Packing For Flying Tips

8 Tips to Pack Right for a Flight

Anthony Bruno

Reviewed by: Ben Thoennes

Updated: September 3, 2024

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Key Topics:

• 1. Roll 'em up
• 2. Make that list
• 3. Don’t get fee'd
• 4. Follow the 3-1-1 rule
• 5. Keep close to your essentials
• 6. Use packing aids
• 7. Pack entertainment heat
• 8. Stash Snacks
• FAQ: 8 Tips to Pack Right

Everybody loves to travel at least once in a while, whether it's a short trip or a long vacation. But when it comes to packing and managing your luggage, your excitement can be reduced a little. I’ve learned (and even mastered) how to pack smart, an essential part of air travel, especially if you'll be visiting different places on your trip. If you underpack, you may forget an essential item and end up wasting time and money trying to find a replacement. Overpacking, on the other hand, can be just as problematic—your bags become heavy, difficult to carry, and you might have to fork over extra baggage fees at the airport. All seasoned frequent fliers will tell you the same thing: keep it as minimal as possible!.

So, here are some of the most useful and common packing tips that every flyer must know, based on my experiences traveling to over 50 countries.

1. Roll 'em up

I've found that rolling clothes instead of folding them works sooo much better than folding. Tightly rolled clothes take up less space than folded ones, and they tend to have fewer deep wrinkles. It’s a simple trick, but it makes a big difference, especially when space is at a premium in your suitcase. Every inch counts when you’re trying to fit everything into your carry-on and backpack. Plus, it’s much easier to see everything when you open your bag—no more digging through piles of clothes.

2. Make that list

If you make grocery lists, why not a packing list? I used to just throw things in a bag the night before, and I can’t tell you how many times I forgot something important. Now, I start the packing process a few days prior to my flight. This gives me time to think of everything I’ll need and add items to my luggage as I think of them. It also means I can buy anything I might be missing. Making a packing list ensures that I never forget anything, and it helps me think through whether I’ll be checking my luggage or taking it as a carry-on.

After countless flights and over a decade of travel experience, I've finally perfected my list of carry-on essentials. This video is a game-changer for anyone looking to streamline their packing process and avoid common travel pitfalls. From crucial paperwork to comfort items and electronics, I've got you covered. Watching this video not only made my travel days smoother but also saved me from several potential mishaps. Trust me, you won't want to miss these tips!

3. Don’t get fee'd

Nobody likes surprises at the airport, especially when it comes to fees. It’s important to know the baggage-fee rules of the airline you’re flying with. Some airlines charge more than others, and the rules can vary widely. I always check the airline’s website before packing to make sure I’m within the allowed luggage limits. Knowing this in advance has saved me from some nasty surprises at check-in.

4. Follow the 3-1-1 rule

If you’re planning to carry your bag on board, the 3-1-1 rule is non-negotiable. I’ve had my fair share of run-ins with the TSA over liquids. You don’t want to be that person holding up the line because your favorite lotion or perfume is over the limit. All liquids must be in bottles of 3.4 ounces or less and fit into a single quart-sized zip-top bag. It’s a bit of a hassle, but it’s better than having your stuff confiscated.

5. Keep close to your essentials

I can’t stress this enough—always keep your essentials in your carry-on. I have a good friend who had her checked bag go missing, and the poor things was left without ID, credit cards, and medication. It was a nightmare. I always keep valuable items like identification cards, passports, credit cards, money, jewelry, and cell phones in my carry-on. You never know what could happen to your checked luggage, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

6. Use packing aids

Packing aids like cubes and envelopes have revolutionized the way I travel. They keep everything organized and make it easy to find what I need. Plus, they allow me to compress my clothes, so I can fit more into my bag. These aids are especially useful when you’re trying to pack for different climates or types of activities. Everything stays neat, and unpacking is a breeze.

7. Pack entertainment heat

Delays, diversions, and cancellations are all part of air travel, and they can turn a good trip into a bad one quickly. To keep boredom at bay, I always pack plenty of entertainment options. Whether it’s my tablet loaded with movies and books or a portable game console, having something to do during those long waits can be a lifesaver. If you’re traveling with kids, this is even more important. Make sure to pack their favorite toys and activities to keep them occupied.

8. Stash Snacks

Airline food isn’t always the best, and you never know when your next meal might be. I always pack snacks in my carry-on. It’s healthier, cheaper, and you have control over what you eat. I usually bring non-perishable, dry, and non-messy snacks. If you’re traveling with kids, this is a must. A hungry child is an unhappy child, and a few of their favorite snacks can prevent a meltdown.

With these tips in mind, packing for your next flight should be a breeze. Trust me, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.