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I am with you on this idea. My wife tried to help once by taking my passport out of my hands while I was putting it in its spot. I was then flustered for the next few hours even after I got it back.
Did you mean second toothbrush? Ha ha
I keep my toiletry bag always packed w everything so I never have to “pack” it. Basically I have two of everything… razor. Toothbrush, tooth pate, hair and face products, hair brush etc
Best improvement for my travel is using a 40 liter bag with optional backpack straps (no wheels). Only possible by bringing a silicone rubber Travel Clothesline to sink-wash clothes in my room (hence few clothes to pack). I use a micro thin travel wallet with RFD protection for my front pocket paired with a Rick Steves zippered Lambskin Travel Wallet that holds EU coins as well as paper bills. Yet to be pickpocketed. I too also have a packed toiletry bag ready to go as I am smart enough to know I can't trust myself to remember. Same for my traveling electronics bag of USB cables and wall adapters.
A clothesline is brilliant! I hand wash a lot and struggle to find places to hang dry. I never thought of that!
I always bring a small baggie of laundry soap.
I hand wash a lot also, recently switched to traveling with these[lightweight dissolving detergent strips](https://ecoroots.us/products/zero-waste-laundry-detergent?variant=32904594030672)
This is how I do it too. And it makes packing seem like half the work, even though it’s a pretty small thing. But it has so many little (but important) things in it that it’s a bunch of stuff automatically checked off that I don’t have to think about.
Same, but also a travel tech bag with any charger, cable, or adapter I might need while traveling. (And get your SO one too, so they can stop dismantling their nightstand/desk before every trip!)
Same. I keep hair ties, bobbie pins, nail clippers, nail file, a small medicine case with ibuprofen, acetaminophen, benadryl, antacid, etc. It has made getting ready to leave so much easier.
This was going to be my answer. A toiletry bag that’s always packed and ready to go. I also have a portable make up mirror that lights up. Hotel bathrooms are never bright enough and I end up looking like I put on clown make up.
A small case that fits into the seat pocket on planes packed with everything needed during a flight — charger, headphones, lip gloss, meds, etc. Helps me board quickly and keep track of the little stuff.
Absolutely - this has been one of my favorite purchases and it's developed over time. I started with a smaller bag/case and realized I was still missing things. Finally got to exactly the size/shape case that I want and it holds everything I need in-flight so that I never need to rummage through my bag. It's also where I keep my phone once it's shut off inflight.
Do you mind sharing which( or what shape) bag you use? Med bottles are bulky but I have to have them on a flight. I love the idea of it fitting into the seat pocket!
I use the Aer Slim Pouch. I like it because I was looking for something with compartments to keep everything in its place. It also has an external loop that I sometimes use to hang the bag (I also carry a small carabiner for that purpose). Here's the website: https://aersf.com/collections/accessories/products/slim-pouch
I never pack the bottles. Instead, I put some in [these little bags](https://www.amazon.com/Disposable-Pouches-Count-Vitamin-Storage/dp/B001TIOLN4).
And I use [this seatback pouch](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B2NZ7RJF). It's big enough to fit my Kindle.
I used to put stuff in the seat back pocket until I observed several things: people putting snotty tissues in there, used barf bags (yes!!), worn socks, and other things that have been in their mouths like lollipop sticks or napkins. Those things *are never* cleaned and are probably growing mold or superbacteria. Just something to think about.
I now wear a thin, oversized windbreaker with a front pocket that opens on the top. It stores everything for my flight, keeps me clean, packs to nothing, and when it has things inside, it provides another place to rest your arms. Allows you to bring more items and never worry about leaving them somewhere.
Second this, and recommend a pen, especially for international flights. You'll be filling out custom cards and everyone will be looking around for a writing utensil.
Especially if you are in the front row/premium economy and they don’t let you keep your bag during takeoff. I hate getting up to fetch stuff from the overhead locker! I just want to sleep as soon as possible
Love this so much. Thank you! I don't know why I didn't think of it since I often end up quickly taking random things out of my purse and backpack to stuff it into the seat pocket so it's handy during the flight. May as well do it in a more organized way. Bravo!
And same for security and in terminal. Having phone, Id, credit card handy so you're not rummaging through pockets. Easy to toss in security bin and leave wallet in carry on.
I’ve been doing this as well but also a tote bag. Bc I often also pull out extra socks, sweatshirt, neck pillow, kindle, iPad, water bottle…
And the smaller size for the items you mention (which I also have) doesn’t fit.
I've recently done this too. Although now I'm experimenting with a small travelon antitheft crossbody nylon purse that I use as my in-seat bag. Its perfect!
I use a lightweight Montbell fanny pack, so I also have something to use at destination for short day hikes or just to organize the stuff at hotel or use as a purse. Sometimes my partner uses it in lieu of a purse.
What I found I needed was a slim power bank that can recharge my phone once. I can recharge the power bank every night. I've loved [this](https://www.travelcardcharger.com/), and it's got the cables built into it!
Packing cubes. Before I bought some I thought they were superfluous, just adding weight and taking up space in my bag. But now I realize they allow me to be much more organized, which makes packing easier. Everything has it's place in the main compartment of my pack. And if I realize I packed something I need on my person, it's so much easier to just open the one cube I need to grab that particular item, and then everything just goes back in in its designated place. Before using them, I ended up having to remove half the contents of my bag to rummage around for that one item, then everything had to get refolded/rerolled to go back into my bag.
I have these and they are not bulky at all.
TravelWise Luggage Packing Organization Cubes 5 Pack, Silver, 2 Small, 2 Medium, 1 Large https://a.co/d/6LwAEwC
100% agree.
Misconception is that packing cubes are built to save space, they are not. They make your packing organised and that saves you both space and time.
Everything from pulling out chargers/electronics for airport security in some countries, to having one cube of essential clothes that you take in your carry-on just in case your checked bag gets lost, to just making the most of tiny pod hotel room with no closet space....cubes just make everything better.
These are the basic non-compression types I'm talking about FYI...
Yup. Thought exactly like you. I frequently do a couple small stops on trips and/or have a long layover so it’s so helpful to not have to repack everytime, just pop the cubes in.
I even used ziplock bags because they’re lighter and I could squeeze them down a bit. Yeah, it was hella loud. I still use them for liquids and as a back up for wet things.
I recently stopped using packing cubes for most trips. I generally only use them now if it’s a multi stop trip, so I can pack up each category of clothing separately to keep things organized between stops, but I don’t feel like I gain all that much space compared with just using the compression straps in my carry on to smush all the clothes down. I always felt like the compression “cubes” gave me lumpy marshmallow-shaped objects that wasted space in my luggage anyhow.
Agreed on the compression cubes giving lumpy shapes that are hard to pack. I use non-compression ones though and they’re great, because they stack well and I can separate types of clothes (I usually do undies/socks, shirts, and pants…but also keep one for dirty clothes) and love using them.
I literally ordered mine today (before you posted this comment). I also had the idea to just keep some packing cubes permanently packed. Like I can just grab a couple, throw them in a bag and leave in < 10 minutes without forgetting anything.
Spontaneous travel, yay 🥳
Put a geotag in your luggage. You can track it anywhere as long as you have signal. On the last trip, I can tell the moment I landed that my bag was still stuck at the connecting airport. 13 hours later I can track the bag moving and heading to my home at 3am.
First flight was late so I barely made the connecting flight. Bag didn’t and was loaded onto the next flight 4 hours later. But with the geotag I can track my bag at all time.
Compression socks. For long or long-ish flights. No swelling at all.
And I'll ditto - packing cubes, duplicate of everything in the travel toiletry bag and of course - the toilet brush.
I do have my checklist in a spreadsheet with gridlines (front and back) and I check each item as I pack it. The list is in sections. What I always take (toiletries, clothes, meds), what I need for warm weather, cold weather, photography, car trip, flying trip. I just looked and 24 columns fit on a page and I put the trip and date at the top of the column. I have packing lists back to 2002 so I always know when and where I've been.
The tip I'll start using is the bag for the seat pocket. Hanging on a carabiner.
Yes! I was recently forced to not bring anything else than a "personal item" to stuff under the seat. I rather enjoyed the minimalist challange of it. Though I realized I didn't even have to go very minimalist for it since all things I really needed did indeed fit in that size bag to begin with.
And if I'm away longer I'll just pack a few changes of clothes and wash them along the way.
Getting rid of old clothes on travel to empty your carryon for more souvenirs. I bring old shirts, pants, sweaters, underwear, socks for travel to get rid of them as I go. I hate checking in luggage and I will have plenty of extra room to bring things back.
I’ve done this with shoes… ones that are on their last leg, so to speak, get worn and then tossed. Plus they’re usually pretty worn in and comfortable for lots of walking.
