Just in case: in-transit accessories to upgrade your next trip …
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One of the summer’s trends among Gen Z-ers was “rawdogging” – skipping in-flight amenities and entertainment, from watching movies and listening to music or podcasts to forgoing sleep and food. Advocates claim rawdogging can be a positive, mindful way of travelling. Talking to friends who are frequent travellers, I think it’s not a trend that is likely to go mainstream, especially among those flying long haul and/or in comfortable business class. For most people, travelling well is not about denial, it’s about making the experience as painless as possible, carrying a single bag and having reliable accessories to soothe, support and entertain.
Silence seems to be an increasing priority. Dublin-based hairstylist Dylan Bradshaw never flies without his iPad and Dyson OnTrac headphones. “They completely block outside noise so I can fully relax no matter how busy it is around me.” Travel writer Tim Magee prioritises sleep; his aim is total sensory deprivation. “I’m on my eighth set of Manta Sleep eyeshades, (from €41) and always take Boots’ soft silicone earplugs (€5.57). “The near silence these little mouldable beauties guarantee make them the most important accessory in my suitcase.” A friend swears by a soft foam neck brace or collar, usually applied to support the neck and spine after injury (in pharmacies). She says they are much better than the average neck pillow because they stop your head rolling forward. I prefer a small rectangular Duxiana travel pillow (€160). Warmth is key too; my other in- transit essentials include a large wrap (try Lucy Nagle’s new cashmere travel wrap, €150), and a cuddly cardie.
It’s a given that travel mishaps often prompt the purchase of new accessories. Attach Apple AirTags to important items; it’s akin to having your own personal search party, should they go missing. Tim is a fan of the Omnicharge Powerbank, €366.25, which he uses to charge his Mac, iPhone, Apple Watch, headphones and Oura sleep tracker ring. “It’s not the lightest thing in the world but it means I don’t have to find somewhere to plug myself in, since I’ve got it in my paw!” It can also be used on board.
As for what to wear in transit, the goal is to be stylish but comfortable. Swap leggings for a pair of on-trend travel jeans. ME+EM’s soft pull-on palazzos are specially designed for long flights, as are Spanx’s ponte, wide-leg cropped trousers, (€150, at Brown Thomas). Wear with a T-shirt and smart jacket and chic luggage. I haunt TK Maxx for Italian BRICS suitcases at a fraction of their usual price.
Short trips often demand you hop off the plane and straight into action. Ashley McDonnell, founder and host of the Tech Powered Luxury podcast, is a pro at this. She travels with a Peelo tote bag and a Rimowa cabin bag. “I’m never without my Seoulista Cryo Cool Skin Tool – great for soothing and de-puffing skin, as is the Ella & Jo Miracle Mask.” For an added spring to your step, try one of Voya’s new aromatic rollerballs (Zest is good for jet lag). And if you need to make an urgent call, avoid incurring huge international roaming charges by packing a Pokefi WiFi box.
