Why you should put a tennis ball in your carry-on luggage during flights

A tennis ball may seem like an unconventional carry-on item, but it can actually be a game-changer for your next flight. Far from just a sport accessory, this humble little sphere offers a surprising number of benefits that can vastly improve your in-flight experience.

Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Traveling, especially by air, can be a stressful experience for many people. The crowds, delays, turbulence, and limited personal space can all contribute to heightened anxiety. However, keeping a tennis ball in your carry-on provides a simple, affordable stress-relief tool right at your fingertips.

Squeezing and rolling the ball in your hands can have a soothing, calming effect. The repetitive motion and tactile feedback help distract your mind from any flight-related worries, allowing you to feel more relaxed and present in the moment. It’s an easy way to practice mindfulness and combat the tension that often accompanies air travel.

Relieve Muscle Aches and Pains

Sitting in a cramped airplane seat for hours on end can wreak havoc on your body. The lack of movement and ergonomic support often leads to muscle stiffness, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and back. But a humble tennis ball can work wonders for providing targeted relief.

By placing the ball behind your back or between your shoulder blades and gently rolling it against the wall or your seat, you can work out knots and trigger points to alleviate muscle tension. Physical therapist Peter Allan Schmitt notes that the tennis ball’s firm-yet-forgiving texture makes it the “perfect size” for massaging different areas. Some fitness experts even recommend using two balls in a sock for an even more effective back massage.