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Stuck at the Airport? Preserve Your Sanity with These 29 Problem-Solving Products

These must-have picks from Amazon will help you have a stress-free travel experience from start to finish, "plane" and simple.

By Jenny Lee Dec 24, 2023 2:00 PMTags
Shop Amazon Airport Travel EssentialsE! News Illustration / Photos Courtesy of Amazon

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Traveling to your dream destination for a relaxing vacay or back home for quality family time is fun; being stuck at the airport for hours on end is not. If you're looking to avoid the mental and emotional baggage that ensues from unexpected airport troubles — from delayed flights to last-minute gate changes — we've got you covered.

From top-rated migraine sticks & pimple patches for fast-acting relief to aloe-infused body wipes & cleansing balms for freshening up on the go, we've rounded up the best finds from Amazon to help keep you sane at the airport, no matter what obstacle flies your way. Plane and simple, these essentials will have you prepared to face the chaos that is "the airport" so you can have a stress-free travel experience from start to finish.

Don't just wing it, and check out these must-have travel picks before jetting off.

Miady 10000mAh Dual USB Portable Charger - Pack of 2

These portable chargers will help ensure your phone stays alive and well, even if you're stuck in the airport for hours on end. Each battery pack comes with two USB output ports that detect all the connected devices and efficiently distribute the current output. They're sleek, compact, ultra-portable and fast-charging — in other words, they check all the boxes.

Anker iPhone Charger Cable - 10 ft

If all the good, conveniently placed outlets are taken up and the only ones left are those that are located inexplicably far from the nearest seat, don't despair! This iPhone charger cable with 9,300+ five-star reviews on Amazon reaches 10 ft, so you can charge your device comfortably for long periods of time. Although, you probably won't need to, as the MFI-certified cable charges your Apple device at its fastest possible speed, according to the brand.

Tube Pillow You Stuff with Clothes

Whether you're a chronic over-packer who needs extra space for all their clothes or worried about your checked baggage being lost (& consequently having to wear the same stinky clothes for days), or you just want an extra pillow on hand in case you're stuck at the airport, this Tube pillow has your back — and neck. It even folds into its own pocket for compact storage!

Huzi Infinity Pillow

This versatile infinity pillow comes in 10 different colors and has 3,900+ five-star reviews on Amazon. It's designed to keep you comfortable no matter your resting positions, and it works as a support for your neck, lumbar, chin, etc. Just twist and adjust to find the most comfortable position, and rest away!

Cuddool Hoodie Travel Pillow

If you have trouble sleeping in bright places with no privacy, this hoodie neck pillow will be your new fave travel companion. The hood helps shield out light, while the neck pillow supports your head, neck & chin to prevent your head from uncomfortably rolling around. The attachable buckle can be adjusted for a tight, secure fit or a lose, comfy fit.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow

OK, this is the last travel pillow rec, I promise! But, I just had to include this Cabeau pillow because it's the one I personally use & swear by for travel; in a word, it's game-changing. Made from dual-density memory foam, this pillow provides comfort whether your head leans forward or to the side, and it even features a custom-adjustable clasp for chin support. As a bonus, the pillow is also earphone-friendly, helping keep them in place via the adjustable raised side supports.

According to one Amazon shopper, "I have been trying so many different kind of travel neck pillow over the years. I'm so glad that I finally found the one that works perfectly on me. Unlike other neck pillows, this one does not really rounding my neck but it just hangs right under the head rest of the flight seat itself. The high sides support design works like a bed pillow to let my cheeks sleep on that no matter my head fell to the left or the right, or even nodding forward. The front lock and back strap work perfectly to hold the position. The first time ever I slept most of the time sooo well on my 14hrs flight!! I can't recommend enough for this neck support."

Smartish Phone Grip Loop

Embrace your inner iPad kid and make the time fly by (pun intended) with this nifty pop-out finger strap for your phone. It easily attaches to your phone case to work as a loop and as a kickstand, so you can binge-watch your favorite show, text your friends with one hand, or snap a cute selfie with ease.

One Amazon shopper wrote, "Most pop rings or pop sockets fall apart for me within two or three months because I fiddle with them so much. This lasted well over a year, and now I am buying another one because I was so pleased with it. This is more comfortable than other caterpillar styles that I've had before, and the grip is very secure."

Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder

Free your hands with this travel cup holder that features three pockets (one back pocket, two front pockets) so you can organize your phone, passport, drinks and more. The foldable design allows for compact storage until you're ready to use it, in which case you simply use the velcro to secure the holder in place on your luggage handles.

Blowfish Malibu Womens Marley

Add up the total time you're traveling to the airport, working your way through it, sitting down in the plane, waiting for your bags, and then finally arriving at your holiday destination — oof. Chances are, you're going to be spending an entire day in your shoes, which means you want to make sure you're comfortable, but that they're also easy to slide on and off for TSA (because the less time we spend there, the better, even just for our sanity's sake). And that's our case for these chic slip-on shoes that not only come in an incredible array of colors, but also have 23,700+ five star ratings on Amazon.

