Travel by Stephanie

Planning a trip is exciting, but in the days leading up to departure stress can set in with the numerous to-do lists and random preparations. Managing and preparing for flights, especially long haul ones, tends to be one of the most challenging parts of traveling. (And speaking candidly, it still is stressful for me!)

With these ten reminders, you’ll be positioned for a great start to your flight ahead:

At Home

Download and use your airline’s app – After downloading the app, log in and provide your flight details so your travel plans are ready to go. Then, monitor your flights for schedule changes. If you’re not checking a bag, check in online to avoid the queues and kiosks at the airport. This is yet another reason why our family tries to travel with carry-on bags and personal items only when we go on vacation!

Learn your luggage limits – Many airlines have implemented size restrictions on carry-on luggage (and sometimes, personal items too) so before packing for your trip, make sure your bag’s dimensions are appropriate for your airline. Note that European carriers often differ from U.S. airlines. Airlines can be very strict about this, so dimensions and weight are not something to brush off when you’re prepping your bags.

Prepare your liquids – When you’re packing your carry-on and personal item, don’t forget the liquid limits. Your 3.4 oz (100 ml) containers must also be tucked into a quart-sized bag. Skip the guesswork and make it simple by ordering a TSA-approved travel kit online. Pro tip: swap some of your liquid items for solids! Examples include stick sunscreen, facial wash cloths, and bar shampoo/conditioner.

Check your tech – Wrangling the cables, cords,  and devices can be a daunting pre-travel task. First, check to make sure you have everything you need for your trip, then pack it all in a designated tech travel organizer. I own an inexpensive pouch I purchased online that we use both at home and on the go.

Invest in a quality travel pillow – With endless options available, find and pack a travel pillow that works for you. For a short flight, it can be a comfort; for a long-haul flight, it’s a necessity. Your neck will thank you. I have an inflatable pillow I take on long flights (I like that I can stow it away and it doesn’t take up much real estate in my bag.) I also pack this blanket I adore…truly one of my best purchases to date. I use it every night in the summer, and pack it on vacation. My daughter and I both have the double layer version, but the single rolls up even smaller for travel. (I tested both!)

Dress in layers – Between the weather in your home city, your arrival city, and the airports and flights in between, it is challenging to dress appropriately for all scenarios. Plan your outfit in advance, and wear light layers so you can be as comfortable as possible. Avoid restrictive fabrics, and for longer flights (3+hours) consider compression socks.

Bring your own water bottle – Rather than purchasing an overpriced bottle of water once you’re through security, pack your own reusable bottle to fill at a drinking fountain. A collapsible option will save even more precious real estate in your carry-on items. Packing a water bottle with a straw? Gently open the entire lid a bit to release pressure before flipping open the lid to take a sip…or you’re going to inflict a water fountain on everyone in your vicinity. (Science!)

At the Airport

Use a VPN – The airport might have free Wi-Fi, but hackers are a concern. Protect yourself by using a VPN, and either use your own power bank for charging your items or use a data blocker in the public charging areas before plugging in your device.

Once You Board

Moisturize your skin – Cabin air is extremely dry, so protect your skin with frequent moisturizing and lip balm application.

Wipe things down – Packing sanitizing wipes comes in handy for cleaning your seatbelt buckle, arm rests, and tray once making your way to your seat. (And your hands as needed, too!) Because they don’t count towards your liquids limit, disinfecting wipes are also a nice alternative to traditional gel sanitizer.

Ready to take flight? Let’s book your next trip, together!