The Flight Attendant’s Guide to Packing Light

cntraveler.com

Written by PrettyPrudent 

December 10, 2014

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When it comes to packing light and efficiently, flight attendants know best—here are 11 of their best tips and tricks.

We asked the world’s most experienced travelers—flight attendants—for their finest tips and tricks when it comes to packing the perfect suitcase. Nicole flies all over the U.S. (and blogs at modernhandcraft.com), Gretchen has been working international flights for 17 years, and Jenny* has been exploring the world as a flight attendant for 28 years. Learn their best-kept organization secrets to making your next trip (and bag) feel easy and breezy.

**Names changed for those wishing to remain anonymous.*

Illustration by Louisa Cannell

Besides rolling your clothes, what is your advice for maximizing your suitcase real estate?

Packing cubes are a great way to pack for each day (if you would like to be super organized). They also help keep things from getting wrinkled, which seems to always happen once you start digging through your bag no matter how great you fold/roll your items. One of the simplest but often overlooked packing tips is to put heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase, meaning the short end where the wheels are—it’s easier to roll a bag through long airport hallways when the weight is down there. Flight attendants put shoes and toiletries there, and it makes a surprising difference during in-airport transit.

Illustration by Louisa Cannell

Shoes always seem to kill my suitcase space. What’s your advice on which shoes to bring and how to pack them?

Always bring flip-flops—hands down the most useful shoes. They take up no room and are perfect for the beach, to wear with shorts or a dress, or to use as 'house shoes' in your hotel. Then also bring a nice pair of flats that looks great with pants or dresses, but are comfortable enough to wear walking around a city as well. There is always a chance to work out or take a beautiful walk in a new city, so bring a pair of sneakers. They usually can pack up tight, and a nice walk in comfortable shoes usually leads to sleeping better when your internal clock is off. Save room by wearing the bulkiest shoes you are bringing to the airport; if it is fall or winter and you want to bring boots, just plan on wearing those on the plane.

Illustration by Louisa Cannell

Let’s talk suitcases. What makes the perfect suitcase for traveling light?

I have two suitcases that I use: a regular Briggs and Riley black 21” suitcase (which is totally worth it because of their lifetime warranty), and a backpack/roller bag hybrid. I live in a snowy city and sometimes you need something you can wear on your back when dealing with train stalls and snow, or water on the ground. Flight attendants hate to see folding garment bags—they don’t fit in overhead compartments and closet space is very limited. So if you aren’t flying first class and you are carrying one of these, expect it to get checked into baggage and for your suits to be delivered wrinkled.

Illustration by Louisa Cannell

One thing that we always pack is a swimsuit, because you never know when you might need one and it takes up so little room. What do you always pack no matter where you are going?

Always bring a bathing suit, especially if you live in a cold climate—the chance to get a little color is priceless—and sunscreen, though flight attendants are not subject to the same liquid restrictions. Make sure you bring a small one in your carry-on. Also, always bring flip-flops, black yoga pants, and a large pashmina-type scarf (drape over your shoulders if it is chilly, or use it as a blanket or rolled up pillow on the plane). Pack a small outlet extender, one that makes one outlet turn into three with USB charge ports, which eliminates the need for extra plugs and chargers (and then you can just bring the USB cords and not all the cumbersome plugs).

Note: Every flight attendant we interviewed said they carry a pashmina at all times.

What is one item that most people pack unnecessarily?

Too many outfits, and shoes—you do not need that many shoes.

Illustration by Louisa Cannell

What are your best tips for packing toiletries, cosmetics, etc.?

It depends on where you are going. If you are going to a hotel that carries nice shampoo, conditioner, and soaps, then do not bring those at all, because they take up so much room. Also, most hotels have hair dryers, so never pack one of those. Then slim down your makeup bag by taking only what you know you will be using—you would be amazed at how much smaller that bag becomes. If you wear contacts, always bring another set. If you forget anything, most hotels have all basic amenities you might need, like razors, toothbrushes, etc. Most flight attendants also bring a little squirt bottle of wrinkle reducer spray and a travel-size pack of makeup wipes (makeup wipes get the job done without requiring you to carry liquid cleansers).

Everyone seems to travel with a laptop, iPad, phone, camera, headphones, etc. Any tips or tricks for packing electronics?

Think about what you will really need. If I am traveling for fun and not work, I just bring my phone, which also doubles as my reading device and my camera. Most phones take amazing pictures now, and they also double as books, etc. Also, definitely get the plug extender with USB charge port so you only need cords and aren’t lugging around extra plugs.

Illustration by Louisa Cannell

I feel like I always end up eating overpriced, unhealthy food when flying. What is your advice on packing snacks? Are they worth the real estate?

