When we first begin traveling, we tend to search for gadgets and clothing that have the potential to make travel easier and better. Due to back problems I’ve had since my early 20s, I wanted a product that would help ease discomfort on international flights. Two years ago I learned about the Gelco G-Seat on a travel supplies company’s website and soon received it as a Christmas present from my parents.
What is the Gelco G-Seat?
The Gelco G-Seat is a 2.5 lb cushion made of gel and memory foam, which has been designed to provide relief and support for people who spend many hours seated. I have only used it for airplane travel, but others use the G-Seat in the office, at home on the computer, in a wheelchair, or for long car journeys. The cushion is foldable with a small handle in the middle, and when open and ready for use, it measures 13.5 in x 16 in and is 1-2 inches in height. In addition to the gel and memory foam cushion, there is an open groove in the middle, designed to relieve pressure that is often placed on the tailbone when seated for extended periods. On the Gelco website, the G-Seat retails for $79.95.
>> Check out the Gelco G-Seat on Amazon.
How have I used the G-Seat for travel?
I first used the G-Seat on a transatlantic flight from Washington, DC to Dublin, with a layover in continental Europe. To bring the seat on the plane, I folded it in half and placed it in the pocket of my trusty carry-on backpack that is usually used for a laptop. Once on the plane, I removed the G-Seat before storing my backpack beneath the airline seat in front of me, and placed it on mine, anticipating a cushion-soft flight from the US to Ireland.
Pros and Cons of the Gelco G-Seat
As with most products, there are pluses and minuses about the G-Seat.
What I liked:
- Because I want to use the G-Seat primarily for travel, I loved that it folds in half to more easily fit into carry-on baggage.
- The G-Seat is lightweight. I purchased it because I have back problems, and adding the 2.5 lb cushion to my small backpack posed no burden to my shoulders or back.
- The cushion itself is 1-2 inches thick and feels soft, yet supportive, to the touch.
My gripes:
- When folded, the cushion is several inches in height/thickness. It fit into my carry-on bag without problem, sure, but that also meant I had less room for items I normally like take on the plane.
- Several hours into the flight, I started feeling some discomfort. I didn’t expect the G-Seat to take away all of the pains from being seated on a long flight, but I also didn’t think I would feel as uncomfortable as I did. I decided to take a break and remain seated without the assistance of the G-Seat, and I immediately felt better. The G-Seat returned to my backpack for the remainder of the flight.
Despite my complaints, I’m glad I tried the G-Seat and may continue to use it for short trips. Some customers are completely satisfied with the product while others share my concern with the discomfort setting in several hours into use. Though it does not take up too much space, I feel it will be a bit too bulky for those who are attempting to travel lightly in one, relatively small bag. If you’re thinking of investing in a product like the G-Seat, Gelco also offers the G-Seat Lite with the same dimensions as the G-Seat but it weighs one pound less than the original.
Is there a travel product you love that helps make your trips easier or better? Have you purchased an item that disappointed more than anything? Let us know.
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