As I was preparing for my extended trip to Japan, I started to research what is the latest on unique travel accessories and how to make your long trip more pleasant. Aside from my long haul flight essentials (I posted about them last year), here’s a list of some ingenious travel gadgets to make your journey more pleasant.
What’s New: Unique Travel Accessories
Jabra MOVE Bluetooth Headphones: I must admit, I am not a huge fan of headphones. I am one of those people that always likes to be able to hear what’s going on around me at all times. However, on a long flight that may not always be the case. One must find a way to tune out the noise, whether it is from a screaming child or talkative neighbor. The Jabra wireless headphones are light and comfortable, they also come with a cord, making it easy to use with the in-flight entertainment, and the sound quality is very good. I also liked that the headphones are smaller than the other wireless headphones out there and at $79.99 they are at a more affordable price point. The only point for improvement would be for Jabra to offer a case to come with the headphones to protect them from getting banged up in the carry-on bag.
Human Charger: Imagine a device that helps your beat jetlag by using light therapy through headphones. This is what The Human Charger does. I uploaded the Human Charger accompanying free app and started the light therapy a few days before my trip began and a few days after arriving at my destination. Given I was in the first trimester of my pregnancy and wanted to sleep ALL THE TIME during the test period, I didn’t see a dramatic difference. However, I am intrigued by this technology and plan to give it a second chance now that my chronic fatigue has gone away. Human Charger, $219 for kit.
Happy Luxe: Why are planes always so cold? Happy Luxe, a line of unique travel accessories came to the rescue with comfy eye masks, heated wraps, and pillows for your flight. I liked the selection of colors and how you can insert a portable hand warmer to your shawl to make it warm around your neck. The fabric is soft, like a good quality t-shirt, easy to wash, and very portable. The Happy Luxe line was invented by Leah Murakami, a US Air Force fighter pilot turned commercial pilot who is keen on developing comfortable and unique travel accessories. Happy Luxe wrap, $29.95; Happy Luxe Eye Mask, $15.95
Bubi Water Bottle: I always feel like I am being robbed by buying water at the airport. I used to always forget, but now I have been more diligent in carrying a reusable water bottle while traveling. Better for the environment and your wallet. The Bubi Water Bottle not only saves you money, it saves you space as well. It is made from a flexible plastic that allows you to fold it into a tiny package when not filled with water. The bottle is also dishwasher safe and BPA free. Aside from travel, I used Bubi Water Bottle at the gym and office. The only qualm I’ve noticed is that it doesn’t stand steady on uneven surfaces as the bottom is slightly rounded. Then again, with a hard bottom it would be difficult to roll up. I’ll take portability over sturdiness when it comes to a travel water bottle.
Photo Credit: Pinrose Website
Pinrose Petal Packs: I try my best to pack light. Two-week overseas trip on a carry-on? Challenge accepted! I was excited to hear about the Pinrose Fragrance Towelettes while researching unique travel accessories. These come in paper thin individual packages with unique scents from sweet scents to musk. They are more portable (and TSA friendly) than a perfume bottle and you can order them in a variety of scents. Once you apply, the scent comes on strong in the beginning (disclaimer: I’ve been pretty sensitive to smell these days due to Baby Dining Traveler on the way) but in 15 minutes it blends in quite well and the scent carries on all day. Pinrose Petal Packs, $24 for 20.
Ever Bamboo: Do you want to take one last dip in the pool or get one last workout before your flight? These unique travel accessories allow you to do that. You just toss a charcoal sachet in your bag and the charcoal absorbs moisture and reduces the moldy scent you get from damp or sweaty clothes in your luggage. I found these not only extremely portable but very useful not only for travel but for my gym bag. Ever Bamboo, Product Range $9.99-14.99
I continue to be taken by the innovation we continue to see when it comes to unique travel accessories. From basics that have been enhanced like water bottles or eye masks to a device that tricks you into beating jetlag, there’s plenty out there to make your travel experience more memorable. Have you discovered any unique travel accessories lately? Share in the comments!
