Check security regulations and pack lightly for hassle-free air travel.
Whether you're flying across the state or around the world, preparing for air travel can be stressful. With security regulations and restrictions to follow and increased baggage fees, travelers need to pack lightly while still bringing the essentials for a trip. Bring mix-and-match clothing and keep shoes and accessories to a minimum. When in doubt, leave it at home, unless you're sure that the item won't be available at your destination.
Carry-on items
Most airlines allow you to carry one carry-on bag, along with a personal item like a laptop bag, briefcase or purse. Check your airline's website before departing for the specific weight restrictions on bags. Pack a small duffle bag, tote bag or rolling luggage with valuables, prescription medications and fragile items that you wouldn't want to check. Include a few snacks and personal items to keep yourself busy such as reading material, an MP3 player or a book of crossword puzzles. It's a smart idea to keep a change of clothing in your carry-on bag in case your luggage is lost or damaged. Gum helps if you have problems with your ears popping at high altitudes.
Liquids, gels and restricted items
The Transportation Safety Administration requires passengers to place any liquid or gel carry-on items in a clear, quart-sized, zip-top plastic bag. Each traveler is permitted to bring one quart-sized bag and the items inside must not exceed 3.4 ounces each. Larger products such as full-sized shampoos or lotions must be placed in checked luggage. Exceptions include breast milk, baby food and medications. Check the TSA website (tsa.gov) for the current list of prohibited items for both carry-on and checked luggage.
Checked luggage
Pack one outfit for each day of your trip, unless you'll be away for an extended period of time or will have access to laundry service. Place undergarments in a small lingerie bag or an inside pocket of your suitcase. Roll your clothing up to avoid wrinkles and save space or store outfits inside plastic dry cleaning bags. Place socks inside of shoes and use your shoes to fill empty spaces in the suitcase. Any full-sized liquid or gel-based toiletries should go in your checked luggage; keep them in plastic zip-top bags to avoid spills. Bring extra plastic bags to use for dirty clothes. If you plan to purchase a large number of souvenirs, fold up a small tote or duffle bag and put it in your suitcase so you have an extra bag for the way home.
Travel documents
Double check that you have all necessary travel documents before leaving for the airport. This includes your driver's license, state ID card, passport and/or visa. If you checked in for your flight online, print your boarding pass and bring it to the airport. If not, print your reservation confirmation with the flight details and check in at the airport. Mark all luggage with tags including your name, address, telephone number or e-mail address.
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