With new travel requirements, we curated a packing list with all of the flight essentials you’ll need for your next flight.
In true procrastinator fashion, I waited until the last possible moment to schedule my REAL ID appointment—and if the reports on longer than usual DMV wait times are to be believed, I’m far from alone. After months of persistent REAL ID deadline reminders from the Department of Homeland Security, the new travel requirement officially went into effect Wednesday, May 7, with the goal of instituting an additional security measure for air travel within the United States.
Despite my months (read: years) of stalling, I did eventually get my REAL ID—and now find myself with the sudden urge to travel. After all, what’s the point of waiting hours in line for a travel license if you’re not ever going to use it? While I haven’t yet sorted out where exactly I’ll be traveling this summer, I already know what flight essentials I’ll be packing for my next excursion. There are the usual suspects: Apple AirTags, a Trtl travel pillow, my trusted Béis Weekender and iWalk Portable Charger that are always staples within my personal carry-on bag.
Now, with my itch to plan another getaway, I have a hunch I’ll be adding a couple more travel accessories to my packing list. Ahead, check out my curated guide to the best travel-ready flight essentials to grab before your next trip—in addition to your REAL ID license (of course).
Shop the best travel-friendly flight essentials
1. Apple AirTags
Apple AirTags
Slip an Apple AirTag into your checked baggage and you’ll be able to track its exact whereabouts directly from your phone.
$80 at Amazon (Save $19)
2. Béis The Weekender Travel Bag
Béis The Weekender Travel Bag
The most famous Béis travel accessory, this genius personal carry-on item boasts tons of interior space that’s perfect for packing clothes, shoes or any other in-flight essentials.
$108 at Béis
3. Trtl Travel and Airplane Pillow
Trtl Travel and Airplane Pillow
Sleep comfortably on planes and red eye flights with the help of this unconventional travel pillow, which was bought by over 5,000 Amazon shoppers last month alone.
$60 at Amazon (Save $5)
4. Twelve South AirFly Pro
Twelve South AirFly Pro
This small but mighty wireless transmitter will help to elevate your in-flight entertainment experience.
$42 at Amazon (Save $13)
5. Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle
For those longer travel days, keep this durable Owala water bottle close to enjoy continued hydration with ice-cold water (or any drink of your choosing).
$30 at Target
6. iWalk USB-C Portable Charger
iWalk USB-C Portable Charger
I never travel without this compact portable charger; it plugs directly into your phone’s USB-C port, with no extra charging cord required.
$25 at Amazon (Save $5)
7. Summer Fridays Jet Lag Eye Patches
Summer Fridays Jet Lag Eye Patches
Struggling to sleep on an overnight flight? These nourishing eye masks can help to revive tired and puffy eyes, plus they’re easy to slip into your travel toiletry bag.
$24 at Sephora
8. Monos Compressible Packing Cubes
Monos Compressible Packing Cubes
These Monos packing cubes are designed with over-packers in mind (speaking from lots of personal experience).
$95 at Monos
9. Travel Inspira Luggage Scale
Travel Inspira Luggage Scale
You’ll never have to second guess about your suitcase’s weight again thanks to this handy luggage scale—a notable best-seller on Amazon.
$11 at Amazon
10. Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs
Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs
Noisy cabin neighbors, turbulence, babies—these top-rated Loop ear plugs are designed to block out all background noises, so you can enjoy a more comfortable (and quiet) flight.
$28 at Amazon
11. Bombas Travel Compression Sock and Gripper Slipper 2-Pack
Bombas Travel Compression Sock and Gripper Slipper 2-Pack
Long flights can be hard on legs. To keep blood circulation moving throughout any travel day, opt for these cozy compression socks from Bombas.
$74 at Bombas (Save $5)
12. Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier Vegan Powder Electrolyte Supplements
Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier Vegan Powder Electrolyte Supplements
If your standard water bottle isn’t cutting it on the hydration-front, consider mixing some electrolyte supplements into your travel diet with these Liquid I.V. powders—available in a variety of flavors.
$15 at Target
13. Airplane Foot Hammock
Airplane Foot Hammock
Enjoy a first class-like experience from anywhere on the airplane with this comfortable foot hammock.
$15 at Amazon
When is the REAL ID deadline?
Per the Department of Homeland Security, the REAL ID deadline goes into effect Wednesday, May 7—meaning that in order to fly domestically within the United States moving forward, you’ll need to have your driver’s license upgraded to a REAL ID license.
While DMV offices are still reporting an influx in visitors and appointments, USA TODAY reporters have noted that many national airports are operating smoothly as of Wednesday afternoon—despite the new travel requirement.
What are the REAL ID requirements?
If you’re still unsure of how to get a REAL ID, be sure to visit the Department of Homeland Security website for additional details. REAL ID requirements will vary by each state driver’s licensing agency, but will generally require you to provide documentation confirming your full legal name, Social Security number, date of birth and address.