Bring a large Ziploc bag of snacks in your carry-on. Choose items that will keep well for a couple of hours—think picnic food—and make them somewhat delicious so you will actually want to eat them instead of giving in to the Auntie Anne’s pretzel smell. Cut up celery and carrots, include hummus and string cheese, and add protein in the form of salami slices or peanut butter. Bring along apples, and maybe a pasta salad tossed in olive oil and vinegar with cheese cubes, artichokes, etc.

What do flight attendants pack to make themselves feel right at home while traveling?

Perhaps flight attendants learn to not be sentimental about objects that take up space, as everyone we talked to simply said: “I have my kids’ photos on my phone."

Illustration by Louisa Cannell

Do you have any work-arounds for the “one carry-on and one personal item” rule?

Bring your roller bag, a tote, and a purse (hiding the purse in the tote). I always do this, and it’s a great way to bring everything on that you need.

Illustration by Louisa Cannell

Do you have any other great tips that we didn’t even know to ask?

If you are traveling with children, bring extra diapers and formula—most airports do not carry these items. Also, I always [make] a list before larger trips to make sure I am not forgetting any essential items. Pack a stash of large Ziploc bags, because they are so handy. For example, if you take a last-minute swim, you can plop your suit in the plastic bag and pack it away. They can also help keep all kinds of things organized so your carry-on is a little tidier.

Note: One trick many flight attendants use, though there’s no proof that it works, is to unwrap a bar of soap and stick it between the mattress and the box spring in any hotel. The thought is that the soap attracts bed bugs. We may never know its success rate, but every flight attendant we talked to said they had never seen an actual bed bug, so it’s worth a shot?

5 Common Air Travel Mistakes

by Jeanette Foster

travel.aarp.org

Ensure extra time to make flight connections to avoid a common air travel mistake.

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When it comes to air travel, so many things can go wrong. Sometimes we create the problems ourselves by doing such things as packing carelessly (resulting in extra luggage fees) or scheduling a too-tight connection (resulting in a missed flight). Below are some common air travel mistakes — and tips on how to avoid them.

1. Not allowing enough time for connections

It's a miserable feeling to be in transit on a delayed plane, knowing that when you land you will have missed the next flight and will have to scramble to make alternate arrangements — arrangements that might also warrant an overnight hotel stay.

How to avoid: Allow — or insist on, if the airline books it — at least 90 minutes between connecting flights; some experts recommend two hours.

2. Not doing your packing homework

Planning to fly with carry-on luggage only? Size limitations vary by airline and type of aircraft. And, yes, Hawaii should be beautiful in June, but will there be rain? What about the temperatures at night? Will you need a jacket or wrap?

How to avoid: Check the daily forecast in your destination and look on your airline's website for luggage information; while checking carry-on dimensions, look into what it will cost to check bags, including weight limitations and the fees for exceeding them.

3. Not preparing for your arrival

Do you know where your accommodations are in relation to the airport? Do you know what your transportation options are and what getting to your hotel will cost?

How to avoid: Determine your hotel's proximity to the airport. Is it a five-minute cab ride or a 50-minute endeavor? What's the going rate for cab fare? Are fares fixed or metered, or do you have to agree on a price with the driver before heading out? You should also find and price out at least one other mode of transportation to the hotel; shuttles are often available.

4. Not checking immigration requirements

There are still a good number of countries (Russia and Brazil, for instance) that require a visa for entry, and many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months from the date of your entry. Still other countries require that there be a blank page in your passport for their stamps — in some instances, even the location of this page matters (for example, it might need to be the last page).

How to avoid: Well in advance of your trip, contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country and determine its immigration requirements.

5. Paying high credit card foreign transaction fees

With some cards, both the credit card company and the issuing bank charge foreign transaction fees. In addition, there are fees for having charges automatically converted to U.S. dollars at the point of purchase (called "dynamic currency conversion"). These fees add up quickly.

How to avoid: Read the small print on your credit card agreement to determine what fees are charged. If there are multiple fees or the percentages are high, shop around for a card with better terms. When charging items abroad, be sure to ask those you are paying to make charges in the local currency.

6 Family Travel Tips for Flights and Car Rides

travelandleisure.com

By Amy Tara Koch

Whether you are traveling by plane, train or automobile, the key to tranquil trekking is all about doing the prep work. When traveling, spontaneity often yields a nightmare scenario. To reduce frustration and tantrums, parents must anticipate and be prepared for common in-transit issues: delays, hunger, bumps, bruises and illness and, of course, bad behavior. Here are my 6 top tips for reducing stress while traveling with the family:

1. Snacks on the go. Don’t wait until the kids get hungry and cranky. Pack an array of snacks and meals for the trip. Always plan for delays and bring a few extra nibbles.

