Planning a trip brings with it a range of emotions. We're excited about going somewhere, but we're also panicking about what to pack. How many outfits is too many? Once all checked bags are sorted, it's time to move on to our carry-on baggage to concentrate.
Whether you need a handbag or a holdall, we want you to 10 things remember that will make your journey easier. Is there anything more frustrating than boarding a flight and realizing that what you need is under the plane's belly?
CHARGER
You might think you don't need chargers for your electronics, but guess again. Mobile phones, laptops and iPads are almost empty the longer they are used. You may think that you won't be using your phone or iPad because instead you're just watching a movie on the plane. But what happens when there are no movies?
This usually gets a passenger watching something they downloaded or listening to music instead.
Don't have a charger? Then click here for recommendations for power bank* to see!
SNACKS
Is there anything more comforting than your favorite snack? Everyone deserves a little indulgence and when you're flying there's no better time to treat yourself. Sure, most Flights have a range of snacks, but your favorite is definitely not among them. Instead, bring a small bag of your favorite chips, gummy bears, or a candy bar.
BACTERIAL WIPES OR HAND SANITIZERS
You don't have to be an overprotective mom to take hand sanitizer or bacterial wipes with you when you travel. These handy sanitizers are used more often than you think. After getting on the plane and realizing the passenger next to you is sick, you're glad you brought these bacterial wipes to wipe down your tray or armrests.
AN EXTRA OUTFIT (IN CASE THE AIRLINE LOSES YOUR LUGGAGE)
We hear horror stories all the time about an airline losing someone's valuable cargo. When we travel, we usually take our time planning our outfits. However, the airport or airline mishandles your bag and loses it. Pack a light outfit in your for safety reasons carry-on baggage, just in case. And even if the airline doesn't lose your luggage, it's still nice to know you can change your shirt if you get too sweaty from travelling.
HEADPHONES
Most travelers assume that airlines have extra headphones lying around, but that's not always the case. If an airplane does not have a television, then most likely they will not be designed. Even if an airline has headphones, they tend to be fairly cheaply made and don't always fit the ear properly.
ENTERTAINMENT
For short domestic flights, most flights do not offer inflight entertainment. There are a few magazines on offer, but that's about it. If you want to make your flight extra enjoyable and comfortable, bring your own entertainment source. Grab a new book (or a Kindle*) that you've been dying to read, or a crossword puzzle to kill time. And if your flight doesn't include movies, upload some to your favorite streaming app (Prime Video *, Netflix, Sky) so that you are well prepared.
VALUABLES
When you're traveling with important documents, it's always smart to have them as close to you as possible. There are travelers who believe in putting their important valuables in their checked bag because they think they are better kept than in their carry-on, but anything can happen. Bags can be misplaced, left behind and damaged on the ground of the aircraft. To avoid losing or damaging your valuables, keep them with you whenever possible.
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE
Science has proven that travelers on planes get pretty thirsty. The change in air pressure can cause passengers to become dehydrated more quickly. To ensure you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your flight, consider being kind to your body and the environment and carrying a reusable bottle! Don't have a reusable bottle? Then click here for recommendations for travel water bottles* to see!
CHEWING GUM
There are a few reasons to chew gum on an airplane. Chewing can help keep your ears from popping (swallowing often helps, too). Another reason to do this is that bad breath is a common problem in flying travelers because the salivary glands slow down, which increases bacteria production. To avoid it all, chew gum or breath mints and drink some water.
LIQUID POUCH
If you wish to take liquids on a plane then this can be done as long as they are under 100ml. Slip it all into the clear liquid pouch and stow it safely in your carry-on. Atmospheric pressure can alter some caps or lids, so spills and package blows are a very real possibility. Nobody needs the liquids all over their clothes and everything else in their hand luggage!
