These Are The Must-Have Travel Essentials That Cabin Crew Always Pack In Their Suitcases
Whether you’re travelling for leisure or for work, there’s no doubt that a travel hack — or three — that take the hassle out of travelling and make the experience a more confortable is always welcome. And if there’s a group of people who know a nifty travel hack, it’s cabin crew.
Restricted by luggage limitations and still needing to be in tip-top physical condition as they work up in the air, flight attendants have honed the art and science of maximising their comfort while they’re on the go. Ahead, four flight attendants, past and present, share with us their must-have travel items.
#1: Portable kettle
“Those who worry about using the hotel’s electric kettle for hygiene should bring a portable kettle. This way, I can access safe drinking water without having to pack a bulky electric kettle.” — Jasmine, 31. Flew with Scoot for seven years
#2: Hot water bag
“It can get chilly on the plane at cruising altitude, so I like to have a hot water bag to keep me warm on the aircraft. It also serves the same purpose when I’m in a colder climate. Plus, it is a relatively portable item that also helps ease menstrual cramps.” – Fiona, 31. Flew with SIA for four years
#3: Portable air humidifier
“I sleep with a portable air humidifier [when I’m travelling]. It adds moisture to dry air, keeping irritation to the nasal passages and sinuses at bay. This would also promote better sleep quality, as you would be less affected by dry air.” — Jasmine
#4: Extra tote bag
“I always keep a tote bag stashed inside my luggage. You never know when you need extra storage for shopping, and a foldable tote bag doesn’t take up much space.”— Prim, 30. Cabin crew with six years of experience
#5: Hanging travel toiletry bag
“I store my makeup, skincare, and toiletries in a travel toiletry bag. It fits everything I use and there’s a hook to hang it in the toilet for easy access.” – Fiona
#6: Laundry detergent sheets
“I use laundry detergent sheets to wash my uniform after every flight in the hotel room. I don’t need to lug around liquid detergent, it is lightweight and smells good too.” – Nurliyana, 31. Flew with Singapore Airlines for 3.5 years
#7: Eye mask
“Because of our schedules, getting sufficient quality sleep is important for cabin crew to remain alert onboard. I use a heated sleep mask to alleviate eye fatigue and promote deeper, restful sleep.” — Jasmine
#8: Perfume atomiser
“Bringing a whole bottle of perfume on board is a pain. A perfume atomiser is easy to refill and keeps me smelling fresh throughout my flights. It’s small enough for a handbag, making it really convenient.” – Fiona
#9: Power bank
“I always keep a power bank or portable phone charger fully charged with me. After all, we are so dependent on our phones now — to connect with others, use the Internet, use Google Maps for directions, and more.” — Prim
#10: Water tumbler
“There are countries where potable water isn’t readily available. So I carry a water tumbler with me to ensure that I stay hydrated and not fall sick as easily. A water tumbler also maintains the drink’s temperature for whenever I want to sip on a hot or cold drink.” — Prim
READ MORE: 11 Wallet-Friendly Water Bottles To Buy
#11: An investment piece suitcase
“My favourite luggage is from Rimowa. It is on the pricier side, but the wheels are super smooth. There is also a lifetime warranty, so it works out [financially] in the end. Pro tip: Rimowa is from Germany, so it is much cheaper there and you can get a tax refund too.” – Nurliyana