As one shopper wrote, "I love these sneakers!! So much that I will be buying more in different styles and colors! I bought them for a trip I was taking, specifically because they're easy to slip on and off for the airport. I did a lot of walking the first time wearing them and had no issues or discomfort. I usually wear my Adidas Cloud sneaks and absolutely swear by those... But these Blowfish may be my new favorite!!! I bought a pair for both of my daughters as well as they want more! Definitely give them a try!!"

Tile Slim Thin Bluetooth Tracker - Pack of 1

Keep track of your checked bag and protect your peace of mind with this slim Tile bluetooth tracker. The thin, water-resistant gadget is compact enough to be slid into any nook or cranny of your bag, and you can track its location through an app on your smartphone. In the unfortunate case your bag goes missing, you'll be able to find out exactly where it is: crisis averted. You can also get this Tile starter pack, which comes with an essential selection of trackers to keep track of your wallet, keys, bags and more.

Zoppen Multi-purpose Rfid Blocking Passport Holder Travel Wallet

This travel wallet will help you keep all your important documents in one secure place, including your passport, boarding pass, credit cards, ID and even your phone. This chic and multi-functional wallet comes in 35 different colors & options, and it includes an RFID blocking shield inside to help protect your privacy, according to the brand.

Vapur Flexible, Collapsible Anti-Bottle with Detachable Carabiner

This flexible water bottle and carabiner will help you stay hydrated while traveling without taking up valuable space in your carry-on bag. The bottle features a flip cap that has a tough seal but is easy to open, allowing you to remain active and walk around without worrying about spills or leaks. The wide opening also allows for easy filling and cleaning.

RhinoShield AquaStand Magnetic Bottle

A product that makes sure you're hydrated while also helping you binge-watch your favorite show in comfort no matter where you are? Yup, this water bottle is one of those products you never knew you needed but will wonder how you ever lived without after trying it out just once (speaking from personal experience). It features a MagSafe-compatible handle, so you can attach and detach your phone seamlessly and view your screen from 15° to 90° angles for maximum comfort whether you're using it as a phone stand or tripod. Not to mention, the bottle is double-wall insulated to keep your beverages warm or cool for up to eight hours, and it's designed with a silicone gasket and safety buckle for leak-proof capabilities. You can grab it in black or white, and it also comes in a version without a straw if you prefer to sip your drinks.

Juno & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm

Airports can be a lot for your sensitive skin to deal with, from stale air in the long, crowded TSA lines and harsh air pollution wafting in from the planes to the terminal. Even when I head to the airport with a freshly washed face with all my skincare & none of my makeup, I inevitably end up breaking out even before taking off. This TikTok-viral cleansing balm is a life-saver for cleaning your skin on the go. t's TSA-friendly, but equally important, it's formulated with just 10 non-irritating ingredients that leave my skin looking brighter and feeling moisturized.

It has 12,100+ five-star reviews on Amazon, with one shopper writing, "This is my 10th jar. I loved it so much I bought some for my sis in laws. The scent is really nice , not to over bearing. I have sensitive skin and personally I've never had any issues that I see on here. Of course when you use it on your eyes i definitely keep them closed until I fell all the product off my eyelids & usually I'm ok. If product does sneak in , it does blur my vision a bit but nothing crazy and goes away as soon as you rinse it out of your eye, If you happen to get it in there. I compared this product with the Clinique balm.. needless to say ? Juno was WAY better and melted my makeup off like butter , as for the Clinique balm , I could still feel a film of product even after I'd rinse. Also the product doesn't last as long as the juno brand. Another plus , it's super affordable !!"

ZitSticka Hydrocolloid Patches - Pack of 36

Even with cleansing your face, it's possible that a pimple or two will metaphorically slip through the TSA line with you. That's one of the last things we want during the holidays, especially if you're on your way to a well-deserved dream vacay or seeing your loved ones. These ZitSticka hydrocolloid patches have you covered, providing surface-level zit extraction and acting as a second layer of skin to accelerate skin regeneration in the affected area, according to the brand.

One Amazon shopper called these "The top tier of hydrocolloid patches," adding, "I've probably tried at least 15 different brands of these types of patches over the past couple of years (not including the microdart variants). I'm not sure what kind of voodoo they put in these patches, but, they always work when other patches have little to no effect. And they start working fast. I don't like the price, but, at the same time with these you do get what you pay for. I always keep an extra box on hand."

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MoKo Double Eyeglass & Contact Lens Case

As a glasses and contact lens wearer, I have to check off two extra items on my packing list each time I travel, and it can be a hassle to keep track of both consistently. I wish I had learned about this double eyeglass and contact lens case sooner, and I love how practical, lightweight and chic it is (not to mention, it comes in 10 different colors). The two-in-one case is super compact and portable, which saves me precious luggage space, and I can wear my contacts to the airport and then switch them out for my glasses before boarding.

