5 Tricks Savvy Air Travelers Use For Packing

Packing your bags is one of the most exciting pre-vacation moments; it's an act that marks the end of your countdown and the start of your trip. But - if you don't put some care and thought into the act of packing your bags, you can end up disorganized, unprepared, and even out of money. Here are 5 tricks savvy air travelers use to pack their bags for a successful trip!


5 Tricks Savvy Air Travelers Use For Packing


1. Know Your Airline's Baggage Policy

Savvy travelers know what the airline's baggage-fee policy is even before they buy their tickets. With each carrier having a slightly different policy, not knowing what it is before they pack can cause travelers to quickly rack up hefty additional fees. Many airlines now charge extra fees for checking one or more piece of luggage, and some have even started charging for carry-ons. In addition to the flat fees, checked baggage is always subject to an oversize/weight up-charge. Before you book your flights be sure you know what the baggage policy is and take steps to ensure you won't be hit with surprise charges.

Speaking of knowing the policy - follow the Transportation Security Administration's 3-1-1 rule for your carry-on bags. Each passenger may carry-on liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are only 3.4 ounces or less. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag containing these travel size liquids, gels and aerosols. Having these things in order will help save you time through security check points.


Great Carry-on Bags For Your Disney Trip


2. Make The Most Of Space By Planning A Capsule Wardrobe

If you want to cut down on those baggage charges, you may want to consider planning a capsule wardrobe to give you the most bang in the least amount of luggage. The key to these coordinated wardrobes is to make use of duel purpose garments, layers, and mix-n-match colors; a few carefully selected pieces can create a solid base for a week or more of travel. This method of planning for your casual day clothes makes even more sense for saving room when you have specialty clothing you need to bring for vacation events, such as running gear, wedding clothes, or halloween costumes.


How To Plan A Capsule Wardrobe For Travel


3. Make A Packing List For Vacation

Start your packing process a month ahead of your departure date with the creation of a packing list. This gives you more than enough time
to purchase anything that you don't already have. What you need to bring along will change depending on the specifics of your trip, so you'll need to make a new one with each vacation. When you make your list take into consideration the weather at your destination, your length of stay, luggage restrictions, medical necessities, electronics, and special event clothes you may need. Once you have your list in order, you can start gathering things together in one place to make sure you don't forget anything.


Packing Lists Create Order from Chaos


4. Don't Overestimate Your Immune System

No one likes to think they'll get sick on vacation, but the truth is that it happens all the time. While prescription medications need to go into your carry-on bag, stow a well stocked toiletries bag in your checked luggage. The cost of the most basic medications in a hotel gift shop will make you want to cry; bring along travel sized packages of things like tums, tylenol, immodium, and benadryl, as well as band-aids, sunscreen, and blister cushions.

Boost Your Immune System With Fresh Florida OJ

Though it varies by airline, the standard for carry-ons is to permit each traveler one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard planes. A personal item is generally something like a purse, laptop bag, or backpack and it may be the most important bag you take. This bag should never leave your side, as it needs to hold essential items like, your passport, identification, medications, part of you money, jewelry, electronics, and other valuables.

In addition, travel pros pack these bags with comfort gear that makes travel a little nicer. Planes aren't deep cleaned between flights, so consider taking your own travel pillow, blanket, sanitizer wipes, eye mask, water, snacks, entertainment, and head phones. It's a big job for one small bag, so be sure to choose one in advance that can handle the load.

Do you have any packing tips for your fellow travelers? Share your secrets in the comments below!