I know lots of experts offer packing tips. You can roll your clothes. You can use packing cubes. You can vacuum pack into compression sacks.
You can do whatever you like. I’m not going to tell you how to pack, just what to pack. In this blog, I’m sharing my tools of the trade and what I won’t leave home without.
1. My Pillow -I know the maker of My Pillow has become a controversial figure, but his travel pillow is The Best. Don’t waste your money on a neck pillow. You won’t sleep, and your neck will ache. Instead, pack a travel-size My Pillow and book a window seat. You’ll thank me later.
2. Hot water bottle -Actually, this is only for professionals. I doubt a flight attendant would fill it for you because the water onboard is boiling, and you might burn yourself and then blame us. But I do love to snuggle my hot water bottle on a cold all-nighter flight.
3. Leggings -These aren’t your leggings from 1987. I’m talking about thigh-high socks! You can slip these on anytime and tuck them right under your skirt. Do you see a theme? Airplanes are cold; dress appropriately.
And always make sure you pack the following:
A pen -Especially if you’re flying internationally. You’ll have paperwork to fill out.
A book -Sometimes technology fails.
A charger -duh.
Earbuds -the plug-in kind. The wireless ones are constantly falling out of peoples’ ears and getting lost. Take my word, wireless earbuds are not ideal for the airplane, especially if you plan to sleep.
A bathing suit and LBD -Flights cancel, plans change, and opportunities arise.
Snacks! -Especially if you have kids or special dietary needs. Once again, things don’t always go as planned.
Walking shoes -worn in!
Sudafed -Sometimes, you don’t know you’re catching a cold until your sinuses start to hurt and your ears start to plug. It can be painful, and flight attendants don’t have any to give you. (We only have aspirin and non-aspirin -which I think is like Tylenol.)
Finally, regarding luggage: What do I recommend? Travelpro. I’m not convinced that Tumi’s reputation and price tag reflect its design and function. I, along with most flight attendants, prefer Travelpro. Yesterday, my brand new Travelpro tote arrived in the mail. I immediately and happily moved in. My Tumi tote was so heavy and bulky, I think it was causing tendonitis.
My Christmas List:
- A pony
- A 2-wheel Travelpro rollaboard to replace my 4-wheel Tumi.
Don’t even get me started on 4-wheel rollaboards. No, just no.
You need a pony!