If you don’t fly on a regular basis, airplane travel can seem stressful. All of the rules that airports now have can make it difficult to pack smartly when you aren’t used to these regulations. However, once you start flying regularly, you will get much smarter with your packing strategies. Here are several helpful packing tips to make your trip much easier:
Keep your chargers with you and NOT in your checked bag – This is especially true in the event of a layover. You may need to recharge your phone, so make sure to keep those chargers with you at all times.
If you travel regularly, consider having doubles so you can “stay packed” in between trips – Designate a small travel bag that stays constantly stocked with the items you always need to take with you. This can include a toothbrush, moisturizer, shampoo, razor, or anything else you might need on a nightly basis. If you do this, then you can just grab it and go during fast packing sessions. Just don’t forget to restock your bag as soon as you return home, so you are always prepared for your future trip.
Pack liquids separately in a clear zip bag and have it ready to grab quickly – This will make security MUCH faster and FAR LESS stressful. It is a good idea to pack any other liquids into zip bags too, even if they are going into your checked bags. Do this so nothing accidentally spills out onto your clothing during your flight (I am speaking from experience). I like to also throw in a few extra zip bags into my luggage, because you can use them for so many things. I like to be over prepared in this department, and it isn’t a big deal since they don’t add a ton of weight to your bag.
Check the weight limits of your bags BEFORE leaving your house – You do not want to be forced to take stuff out at the last minute during check-in. If you are like me, then you probably pack WAY too much stuff. If you are already close to the bag’s weight limit, you might need to pack another bag or be prepared to go over limit and pay the fine. This is particularly true if you try to bring souvenirs back, which will just add weight to your already heavy bags.
Make sure to either wear socks or take flip flops for going through security – You want to do this so you are not going through security barefoot. It is very easy to wear flats and forget about this rule, so make sure to put something in your purse or carry on that is quick and easy to grab.
Dress in layers – Airports and planes are typically either hot or cold, but you never know which one you are going to get (LOL). You will be much more comfortable on your flight and during your travels if you are prepared for both.
Leave in PLENTY of time – This is particularly true for those who do not fly frequently. Please don’t rush, or you will add a ton of unnecessary stress to your trip.
Take a picture of where you park to help remember the location of your vehicle – I also think that it is a good idea to text somebody the picture so you have two copies. This is especially important to do if you are at a large airport. You don’t want to come home after a long trip and not be able to find your car.
What travel tips do you find helpful? Please feel free to leave a comment below, because I love hearing from you all. Thanks, and happy travels!
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