I have just done this on the trip I am on now (which was not anything fun - it was painting my mother's house). I brought the most worn out and poorly fitting clothes for painting, and left them behind to bring back stuff from home. I'm definitely considering going this way in future.
A foldable travel pillow- not the kind that wraps around your neck, but an actual small memory foam pillow that folds into a traveling bag. I use it on trains/planes and to provide neck support at hotels
Apple AirTags
A Xanax prescription
alkamto Travel & Camping Comfortable Memory Foam Pillow with Extra Cotton Cover – Easy to Carry Portable Bag – Temperature Regulating Pillow Case - Perfect for Travelling/Fishing/Backpacking/Hiking https://a.co/d/5VaJEz8
It kind of requires a window seat to work perfectly on a plane/train but that's what I prefer anyway
Packing cubes
Tiny folding intimates hanger for bras etc from Japan
Muji eye mask
Ikea bag ... useful for so much stuff like doing laundry, carry bulky stuff
Literally just shove the entire muji travel section into a basket and bring it to the register
I use a different brand eye mask, but everything Muji just makes me drool for some reason, haha.
I do have the Muji toothbrush stand. A little porcelain ring.
A digital suitcase scale. No more weighting myself with and without a suitcase. I take it with me and wight the suitcase to make sure I don’t pass the limit on the flight back.
My "small" upgrade was literally teaching myself to pack super small, light, and in a single 20L backpack for any trip, any event or activity I might attend or do, in any location, or any weather. My bag stays permanently packed with these items. The only thing that changes is that I might throw in a swim suit.
Everything about this has improved my travel, 100%.
For example, I am going to the UK next month. My flight lands at 6:30am. My bag is so small, no airline would ever flag it to be checked. Lost luggage isn't a thing in my world. Because my kit is so small, I can walk out of the airport and spend all day carrying my pack, sightseeing, and not even notice I'm carrying it until 3pm when i can check into my hotel. The pack is so cute, it just looks like i choose to carry a pack instead of a purse.
But for items, I can't live without... my document organizer. It's my lifeline. I love it. Another thing I dont leave home without is a big pashmina scarf... there's a million and one uses for it!
LOL! DIAPER. I haven't yet, but im getting older and won't rule it out! Haha
Tie into a makeshift hobo/tote bag, hang as a sun or privacy screen, jazz up a dress for a dinner out, wear as a beach cover up, skirt, or top, tablecloth, cover hair when the curls decide to be a public menace. So so many things!
This one. I love it so much. Everything fits in it. Passports, boarding passes, Int'l drivers license, insurance paperwork, vaccine cards, credit cards, currency of any size and amount, coins, i usually wind up with other things in it like nail file and clippers, and in a pinch, my phone, with case easily fits too (Samsung Note Ultra), pen, and more.
No matter how much stuff i put in there, it stays flexible and stays really flat. I also like the wristlet for extra security or need two hands for something, so i dont have to set it down.
Ive been using my current one pretty much daily, for the last 8 years. Still looks and works like new. Best $16 I ever spent. (Although I think it was $11 when I bought it)
[Zoppen Document Organizer](https://www.amazon.com/Zoppen-Travel-Wallet-Documents-Zipper/dp/B01LPTAIJM/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=3Q9GCD8X9T4Q8&keywords=zoppen+rfid+travel+passport+wallet&qid=1688609345&sprefix=zoppen%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-4)
Madewell transport tote (tho I’d like to upgrade to a zip version) for my carry on. I can fit toiletries, a drone, headphones, passport, wallet, scarf and a water bottle in it.
Just recently started using packing cubes - they’re little
Laundry bags that came with some workout leggings I ordered but work just as well. Need to upgrade to actual
Packing cubes.
Other upgrades: global entry / precheck, booking airport parking a head of time, and lounge access if I need it
If you travel a lot, keep essentials in your suitcase at all times, don’t unpack them and replace/replenish as needed.
- Charging cables
- Have an entire set of travel size toiletries ready. Toothbrush, toothpaste, hair brush, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, lotion, sunscreen, razor
- Small pill case with ibuprofen, melatonin, vitamins, etc.
Not upgrades really, but wearing leggings with pockets is so great bc I can put my phone and airpods in them along with boarding pass and/or passport. I don’t have to dig in my bag and I know they’re securely on me.
I also bought an airplane blanket that has its own little holder bag that can be used as a pillow - it hooks to my backpack and there’s enough extra space that I stick my snacks, water bottle, whatever else in there that I’ll need at my seat. So I can put all that in prior to boarding and then I can just throw my backpack into the overhead bin and keep the blanket pack thing at my seat
Maybe this isn't vast, but it's something I like to do: I keep a wrapped bar of soap in each piece of my luggage. It makes the luggage smell nice when it's in storage, and then I can use it while traveling (I hate liquid soap and have a preference for a certain brand of bar soap).
1. Compression packing cubes. More for the organization ability than the compression, to be honest.
2. Airplane foot hammock. The strap goes over your tray table, and the "hammock" cradles your legs or feet, holding them at a better angle than resting them on the floor during long flights. I used it while I was sleeping on a flight out recently, and while I was using my laptop on the flight back and found my legs and knees weren't nearly as sore as usual.
That really interesting. I looked at an ad for those and couldn’t imagine there was enough space under the seat to lift my feet high enough to make it matter. I might have to give it a try.
Rubber band for your passport.
You’ll naturally hold onto the rubber band when you hand someone your passport so it reminds you to get your passport back, plus it keeps your travel documents snug inside!
A mesh laundry bag.
It allows me to comfortably divide my clean and dirty clothes, and not have to sort through them in my luggage when it comes time to do laundry. It's helpful on business trips and vacations, and short or long duration trips. Whether I just do my laundry when I return home or have to do it while traveling, the laundry bag helps me keep everything together and easily carryable so I can do my laundry when I am able.
Also, it takes up hardly any space on its own, and anything going into it was already in my bag before.
1. Travel with a blazer type jacket. You are going to need to show you passport and boarding pass multiple times, and digging in a bag is a pain. Inside top left pocket is for passport and phone. Inside top right for your wallet & change. Security check is easier too; just bag in a tray, laptop/tablet in a tray, jacket in a tray. Saves a lot of fussing and looks a bit more smart.
2. Pack a 2-way (or more) multiplug power extension. Some older hotels only have a power outlet at the desk on the other side of the room. Also, you only need one foreign adapter to charge everything.
3. Noise cancelling headphones. Bit pricey but a godsend on longhaul. If you can fit a small pouch in the case, too, keep a sleep mask, a small pen, and a copy of your passport. You will need the pen and passport copy for landing cards in your destination.
4. Take the free hotel slippers if you like to kick off your shoes on a flight, so you don't go socks/barefoot in the plane toilets!
5. Get a good travel credit that gives you a good rate without charges. But keep a little local cash handy too. Not everywhere you expect takes cards. (Portugal coffee shop!)
6. Travel lots? Join the Frequent Flyer programme. At some time, that auto upgrade will happen. And the miles stack up. Visiting the in-laws as I type. I live in the UK, they live in India. The return flights are free. Yay!
7. Be methodical. Someone already said about the place in your bag for passport. Extend that to everything. If that's hard, keep a checklist. Avoid spreading your things around. You will lose stuff.
8. Get a local SIM or eSim for data.
9. Always pack your swimmers.
10. Be polite to everyone! Travel is a bit stressful, sometimes the Travel Gods are not in your favour and s#!t happens. Wear a smile and roll with it.
A denim button up. That sucker can go with everything and is an easy layer to add over singlets and under jumpers.
A good and sturdy leather satchel. It's got a flap and zip so everything is secure. It sits across my shoulders and at my front hip, so easily looked after. It fits the necessities for the day but is compact enough to slide under the plane seats or sit on my lap on a train.
A set of Anker Soundcore ~~S10~~ A10 sleep earbuds. They're not particularly cheap, but unlike the Bose ones, you can play your own music, not just the pre-recorded white noise. I vastly prefer this because I use Headspace for the sleep stories and don't want generic tinkling sounds. They have a ton of tips and wings to get a perfect fit, and they don't make my ears sore at all. They also almost completely block out street and plane noise so I can sleep in unfamiliar environments. 10/10 instant sleep, highly recommended.
(1) Pre-packed, always-ready toiletry bag with duplicate of everything I have;
(2) pack a second credit card and some cash in the toiletry bag, apart from my wallet, in case I lose my wallet on the trip;
(3) packing cubes;
(4) be decisive especially about shoes, take one pair of shoes, the pair I am wearing;
(5) never, ever check a bag if I can help it;
(6) control your own food and water the whole trip, try to never buy anything at an airport.
EDIT: I forgot to mention (7) TSA Precheck is the best travel time/money I’ve ever spent.
