5 Reasons why its not worth overpacking & what you should always bring
1. You won’t have to pay for checked baggage. This isn’t the case for all airlines, but most have a fee and it can add up fast. It would be the equivalent of AT least two dinners.
2. If you bring a carry-on, you’ll have your bag with you through layovers and security. Otherwise there’s a greater chance of bags getting lost.
3. Assuming you’ve checked in, you can stroll right on through to security. No need to get to the airport super early, and you can be the first person in line for taxis if you don’t need to go to baggage claim.
4. You’ve got a limited amount of options, which means less time spent stressing on outfits, more time exploring.
5. There are options to do laundry in other countries. The hotel you’re staying at likely has dry cleaning services and a hostel or motel would have washers and dryers. No one cares if you repeat outfits, promise.
ALWAYS INCLUDE IN YOUR SMALL (UNDER THE SEAT) CARRY-ON:
- Headphones
- Book – whether it is a physical book or on a kindle, you should always be prepared with reading materials. I’ve been on 3 flights recently, over 6 hours long each, and none of them had entertainment options.
- Scarf or extra sweater. In the beginning, its not unusual for airplanes to blast A/C and it can be very uncomfortable if you’re wearing short sleeves or shorts. Bring something extra even if you’re heading somewhere warm.
- Compression socks – or ski socks also work. I change into them as soon as the plane takes off. The reason for this is twofold: it is comfier than wearing shoes and the tight socks help to maintain blood flow and reduce discomfort and swelling.
- A couple smaller plastic bags. If you go to lounges before flights, stock up on snacks.
- Water bottle. There are now water stations in most airplane terminals and it’s eco-friendly and saves some $$ when you fill up every time. Plus it’s always nice to have some extra water on the plane. Remember to hydrate!
- Small bag with toiletries. This should include your toothbrush and toothpaste, a facial cleansing cloth for ease of use. I would even recommend bringing a face mask for longer trips. Yes, you risk scaring the person next to you BUT the extra nourishment and hydration does wonders. This pack from Amazon is a great variety and comes out to less than $1 per face mask.
- Sleeping pills. If you have a red eye/ long flight and you’re arriving at your destination in the AM, definitely take a sleeping pill if it will help.
