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These are the things people forget to pack most, according to flight attendants

headphones, water bottle, sneakers, hand cream, blanket
They're often forgotten, but these products are game-changing for travel. (Photos: Amazon, Nordstrom)

Even the excitement of a few days off work and a new destination can't take away from the truth: travel is stressful. There's the prep work to book flights, cars and hotel rooms, the long pre-trip to-do list, and of course, the packing. You stuff your and your kids' bags with outfits, bathing suits and the absolute essentials. But what about the extras? Those little oft-forgotten items that make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable? They don't make it on your initial packing list, but they should. Flight attendants and crew say these are the most commonly forgotten (then purchased) things when traveling.

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"Even if you have your cellphone or other electronic devices fully charged and ready to go, I always recommend having a plan for a quick recharge – especially if you use your phone for things like electronic boarding passes and text or email notifications from your airline," says Vanessa Settimi, a flight attendant and in-flight instructor for Swoop Airlines. Another reason to pack a portable charger is because not all planes have outlets, and not all airports have theirs in the most convenient locations. Not to mention the difficulty in getting access to one on particularly busy days, she adds. This sleek power bank can charge up to two devices at once and is compatible with most phones.

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$23 at Amazon

If you don’t travel often, it’s easy to forget how parched your skin can get at 38,000 feet, says Settimi. "A lot of travelers will forget to pack things like hand cream, moisturizer and lip balm, which go a long way in combatting the dry conditions." L'Occitane hand creams are bestsellers for good reason: The shea butter–infused formula deeply moisturizes skin, yet sinks in quickly. Choose from the original, lavender, almond or cherry blossom scents.

$30 at Amazon

While most airlines have earbuds available upon request to use with in-seat TVs, they admittedly leave a lot to be desired. Wireless Bluetooth headphones like these from Soundcore can connect to any smart device to stream your own shows or music, but you can also buy a Bluetooth transmitter to connect it to the plane TVs as well. "These noise-cancelling headphones are a great, affordable option to listen to your favorite music, watch a show, or just sit comfortably while enjoying some peace and quiet," recommends Kristin Deutsch, Crew Concierge for Speedbird, a private jet charter service.

$40 at Amazon

A few sips from an airport drinking fountain or the small cups of water on the plane often aren't enough to keep you hydrated during a long day in transit. Bringing your own reusable water bottle means you're able to fill up and guzzle on the go. "I always do a double take when I see passengers with the Corkcicle Canteen!" says Deutsch. "This water bottle is stylish, keeps your water nice and cool, and easily slips into a backpack or tote for easy storage." Plus, the insulated design keeps bevs cold for up for 24 hours or hot for 12 hours, if you want to fill it with coffee for a road trip. It will also come in handy for sightseeing slogs when you reach your destination.

$34 at Amazon

If you've ever tried to sleep during a long-haul flight with just that dinky little pillow the airline gives you, you know it's less than ideal, to put it mildly. (And if you're in the middle seat, fuggedaboutit.) So it's high time you got your own quality headrest. "It hurts my own neck to see how some passengers sleep in flight!" says Deutsch. "Even for short flights, a memory foam neck pillow can be a lifesaver." True that; it cradles your neck and provides support so you can fall asleep sitting up comfortably. "I’ve seen a neck pillow used in many ways: around the neck for support, as a pillow or propped up as arm supports," says Settimi. Trust us; you'll arrive at your destination a lot more rested and a lot less neck-achy. 

$45 at Amazon

"If you run on the cooler side, then I always recommend packing a small blanket in your carry-on," says Settimi. Fun fact: Cabin temperatures are usually kept a bit chilly due to the risk of turbulence (i.e., warmer temps can be difficult for travelers prone to motion sickness, she explains). This set (from Oprah-approved brand E Marie) is ideal for travel — its luxuriously soft blanket and knit eye mask will have you snoozing in style. Their super lightweight design also means they won't take up too much space in your bag.

$98 at Nordstrom

"For long hauls, there is nothing better than compression socks to keep your blood flowing and body comfortable throughout the flight," says Deutsch. "These are the best for combating stiffness and soreness so you can hop off the plane and start your vacation without missing a beat." The tall socks are great to wear while on the plane, but they can also hasten recovery after a hike or long day of walking.

$15 at Amazon

You'll remember your sandals, walking shoes and maybe even a fancy pair of heels for dinner, but consider the "what if" shoes. What if my new shoes give me a a blister? What if my feet are screaming and I need something supportive? What if we decide to go on a hike or another strenuous activity? Bringing a pair of tennis shoes is always a safe bet. And these are hands-down the best shoes for travel, says Deb Higgins, vice president of sales for Speedbird. "I often see women business travelers wear these shoes before they change into heels upon arrival at their final destination. They are perfect for hustling through the airport or stepping off the plane for a day of sightseeing."

$125 at Amazon

This is my best-kept secret, Deutsch reveals. "Although it’s best to avoid perfume in-flight, this mini diffuser lets you bring your favorite scents with you when you travel. I give myself a quick spritz in between flights or on arrival at my destination to feel refreshed." The travel-size atomizer has a handy nozzle on the bottom so you can fill it with your favorite perfume sans spills and without packing that clunky, fancy bottle.

$7 at Amazon

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