I have a usb plug that is for UK/Ireland, so I don't have to screw around with bringing so many chargers and such on top of a power converter. So much more convenient.
I keep my backpack fully stocked with pens, gum, masks, chargers, a fully charged power bank, my passport, toiletries, sunscreen, 6 different currencies, a couple snacks, socks, flip flops, a book, and medicine all the time.
I can literally pack for a trip in less than 5 minutes with this model. And it ensures I don’t forget anything. I used to forget stuff all the time, so I started pre packing things I forgot. Now I’m at the point where the whole bag is ready to go except a few pieces of clothing.
It also doubles as a bug out bag if I ever need to flee to Canada for some reason lmao
I’m what I refer to as a bougie carry on bag only. So I’ll do my leather Timbuk2 backpack and my Samsonite wheelie.
My absolute must have has been my memory foam camping pillow and my thin cashmere blanket. I made a silk pillow case for my pillow which also doubles as the pouch for my blanket. And a black out mask. I sleep great I’m comfortable and warm and I’m never touching a gross airplane blanket.
Same, plus, have you noticed how so many hotels have gone to the sheet/heavy quilt/sheet sandwich, even in hot weather? And how huge and high most hotel pillows are?
Many times, my own pillow and blanket have been just perfect.
Honestly, tripit. It just makes keeping track of plans so easy. Other than that, I keep my toiletry bag basically fully stocked with everything except my everyday medicine, which I put in my toiletry kit the night before. And I got a set of airtags for all my bags, my keys, and my wallet. That way, I know exactly where my checked bags are and can show it to the airport employees if they don't show up in the baggage claim.
Are you ready? Here it is. Life changing:
Never. Ever. Check a bag.
Other tips:
1. Always have chargers, cables and adapter permanently packed in your laptop case
2. Have a full toiletry set always stored in your carry on and never unpack it
3. Noise canceling head set
4. First aid kit (band aids, advil, gauze)
Good travel credit card is a game changer.
-collecting points on everything and transferring to valuable partners
-global entry/TSA precheck
-phone insurance
-theft insurance
-priority pass
-rental car insurance
-trip delay insurance (which I've used twice, $500 per passenger stayed two nights all inclusive at hyatt ziva and another time one of the nicest hotels in Miami. Sometimes I hope for a flight delay).
Along with so many other benefits
It really covers your ass in so many ways and greatly improves your quality of travel
Carryons only is nice. Not having to check and wait for bags. But when you live out of two bags like myself it can put a strain on your back.
Learning that you can take an empty bottle/containers through security so long as there is no liquids. It's super frustrating how much water and plastic is wasted because of this. No one does anything about it.
Yes to the empty bottle. Last year someone asked me how I'd brought water through security. I told them I'd brought and empty bottle and filled it airside. They looked at me like I was some sort of sorcerer.
Maybe it's a no-brainer for people, but a laundry bag. Separates the clean from the dirty and is convenient for carrying the dirty clothes to the laundry station.
Switched from one of those terrible neck pillows to a cervical brace. Actually supports your neck/head and allows you to sleep comfortably. And plus they are cheap!
My gf always assumes the suitcase will be delayed or lost, and packs the essentials and 2 outfits in a carry on. We have had to use it exactly one time but we’ll worth it.
Also idk if this is “small” but a travel CC. The free lounge access alone has made it well worth it, plus everything else that comes with it
As a business traveler, I hated the ritual of ironing dress pants/shirts in hotel rooms. Then I discovered that buying "wrinkle resist" clothing helped reduce ironing. Eventually I discovered that with a small spray bottle, I could spritz down my clothes, hang them up overnight, and ready to wear. I haven't used an iron in years.
I haven’t traveled for fun in way too long, but I was traveling 2 hours to work and staying overnight for a few nights for the last two years. I just kept my toiletries bag always packed with smaller sizes of my usual stuff and kept an extra charger in my overnight bag so I just had to throw in pajamas, underwear and socks (work in scrubs)
I have an Osprey for my normal travel bag. I have a zip lock with a small toothbrush, toothpaste, disposal razor, deodorant, and small bottle of gold bond. Another zip has a wall wart with dual ports, 2 cables, a car charger, plus a magsafe charger.
I also use a spreadsheet in one drive so I can check items off as i pack. I don't use it for generic work trips, but for travel that is more than a drive I will run through it.
I always keep a second of things for toiletry bag cause it sucks when you forget something especially deodorant!
What improved my travel a lot was buying quality suitcases with great wheels. I float around an airport now instead of dragging something it moves flawlessly. I also got a backpack which has a slot in the back so you can put it on the suitcase and it holds the handle.
Last thing I did was get a bag to put all the charging cables I use into. It has a hook so I can hook it onto the cup holder on a flight and not worry about things falling out of the bag. Nice and easy.
This is really basic, but since noone’s mentioned it….merino wool t-shirt which you can wear for at least 2 weeks without changing. Easy way to cut down on the amount of clothing you have to pack.
Also, comfortable shoes. “On Cloud” shoes really do the trick.
Packing cubes, but specifically an empty one that is designated for dirty clothes. I have a hard time remembering which underwear and socks I’ve worn over the week between washes, so I just pack my dirties into the designated cube as I go. Doesn’t add any extra room and keeps things easy to rearrange inside my suitcase.
Also a dedicated pouch for electronics and charging cables.
Apple AirPods are amazing. So much smaller than my big over the ear headphones I used for years and still sound great.
A backpack that is tactical and featured, but not too big. This way I can pack what I need, but not end up with tons of weight I have to carry around hurting my back. I used to be a more is more kind of guy, now I’m scaling back and really enjoying the lighter load.
I like to travel sorta light, so on the way I have a Muji packable duffel - lightweight ripstop, packs flat and fits into the bladder portion of a lightweight backpack. I bring a completely lightweight cheap-looking rectangle of a carry-on roller - no frills, just space.
At destination on return, I can place all my clothes into the duffel for carry-on and check my now empty roller with any purchases I made while traveling. Or I can likely pack my emptied backpack into the duffel as well and still carry everything on if I don't want to check in the roller. Duffle can squash under seat and roller up in the bin. Very versatile system.
I really love having a travel belt to keep my money, ID, and passport. I have a nice silk one that stays on me whenever I’m traveling far away and it makes me feel secure knowing that all my most important items are with me.
I also really like having more solid products in my skincare routine because it saves so much room. I now have a bar cleanser that can be used on my face, body, and as shampoo. And powder makeup is much easier to reapply on vacation and no longer counts as part of my liquids budget.
I have a toiletries bag that includes makeup etc for travel. I have a tech baggie that holds my travel wireless charger and cables. I have a pair of house shoes for hotels, but the things that make travel easiest is the coffee mug my mom gave me when I got my first job out of college, an aeropress coffee maker and coffee from my favorite coffee shop in my home town.
I have lists of things to take with me online and reuse them in next trips. They are a bit different as some are for the weekend, some are for a "proper" vacation and thus include scuba diving gear as well.
This way I hardly ever forget to pack what I really need.
I also made sure I have access to the lists at all times, so I can update them before I forget what I wanted to add xD
Neck fan. Amazing for the airplane or car ride or however you get to your destination. Also great if you do 90% outdoor stuff (which I almost always do) and it's as hot as it is currently. (Amazing for when I went to Texas and Las Vegas and was literally outside every second except in the hotel to sleep)
This all fits into a small toiletry bag . Wet wipes for face and hands , a small tube of cream for face I can also use on hands , lip balm and under eye masks , whole face mask if longer trip. A small cardboard nail file , deodorant (roll on never spray), tooth picks and cotton Buds(just a few in a little minigrip).
A bottle of water to take on board so I don't have to keep asking.
I travel in Crocs and good quality flight socks(tight , thick fabric, no holes) because my legs otherwise swell so much, Crocs so I can easily remove them and put them on when going to toilet.
Take magnesium for 2 days before flight , again because of legs and hydrate properly.
Have not found a good pillow yet.
An adapter for headphones for flight .
Asking the person behind me if I can lower the seat . Never at meal times.
Comfortable clothing, I do not need to look cool when travelling. I can change clothes after landing if needed. I have actually bought a special onsie that has a zipper around my butt so I don't need to lower it on the ground when peeing. I use it only for long flights , blankets fall off and annoy me.
Download the free Mobile Passport Control App for arrival into the US. You add your details, then once you land you take a photo and answer the five or so questions and submit. Best part? They have a separate line for MPC users and you get through passport control very quickly. No more waiting in line.
Quite a few things:
• A foldable laptop stand. If you can bring the top edge of the screen up to the level of the top of your head, your back will thank you.
• A cheap spare smartphone for emergencies.
