Gifts for frequent flyers who can't sleep on planes
People who fly often already own a passport holder and a luggage tag. What most of them don't have is a way to actually sleep on board. These gifts are all about that, plus a few carry-on extras that make long trips easier.
For sleeping
- A head support that stops forward drop. A headrest strap or sleep sling kit holds their head back against the seat, which a regular neck pillow doesn't. See the five types compared.
- A blackout eye mask with deep eye cups, if their head support doesn't include one.
- Good earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones. Headphones are the bigger gift; quality foam earplugs are a cheap stocking filler.
- Warm travel socks for when the shoes come off.
For the carry-on
- A refillable water bottle that fits the seat pocket.
- A power bank. Power banks must go in the carry-on, not checked bags, so pick one within airline limits.
- A universal plug adapter with USB ports.
- A small wash bag with a toothbrush, lip balm and moisturiser for arrival.
Making it a better gift
- Check their trip date. Order early enough to arrive before they fly.
- Pick things that pack small. Frequent flyers travel light and resent bulky gifts.
- Gift a pair. If they travel with a partner, two of the same sleep kit means neither one stays awake.
For a full list of what to bring on board, see what to pack to sleep on a plane.
