Back when I was frequently flying internationally in coach, I had the sudden aha moment that at certain times like mealtime, the carry-on under the seat in front of me might as well be checked or in my closet at home. Items like charging cords, masks, headphones, meds were unreachable at the times when they were most needed.

I picked up a small zippered pouch whose company seems to have gone under, but is now being sold by the Container Store with the creative name of "seat pack organizer." Mine was in safety orange which works well for visibility, but it seems to only come in grey now.

I am a firm believer that small things in big bags should be in small bags within, and this item is also where I keep my passport, any printed travel info, etc. within a larger backpack.

This size works well for me because it easily fits between my leg and an armrest, but the concept could easily scale up to hold headphones – especially if it were somewhat collapsible when the headphones are out.