Seven Savvy In-Flight Must Haves

When long hours on an airplane loom ahead, there are small comforts that can ease the strain and help pass those hours more comfortably - even pleasantly. Try these seven savvy in-flight must-haves recommended by a former flight attendant and avid pleasure traveler:

1. Airplane pillows and blankets are rapidly becoming a thing of the past. Even if pillows are onboard, they are not changed after every flight. Need I say more? There are several types of inflatable pillows that are perfect for air travel. They take virtually no room to pack and inflate with only a few breaths. Travel gear companies sell inflatable pillows in the $10-$20 range. My favorite inflatable neck pillow comes from the Wal-Mart luggage section and costs $4.67. A large, light-weight piece of flannel material makes a great travel blanket/wrap.

2. The Pro Tech Communications Noisebuster audio headset serves two purposes. NoiseBuster can be used on its own for simple peace and quiet or in conjunction with an audio system for excellent music clarity. The adaptor works with airline audio connections and Noisebuster is much more comfortable than standard airline headsets. Best of all, at the flip of a switch, Noisebuster dramatically reduces aggravating sounds like crying babies and engine noise. There are a variety of noise canceling headsets on the market priced as high as $299. The NoiseBuster delivers as much noise cancellation performance than the highest priced competing headphone for a list price of only $69. Treat yourself to one. Check them out at www.protechcommunications.com.

3. Airplane water has received bad press lately relating to its potability. Bottled water is usually offered with most cabin beverage services. But, cabin air is very dry and service can be delayed. Always travel with a couple of bottles of drinking water and a small misting bottle to refresh dry skin after hours in the sky.

4. Ever notice that it's a little harder to put your shoes back on if you slip them off in flight? After long hours in the air, low air pressure in the cabin causes feet and ankles to swell. Add effects of dehydration from extremely dry cabin air, lowered oxygen levels, and the lack of movement or exercise that comes with sitting for hours in cramped seats and you have an increased risk of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), also know as Economy Class Syndrome.

Support socks help prevent swollen feet and ankles. Wear them and get in the habit of flexing your feet and curling your toes twenty times each hour. Walk your feet up and down while seated and your feet in clock-wise and counter-clockwise circles to improve circulation and reduce the threat of DVT.

5. Always bring a personal carry-on bag with a change of clothes, underwear, cosmetics, toiletries, and medications. There is no guarantee you and your bag will arrive together at your destination. Flight delays may result in several hours or overnight stays without your checked bags. Tuck a lightweight wrap in your carry-on. Cabin temperatures vary and airline blankets, like pillows, are scarce.

6. Airline food has steadily become less frequent and less palatable through the years. You will be the envy of fellow-travelers when you pull out your gourmet deli items. Pack treats in a small lunch-sized insulated bag that fits in a carry-on bag. Some favorite treats are unsalted nuts, spreadable cheese and crackers, and "wrap" sandwiches, sans mayonnaise. No time to pack a lunch. Check out restaurants and snack facilities in any airport in the world at www.airlineandairportlinks.com and grab a meal to go.

7. Plan ahead for in-flight entertainment. In-flight hours are a great time to catch up on magazines. Tuck a stack in a carry-on and leave them or pass them along as you finish each one. Read a book or an exciting fiction story that takes place in the part of the world where Iou are headed. Pocket-sized travel games, such as Quidler. or dominos, help the hours pass. Small games, books and treats are even more important when traveling with children. Don't count on the airline for any kiddie supplies or snacks.

Many of these treats and comforts work equally well for long hours in a car or tour bus. Planning and preparation make ithe difference between boredom and comfort in the air or on the road.