Like the previous iteration, the new amenity kits are gender-specific. The Hayward kit, designed for women, is made from signature Hayward denim and features a brass zipper.
The Hopper kit, designed for men, is made of natural cotton canvas and has more of an artisanal feel.
Compared to the carrier’s previous cardboard packs, the new bags are definitely an upgrade — they're not only fashionable but durable, and not having any JetBlue branding makes them look and feel more elegant.
The biggest change with the new kits is what’s inside. While the previous version contained a broad range of items like shoe rescue, shaving cream and sunscreen, the new kits feature more standard fare. Each comes with an eye mask, lip balm by Noyah (~$4 retail), an Herban Essentials towelette ($16), Hint Mints (~$4), earplugs and a screen cloth illustrated with photographs taken by Dennis Hopper. As was the case before, toothbrushes and toothpaste are available upon request.
The goodies you’ll receive inside are practically identical between the Hayward and Hopper kits.
Given the fact that JetBlue already provides what I believe are the two most valuable in-flight necessities — eye masks and dental kits — the new content is a bit disappointing. As airlines are upping their game with improved amenity kits, I was expecting something a little more interesting, perhaps some sort of moisturizer or comfy socks. On the other hand, JetBlue doesn't operate any flights with more than about six hours of in-air flight time just yet, so what's being provided is perfectly reasonable — the carrier provides amenity kits on all Mint flights, even on shorter hops from the East Coast to the Caribbean.
Bottom Line
Whereas the old Birchbox kits offered several products to sample after your flight, the new Hayward and Hopper ones provide items that are especially useful in-flight, as well as stylish packaging made of unique materials. The final verdict depends of course on what you value in an amenity kit, but personally, I prefer the new version — not only can I re-purpose it later, I'm still receiving everything I need to arrive feeling refreshed.
All photos by the author.