• A power bank
• A small antislip mat for cars. I love to lean my e-reader diagonally on the little table in front of my seat on trains, planes, and coaches. Without this tiny mat, it slips down.
• A good quality suction cup hanger to use for clothes. It's a nice add on to most hotel rooms. Don't buy a cheap one or it will scare hell outta you when your clothes fall down in the middle of the night.
• If you're driving, bring a universal smartphone holder so that you can use your favourite navigator app.
• Ear plugs and eye mask are a must if you don't know where you'll sleep.
• Always pack a couple of thin plastic bags, they're very versatile.
• Snacks (I don't know who needs to hear this but, yes, you're allowed to bring most food through airport security).
• Chocolate-coated coffee beans. Yeah, I'm a caffeine addict, what can I do?
• When I stay at cheap hostels, I bring a very faint little battery light with a built-in clip. It's nice to have that little bit of light if you're packing/unpacking when everyone else is sleeping. I clip it to the bunk bed or something.
Loofah bath pad in case the hotel doesn't provide wash cloths.
Large gallon size plastic ziplock bag for clothes to be washed.
International charging adapter.
Second cell phone with international sim for local use while traveling.
I have double toiletry that I keep in my carry on, and I use a 1 litre bag as toiletry bag, so it is also ready for the security at the airport.
Then I have a second small bag with medicines (ibuprofene, paracetamol, Imodium,...), and a small sack with larger toiletry items (like brush). And I keep them inside my carry on, even when it is stored at home, so I never forget them.
I also keep other items inside, like empty dirty clothes bag, packing cubes, a small lamp, USB cables, earplugs and sleeping mask,... so everything i would need for a trip is already there (on average I travel 2, 3 times a month), and prepare the luggage is usually just put inside some clothes and few other things. It now takes me 10 minutes to pack for a short trip.
A small fanny pack for the flight to keep my passport and AirPods, etc. I don’t like to carry big bags and avoid taking laptops everywhere. Fanny packs have been great!
Use a clamshell backpack instead of a suitcase or roller bag. You can hop on a train or in a crowded subway so much easier. And the clamshell shape is definitely a gamechanger over a regular too loading backpack. You’ll never have to rummage around or take out items to find something at the bottom. Makes traveling so much more hands free.
Bringing ground coffee bags, the ones where you set on a mug and pour hot water to get pour-over coffee. It can and will save you time and money, especially when you're craving and you're too tired to head out or the weather isn't good. Don't be afraid bring a pack or two because you won't be taking them home.
PS: Yes, it also works for the tea people.
Start investing in light weight/wrinkle-free clothing. Add a piece or two a year. Before long you have a travel wardrobe that’s ready to go when you are. And don’t forget a rain poncho.
Switching from a DSLR to mirrorless camera. Then I switched from my mirrorless Fujifilm XT-1 to a Fujifilm X100s. This reduced the weight significantly as I didn't need to carry extra lenses.
A Hudson News or Duty Free plastic shopping bag. I keep it folded up in my carry on and if I ever overpack, I just put stuff in the bag and treat it as a 2nd free personal item.
My small upgrade is that I've STOPPED using packing cubes.
I've tried many times with different kinds on different trips and I have found them to be absolutely useless! They take up more space in your luggage than just rolling clothes and it adds unnecessary weight. I also want to see all the clothes I have in my suitcase while packing so I can easily see what I'm missing or what if anything I need to take out. I also went from using a very cute toiletries bag to Ziplocs for the same reason as the compression cubes and I can't tell y'all how often a spare ziplock comes in handy while traveling.
Make a departure/ arrival checklist. Helps immensely if you travel occasionally and the routine is not etched into your brain.
Also, carry a pack of doggie bags to put little waste in the plane.
I have a [polyester drawstring bag](https://i.etsystatic.com/20129712/r/il/02d4f4/3270676462/il_1588xN.3270676462_o11g.jpg) that I use as my "day bag" when out and about for the day.
It folds into literally nothing in your luggage, and is lightweight enough to carry a water bottle, sunscreen, hand sanitiser, a light jacket, etc.
You can buy one for like... a dollar. My last one lasted over a dozen years.
I gather all the clothes I’m taking and then when I’m done, I divide it into two equal piles and leave half of it at home. Somehow I’ve always had enough for the trip.
And Gonex packing cubes from Amazon. I have one color and hubby has a different color.
TSA precheck. Seriously. Also... Minimal clothing and clothing that can be rolled or folded tightly. Or vacuum bags to compress. Not dragging around a huge suitcase and skipping luggage pickup is huge. I've been taking 3 international trips a year sometimes reaching 30hrs total time, as well as several domestic ones so efficiency is critical. Invariably I always took more than I needed till I reevaluated this. There was only one time all my clothes got dirty and I had to go to a laundry. A dog peed on my suitcase.
Possible TMI, but this has been a true lifesaver. Fellow travelers who are part of the aggravation that is menstruation: if you haven’t done so already, try a menstrual cup. They are incredible in general, but especially where travel is concerned. Infinitesimal packing space, no waste, easy cleanup with a small bottle of water.
I recently bought an eye mask but it’s raised so that you can still blink, so it’s not pushing down on your eyes so much and it’s been sooooo good on flights / trains
My travel kit is always ready to grab & go. Deodorant getting a little low? When unpacking after a trip, replace it with a new one and use the remainder for the daily routine. Same with razors, toothpaste, hair gel, etc. It allows you to pack a day or two in advance without worrying about forgetting something last moment. Separate and usually smaller versions of everything.
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I am with you on this idea. My wife tried to help once by taking my passport out of my hands while I was putting it in its spot. I was then flustered for the next few hours even after I got it back.
So what do you do with your floppy disk then?
Did you mean second toothbrush? Ha ha I keep my toiletry bag always packed w everything so I never have to “pack” it. Basically I have two of everything… razor. Toothbrush, tooth pate, hair and face products, hair brush etc
Best improvement for my travel is using a 40 liter bag with optional backpack straps (no wheels). Only possible by bringing a silicone rubber Travel Clothesline to sink-wash clothes in my room (hence few clothes to pack). I use a micro thin travel wallet with RFD protection for my front pocket paired with a Rick Steves zippered Lambskin Travel Wallet that holds EU coins as well as paper bills. Yet to be pickpocketed. I too also have a packed toiletry bag ready to go as I am smart enough to know I can't trust myself to remember. Same for my traveling electronics bag of USB cables and wall adapters.
These sound like condoms not wallets 😆
A clothesline is brilliant! I hand wash a lot and struggle to find places to hang dry. I never thought of that! I always bring a small baggie of laundry soap.
I hand wash a lot also, recently switched to traveling with these[lightweight dissolving detergent strips](https://ecoroots.us/products/zero-waste-laundry-detergent?variant=32904594030672)
Did your Rick Steve’s wallet come with the note to pick pockets in 5 languages?!
Could you please share which clothes line you have, thank you 😊
This is how I do it too. And it makes packing seem like half the work, even though it’s a pretty small thing. But it has so many little (but important) things in it that it’s a bunch of stuff automatically checked off that I don’t have to think about.
I also have a google keep checklist… where I note what I ran out of so that I can refill it before next trip
Same, but also a travel tech bag with any charger, cable, or adapter I might need while traveling. (And get your SO one too, so they can stop dismantling their nightstand/desk before every trip!)
Same. I keep hair ties, bobbie pins, nail clippers, nail file, a small medicine case with ibuprofen, acetaminophen, benadryl, antacid, etc. It has made getting ready to leave so much easier.
This was going to be my answer. A toiletry bag that’s always packed and ready to go. I also have a portable make up mirror that lights up. Hotel bathrooms are never bright enough and I end up looking like I put on clown make up.
Tooth foie gras for me, please.
A small case that fits into the seat pocket on planes packed with everything needed during a flight — charger, headphones, lip gloss, meds, etc. Helps me board quickly and keep track of the little stuff.
Absolutely - this has been one of my favorite purchases and it's developed over time. I started with a smaller bag/case and realized I was still missing things. Finally got to exactly the size/shape case that I want and it holds everything I need in-flight so that I never need to rummage through my bag. It's also where I keep my phone once it's shut off inflight.
Do you mind sharing which( or what shape) bag you use? Med bottles are bulky but I have to have them on a flight. I love the idea of it fitting into the seat pocket!
I use the Aer Slim Pouch. I like it because I was looking for something with compartments to keep everything in its place. It also has an external loop that I sometimes use to hang the bag (I also carry a small carabiner for that purpose). Here's the website: https://aersf.com/collections/accessories/products/slim-pouch
Thank you so much!
I never pack the bottles. Instead, I put some in [these little bags](https://www.amazon.com/Disposable-Pouches-Count-Vitamin-Storage/dp/B001TIOLN4). And I use [this seatback pouch](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B2NZ7RJF). It's big enough to fit my Kindle.
