07-05-2025
So, you got your REAL ID—here are 13 flight essentials to buy before your next trip
So, you got your REAL ID—here are 13 flight essentials to buy before your next trip With new travel requirements, we curated a packing list with all of the flight essentials you'll need for your next flight.
In true procrastinator fashion, I waited until the last possible moment to schedule my REAL ID appointment—and if the reports on longer than usual DMV wait times are to be believed, I'm far from alone. After months of persistent REAL ID deadline reminders from the Department of Homeland Security, the new travel requirement officially went into effect Wednesday, May 7, with the goal of instituting an additional security measure for air travel within the United States.
Despite my months (read: years) of stalling, I did eventually get my REAL ID—and now find myself with the sudden urge to travel. After all, what's the point of waiting hours in line for a travel license if you're not ever going to use it? While I haven't yet sorted out where exactly I'll be traveling this summer, I already know what flight essentials I'll be packing for my next excursion. There are the usual suspects: Apple AirTags, a Trtl travel pillow, my trusted Béis Weekender and iWalk Portable Charger that are always staples within my personal carry-on bag.
Now, with my itch to plan another getaway, I have a hunch I'll be adding a couple more travel accessories to my packing list. Ahead, check out my curated guide to the best travel-ready flight essentials to grab before your next trip—in addition to your REAL ID license (of course).
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Shop the best travel-friendly flight essentials
1. Apple AirTags
2. Béis The Weekender Travel Bag
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3. Trtl Travel and Airplane Pillow
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4. Twelve South AirFly Pro
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5. Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Exclusive: Shop Hearth & Hand with Magnolia Owala FreeSip water bottles at Target
6. iWalk USB-C Portable Charger
7. Summer Fridays Jet Lag Eye Patches
8. Monos Compressible Packing Cubes
9. Travel Inspira Luggage Scale
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10. Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs
11. Bombas Travel Compression Sock and Gripper Slipper 2-Pack
12. Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier Vegan Powder Electrolyte Supplements
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13. Airplane Foot Hammock
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When is the REAL ID deadline?
Per the Department of Homeland Security, the REAL ID deadline goes into effect Wednesday, May 7—meaning that in order to fly domestically within the United States moving forward, you'll need to have your driver's license upgraded to a REAL ID license.
While DMV offices are still reporting an influx in visitors and appointments, USA TODAY reporters have noted that many national airports are operating smoothly as of Wednesday afternoon—despite the new travel requirement.
What are the REAL ID requirements?
If you're still unsure of how to get a REAL ID, be sure to visit the Department of Homeland Security website for additional details. REAL ID requirements will vary by each state driver's licensing agency, but will generally require you to provide documentation confirming your full legal name, Social Security number, date of birth and address.