Flint Classic Retractable Lint Roller - 90 Sheets

The airplane doesn't have to be the only one going down the runway. I love airport fashion, and I always take time to meticulously plan out my airport OOTD that blends style with comfort. If you're like me and want to look and feel your best amid the hustle and bustle of the airport, this retractable flint roller is a must-have. It's ultra-compact, and it easily twists open to reveal long-lasting adhesive sheets that pick up pet hair, dust, lint and more.

Basic Vigor Migrastil Migraine Stick® Rollon

From long TSA lines to hard-to-find gates and last-minute delayed flights, there are a lot of things at the airport that can potentially cause headaches and migraines. This top-rated headache relief stick has 18,600+ five-star reviews on Amazon, and it includes relaxing ingredients like pure peppermint, spearmint and lavender oils. The stick easily glides on to your temples, forehead and back of your neck for fast, cooling relief and soothing aromatherapy.

Homedics Quatro Mini Hand-Held Massager with Hand Grip

After dealing with all the headache-giving, body-straining circumstances the airport has to offer and finally making it to your gate, you deserve nothing less than pure relaxation. Of course, that's hard to do in the gate waiting areas with the uncomfortable chairs and crowded spaces. That's where this mini hand-held massager comes in; it's compact yet powerful, providing a relaxing spot massage with a single vibration speed.

One Amazon shopper described, "My dad uses this thing every day. He brings it along on road trips - and takes it to bed with him. It is light weight - and easier to manage than a typical massager with long handle."

Clorox Disinfecting Wipes On The Go Travel Wipes - 9 Count (Pack of 24)

The airport is a special place where people are coming from and traveling to all parts of the world — which also means there can be a lot of bacteria and germs in every nook and cranny. These bleach-free disinfecting wipes are perfect for travel; each pack contains nine antibacterial wipes, making it the perfect size to throw in your carry-on or purse.

Guanjunx Suitcase Elastic Strap Belt

Keep track of your belongings and save your arms and shoulders from the pain of lugging around extra bags at the airport with this elastic strap belt. The stretchy, heavy-duty bungee allows you to easily secure a second bag, coat, suitcase or box to your carry-on or wheeled luggage without it twisting around or slipping.

EverSnug Travel Blanket and Pillow

If you're stuck in a cold airport while waiting for an even colder plane, this travel blanket is about to be your new best friend. It's lightweight yet cozy, and when folded in its compact carrying case, it doubles as a plush pillow. It also features a hand luggage sleeve at the back of the carrying case so you can easily attach it to your suitcase or use the included carabiner to clip onto your backpack.

JisuLife Handheld Mini Fan

On the other hand, if you're stuck in an airport that is a few degrees to hot, this handheld mini fan has you covered. It has 42,400+ five-star reviews on Amazon, and its multi-functional design features a fan, flashlight and backup power bank function. It's small enough to fit in your palm or pocket, and it delivers up to 21 hours of cooling time in one full charge, according to the brand.

Fomin Paper Soap Sheets for Hand Washing - 300 Sheets

One of the rough situations you might encounter at an airport is running into an empty soap dispenser in the bathroom. Although designed for those going camping or hiking, these gentle soap sheets are perfect for anyone who is traveling. Simply remove one sheet with dry hands, add water and rub your hands together to create a soapy, sudsy lather. Rinse off, and you'll have hands that feel clean and smell of orange, tea tree, or lavender!

Nurture Valley Nurture XL Ultra Thick Body Wipes for Adults with Aloe - 10 Count (Pack of 12)

On a similar note, if you're stuck in a stale airport for a long time, these body wipes are the next best thing to taking a steaming hot shower. With soothing natural ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E, these unscented, hypoallergenic and sanitary wipes wil help you freshen up on the go.

SB Sox Compression Socks for Men & Women

Leg and foot swelling during air travel is common but not necessarily wanted. These compression socks help boost your blood circulation and relieve leg pain, swelling and fatigue, according to the brand. They also feature cushioned heel and toe support for optimal comfort, and they're available in multiple colors and sizes.

Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

There's a lot of noise constantly going on at an airport, from flight boarding announcements to loud conversations and planes roaring down the tarmac. If you want to minimize the noise and retain some semblance of peaceful lounging, these active noise cancelling headphones are a great investment. They have 50,300+ five-star Amazon reviews, and according to the brand, they deliver up to 40 hours of non-stop playtime.

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack

Keep your belongings safe and secure in style with this chic anti-theft travel backpack. It's made from water-resistant polyester fabric to provide long-lasting durability, and it also features a comfortable padded back and adjustable shoulder straps. The backpack comes in 28 different options for color & size, and it includes plenty of interior and exterior pockets for storing your phone, books, gadgets, wallet and other essentials.

Travelon Women's Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag

This anti-theft messenger bag is another great option for securely carrying your belongings around the airport and during your trip. It features a five-point anti-theft security system, plenty of multi-organizational compartments and interior space, an adjustable shoulder strap and zippered mesh water bottle pockets on each side.

Hitting the road with a fur baby this holiday? Check out these 15 products to help manage your dog or cat's anxiety while traveling.

—Originally published March 5, 2023, at 5:00 a.m. PT