The 8 best travel accessories for switching plane seats

Sorry, I don’t mean to be rude: I am “that” person that refuses to move seats when flying (especially if I have a child with me). the window seat). And that’s not all recent headlines Online debates about whether or not to use the product it’s okay to ask to switch seats Even though I have paid for my seat with someone, I still insist on staying there.

I have always been adamant about my desire to control my seat assignment, but there were times when it was beyond my control. Before takeoff, I have had to deal with a number of seat swaps.

The best way I have found to handle it is to prepare as though this will happen on every flight. Just a few items are enough to keep you safe. in-flight travel accessoriesAs a customizable neck pillow Or a light-blocking eye maskYou can make the middle or aisle seat more comfortable. Keep scrolling for the eight products I trust for making unwanted plane seat switch-ups no big deal—all under $30 at Amazon. 

Travel Essentials that Make Every Flight Comfortable

Dot&Dot Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Window seat, middle seat, aisle seat—a twistable memory foam travel pillow is my ultimate hack for being comfortable in any spot on the plane. This is currently on sale for 20% off. Dot&Dot travel pillow Has a bendable core made of metal that can be turned and twisted into many different positions for the best support. 

If I am in a window seat, then I will twist it into a Z-shape, putting one of the flat sides in between myself and the plane’s side. And if I am in a middle or aisle seat I use it to create a donut-shaped pillow that provides a visual barrier to my seatmates. 

Anker Soundcore earbuds with Noise Cancelling P30i

The roaring engines of the plane usually drowns out the conversations in the other rows when I am in the window seat. The aisle seat is noisy due to foot traffic and the proximity of other rows. I always make sure to have a pair of noise-cancelling earbuds or headphones juiced up and ready to go, so I can tune out background noise—regardless of what seat I end up in. 

The following are some of the ways to get in touch with each other Soundcore P30i earbudsJet-setters have praised the headphones for their high sound quality and noise cancellation. They are currently on sale at under $40. I have used them for several flights and they work great when traveling. one shopper. They fit my ears perfectly, cancel out plane noises well, and sound great. Anker’s earbuds are the most affordable on the market, and cost a fraction of what Apple or Samsung products do. 

Mzoo Eye Mask

One of the best things about the window seats is the control over when the shade comes down. I am a strong believer that when we reach cruise altitude the shade should come down. Stay informed We’ll wait until we begin our descent to avoid disturbing other passengers with the bright sunlight.

This is not the case for everyone. I have learned to bring a sleeping mask with me in case I am moved to an aisle or middle seat. This Mzoo Sleep Eye Mask The real deal: More than 75,000 customers have rated it 5 stars. block out light While being comfortable to wear for 12 hours on end. 

Cluci Crossbody Bag

It has pros and con to being stuck in the bulkhead. Being in the front row gives you more space for your legs, but there is no under-seat storage in front of you. Pack a small “go” bag that contains all your essentials for the flight to avoid having to make a million trips up and down the aisle. 

For shorter trips, a sling bag that can hold your power bank, lip balm, headphones, and a book should be totally sufficient—but for longer trips, you’ll want to bring something more substantial. This Cluci Crossbody Bag This bag is perfect for long-haul flights. This travel bag is made of a lightweight nylon material that is water-resistant. It has an adjustable shoulder strap and three large zippered pockets. The main compartment can hold a tablet and a light sweater. 

Eversnug 2 in 1 Travel Blanket Pillow

Even if it is an accident, I cannot stand to be touched. Blame my hypersensitivity. Even if I’m sitting in an aisle or middle seat, it is impossible to avoid a random brush with a stranger. However, having a single layer between me, and the rest of the world, can keep my sanity. I love to curl up with my dog. travel blanket They keep me warm when the cabin temperature drops and provide a barrier to my seat neighbor. Win-win! 

Perilogics Airplane Phone Holder

As the space is limited on planes, it feels like I’m forced to keep my arms and my elbows close to me while seated in the middle. This means I have to contort my arms and legs into uncomfortable positions in order to watch movies on my phone. The phone holder mount solves this problem. This can be resolved by using a phone holder mount. one from PerilogicsYou can watch your favorite shows with no need to turn around. 

Jisulife Mini Handheld Fan

For someone who respects her privacy, being stuck in the center seat can be an uncomfortable experience. When the plane is stuck on the runway, being in such close quarters can cause me to sweat and get hot. Airflow can provide tons of relief in these situations, and when the overhead AC just isn’t cutting it, a handheld fan—like this rechargeable option from Jisulife—can be a lifesaver. 

Nooncrazy Airplane Foot Hammock

Buy this for only $14 adjustable foot hammock It hangs off your tray to give your feet a lift. This will help reduce swelling and prevent your toes feeling cramped beneath the seat. It not only gives tired feet a break but can also prevent you from being hit by the beverage cart and other passengers when sitting in an aisle seat. A comfortable, non-restrictive space for your foot will keep you from having to extend your leg into the aisle.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter We’ll send our favorites travel products to you every week.