These Types Of Accessory Items Are Way Less Useful Than They Seem For Frequent Travelers

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If your social media pages have been flooded with travel "must-haves," you've probably seen some pretty gimmicky concepts. From hanging footrests to full-face pillow helmets, there's no shortage of weird, niche accessories claiming to make flying more bearable. But frequent travelers will typically tell you that most of these so-called "game changers" are more trouble than they're worth.

Consider those hanging footrests that loop onto your tray table. While it sounds like it's super convenient to pack and will keep your feet comfy on an airplane, we're going to say this is a hard pass. While frequent travelers are usually careful to practice a variety of unspoken airplane etiquette rules, a footrest hanging from a tray table is bound to cause drama if it pulls on or shakes the seat in front of you. Add in the fact that you have to put it away during takeoff and landing when those tray tables go back up, and it's not exactly the seamless solution it claims to be.

Then there's the hilarious-looking and expensive Ostrichpillow, which looks like a cross between a neck brace and a pillow fort (or cocoon?) enveloping your entire head. While it might block out the world during your nap (and potentially cushion you against any head trauma), it's kind of on the large size for something you have to pack or carry around. Also, wearing it in public is a pretty bold choice, to put it nicely. In general, most "plane hack" items that only serve one function tend to become dead weight in your carry-on. If it doesn't fit in your bag easily or serve multiple purposes, it's probably not worth it in the long run.

While gimmicky plane gadgets may end up collecting dust, there are plenty of accessories that frequent travelers swear by. For overseas trips, a slim, international travel adapter with USB-C and USB-A ports is a winner. The best ones include swappable prongs for multiple countries and don't weigh down your bag. Bonus points if it has surge protection, so you can safely charge your phone and laptop at once — whether you're in a Paris Airbnb or a Tokyo airport lounge. This travel adapter from Amazon is a perfect example. 

While neck pillows have been the quintessential travel accessory since forever, there are packable, lightweight versions these days that are definitely an upgrade — like this napfun neck travel pillow. You also can't go wrong with a flat toiletry kit that hangs or unfolds. Bonus points if it comes with TSA-compliant bottles for your products, like this Cosywell toiletry travel kit. And anyone that spends a lot of time traveling will swear by a quality reusable water bottle, like the ZULU Powerfill Pro, which can keep your water cool all day long and save you a wad of cash from the marked up, lukewarm options in the airport. 

Lastly, a power bank can be a lifesaver, like this one from INIU. Look for one that charges your phone at least once and tucks into a small pocket — just be sure to check the TSA rules to make sure it's travel approved, and remember that power banks must be packed in carry-on bags. Ultimately, if an accessory solves an actual inconvenience without adding bulk, it's a travel essential. And if you're looking for some ideas on must-have travel accessories, check out our ultimate gift guide for the frequent traveler in your life.