Packing is an essential part of travel. Some people love it and see it as preparation for the adventure that lies ahead. Some people dread it and worry about what they need to bring, how to make it fit or what is even allowed on an airplane.
Whether you view the suitcase as half-empty or half-full, knowing how to pack for a flight will make your trip easier, more efficient and less stressful.
Preparation
- Make a list of what you need to bring – we recommend triplist for this task.
- Consult the TSA’s prohibited items list to find what items can be placed in a carry-on, a checked bag or what needs to be left at home altogether.
- Dedicate a time (no, not the morning of) to pack – the further in advance, the better.
Clothing
- Roll, don’t fold – it saves space and prevents creases from forming on your clothing. To save even more space, put rubber bands around your rolled clothes.
- Pack multi-purpose clothing – bring jeans that you can dress up or down, bring shoes or boots that work in both casual and formal situations, consider merino wool as it can keep you warm in cold temperatures and cool in warm temperatures.
- Pack clothes that color coordinate across multiple outfits (neutral colors).
- Additional space savers:
- Put underwear and socks inside of shoes
- Wear your bulkiest clothing while traveling
Electronics
- Only pack the essentials – do you really need the DSLR for this trip, or will your iPhone camera suffice?
- Have all electronics easily accessible as they will need to be removed for the TSA screening.
- Buy protective cases for anything that will be in your checked bag. Despite our wishful thinking, baggage-handlers don’t always handle with care.
- Don’t forget a universal adapter when traveling out of the country.
- Keep all chargers and other small electronics together in a small container or zip lock bag.
Carrying On
- If you have to have it, carry it on. You don’t want to risk being without medication, an extra set of clothing or essential toiletries in the event your luggage is lost.
- Pack valuables in your carry on. You’ll want to protect those prized possessions against lost luggage and theft.
- Be sure to follow the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule – 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or smaller sized containers that fit in 1 quart-sized, resealable bag.
- If you’re packing food, be sure to refer to our guidelines for taking food on a plane.
More Tips
- If locking your luggage, be sure to have a TSA approved lock. If you don’t use an approved lock it will be cut if TSA needs to open your bag.
- To avoid getting your bag and belongings destroyed, take the advice of a baggage handler; have a bottom handle on your luggage, pack it full and keep it contained and consider purchasing luggage with four wheels.
- To protect yourself against liquid spills, place cling-film over the bottle opening and replace lid.
Baggage Insurance
Travelex Insurance’s protection plans offer baggage & baggage delay coverage. It safeguards personal articles and expenses if bags are lost, stolen, damaged, or delayed for 12 hours or more.
Travel Insurance is underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC # 22276. Travel Assistance & Concierge Services are provided by the designated provided listed in the Policy. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy.