The 5 Items You’ll Find in Every Flight Attendant's Bag
Not so long ago, we received a tip about a certain $24 jumpsuit that had become a cult favorite among flight attendants. Word of the so-called traveling jumpsuit first spread among flight attendants in a private Facebook group — a forum one of them called “a safe space” for discussing everything from “zit creams to favorite vibrators.” Now, a little over a year later, we’ve reached out to flight attendants to hear what’s popular these days. Below, their recent favorites — from a collapsible kettle made necessary because of COVID restrictions to a humidifier wand — that keep them comfortable on the job.
Summary of items we will discuss in this buying guide :
Brentwood Appliances Dual-Voltage Collapsible Travel Kettle
Hot Logic Food-Warming Tote
Stasher Silicone Food-Grade Reusable Storage Bag
Collapse-It Silicone Food-Storage Containers
PRETTYGARDEN Women’s Jumpsuit With Pockets
Our top picks :
Brentwood Appliances Dual-Voltage Collapsible Travel Kettle
No less than three flight attendants raved about the utility of their collapsible travel tea kettles, largely made necessary because of stricter COVID restrictions in airports and hotels. “As flight attendants, we rely heavily on caffeine,” says Amber Blansit. “Often, our only option is hotel coffee, and since the beginning of the pandemic, sometimes coffee-makers aren’t even available to us.” Similarly, flight attendant Jennifer Beckwith told us, “While working with COVID restrictions this past year, food resources can be sparse, and if we have a late arrival to a layover, they can be nonexistent — this whole phenomenon has caused a lot of us who did not pack meals in the past to get creative.” Their solution: a handy teakettle that collapses into the size of a CD case. The kettle is electric, plugs into a wall outlet, and heats water to a boil in minutes. “I’ll never be stuck on a layover without hot tea or coffee ever again, and if I’m feeling extra-spicy, you better believe you can find me heating up some instant ramen or even hot chocolate on those chilly winter nights,” says Blansit. Beckwith uses hers for making everything from instant oatmeal and instant rice to Cup-a-Soup. “I get a little creative and set some things on top of the kettle (wrapped in paper or foil, of course) to warm from the steam,” says Beckwith. “Cooked veggies are great to add to my soup or rice. I’m telling you, desperate times call for desperate measures.”
Hot Logic Food-Warming Tote
And if adding hot water won’t get the job done, a food-warming tote can come in handy. “This can be found in almost every flight attendant’s lunch box or tote bag,” says Blansit. “You plug it in and let it do its thing — no more cold leftovers on your layover.” A food-warming tote can be used for fresh and frozen foods alike, and while Blansit told us it does take a little longer to heat food than a microwave does, it generally gets the job done in less than half an hour. “It will never get too hot, where it scorches your food. It keeps food warm until you’re ready to chow down, and the insulated exterior prevents you from burning yourself,” says Blansit.
Stasher Silicone Food-Grade Reusable Storage Bag
We’re no stranger to the appeal of Stasher bags — they’re a plastic-bag alternative beloved by the sustainability minded and those packing kids’ lunches alike — and according to flight attendants Julie Kristine and Amanda McKenzie, the bags are a go-to item among their peers as well. “The Stasher bags are a cult favorite because they can hold a surprising amount and pack down really well when not in use. And you can use them to heat things in the ovens on the aircraft,” says McKenzie. “They’re much lighter than dragging around glass Tupperware to reuse for every hot meal you want.”
Collapse-It Silicone Food-Storage Containers
For those who prefer to pack a larger container, flight attendant Elizabeth Winter says she uses these collapsible silicone containers. “Since COVID began, we have to rely on ourselves more than ever to make sure we are fully prepared,” says Winter. “The size of these containers is perfect for packing the best portion, they’re super-easy to clean, and they heat up your food pretty evenly.”
PRETTYGARDEN Women’s Jumpsuit With Pockets
And of course, the jumpsuit that started it all. While the flight attendants seemed to have it less in rotation these days (it’s better suited for spring and summer), the appeal is still there. “I wore my jumpsuit to Taco Tuesday last night,” Beckwith says. “I still love it and received a really nice compliment on it from a stranger.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, as the world navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, flight attendants have relied on certain essential items to ensure safety, hygiene, and peace of mind for both themselves and passengers. In this article, we have highlighted the five items that flight attendants have used most during this unprecedented time.
First and foremost, personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, and face shields have become indispensable for flight attendants. These items have played a critical role in reducing the spread of the virus and protecting both the crew and passengers.
Additionally, sanitizing wipes and sprays have been essential tools for flight attendants to maintain a clean and hygienic environment onboard. These products have allowed them to disinfect surfaces, tray tables, and armrests, providing an extra layer of protection against germs.
To ensure personal hydration and minimize contact with shared items, flight attendants have frequently utilized refillable water bottles. These bottles not only promote sustainable practices but also help maintain hydration throughout long flights.
Another crucial item flight attendants have relied on is hand sanitizer. Easy to carry and readily accessible, hand sanitizers have become a staple for maintaining hand hygiene while on duty, especially when water and soap may not be readily available.
Lastly, comfortable and supportive footwear has been a priority for flight attendants who spend extended hours on their feet. With the added challenges of COVID-19 protocols, supportive shoes that offer cushioning and stability have become even more essential.
By adapting and utilizing these five items, flight attendants have demonstrated their commitment to safety and the well-being of passengers during these challenging times.
As travel gradually resumes and we adjust to the new normal, it's important for passengers to consider these items as well. By following the lead of flight attendants and incorporating these essential items into our travel routines, we can all contribute to a safer and more enjoyable travel experience.
Remember to check with local guidelines and regulations for specific requirements when traveling. Stay informed, stay safe, and let's support each other as we navigate the future of air travel together.