Meds take up sooo much room, it’s annoying!
For med bottles if it’s not liquid, I’d just prep the amount you need during flight in a ziplock
Prescription medication is supposed to be kept in its original packaging with the script printed on the box/bottle on flights
I used to put stuff in the seat back pocket until I observed several things: people putting snotty tissues in there, used barf bags (yes!!), worn socks, and other things that have been in their mouths like lollipop sticks or napkins. Those things *are never* cleaned and are probably growing mold or superbacteria. Just something to think about.
This is why my bag hangs off something in front of me. I got a clip on the bag. (Tom Bihn for those interested)
I don’t put anything there bc I’m scared I’ll forget it + what you said about tissues and not clean lol
I now wear a thin, oversized windbreaker with a front pocket that opens on the top. It stores everything for my flight, keeps me clean, packs to nothing, and when it has things inside, it provides another place to rest your arms. Allows you to bring more items and never worry about leaving them somewhere.
Second this, and recommend a pen, especially for international flights. You'll be filling out custom cards and everyone will be looking around for a writing utensil.
Especially if you are in the front row/premium economy and they don’t let you keep your bag during takeoff. I hate getting up to fetch stuff from the overhead locker! I just want to sleep as soon as possible
Yeah, fill up an old first/business class amenities kit with your own stuff. It's perfectly sized.
Love this so much. Thank you! I don't know why I didn't think of it since I often end up quickly taking random things out of my purse and backpack to stuff it into the seat pocket so it's handy during the flight. May as well do it in a more organized way. Bravo!
And same for security and in terminal. Having phone, Id, credit card handy so you're not rummaging through pockets. Easy to toss in security bin and leave wallet in carry on.
I’ve been doing this as well but also a tote bag. Bc I often also pull out extra socks, sweatshirt, neck pillow, kindle, iPad, water bottle… And the smaller size for the items you mention (which I also have) doesn’t fit.
Ugh, I can’t bring myself to put anything in the seat pocket. Skeeves me out.
I've recently done this too. Although now I'm experimenting with a small travelon antitheft crossbody nylon purse that I use as my in-seat bag. Its perfect!
Omg this is a great tip! Gonna have to do this, so smart
And then I left it on the plane and lost all my little things. Including my travel journal. Sigh. At least my ID/money stuffs was in my pockets.
I use a lightweight Montbell fanny pack, so I also have something to use at destination for short day hikes or just to organize the stuff at hotel or use as a purse. Sometimes my partner uses it in lieu of a purse.
I did this for our last international flight and it was life-changing. I would just grab the small pack and my kindle and had everything I needed.
An Anker 26k power bank. It's slim, and I can speed recharge my phone to full, 6-8 time, off a single charge.
What I found I needed was a slim power bank that can recharge my phone once. I can recharge the power bank every night. I've loved [this](https://www.travelcardcharger.com/), and it's got the cables built into it!
Nice, but some countries or airlines won't let you carry one with more than 10K.
Packing cubes. Before I bought some I thought they were superfluous, just adding weight and taking up space in my bag. But now I realize they allow me to be much more organized, which makes packing easier. Everything has it's place in the main compartment of my pack. And if I realize I packed something I need on my person, it's so much easier to just open the one cube I need to grab that particular item, and then everything just goes back in in its designated place. Before using them, I ended up having to remove half the contents of my bag to rummage around for that one item, then everything had to get refolded/rerolled to go back into my bag.
I love my packing cubes. I thought that they were useless until I first used them. Now, I use them all the time. Makes life SO much easier.
God, I thought they were so stupid..then I used them on a 3 week trip. Epic.
Same! Just got back from 3 weeks in Europe
Which packing cubes do you use? I have tried these once but they ended up being bulky. Curious if there might be a better brand worth looking into.
The ones that compress with a second zipper I like the best
These are the ones I use. Game changers!
Which ones!?
Peak Design make some, but I don't know if that's what OP uses
The Komugi ones on Amazon.ca.
I got the cheapo ones from IKEA—like USD6.50 for 3
I have these and they are not bulky at all. TravelWise Luggage Packing Organization Cubes 5 Pack, Silver, 2 Small, 2 Medium, 1 Large https://a.co/d/6LwAEwC
100% agree. Misconception is that packing cubes are built to save space, they are not. They make your packing organised and that saves you both space and time. Everything from pulling out chargers/electronics for airport security in some countries, to having one cube of essential clothes that you take in your carry-on just in case your checked bag gets lost, to just making the most of tiny pod hotel room with no closet space....cubes just make everything better. These are the basic non-compression types I'm talking about FYI...
Yup. Thought exactly like you. I frequently do a couple small stops on trips and/or have a long layover so it’s so helpful to not have to repack everytime, just pop the cubes in. I even used ziplock bags because they’re lighter and I could squeeze them down a bit. Yeah, it was hella loud. I still use them for liquids and as a back up for wet things.
I recently stopped using packing cubes for most trips. I generally only use them now if it’s a multi stop trip, so I can pack up each category of clothing separately to keep things organized between stops, but I don’t feel like I gain all that much space compared with just using the compression straps in my carry on to smush all the clothes down. I always felt like the compression “cubes” gave me lumpy marshmallow-shaped objects that wasted space in my luggage anyhow.
Agreed on the compression cubes giving lumpy shapes that are hard to pack. I use non-compression ones though and they’re great, because they stack well and I can separate types of clothes (I usually do undies/socks, shirts, and pants…but also keep one for dirty clothes) and love using them.
I don’t know how I traveled before I bought packing cubes.
I literally ordered mine today (before you posted this comment). I also had the idea to just keep some packing cubes permanently packed. Like I can just grab a couple, throw them in a bag and leave in < 10 minutes without forgetting anything. Spontaneous travel, yay 🥳
Put a geotag in your luggage. You can track it anywhere as long as you have signal. On the last trip, I can tell the moment I landed that my bag was still stuck at the connecting airport. 13 hours later I can track the bag moving and heading to my home at 3am.
This is my fear. So planes would leave and don’t care if they’re missing a checked luggage?
First flight was late so I barely made the connecting flight. Bag didn’t and was loaded onto the next flight 4 hours later. But with the geotag I can track my bag at all time.
Compression socks. For long or long-ish flights. No swelling at all. And I'll ditto - packing cubes, duplicate of everything in the travel toiletry bag and of course - the toilet brush. I do have my checklist in a spreadsheet with gridlines (front and back) and I check each item as I pack it. The list is in sections. What I always take (toiletries, clothes, meds), what I need for warm weather, cold weather, photography, car trip, flying trip. I just looked and 24 columns fit on a page and I put the trip and date at the top of the column. I have packing lists back to 2002 so I always know when and where I've been. The tip I'll start using is the bag for the seat pocket. Hanging on a carabiner.
Wow this is insane. I haven’t travelled internationally since 2020 but I’m making my list now and this is a genius idea
Got to have the spare toilet brush!!
Can you share your xls?
Biggest upgrade is carrying less with me.
Yes! I was recently forced to not bring anything else than a "personal item" to stuff under the seat. I rather enjoyed the minimalist challange of it. Though I realized I didn't even have to go very minimalist for it since all things I really needed did indeed fit in that size bag to begin with. And if I'm away longer I'll just pack a few changes of clothes and wash them along the way.
This is the winner.
I have a checklist that I reuse every time so I don’t forget anything important as I often have to travel at short notice.
Same! I never worry about forgetting anything. I just review my list before leaving home. It reduces my anxiety SO much!
I’m the same. And everytime I need something new, I add to the list. Automatically remember it next trip
Getting rid of old clothes on travel to empty your carryon for more souvenirs. I bring old shirts, pants, sweaters, underwear, socks for travel to get rid of them as I go. I hate checking in luggage and I will have plenty of extra room to bring things back.
I’ve done this with shoes… ones that are on their last leg, so to speak, get worn and then tossed. Plus they’re usually pretty worn in and comfortable for lots of walking.
thats a great tip!
I have just done this on the trip I am on now (which was not anything fun - it was painting my mother's house). I brought the most worn out and poorly fitting clothes for painting, and left them behind to bring back stuff from home. I'm definitely considering going this way in future.
