I just got through another Euro flight, and this time, I managed to not spill anything on my seat, and have everything I needed in my under-seat bag, plus a neatly packed carry-on. Since this month’s buzzword is travel, I figured this would shed some light on what I’ve learned about packing for the flight.
Make sure your under-seat bag zips
This is a more female-focused tip since most guys use a backpack, but it also can help guys! I used to bring the cute tote or cool purse on plane rides. And a few months ago, I realized I was spending most of the flight trying to make sure that stuff didn’t slide out during the flight. So, I went on an insane hunt for a tote bag that would work, since I wanted a purse that held everything I needed (a lot) but also worked as my dream purse in terms of aesthetics. (It was this great one from AWbyAndreaWong from Vancouver.)
Have something non-electronic to do
I always use my iPad for reading, but I’ve been on flights where they actually told me I couldn’t use the iPad during takeoff/landing. Between that and the occasional battery-drained-too-fast problem, I’m a huge fan of bringing a real book, or even a notepad, so that way I can still get something accomplished even if I need an electronics break. (And for a long overnight flight, I find reading a print book makes my eyes drowsier faster than reading on a screen.)
Leave space in your overhead stowaway carry-on
I usually pack a backpack rather than a roller bag, but whatever I’m bringing, I make sure I have some extra space in it. There are two reasons for this. 1) If my checked bag ends up being overweight, which happens occasionally, I can move some stuff into the carry-on. 2) If I end up with souvenirs on a trip, I have space to put it!
Bring a scarf (or sweater)
Places can get chilly, so even when it’s hot out, a scarf will never be a bad idea. Especially on overnight flights, where they tend to lower the temp on the plane so it’s more conducive for sleep, it can be a lifesaver. Also helps as a spare pillow, cover spills on your shirt if you hit turbulence while you’re sipping your red wine (true story), or can be used to wrap a fragile souvenir on your return flight.
Make sure everything is spillproof
Be more neurotic about this than you likely need to. Liquids should be in a baggie not just for security, but to avoid a lotion explosion in your bag. And definitely find water bottles/travel mugs that are leak-proof!
Have your stuff ready to pull for security
When you pack your bag, know what has to come out at security (liquids already put in a plastic baggie, laptops, etc.) and have your boarding pass and ID tucked somewhere secure but easy to grab. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been stuck behind someone who just checked in yet somehow lost his boarding pass, or packed their liquids at the bottom of a stuffed bag.
Pack snacks
Even for a short flight, and especially for a long flight: assume you’re going to need a (healthy) snack so you don’t end up nauseous from hunger, or buy a junk food snack because you’re desperate. It’s easy to just have a couple protein bars (I love Epic Bars for this!) and a healthy-but-tasty treat ready. That way, you’re not at the mercy of the stuff on the plane, or what’s in the airport. And if you’re traveling with someone, the snack might come in handy if your travel buddy gets a little hangry.
Let me know in the comments: what’s your best in-flight tip?
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