplanes are notorious for blasting arctic-level air conditioning. This plush, packable blanket will keep you warm and cozy without hogging all the space in your carry-on. It even doubles as a pillow in a pinch. Because let’s be real, comfort is key when you’re a nervous flyer.
Calm App
For flight anxiety, the Calm app is a total game-changer. They even have special meditations just for fearful flyers. Plus, they are the #1 app for relaxation, with over 150 million downloads! Pop on your headphones, take a deep breath, and let their soothing voices guide you to relaxation. It’s like having a meditation coach in your pocket.
Manta Sleep Mask
Airplane lights, seatbelt announcements, and aisle traffic can mess with your sleep. Enter the Manta Sleep Mask—a blackout curtain for your face. It blocks 100% of light without squishing your eyes, which makes it perfect for getting some mid-flight shut-eye (and not looking like a sleep-deprived raccoon).
Gaiam Stress Balls
I don’t know about you, but when I’m anxious, I need to move. That’s where these stress balls come in. They’re small enough to fit in your bag and come in three resistance levels. Perfect for squeezing out nerves or keeping your hands busy during takeoff.
E-Reader or Favorite Book
Books are a tried-and-true escape from the present. Load up your Kindle with a page-turner, or bring along a book you’ve been meaning to finish. Just make sure it’s good—because if it’s a snooze, you’ll be hyper-aware of every turbulence bump instead.
Fidget Spinner
When nervous energy strikes, a fidget spinner can help keep you grounded. It’s discreet, easy to carry, and oddly satisfying. Plus, it’s a great distraction when your mind starts playing the “What if…” game mid-flight.
Duncan & Stone Paper Co. Travel Journal
If writing helps you stay calm, this travel journal is perfect. Use it to jot down your thoughts, travel goals, or even mini bucket lists while you’re in the air. Bonus: It makes for an awesome keepsake to reflect on your travels later.
Downloaded Movie or Shows
Not all planes come with seatback screens, so don’t get caught unprepared. Download your favorite shows or movies ahead of time for uninterrupted entertainment. (Because nothing says “relaxation” like binge-watching your favorite tv series at 35,000 feet.)
Loop Engage Ear Plugs
Flying is noisy enough—no need to let it overwhelm you. These earplugs reduce loud background sounds while still letting you hear conversations. It’s like dialing down the noise just enough so you can enjoy your flight in peace. Perfect for people like me who need a break from the constant hum.
The Ginger People Ginger Rescue Lozenges
Feeling a little queasy? These ginger lozenges are a lifesaver. Not only do they ease nausea, but they also help calm anxiety. They’re a drug-free remedy you’ll want to have on hand—just in case those in-flight jitters hit harder than expected.
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