13 Flight Attendant-loved Early Prime Day Deals

I’ve been a flight attendant for 10 years and, believe it or not, I like to travel for pleasure, too! Millions of miles of flying feels like an adequate amount of time to observe travelers struggle with bulky items, search endlessly for a gadget in a tangle of monochromatic accessories, and look longingly at their seatmate who seems to have it all together. That’s why I’ve curated the best carry-on items and travel essentials to take the stress out of packing.

These items are machine washable, brightly colored so you can find them easily, and small enough to go in a carry-on bag for a weekend away. You’ll look like a pro pulling out a perfectly compact reading light and be the envy of the aisle with everything at your fingertips and fresh breath upon landing. Whether I’m headed to Marfa, Maine, or the Maldives, here are the things I always bring with me—and they’re on sale (starting at just $4) ahead of Amazon October Prime Big Deal Days.

Skysper Small Hiking Backpack

I love the luggage I have for work, but when I’m traveling for pleasure, the last thing I want to see is something that reminds me of work—besides the airplane, of course. While my go-to $125 Osprey backpack isn’t currently on sale, this similar hiking backpack is lightweight, has a pocket for everything, and secure straps to keep the pack stable when you’re sprinting to your next gate. At 20 liters, this pack is big enough for a weekend getaway and definitely the perfect size to complement your rollaboard for longer trips. 

Evshine Memory Foam Slippers 

Listen, airplane floors are disgusting. (That’s not always water on the floor in the bathroom.) I’m not saying not to take your shoes off, but don’t visit the lavatory in bare feet or with socks on. These comfortable slippers are a great alternative. When you’re home from your trip, just throw them in the washing machine and back into your personal item or carry-on for your next getaway. And really, it’s nice to have slippers for morning coffee at your destination on your Instagram-worthy patio. 

BeeGreen Shoe Organizer Shoe Bags 6 Pack

Did you read that part above where I said how gross airplane floors are? Well, don’t put those shoes back in your backpack without putting them in these fantastic shoe bags. I love all the patterns, so I can see the bag easily in dim airplane lighting. And the best part is, I can throw them in the wash with my slippers. 

Gold Bond Healing Hand Cream 

Another item I have stashed everywhere is this thick and luxurious Gold Bond hand cream. I rinse my hands constantly and this lotion is the only one I’ve found to last through three or four washes. Gold Bond has been a medicine-cabinet staple for generations and now it’s a staple in my life, too. This tube is a TSA-approved size, so you won’t get flagged for additional screening—big win in my book. 

Vastsoon Contact Lens Case & Cleaner

This tiny contact lens case is an absolute lifesaver. The solution bottle has enough capacity to keep my lenses hydrated, the built-in mirror adds in-seat convenience, and the bright color makes it easy to find in the dark. It even comes with a manual washer to keep your lenses clean without any extra tools. Plus, the slim design takes up next to no space.

Edishine Book Light 

I love to read from a physical book in my downtime, and vacations are no exception. This reading light is compact, rechargeable, and sturdier than the lights with the long necks. The three different lighting colors are a nice touch. Best of all, I’m not that obnoxious passenger with their overhead light on when everyone is trying to sleep.

Reavee Oversized Square Reading Glasses 3 Pack

Guilty of putting your reading glasses down and losing them? Same. My problem solved itself when I saw my sister wearing these darling glasses. I have them stashed everywhere, including in every piece of luggage I own. And did you see the price?  When I lose a pair, I know I can easily replace them, cutting down on some frustration.

Koviuu Weekly Pill Organizer 

There are weekly pill organizers and then there’s this weekly pill organizer. Unlike a bulky single-unit case, this brilliant one has individual containers for each day. I can pull one out and throw it in my backpack, leaving the larger case in my carry-on. Aren’t we all taking a vitamin or two these days? 

Travelon Somniwrap Travel Pillow 

Who doesn’t love a good airplane nap? The bulky crescent-shaped pillows are way too big and way too hot for me. This neck wrap is my absolute favorite, and fingers crossed it goes on sale in time for October Prime Day. It packs completely flat and you can throw it in the wash! I love that it adjusts to fit me perfectly and it’s flat in the back, making it way more comfortable than the pillows. Until my favorite goes on sale, I found this Travelon option to tide you over. It’s similar in its design and shape, and folds down easily, so you can shove it in your carry-on. With the right neck pillow, you’ll be like me and refuse to get on a plane without one! 

BeeVines Sleep Mask 2 Pack

Inevitably, I end up sitting next to the passenger with their reading light on when I’m ready to nap. This pure-silk eye mask transports me away from the airplane and into dreamland as soon as I put it on. The strap is adjustable so it doesn’t crease my hair and skin. Right now, it’s double discounted with an on-site coupon in time for Prime Day.

Pavilia 2-in-1 Travel Blanket Pillow Set

How do people nap without a blanket? This blanket is my absolute favorite. The fabric is so soft and perfectly warm, and it’s much more compact than the popular fleece blankets. The best part is that it folds up into a tidy little zipped bag with a strap to fit over your luggage handle.

Cleaings Disposable Toothbrushes With Toothpaste

Despite what you think, I promise your breath smells bad when you wake up on an airplane. Rather than doing the whole toothbrush-and-toothpaste routine, these mini brushes are great for freshening up on the plane—even at your seat. Each pre-pasted mini toothbrush has a built-in gel that freshens your mouth instantly—no water or rinsing needed. Now, you’re refreshed and ready for adventure!

FresherAcc Airplane Window Organizer

The way my head snapped for a second look when I first spotted someone using an airplane window organizer — I nearly broke my neck. This has become my absolute favorite travel accessory. Window seats are my jam, and this organizer makes them even better. It has room for one drink, plus my phone and even my listening devices and cords when I need to stretch my legs. Even better, it folds completely flat! It might not be on sale right now, but hear me out: at just $15, it’s a steal and will quickly become your favorite travel essential.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.