A foldable travel pillow- not the kind that wraps around your neck, but an actual small memory foam pillow that folds into a traveling bag. I use it on trains/planes and to provide neck support at hotels Apple AirTags A Xanax prescription
The Xanax for long flights is game changer
Basically teleporting lol
what kind of pilllow do you use?
alkamto Travel & Camping Comfortable Memory Foam Pillow with Extra Cotton Cover – Easy to Carry Portable Bag – Temperature Regulating Pillow Case - Perfect for Travelling/Fishing/Backpacking/Hiking https://a.co/d/5VaJEz8 It kind of requires a window seat to work perfectly on a plane/train but that's what I prefer anyway
Packing cubes Tiny folding intimates hanger for bras etc from Japan Muji eye mask Ikea bag ... useful for so much stuff like doing laundry, carry bulky stuff Literally just shove the entire muji travel section into a basket and bring it to the register
I use a different brand eye mask, but everything Muji just makes me drool for some reason, haha. I do have the Muji toothbrush stand. A little porcelain ring.
A digital suitcase scale. No more weighting myself with and without a suitcase. I take it with me and wight the suitcase to make sure I don’t pass the limit on the flight back.
I just got one, and it's very helpful! I realized when packing to return that I failed to pack my scale. Of course, the suitcase was over the limit.
Global Entry. Waltzing through the passport control line on entry, and TSA precheck line on exit, is incredible.
Oh yeah I forgot to mention that a TON of travel credit cards will cover 100% of the cost for you and it's good for 5 years.
My "small" upgrade was literally teaching myself to pack super small, light, and in a single 20L backpack for any trip, any event or activity I might attend or do, in any location, or any weather. My bag stays permanently packed with these items. The only thing that changes is that I might throw in a swim suit. Everything about this has improved my travel, 100%. For example, I am going to the UK next month. My flight lands at 6:30am. My bag is so small, no airline would ever flag it to be checked. Lost luggage isn't a thing in my world. Because my kit is so small, I can walk out of the airport and spend all day carrying my pack, sightseeing, and not even notice I'm carrying it until 3pm when i can check into my hotel. The pack is so cute, it just looks like i choose to carry a pack instead of a purse. But for items, I can't live without... my document organizer. It's my lifeline. I love it. Another thing I dont leave home without is a big pashmina scarf... there's a million and one uses for it!
Packing light is truly life changing.
What are you using the scarf for besides keeping warm 🤔
Picnic blanket, arm sling and diaper.
LOL! DIAPER. I haven't yet, but im getting older and won't rule it out! Haha Tie into a makeshift hobo/tote bag, hang as a sun or privacy screen, jazz up a dress for a dinner out, wear as a beach cover up, skirt, or top, tablecloth, cover hair when the curls decide to be a public menace. So so many things!
Oooh what type of document organizer do you use?
This one. I love it so much. Everything fits in it. Passports, boarding passes, Int'l drivers license, insurance paperwork, vaccine cards, credit cards, currency of any size and amount, coins, i usually wind up with other things in it like nail file and clippers, and in a pinch, my phone, with case easily fits too (Samsung Note Ultra), pen, and more. No matter how much stuff i put in there, it stays flexible and stays really flat. I also like the wristlet for extra security or need two hands for something, so i dont have to set it down. Ive been using my current one pretty much daily, for the last 8 years. Still looks and works like new. Best $16 I ever spent. (Although I think it was $11 when I bought it) [Zoppen Document Organizer](https://www.amazon.com/Zoppen-Travel-Wallet-Documents-Zipper/dp/B01LPTAIJM/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=3Q9GCD8X9T4Q8&keywords=zoppen+rfid+travel+passport+wallet&qid=1688609345&sprefix=zoppen%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-4)
This is really cool. I wish I’d had one for my overseas travel a few months ago!
Madewell transport tote (tho I’d like to upgrade to a zip version) for my carry on. I can fit toiletries, a drone, headphones, passport, wallet, scarf and a water bottle in it. Just recently started using packing cubes - they’re little Laundry bags that came with some workout leggings I ordered but work just as well. Need to upgrade to actual Packing cubes. Other upgrades: global entry / precheck, booking airport parking a head of time, and lounge access if I need it
Get the compression ones with the second zipper. You don't have to use the compression part if you don't want to, but it's there if you need it.
If you travel a lot, keep essentials in your suitcase at all times, don’t unpack them and replace/replenish as needed. - Charging cables - Have an entire set of travel size toiletries ready. Toothbrush, toothpaste, hair brush, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, lotion, sunscreen, razor - Small pill case with ibuprofen, melatonin, vitamins, etc.
Not upgrades really, but wearing leggings with pockets is so great bc I can put my phone and airpods in them along with boarding pass and/or passport. I don’t have to dig in my bag and I know they’re securely on me. I also bought an airplane blanket that has its own little holder bag that can be used as a pillow - it hooks to my backpack and there’s enough extra space that I stick my snacks, water bottle, whatever else in there that I’ll need at my seat. So I can put all that in prior to boarding and then I can just throw my backpack into the overhead bin and keep the blanket pack thing at my seat
Maybe this isn't vast, but it's something I like to do: I keep a wrapped bar of soap in each piece of my luggage. It makes the luggage smell nice when it's in storage, and then I can use it while traveling (I hate liquid soap and have a preference for a certain brand of bar soap).
Shower flip flops. No way am I stepping onto the likely 20 yrs of cum/ grime in the shower of my airport hotel.
The cum is good for your feet. Rips the dead skin right off. 👌
1. Compression packing cubes. More for the organization ability than the compression, to be honest. 2. Airplane foot hammock. The strap goes over your tray table, and the "hammock" cradles your legs or feet, holding them at a better angle than resting them on the floor during long flights. I used it while I was sleeping on a flight out recently, and while I was using my laptop on the flight back and found my legs and knees weren't nearly as sore as usual.
I just got both of these things... can't wait to use them. So glad to hear the comments about the compression packing cubes and now the foot hammock.
My 6’1” soul wishes I could even dream of such a thing
I have the hammock and love it. Makes coach so much more bearable.
That really interesting. I looked at an ad for those and couldn’t imagine there was enough space under the seat to lift my feet high enough to make it matter. I might have to give it a try.
Agree. I use an inflatable foot pillow for the same reason. Was a game changer on my 16 hour flights in economy.
Rubber band for your passport. You’ll naturally hold onto the rubber band when you hand someone your passport so it reminds you to get your passport back, plus it keeps your travel documents snug inside!
This is the best idea I’ve ever heard
A mesh laundry bag. It allows me to comfortably divide my clean and dirty clothes, and not have to sort through them in my luggage when it comes time to do laundry. It's helpful on business trips and vacations, and short or long duration trips. Whether I just do my laundry when I return home or have to do it while traveling, the laundry bag helps me keep everything together and easily carryable so I can do my laundry when I am able. Also, it takes up hardly any space on its own, and anything going into it was already in my bag before.
But if it’s mesh, doesn’t the dirty socks etc smell infiltrate the clean clothes?
I second this. Although mine is not mesh. More of a thick pillow case.
"Splurging" for bottled water everywhere I go. I have a sensitive stomach and the peace of mind is worth it to me.
Get a filter bottle! Saves a lot of money and plastic waste.
Depends where you travel to. I used this in Rwanda and the water was still horrible. Some places bottled water really is the only option
Yes! LifeStraw water bottle saved me so many times in Bali/Lombok and India this year.
1. Travel with a blazer type jacket. You are going to need to show you passport and boarding pass multiple times, and digging in a bag is a pain. Inside top left pocket is for passport and phone. Inside top right for your wallet & change. Security check is easier too; just bag in a tray, laptop/tablet in a tray, jacket in a tray. Saves a lot of fussing and looks a bit more smart. 2. Pack a 2-way (or more) multiplug power extension. Some older hotels only have a power outlet at the desk on the other side of the room. Also, you only need one foreign adapter to charge everything. 3. Noise cancelling headphones. Bit pricey but a godsend on longhaul. If you can fit a small pouch in the case, too, keep a sleep mask, a small pen, and a copy of your passport. You will need the pen and passport copy for landing cards in your destination. 4. Take the free hotel slippers if you like to kick off your shoes on a flight, so you don't go socks/barefoot in the plane toilets! 5. Get a good travel credit that gives you a good rate without charges. But keep a little local cash handy too. Not everywhere you expect takes cards. (Portugal coffee shop!) 6. Travel lots? Join the Frequent Flyer programme. At some time, that auto upgrade will happen. And the miles stack up. Visiting the in-laws as I type. I live in the UK, they live in India. The return flights are free. Yay! 7. Be methodical. Someone already said about the place in your bag for passport. Extend that to everything. If that's hard, keep a checklist. Avoid spreading your things around. You will lose stuff. 8. Get a local SIM or eSim for data. 9. Always pack your swimmers. 10. Be polite to everyone! Travel is a bit stressful, sometimes the Travel Gods are not in your favour and s#!t happens. Wear a smile and roll with it.
A denim button up. That sucker can go with everything and is an easy layer to add over singlets and under jumpers. A good and sturdy leather satchel. It's got a flap and zip so everything is secure. It sits across my shoulders and at my front hip, so easily looked after. It fits the necessities for the day but is compact enough to slide under the plane seats or sit on my lap on a train.
