flight travel checklist

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What Can I Bring?

Planning ahead and packing properly can facilitate the screening process and ease your travel experience at the airport. Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked baggage before arriving at the airport by reviewing the lists below. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. Read about civil penalties for prohibited items .

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The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.

Officers may ask you to power up your electronic device, including cell phones. Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. TSA does not read or copy information from your device.

Your Essential Pre-Flight Travel Checklist

• 21 Nov 2017
• Travel tips
• // Your Essential Pre-Flight Travel Checklist

Table of Contents

Last Updated on  October 8, 2022

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Take the stress out of travel with our  pre-flight travel checklist , ticking off all the essentials you need before you travel, from confirming your airport transfer to remembering to pack your phone charger.

Crowded check-in and baggage counters at the airport, impromptu trips, the craziness of chaotic crowds getting to the airport to get on a flight or find your luggage and leave the airport. Everything seems unfamiliar now as coronavirus has prompted all of us to find the ‘new normal’ of travel.

Travel Documents

If you’re travelling domestically, you will need to take care of the following  checklist :

• Travel PermitIf you’re travelling to a state that doesn’t permit non-essential travel due to the coronavirus, you will most likely need to get a travel permit from the border control to enter the state, regardless of the nature of your travel. Make sure to check the border restrictions of both your own state and your destination state before you start planning your trip and in the lead up to your departure date. 
• Negative COVID-19 TestAlthough not required in all cases, some states require you to provide a negative COVID-19 test before you can enter their state. This test cannot be older than 72 hours. They might also require you to quarantine for 7-14 days on arrival. Make sure you check the requirements of both your own state and the destination state when booking your flights and in the lead up to your departure date. 
• Travel InsuranceWhether you’re travelling domestically or internationally, travel insurance is essential for many travellers. Some credit cards come with travel insurance, but it’s always worth doing some research into what you are and aren’t covered for; medical costs overseas can be sky-high, and travel insurance will usually also cover loss and theft of personal items. There are many different types of travel insurance, so do some research to find the one that suits you the best.   Handy hint: Our friends over at  finder.com.au  allow you to compare travel insurance policies to find the best one for you.

If you’re travelling internationally, you will have to arrange the following documents in addition to the above documents:

• Visa and PassportsIf you are travelling internationally, you are required to hold a valid passport and visa. Some countries won’t let you in without a valid visa, so double-check any visa requirements before you leave to avoid an awkward conversation at border security. It can take a number of days to organise a visa, so make sure to check this well in advance. A lot of countries have put in place strict new visa regulations due to COVID-19. Make sure you check with your own country as well as the destination country what the updated visa rules are – Is non-essential travel permitted? Are tourists allowed to enter the country? Can you travel on a student visa?
• Negative COVID-19 TestIf you’re travelling internationally, this is something to keep in mind during COVID-19. Several countries require you to provide a negative COVID-19 test result before you can board a flight, which cannot be older than 72 hours. Some countries will also require you to take another test when you arrive, followed by a mandatory quarantine. Some countries will also allow you to bypass quarantine if you provide a negative COVID-19 test result less than 96 hours old. Make sure you check the requirements of both your own country and the destination country when booking your flights. 
• Health Declaration FormA health declaration form asks you to provide your travel history, travel destination, and particulars about your health. It is a declaration that you do not have any symptoms of COVID-19 to the best of your knowledge. Based on the requirements of your destination country’s government, most airlines will ask you to fill in and submit this form online. You should also carry a hard copy of the document and submit it at the immigration counter. If you are unable to carry a hard copy, you can fill in the form at the checkpoint itself in the airport.

Download the COVID tracing app

A number of countries have developed apps to help manage and reduce the spread of coronavirus. Australia has the COVID Safe app, India has Aarogya Setu, Singapore has developed Trace Together, Dubai has COVID-19 DXB Smart app, and there are many others. Most countries will advise you to download the app on your mobile device on arrival and keep your details up-to-date. However, in some countries, it may be mandatory to keep the app downloaded on your phone. Make sure you check with your destination country for any COVID tracing app you could use.

Carry-on Essentials

To help you keep safe from the virus, make sure to carry these carry-on essentials when you travel.

