10 Items That Can Upgrade Your Air Travel

This suitcase made Oprah's 2016 Favorite Things List. It's an overhead bin-friendly, hard side polycarbonate carry-on suitcase. It has four spinner wheels for easy carrying and a TSA-approved lock. And if you need to power up your electronic devices, It also has a portable power bank with two external USB ports to charge devices and technology that weighs the bag by lifting it. And if you download the Raden app, it will track your using Bluetooth Low Energy technology.

Regular travelers know that personal space in economy class is limited. Those on long-haul flights usually carry a tablet to catch up on movies or reading. This travel stand allows users to view their tablets horizontally or vertically. At a mere 2.75 inches by 1 inch by 6.75 inches and weighing only 6.4 ounces, it doesn't take up much room in a carry-on bag.

Passengers can't bring their own alcohol onboard a flight according to FAA regulations. But that doesn't mean you can't use an airline's liquor to mix up your own cocktail with this portable kit. Be your own bartender and whip up an old fashioned from a kit that includes pure cane sugar, small-batch bitters, a mini bar spoon/muddler and a linen coaster. Order a mini bottle of rye and then it's time for bottoms up!

These scarves can handle many tasks. One, they can block the chill onboard a flight. Two, they can double as a pillow when none are available. And three, they can be used to accessorize or dress up a travel outfit, which means fewer clothes to pack. 

Get away from the travel masses and buy a pass to get into airline and airport lounges. Most offer amenities including comfy seats, workspaces with power outlets, a full bar, free high-speed Wi-Fi, a business center, free prepared snacks and beverages and even meals, depending on the location.

Economy class passengers are lucky if they can recline their seat a few inches for comfort. And it's highly unlikely there would be a footrest in their seat -- until now. This light, portable device can be used in tight coach class seats to provide relief to tired legs.

One of the more stressful things on long and short flights is the constant noise made by the aircraft engines. And screaming babies and children are no picnic either. So a pair of quality headphones are a must to bring calm and peace aboard your flight. Consider these Sharper Image headphones or Klipsch earbuds to sit in silence.

Whether flying domestic or international, it's always a good idea to bring non-perishable snacks like fancy nuts, protein bars or granola, because you never know what items may be available or if there may be delays in the air or on the ground. On long domestic flights, bring your own luxury meal, such as smoked salmon, cheese, crackers and fresh fruit. Also bring an empty water bottle for post-security and inflight refills to stay hydrated. 

More airlines are adding power outlets and USB ports on their aircraft that allow passengers to keep their electronic devices charged. But on flights where outlets aren't available, travel with a Mophie Juice Pack Powerstation Duo, which allows users to charge two devices at a time quickly. 

 On longer flights, you may want to take a nap. Pair your noise canceling headphones with a comfy sleep mask and a supportive neck pillow -- like this one from Lewis 'N Clark -- to help you sleep like a baby 35,000 feet in the air. And use that pashima as a blanket to complete your perfect rest.