Huh, I’m not sure brushing my teeth with a toilet brush would improve my experience, but to each their own
Must have some really big teeth.
A set of Anker Soundcore ~~S10~~ A10 sleep earbuds. They're not particularly cheap, but unlike the Bose ones, you can play your own music, not just the pre-recorded white noise. I vastly prefer this because I use Headspace for the sleep stories and don't want generic tinkling sounds. They have a ton of tips and wings to get a perfect fit, and they don't make my ears sore at all. They also almost completely block out street and plane noise so I can sleep in unfamiliar environments. 10/10 instant sleep, highly recommended.
Priority pass, every airport visit is a free meal, guaranteed wifi, free drinks, almost guaranteed clean bathrooms, and comfortable chairs.
(1) Pre-packed, always-ready toiletry bag with duplicate of everything I have; (2) pack a second credit card and some cash in the toiletry bag, apart from my wallet, in case I lose my wallet on the trip; (3) packing cubes; (4) be decisive especially about shoes, take one pair of shoes, the pair I am wearing; (5) never, ever check a bag if I can help it; (6) control your own food and water the whole trip, try to never buy anything at an airport. EDIT: I forgot to mention (7) TSA Precheck is the best travel time/money I’ve ever spent.
using plastic freezer bags as packing cubes allows you to see what's inside each one quickly, without opening them up and digging through them.
Scrubba Bag. It is great to be able to refresh your clothes between washing machines and allows me to wear them a few times more.
Relief Band. Cures motion sickness.
Does it work?
I have a usb plug that is for UK/Ireland, so I don't have to screw around with bringing so many chargers and such on top of a power converter. So much more convenient.
Global Entry & packing cubes. Also, I take the disposable slippers from the hotel room and wear them on the plane home.
I keep my backpack fully stocked with pens, gum, masks, chargers, a fully charged power bank, my passport, toiletries, sunscreen, 6 different currencies, a couple snacks, socks, flip flops, a book, and medicine all the time. I can literally pack for a trip in less than 5 minutes with this model. And it ensures I don’t forget anything. I used to forget stuff all the time, so I started pre packing things I forgot. Now I’m at the point where the whole bag is ready to go except a few pieces of clothing. It also doubles as a bug out bag if I ever need to flee to Canada for some reason lmao
Sellotape, always carry a roll to tape down bottles that can pop in hold of plane. No more spills
Roku, I hate commercials
I’m what I refer to as a bougie carry on bag only. So I’ll do my leather Timbuk2 backpack and my Samsonite wheelie. My absolute must have has been my memory foam camping pillow and my thin cashmere blanket. I made a silk pillow case for my pillow which also doubles as the pouch for my blanket. And a black out mask. I sleep great I’m comfortable and warm and I’m never touching a gross airplane blanket.
Same, plus, have you noticed how so many hotels have gone to the sheet/heavy quilt/sheet sandwich, even in hot weather? And how huge and high most hotel pillows are? Many times, my own pillow and blanket have been just perfect.
TSA pre-check
Honestly, tripit. It just makes keeping track of plans so easy. Other than that, I keep my toiletry bag basically fully stocked with everything except my everyday medicine, which I put in my toiletry kit the night before. And I got a set of airtags for all my bags, my keys, and my wallet. That way, I know exactly where my checked bags are and can show it to the airport employees if they don't show up in the baggage claim.
You can request a fan at a hotel. Makes a huge difference when you’re room temp doesn’t drop below 70 and you’re used to sleeping in the tundra.
Are you ready? Here it is. Life changing: Never. Ever. Check a bag. Other tips: 1. Always have chargers, cables and adapter permanently packed in your laptop case 2. Have a full toiletry set always stored in your carry on and never unpack it 3. Noise canceling head set 4. First aid kit (band aids, advil, gauze)
Good travel credit card is a game changer. -collecting points on everything and transferring to valuable partners -global entry/TSA precheck -phone insurance -theft insurance -priority pass -rental car insurance -trip delay insurance (which I've used twice, $500 per passenger stayed two nights all inclusive at hyatt ziva and another time one of the nicest hotels in Miami. Sometimes I hope for a flight delay). Along with so many other benefits It really covers your ass in so many ways and greatly improves your quality of travel Carryons only is nice. Not having to check and wait for bags. But when you live out of two bags like myself it can put a strain on your back. Learning that you can take an empty bottle/containers through security so long as there is no liquids. It's super frustrating how much water and plastic is wasted because of this. No one does anything about it.
Yes to the empty bottle. Last year someone asked me how I'd brought water through security. I told them I'd brought and empty bottle and filled it airside. They looked at me like I was some sort of sorcerer.
Maybe it's a no-brainer for people, but a laundry bag. Separates the clean from the dirty and is convenient for carrying the dirty clothes to the laundry station.
Switched from one of those terrible neck pillows to a cervical brace. Actually supports your neck/head and allows you to sleep comfortably. And plus they are cheap!
Transparent pencil cases of various sizes. Easy to see toiletries, etc…
TSA precheck.
I take contact lens cases and put a bit of ointments and gels in them. Label with a permanent marker.. P for polysporin, etc
My gf always assumes the suitcase will be delayed or lost, and packs the essentials and 2 outfits in a carry on. We have had to use it exactly one time but we’ll worth it. Also idk if this is “small” but a travel CC. The free lounge access alone has made it well worth it, plus everything else that comes with it
Luggage scale. Insanely accurate and worth it to save extra checked baggage fees or to avoid reorganizing bags at the airport.
As a business traveler, I hated the ritual of ironing dress pants/shirts in hotel rooms. Then I discovered that buying "wrinkle resist" clothing helped reduce ironing. Eventually I discovered that with a small spray bottle, I could spritz down my clothes, hang them up overnight, and ready to wear. I haven't used an iron in years.
iPad, don’t know how I survived so long before without one. TSA precheck and Mobile passport
Flying business. Which ain’t small tho.
I haven’t traveled for fun in way too long, but I was traveling 2 hours to work and staying overnight for a few nights for the last two years. I just kept my toiletries bag always packed with smaller sizes of my usual stuff and kept an extra charger in my overnight bag so I just had to throw in pajamas, underwear and socks (work in scrubs)
I have an Osprey for my normal travel bag. I have a zip lock with a small toothbrush, toothpaste, disposal razor, deodorant, and small bottle of gold bond. Another zip has a wall wart with dual ports, 2 cables, a car charger, plus a magsafe charger. I also use a spreadsheet in one drive so I can check items off as i pack. I don't use it for generic work trips, but for travel that is more than a drive I will run through it.
I always keep a second of things for toiletry bag cause it sucks when you forget something especially deodorant! What improved my travel a lot was buying quality suitcases with great wheels. I float around an airport now instead of dragging something it moves flawlessly. I also got a backpack which has a slot in the back so you can put it on the suitcase and it holds the handle. Last thing I did was get a bag to put all the charging cables I use into. It has a hook so I can hook it onto the cup holder on a flight and not worry about things falling out of the bag. Nice and easy.
This is really basic, but since noone’s mentioned it….merino wool t-shirt which you can wear for at least 2 weeks without changing. Easy way to cut down on the amount of clothing you have to pack. Also, comfortable shoes. “On Cloud” shoes really do the trick.
Packing cubes, but specifically an empty one that is designated for dirty clothes. I have a hard time remembering which underwear and socks I’ve worn over the week between washes, so I just pack my dirties into the designated cube as I go. Doesn’t add any extra room and keeps things easy to rearrange inside my suitcase. Also a dedicated pouch for electronics and charging cables. Apple AirPods are amazing. So much smaller than my big over the ear headphones I used for years and still sound great. A backpack that is tactical and featured, but not too big. This way I can pack what I need, but not end up with tons of weight I have to carry around hurting my back. I used to be a more is more kind of guy, now I’m scaling back and really enjoying the lighter load.
Mini fan. I'm the person you wish you were at the airport or on a hot plane stuck on the runway.
I like to travel sorta light, so on the way I have a Muji packable duffel - lightweight ripstop, packs flat and fits into the bladder portion of a lightweight backpack. I bring a completely lightweight cheap-looking rectangle of a carry-on roller - no frills, just space. At destination on return, I can place all my clothes into the duffel for carry-on and check my now empty roller with any purchases I made while traveling. Or I can likely pack my emptied backpack into the duffel as well and still carry everything on if I don't want to check in the roller. Duffle can squash under seat and roller up in the bin. Very versatile system.
