The op-ed below does not necessarily reflect the views of the University Daily Kansan and its members.
As we begin to plan our travels for winter break, spring break or even a study abroad program over the coming semester or summer, we inevitably rack up a list of things to purchase to prepare us for the journey.
For those of you who have friends or family embarking on a trip soon, think of them during your holiday shopping and help them spruce up their travel tools!
As someone who is a self-proclaimed airport apologist, I love all things travel and have compiled a list of the potential travel accessories that are sure to bring a smile to your friend who’s catching flights.
Silk Eye Mask
Whether or not you enjoy sleeping with a mask on, they sure do assist with getting sleep on a long flight, and many travelers find them helpful for blocking out the sun in a plane or car.
Additionally, if your neighbor has a bright screen, you can blissfully sleep without being bothered. Silk masks are especially comfortable and prevent breakouts. Some also offer padding around your eyes to avoid pressure on your eyes and keep you comfortable throughout your nap!
Over-the-Ear Headphones
Always an airport staple, a good pair of headphones will get you through the airport, a flight or simply any hard day. They must be durable enough to be thrown in the bottom of a bag, crammed in a suitcase or accidentally dropped on the floor.
My pair of Beats have lasted through many flights, workouts and unfortunate crashes to the floor. I am quick to recommend them to anyone looking for new headphones. It’s are a popular brand for a reason!
Additionally, you don’t have to worry about losing an earbud halfway down the back of the plane when you fall asleep mid-flight.
Kindle
Next on the list, a Kindle is a perfect gift for a reader constantly on the go. It is easy to slide into a backpack, is lighter than a book, and also makes downloading new reads easy.
If you purchase Kindle Unlimited, you can also get many books for free. There are various options on Amazon that you can choose from that make internet-free time on a plane enjoyable!
AirTags
AirTags are a great addition to throw into any traveler’s backpack, purse or luggage. In the case that anything is misplaced or lost by an airline, you can easily track the tag and find out where it has been left.
Airlines are even allowing customers to share their AirTag statuses to aid in the process of finding lost bags! Many travelers know the fear of losing luggage; being able to track it with AirTags would certainly help with our reassurance and help us find our bags.
Long Chargers
Of course, chargers are always something handy to have a spare of. They are often misplaced and broken, and a good long charging cord is so handy, especially in airports that may be older or simply inconvenient.
Chargers are classic stocking-stuffer gifts that are always needed and never bought, and can be the perfect addition to lists this year.
Portable Noise Maker
For those who love sleeping in their bed with blackout curtains and utter silence, sleeping in noisy hotels or a friend’s house can be a challenge.
Packing a travel-size noise maker can help drown out outside noises and even assist with snoring roommates. They are available at many general stores, though this specific pick is from Amazon.
Toiletry Bag
A good, sturdy toiletry bag is essential for travelers. The zippers on cheap bags tend to break, and makeup, toothpaste or soap inevitably spills on the inside. Often, it is easier to simply toss the entire bag rather than attempt to clean one out. This specific option is collapsible, allowing the user to fit it into compact spaces in suitcases and carry-ons. There are also many other well-loved options, which are waterproof and help prevent the issue of spilling.
Reliable Ball Cap
Last but not least, a classic ball cap is perfect to throw on after a long trip. It can cover up any messy hair and add a little accessory to a travel outfit. They are easy, relatively cheap and can be customized so you represent your favorite team or city! This option is from Amazon, though ‘47 has cute team ball caps, and many brands offer fun branding or phrases!
To all those buying for travelers, I hope this list assists in your holiday shopping and even gives you ideas for your own jet-setting adventure!
Reagan Redick joined the opinion section for the University Daily Kansan in 2023. Coming from Houston, Texas, she is a sophomore at the University of Kansas studying political science and journalism. Reagan enjoys writing about topics revolving around society and government; outside of the Kansan, she participates in sorority and fraternity Life and is an avid Kansas football and basketball fan.
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