Air travel can be scary if you fail to plan ahead. Modern air travel differs a lot from the past mainly because of restrictions. There are limitations on things to carry and the quantity of personal belongings. Airport security is very stringent. On the lighter side, majority of travelers wear comfortable casual attire rather than formal clothes. See how things have changed. To maintain your sanity, the following are packing tips for hassle-free air travel.

10 Important Tips

1. Start by creating a packing checklist.

By staying organized, you will likely not forget important things for your trip. This will help you ease the stress that normally comes several days before your scheduled flight. Once you’re ready to go, review this list carefully just to make sure you did not miss anything. The best time is the night before you depart. Of course, prioritize the basic essentials like passport, money, mobile phone, and sunglasses (during the summer months)

2. Purchase an inexpensive and lightweight luggage.

Avoid expensive stylish suitcases which can only attract crooks that may be lurking in the airports or your destination. Besides hard shell baggage bags can add four extra kilos to the weight which can mean additional cost at the airport.

3. Pack light.

Packing calls for sacrifices. Don’t bring too many clothe or items that you will not even need. Bring wardrobe, shoes, and accessories that you wear on ordinary days. In short, pack what you usually wear at home. For other necessities, you can buy locally depending on your budget. Maintain flexibility and a smart mind so you can come up with quick solutions in case something unexpected transpires.

4. Use packing cubes to keep your clothing properly organized and tightly packed.

Try the airless port compression bags made specifically for traveling. If you opt for compression storage, make sure you get the heavy-duty version that can endure daily use. Mesh bags also become useful for socks, underwear, and miscellaneous items like first-aid kits, sewing kit, gadgets, and ear plugs.

5. Keep one pair of clothes in your hand bag or backpack.

This extra wardrobe along with basic possession comes in handy if you need to change or your luggage gets lost or missing. Of course, you won’t expect this to happen but some travelers have already experienced this situation. Such occurrences can happen when you least expect them. It pays to be prepared for any contingency.

6. Know liquid restrictions on carry on.

In the United States, the Transport Security Administration provides the guidelines for air travel. Passengers are allowed to take with them a quart-sized bag for liquids, creams, gels, pastes, and aerosols. These products are confined to 100 milliliters or 3.4 ounces or even less per one item.

7. Don’t carry sharp objects.

There are exceptions which include spoons and forks as well as plastic or round-edge butter knives. Scissors may be allowed in your handbags provided the blade is less than four inches from the turning point. All sharp items must be wrapped securely or put in scabbards so blades do not show.

8. Pack things to keep you and family entertained.

Instead of bringing hardbound books or magazines, load e-books, music, television shows, and videos in your smartphone or tablet. Airlines normally have entertainment systems but anything can happen. In case of such inconveniences, you always have a fallback that will keep you occupied during a long-haul flight.

9. Bring with you snacks or food which are not messy and light.

Many airlines are now cutting down costs by offering less goodies and beverages. Besides, prices of food sold on board are often exorbitant so you save a lot by buying your munchies from the local grocery or convenience store before checking in at the airport.

10. Stay Hydrated.

Last but not least is to stay hydrated. Drinking water is vital not only for hydration but for resisting germs or bacteria. You may not realize but flying on an aircraft to your warm destination like beaches can cause dehydration. High altitude together with low humidity can limit your resistance against catching microorganisms that enter your body. These preventive measures will help you remain stacked with water prior to, during, and after your flight. Airport security allows passengers to carry empty water bottles that they can fill up in water fountains. Otherwise, buy your bottled water after going though security inspection.

Happy Trip

Now that you have everything in place, be ready to enjoy your air travel either alone with family members, or friends.