2. Keep them busy. Bring a cross section of easy-to-transport toys, books, workbooks, gadgets and activities to engage them through the hours of travel.

3. Have bribery material on hand. Lots of it: Travel can be challenging for kids, so bring the goods to ward off tantrums and encourage good behavior. Some of my favorites are Tasty Brand organic (no corn syrup) Fruit Gummies, Tootsie Rolls, lollipops and a surprise activity (stickers, coloring book, Etch A Sketch, a new movie download, iTunes card for older kids).

4. Have an in-transit pharmacy. Have a zippered pouch with medicine and other products that deal with any and all medical maladies: ear pressure, sudden onset of a cold, cuts, allergies, even mystery rashes.

5. Avoid cootie exposure. To defend your family from the brazen germs lurking on every surface, build your anti-cootie arsenal with Potty Toppers, Tray Toppers, and anti-bacterial wipes.

6. Stay powerful. Always have an extra power source for your cell phone and other electronics.

5 Travel Tips For Planning a Stress-Free Vacation

cntraveler.com

by Jinna Yang

   
October 20, 2014

You booked that fall getaway to escape the stresses of everyday life, not trade them in for new ones. As relaxing as going out of town can be, a few unplanned events can easily turn your trip into an overwhelming situation. Follow these tips to keep your vacation memorable and, most importantly, stress-free.

© Jinna Yang/Christine Tsang

TAKE THE PRESSURE OFF.

Ever felt the need to make a Friday night so fun that it ended up being the complete opposite? When you’ve got limited vacation days on top of a hectic work schedule, an upcoming trip can easily become the only thing you look forward to for months. Tons of pressure to make that vacation perfect can end up backfiring on you. Just think of it as a Monday night that just so happens to become one of the highlights of your month. Sometimes the best memories you make on vacation are those that unexpectedly come from a good conversation, a tasty meal, and the wonderful people around you.

© Jinna Yang/Christine Tsang

KEEP A LOOSE, FLEXIBLE ITINERARY.

It’s important to remember that unplanned events can account for a lot of your vacation time. You don’t want a delayed flight, slight snooze, or cancelled tour to throw your entire itinerary off. Try to plan some activities for specific days, but leave some days completely open. When your schedule’s flexible, you’re not rushing to complete everything on your travel wish list; you’re exploring a hidden street, catching up on sleep at the beach for a few hours, or relaxing at a cafe over an espresso. You’re learning to enjoy the down time, which is the entire reason you went on vacation in the first place.

© Jinna Yang

SET A COLLECTIVE GOAL FOR YOUR TRIP.

Traveling with others can become extremely stressful at times, because everyone has a different set of preferences. What if your partner wants a beach day, and you want to go explore the old town? What if your friends expected this trip to be a party weekend, and you’ve been looking forward to bubble baths and watching movies in your hotel bed? When planning your vacation with other people, have a discussion with your group to set a collective goal for the upcoming trip—are you aiming for relaxation, adventure, romance, or celebration? Doing this will avoid those awkward moments when you realize that your expectations differ from theirs.

© Jinna Yang

DO YOUR RESEARCH IN ADVANCE.

It is and always will be a good idea to do as much research as you can about your destination: Look into everything from public transportation, restaurant options, cab estimates, and visa requirements. The more you know before you leave, the better.

© Jinna Yang

PACK LIGHT.

We've all been guilty of overpacking. Too much luggage makes the inescapable struggles of travel—getting to and from the airport, waiting to check into your hotel, dealing with baggage claim—that much more difficult. Keep your clothing options easy and only pack the necessities—easier said than done, I know, but there are certain things you can leave behind. Air dry your hair, and leave your blowdryer at home. Don’t pack the heels you know you’ll never wear, and pack your comfortable sandals instead. Avoid baggage claim by fitting everything you bring into your carry-on. We promise it’s better to underpack and be comfortable than to overpack and be exhausted.

Top 5 Items You Should Always Have in Your Carry-On Luggage

canadatravels.com

by NJ on 10 October 2011

 

Usually we remember the necessary items we should pack in our carry-on luggage, but there is always the chance that you forgot something. Maybe you pressed snooze on your alarm and had to make a mad-dash to the airport or perhaps you were so busy packing your kids carry-on luggage full of well-thought-out-items-of-distraction that you forgot about your own.

Packing for a trip isn't as easy as it used to be and our carry-on luggage has rules and regulations tied to it now. We can all use a reminder once in awhile and maybe you might even want to print off this list and keep it on the fridge for the day before you have your departure. The worst scenario and starting the trip off to a bad start can be avoided if you keep this list in mind. While everything on the list might not apply, these are some of the most common necessities to keep you at your best before boarding, in-flight and when you arrive. Here are the top 5 items you should always have in your carry-on luggage.

