TIPS FOR PACKING FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP
I often wait until the night before an early morning flight to pack. Not only is it a tedious task but I always seem to forget something. So, I made a promise to myself that I would organize and pack ahead of time for my next weekend venture and what a difference it made!
Here are a few ideas on making your packing and travel experience a little less stressful:
24 hours prior to the flight:
- Check in. Save the ticket on your phone or make sure you have a printed copy. I personally like to keep a printed copy of my itinerary, accommodation, confirmation numbers and other logistics so I don’t have to worry about having internet or enough power on my phone or tablet. With either method, having all your details in one place saves you the hassle of trying to find it while checking in.
- Confirm your transportation to the airport.
- Download the app for auto check-in, upgrades, notifications if the flight is late, and push notifications about your bag’s location.
- Plug in all electronics the night before and put them in a location by your suitcase so you don’t leave them behind.
- Call your credit card company and let them know your itinerary.
- If you travel often, you might want to apply for Clear.
Packing Tips:
- Keep your travel essentials in your suitcase so they are ready when you are.
- After a trip you should make a list of replacements so you are always ready for your next adventure.
- Make a packing list based on how many days/nights and what activities you will be doing.
- Layout what you think you will need, then edit.
- Plan your outfits before packing. Try to coordinate with various layers.
- If there is anything you missed, remember that you can buy it.
- Pack basics like black pants, jeans, neutral t-shirts and a jacket. Select clothes in the same color family. Try to choose versatile, wrinkle- resistant fabrics.
- Wear or carry bulky items on the plane to save space in your suitcase.
- Bring a laundry bag in case the hotel does not provide one.
- Use packing cubes. These smaller bags keep your clothes in order and easy to find items.
- Roll t-shirts, pants, casual dresses, swimsuits and pajamas. Fold your other clothing.
- Place clothes you’ll need first at the top.
- Portable blow dryer curling iron or flat iron.
- Pack your carry-on makeup bag in the middle of your suitcase, and surround it with soft items.
- Shoes take up a lot of space, so use shoe bags and consider one pair of casual sneakers and an evening shoe.
- Use a clear bag for toiletries and place it on top of the suitcase if you are carrying on. Check current regulations for liquids.
- If you have an airline credit card you usually get at least one free checked bag.
- Remember to check with the airline on their weight limitations.
Items to put in your carry-on:
- Drivers license or passport
- Collapsible reusable water bottle
- Scarf or light sweater
- Hand sanitizer and hand lotion
- Chapstick (TSA counts this as a solid)
- Phone and charger
- Reading glasses
- Valuables
- Toothbrush | toothpaste | facial wipes
- Medications
- Documents you will need during your trip
- Entertainment
- Snack
- Headset and earbuds
Bring a book or download a movie or two depending on the length of your flight. Most Delta flights offer inflight movies. Other airlines may offer Wi-Fi, which doesn’t always work, so it’s good to have a back up plan. We hope this list was helpful for you!
Bon voyage!
