Travel hacks with Maître de Cabine Peter: Five gadgets to make your next trip easier

You’ve booked tickets for your next adventure and are wondering what should go into your suitcase? Our Maître de Cabine Peter has been flying around the world with SWISS for ten years. More than enough time to know exactly what really matters when you’re on the road.

When packing a suitcase, most people first think of the things they’ll need for their trip: swimwear for a relaxing beach holiday or comfortable shoes for a city break with 20,000 steps a day. But then there are also those small helpers that can make any journey more enjoyable. The kind of items that can help with back pain, sleep issues or anxiety. Over the years, Maître de Cabine Peter has tried countless travel essentials. Here, he shares five gadgets that never fail to make it into his luggage.

 

#1 The small Shakti Mat

My first tip came from a friend who works as a musical performer and uses this mat to recover between intense shows,” says Peter.

The Shakti Mat is an acupressure mat covered with several thousand small spikes. “The spikes are designed to stimulate circulation. For me, they help release tension and lead to incredibly deep sleep – a clear 10 out of 10.

 

#2 A massage ball for back, neck and shoulders

Working in the cabin is physically demanding, so a strong back is essential. At home, I use a foam roller to keep my muscles and fascia flexible. When travelling, the matching massage ball is ideal: small, lightweight and perfect for the neck and shoulder area. It fits easily into hand luggage.

Peter works since ten years for SWISS.
Peter works since ten years for SWISS.

 

#3 An eye pillow to help you Fall asleep

I discovered this gadget during a yoga session and immediately noticed how positively I responded to it. The gentle weight over the eyes blocks out light completely and significantly reduces the time it takes me to fall asleep. It’s ideal for short rest periods and quick recovery.

 

#4 Feel-Good scents – lemongrass

Scents have a huge impact on my wellbeing. For me, it’s definitely lemongrass. That’s why I always carry a small bottle of essential oil with me. A few drops on a cloth next to my pillow and even a hotel room almost feels like a Thai spa. Especially after jet lag or short nights, the familiar scent helps me relax and unwind more quickly.

 

#5 A portable inhaler

Dry cabin air, constant conversations, announcements in several languages and frequent temperature changes all put strain on the voice and airways. Clear breathing passages are particularly important for those of us who fly for a living. That’s why my portable inhaler goes everywhere with me. Soothing steam, wherever I am. Especially during cold and flu season, it’s a real game changer.