1# Your ticket to the open skies.

Your passport and identification is the most important item you should have in your carry-on. It is always a 'smart traveler' that keeps their passport and proper forms of identification in a place within the carry-on that is easily accessible. How many times have you yanked your bag semi-out of the bulkhead and stand there fumbling to find it at the bottom of your bag while the person sitting below glares at you because they are afraid of you dropping it on their head. Pack smart.

#2 Anything that might make you whimper if you lose it.

If you are going to travel with your great Grandmother's antique broach, your much-valued work laptop, a large wad of cash, expensive jewelry or your son's baby book, pack it in your carry-on. Valuables should be kept close. Avoid loss at all costs.

#3 Hygiene, hygiene products, did I mention hygiene?

Apparently some folks believe that after a long haul trip across seas they still smell like a Spring shower. While it is a great to believe that, most of us can benefit from a quick re-fresh. Bring along deodorant, a toothbrush, toothpaste, breath freshener, mint gum, an extra pair of fresh under garments, facial freshening spray if you have it, body lotion, hand lotion and anything that makes you feel 'awake' and 'rejuvenated' when you arrive in your destination.

The last thing you want to do is have a 'Love Actually' moment in the airport while your loved one attempts to hold their breath. Tip: Follow the airlines guidelines for the amount of lotions and liquids you can take in your carry-on or you will have to dispose of your bare necessities. If traveling with a baby, don't forget baby wipes and baby hygiene products.

#4 Charge it! But not to Visa.

You can save yourself a lot of money on batteries and extra film in your arrival destination and during your trip if you remember your cell phone, laptop, DVD player, battery and camera chargers. Don't forget the re-chargeable batteries and the plug adapters for that European or Caribbean voltage.

#5 RX: Don't forget your meds.

It is imperative to keep your personal medications in your carry-on. From asthma inhalers and heart medication to low dose Aspirin and antibiotic ear drops. If an emergency ever occurred you would have what you need on hand. Your flight could be delayed for hours or you could get stuck on a layover in another destination that does not even know what your medicine is. Think like a boy scout. Always be prepared.

How to Pack for a Cruise to Mexico

getawaytips.azcentral.com

by William McCoy, Demand Media

(Photo: Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images )

If you enjoy blending the modern conveniences of a cruise ship with visiting a number of locations in a foreign country, a cruise around Mexico is an ideal vacation idea for you. Whether you choose a cruise along the country's east or west coast, and regardless of the size of ship on which you travel, packing carefully for your holiday is an effective way to ensure you enjoy yourself.

Regular Clothing

When planning your cruise, check the average daily temperatures in Mexico during the time you'll be away. Mexico has warm weather year-round, but its averages fluctuate significantly. In Cancun, a tourist hot spot, January temperature averages range between 67 and 81 degrees Fahrenheit, while in July and August, temperatures are between 78 and 90. If traveling in a warmer month, pack T-shirts, shorts, skirts, tank tops, polo shirts and sandals as your regular, daily clothing. In cooler months, add jeans, sweatshirts, long skirts and tights to your suitcase.

Day Trips

Many cruise ships reach a new port of call daily, giving travelers the option of disembarking and seeing the sights. If you plan to take day trips around Mexico, pack comfortable running shoes, shorts, T-shirts, jeans or long-sleeved shirts, depending on the weather during your cruise. Hats, sunglasses and umbrellas are also ideal, especially if you burn easily or aren't used to intense heat. For safety, carry your money and passport, if needed, in a hidden money belt. If you plan to take multiple day trips, pack a backpack or small bag to carry.

Formal Clothing

When booking your trip, find out about the dress code in the ship's different dining rooms. Although the regular buffet dining room likely allows regular clothing, the fancier restaurants (and possibly the ship's casino) often require more formal attire. Depending on the ship, formal attire can range from khakis and dress shirts to suits and even tuxedos for the men, and skirts and blouses to dresses for the women. Check with your cruise line to determine the number of formal meals you'll have; the more formal meals on the schedule, the more formal outlets you'll need to pack.

Other

The other items you pack in anticipation of your cruise to Mexico depend partly on how you intend to spend the trip and your personality type. If you plan to do substantial trekking when the boat stops, pack a camera or a video camera. If you prefer to enjoy the ship's atmosphere, a swimsuit, some books and an iPod might be all you need. As with any trip, pack toiletries and any medication you require. Most ships have the same style of power outlets as found in the United States, but if you're unsure of the amenities of your cabin, consult with the cruise line.