Let’s be honest—packing for a flight as an adult (or with kids or teens) is either an art form or a last-minute, stress-fueled disaster. We’ve all been there: 2 AM, throwing random things into a suitcase, hoping for the best. But with a little planning, packing can be almost…dare I say…fun? Whether you’re heading out for business or pleasure, here are some foolproof tips for packing like a pro before your next flight.
1. Start with the Basics: The Packing List
No matter how seasoned a traveler you are, a packing list is your best friend. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve thought, “Oh, I’ll remember everything,” only to end up buying toothpaste at the airport or hotel for three times the regular price. So, start with a checklist. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a simple rundown of essentials like:
- Passport/ID (if you forget this, no amount of packing will save you!)
- Travel documents or boarding passes
- Chargers (phone, laptop, headphones)
- Toiletries (don’t forget travel-size containers!)
- Prescription meds (pack enough for your whole trip + a couple of extra days, just in case)
We start a list while traveling called “Things We Forgot.” We check it before we start packing again! It really helps!
Once you’ve nailed down the basics, you can start thinking about outfits and other add-ons. Speaking of which…
2. Choose Versatile Clothing
It’s tempting to be the person who packs an outfit for every possible scenario—fancy dinner? Check. A casual stroll through a museum? Check. What if the weather suddenly turns into a freak snowstorm? Check. After several trips lugging around way too much luggage, I learned the magic of versatility. You don’t need a wardrobe for every mood.
- Pick pieces you can mix and match: Neutral colors and layers are your best friends here. Think of tops that can pair with more than one bottom.
- Bring a jacket: Airplanes are like a temperature roulette. One minute you’re freezing, the next you’re sweating—so, I always throw in a lightweight jacket or sweater.
- Limit the shoes: You’re not running a fashion show. Bring a comfy pair for travel, a nicer option for going out, and maybe something weather-appropriate for your destination. Three pairs, max.
3. The Carry-On vs. Checked Bag Debate
Let’s talk baggage strategy. Are you Team Carry-On or Team Checked Bag? I’m personally a carry-on convert for most trips. The benefits are hard to beat: no waiting at baggage claim, no risk of losing your stuff, and fewer packing restrictions. But I also understand the temptation to throw it all in a checked suitcase and be done with it.
If you’re going the carry-on route, opt for packing cubes. They will change your life. They keep things organized, and you’ll be amazed at how much more you can fit. If you don’t have or don’t want packing cubes, Ross taught me this trick. Roll your clothes to maximize space. Plus, it helps with wrinkles.
For checked bags, keep a change of clothes in your carry-on. You never know when a bag might get delayed. Trust me, arriving at your destination without essentials is a quick way to ruin the start of a trip.
4. The Art of the Toiletries Bag
When you’re packing for a flight, keep the 3-1-1 rule in mind: liquids must be in containers 3.4 ounces or smaller, and all containers must fit into one quart-sized plastic bag. This is where things get tricky. Do you really need all your haircare products? If you’re anything like our oldest, the answer is usually yes. But that’s where travel-size containers and multi-use products come in. Instead of packing four different conditioners, keep self-care simple and bring only the must-haves—especially if you’re traveling for business.
Another pro tip? Pack a small first-aid kit. Even adults need Band-Aids from time to time, and it’s way more convenient to have some on hand than hunting them down in a foreign city.
5. The Personal Item: Your In-Flight Savior
This is the unsung hero of any flight—the personal item. Typically, you can carry a backpack, tote, or laptop bag in addition to your carry-on. Here’s what you’ll want to keep within arm’s reach during the flight:
- An empty water bottle: Don’t purchase water at the airport shop. Instead, bring an empty, reusable water bottle. Fill it up in the airport at a water fountain! Remember to empty out the water bottle before security checks because of the restrictions on liquids. Or, if you forget to empty it, you can always chug it while you’re waiting in the security line! Don’t underestimate staying hydrated!
- Electronics and chargers: Always have your phone, laptop, and headphones ready to go, plus a portable charger. Long layovers or delays will be so much easier if you’re fully juiced. Ross brings a power strip so we can both plug in during layovers.
- A good book, mp3 player, or tablet: Sometimes the in-flight entertainment just doesn’t cut it, or maybe you’re in the dreaded middle seat. A good book, playlist, or tablet will help keep you entertained.
- Travel-sized toiletries: Think hand sanitizer, face wipes, moisturizer, and lip balm. Airplane air is dry, and a little self-care mid-flight can go a long way.
- Snacks: Do not rely on airplane food alone. Pack a couple of energy bars, some nuts, or even a sneaky sandwich from the airport deli. You’ll thank yourself when hunger strikes.
6. Be Ready for the Unexpected
Even the most seasoned travelers get thrown a curveball now and then. That’s why I always pack a few “just in case” items:
- Compression socks: Not glamorous, but on longer flights, your legs will love you for it.
- An empty water bottle: This tip is so important, we wrote it twice! Bring the bottle through security and fill it up before you board. Staying hydrated in-flight is key to feeling human when you land.
- Backup batteries: Whether for your phone or noise-canceling headphones, it’s better to have extra juice than be caught powerless mid-trip.
7. Last-Minute Packing Checks
Before you zip up your suitcase, do one final sweep:
- Are all your chargers packed? You don’t want to be that person buying overpriced ones at the airport.
- Do you have enough underwear? Weirdly, this is one of the most common things people forget.
- Double-check your liquids: No one wants to lose their favorite shampoo to TSA.
Now, close that suitcase with a satisfying zip, and relax. You’ve officially packed like a pro, and your travel experience is about to be a whole lot smoother.
What are your packing must-haves? Let us know in the comments! Safe travels!
Until next time… Love ya!
The Traveling Withers
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