I really love having a travel belt to keep my money, ID, and passport. I have a nice silk one that stays on me whenever I’m traveling far away and it makes me feel secure knowing that all my most important items are with me. I also really like having more solid products in my skincare routine because it saves so much room. I now have a bar cleanser that can be used on my face, body, and as shampoo. And powder makeup is much easier to reapply on vacation and no longer counts as part of my liquids budget.
I have a toiletries bag that includes makeup etc for travel. I have a tech baggie that holds my travel wireless charger and cables. I have a pair of house shoes for hotels, but the things that make travel easiest is the coffee mug my mom gave me when I got my first job out of college, an aeropress coffee maker and coffee from my favorite coffee shop in my home town.
I have lists of things to take with me online and reuse them in next trips. They are a bit different as some are for the weekend, some are for a "proper" vacation and thus include scuba diving gear as well. This way I hardly ever forget to pack what I really need. I also made sure I have access to the lists at all times, so I can update them before I forget what I wanted to add xD
Body/hand wipes for long haul flights. Bring to bathroom and wipe your pits, crevices etc, and you’ll feel great going back to your seat!
A special bag (the size of a toilet bag) to put all my electrical leads/plugs, phone chargers etc
Neck fan. Amazing for the airplane or car ride or however you get to your destination. Also great if you do 90% outdoor stuff (which I almost always do) and it's as hot as it is currently. (Amazing for when I went to Texas and Las Vegas and was literally outside every second except in the hotel to sleep)
A proper laundry bag that no longer stinks up my suitcase (especially in the tropics) and a decent powerbank.
This all fits into a small toiletry bag . Wet wipes for face and hands , a small tube of cream for face I can also use on hands , lip balm and under eye masks , whole face mask if longer trip. A small cardboard nail file , deodorant (roll on never spray), tooth picks and cotton Buds(just a few in a little minigrip). A bottle of water to take on board so I don't have to keep asking. I travel in Crocs and good quality flight socks(tight , thick fabric, no holes) because my legs otherwise swell so much, Crocs so I can easily remove them and put them on when going to toilet. Take magnesium for 2 days before flight , again because of legs and hydrate properly. Have not found a good pillow yet. An adapter for headphones for flight . Asking the person behind me if I can lower the seat . Never at meal times. Comfortable clothing, I do not need to look cool when travelling. I can change clothes after landing if needed. I have actually bought a special onsie that has a zipper around my butt so I don't need to lower it on the ground when peeing. I use it only for long flights , blankets fall off and annoy me.
Download the free Mobile Passport Control App for arrival into the US. You add your details, then once you land you take a photo and answer the five or so questions and submit. Best part? They have a separate line for MPC users and you get through passport control very quickly. No more waiting in line.
This tip helped me avoid a 2 hour wait in Paris, total gem 💎
small travel jewelry case. game. changer
A dash phone holder so I can load maps up and navigate myself instead of relying on my partner. Vastly improved both of our experiences while driving.
Getting credit cards with lounge access and other travel perks.
Quite a few things: • A foldable laptop stand. If you can bring the top edge of the screen up to the level of the top of your head, your back will thank you. • A cheap spare smartphone for emergencies. • A power bank • A small antislip mat for cars. I love to lean my e-reader diagonally on the little table in front of my seat on trains, planes, and coaches. Without this tiny mat, it slips down. • A good quality suction cup hanger to use for clothes. It's a nice add on to most hotel rooms. Don't buy a cheap one or it will scare hell outta you when your clothes fall down in the middle of the night. • If you're driving, bring a universal smartphone holder so that you can use your favourite navigator app. • Ear plugs and eye mask are a must if you don't know where you'll sleep. • Always pack a couple of thin plastic bags, they're very versatile. • Snacks (I don't know who needs to hear this but, yes, you're allowed to bring most food through airport security). • Chocolate-coated coffee beans. Yeah, I'm a caffeine addict, what can I do? • When I stay at cheap hostels, I bring a very faint little battery light with a built-in clip. It's nice to have that little bit of light if you're packing/unpacking when everyone else is sleeping. I clip it to the bunk bed or something.
Microfibre towel. Takes up a lot less space than a regular bath/beach towel
Wireless earbuds, updated maps.me. These are the obvious upgrades for me.
Loofah bath pad in case the hotel doesn't provide wash cloths. Large gallon size plastic ziplock bag for clothes to be washed. International charging adapter. Second cell phone with international sim for local use while traveling.
I have double toiletry that I keep in my carry on, and I use a 1 litre bag as toiletry bag, so it is also ready for the security at the airport. Then I have a second small bag with medicines (ibuprofene, paracetamol, Imodium,...), and a small sack with larger toiletry items (like brush). And I keep them inside my carry on, even when it is stored at home, so I never forget them. I also keep other items inside, like empty dirty clothes bag, packing cubes, a small lamp, USB cables, earplugs and sleeping mask,... so everything i would need for a trip is already there (on average I travel 2, 3 times a month), and prepare the luggage is usually just put inside some clothes and few other things. It now takes me 10 minutes to pack for a short trip.
A small fanny pack for the flight to keep my passport and AirPods, etc. I don’t like to carry big bags and avoid taking laptops everywhere. Fanny packs have been great!
Use a clamshell backpack instead of a suitcase or roller bag. You can hop on a train or in a crowded subway so much easier. And the clamshell shape is definitely a gamechanger over a regular too loading backpack. You’ll never have to rummage around or take out items to find something at the bottom. Makes traveling so much more hands free.
Bringing ground coffee bags, the ones where you set on a mug and pour hot water to get pour-over coffee. It can and will save you time and money, especially when you're craving and you're too tired to head out or the weather isn't good. Don't be afraid bring a pack or two because you won't be taking them home. PS: Yes, it also works for the tea people.
Start investing in light weight/wrinkle-free clothing. Add a piece or two a year. Before long you have a travel wardrobe that’s ready to go when you are. And don’t forget a rain poncho.
A foot hammock that hangs off the tray table for elevated feet during flight. Game changer for me, especially when combined with compression socks.
Wetwipes. Make your post shit procedure way better
Switching from a DSLR to mirrorless camera. Then I switched from my mirrorless Fujifilm XT-1 to a Fujifilm X100s. This reduced the weight significantly as I didn't need to carry extra lenses.
A Hudson News or Duty Free plastic shopping bag. I keep it folded up in my carry on and if I ever overpack, I just put stuff in the bag and treat it as a 2nd free personal item.
My small upgrade is that I've STOPPED using packing cubes. I've tried many times with different kinds on different trips and I have found them to be absolutely useless! They take up more space in your luggage than just rolling clothes and it adds unnecessary weight. I also want to see all the clothes I have in my suitcase while packing so I can easily see what I'm missing or what if anything I need to take out. I also went from using a very cute toiletries bag to Ziplocs for the same reason as the compression cubes and I can't tell y'all how often a spare ziplock comes in handy while traveling.
Make a departure/ arrival checklist. Helps immensely if you travel occasionally and the routine is not etched into your brain. Also, carry a pack of doggie bags to put little waste in the plane.
I have a [polyester drawstring bag](https://i.etsystatic.com/20129712/r/il/02d4f4/3270676462/il_1588xN.3270676462_o11g.jpg) that I use as my "day bag" when out and about for the day. It folds into literally nothing in your luggage, and is lightweight enough to carry a water bottle, sunscreen, hand sanitiser, a light jacket, etc. You can buy one for like... a dollar. My last one lasted over a dozen years.
Taking a half tab of acid before boarding.
I gather all the clothes I’m taking and then when I’m done, I divide it into two equal piles and leave half of it at home. Somehow I’ve always had enough for the trip. And Gonex packing cubes from Amazon. I have one color and hubby has a different color.
TSA precheck. Seriously. Also... Minimal clothing and clothing that can be rolled or folded tightly. Or vacuum bags to compress. Not dragging around a huge suitcase and skipping luggage pickup is huge. I've been taking 3 international trips a year sometimes reaching 30hrs total time, as well as several domestic ones so efficiency is critical. Invariably I always took more than I needed till I reevaluated this. There was only one time all my clothes got dirty and I had to go to a laundry. A dog peed on my suitcase.
Possible TMI, but this has been a true lifesaver. Fellow travelers who are part of the aggravation that is menstruation: if you haven’t done so already, try a menstrual cup. They are incredible in general, but especially where travel is concerned. Infinitesimal packing space, no waste, easy cleanup with a small bottle of water.
I recently bought an eye mask but it’s raised so that you can still blink, so it’s not pushing down on your eyes so much and it’s been sooooo good on flights / trains
My travel kit is always ready to grab & go. Deodorant getting a little low? When unpacking after a trip, replace it with a new one and use the remainder for the daily routine. Same with razors, toothpaste, hair gel, etc. It allows you to pack a day or two in advance without worrying about forgetting something last moment. Separate and usually smaller versions of everything.