• Keep a face mask … or twoYou’ll need to wear a face mask in all public spaces throughout your journey. You can opt for more comfortable, adjustable face masks, especially if you need to keep them on for a long period of time. Make sure that your face masks satisfy the requirements as laid out by the World Health OrganisationCDC to help reduce the spread of coronavirus. To be more environmentally friendly, opt for a reusable face mask rather than a one-time use mask (let’s not forget about pollution and global warming while worrying about the coronavirus).
• Carry disinfectant wipesWhen you’re flying or taking the train or eating out at a restaurant, make sure that they’re following the recommended COVID-19 health and safety measures in your destination. Additionally, you should inspect your seat before sitting down. If possible, use your disinfectant wipes to clean your seat, armrests, tabletops, etc.
• Pack an alcohol-based hand sanitiserMaintain your hand hygiene by regularly sanitizing your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Make sure that you’re carrying a  travel-sized sanitizer  as there are limits on the amount of liquid you can pack in your carry-on luggage. 

Other than the above mentioned COVID-19 essentials, make sure you pack the following items in your carry-on to keep your journey comfortable and entertaining. 

• Lip balmAeroplane cabins are pressurised which means your lips are likely to dry out – this is unpleasant at the best of times but especially if you’re travelling a long distance. Pack some balm to keep your lips hydrated.
• Shawl of scarfAeroplane cabins often cool down on a flight, so to stay warm it’s worth packing a shawl or light scarf to wrap around yourself.
• HeadphonesMajor airlines often offer these on your flight, but it’s always good to pack your own pair just in case. Noise-cancelling headphones are a big plus on busy flights and if you’re a light sleeper. If your headphones are Bluetooth, don’t forget your charger!
• Book, Kindle or EntertainmentGet some reading done and pack a book in your carry-on. It’s a great way to kill time on the plane, in the departure lounge or in an  airport lounge . If TV series and movies are your love, be sure to load up your tablet or laptop with some a season’s worth of new shows!
• Menthol InhalerRelieve any nasal congestion by packing an inhaler in your hand luggage. They’re so small that they won’t weigh you down, and will offer relief if you’re feeling blocked up from the plane.
• Toothbrush and pasteSome airlines will provide a travel toothbrush and paste, but pack them in case – you’ll thank us if you’re on a long-haul flight!
• Essential medicationsMake sure you have any medication you’ll need in your hand luggage, as well as any prescriptions in case you need to show security. Depending on the length of your journey, be sure to pack enough medication that will suffice for your duration, as well as prescriptions or medical history documentation if you need to get more mediation overseas. Asthmatics, don’t forget your inhaler!
• Spare change of clothesIn case of flight delays or lost or delayed luggage, it’s not a bad idea to have a spare change of clothes or underwear handy in your carry-on baggage.

Check your carry-on and checked luggage

Will your carry-on bag fit the requirements and restrictions of your airline? Always double-check the weight and size of your bag, and if it’s too big or heavy, you may be requested to check it in instead, which can incur extra baggage fees. A good rule of thumb is to wear any heavy items of clothing on the plane (you can always take them off once onboard) and pack lighter items in your carry-on or checked baggage. There are also limits as to what liquids you’re able to bring on board in your carry-on and what quantity. Usually, small amounts in a sealed bag are fine, but it’s always best to double-check your airline’s policy on what is and isn’t allowed, or you may end up having to throw away toiletries and other products at security. While you’re checking your carry-on luggage, it’s also worth making sure that your checked luggage is within the weight and dimension requirements so that you can avoid any nasty last-minute charges.

Handy hint: If you’re travelling to the USA, you will need to lock your bag with a TSA-approved lock. Read our  8 Things You Should Know Before Travelling To The USA  for more helpful pre-travel tips.

Confirm your airport transfer

To ensure a stress-free, seamless and a safe trip, make sure you’ve confirmed your pick-up time and the meeting point of your  airport transfer  with your transfer company and driver 48 hours before you’re due to depart. Double-check that all of your booking details are correct and before you leave to check your email and phone for any correspondence from either Jayride.com or your transfer company.

BOOK YOUR AIRPORT TRANSFER NOW

Make sure you’ve charged your phone

You’ll need a phone when you travel as your driver and/or transfer company may need to contact you. If you’re travelling overseas, check with your phone provider if you can use your phone to make and receive calls and SMS messages overseas. Don’t forget to make the most of the free WiFi that is available in many international airports, too (check our  airport pages  for more information on this). Don’t forget to pack your phone charger as well – these are one of the most common items left in hotels.  Handy hint: Remember to buy an international travel adapter for your electronics if you’re going overseas.

Check-in online

Avoid contact and save time at the airport by checking in online, if your airline allows it. You’re usually able to print or download your boarding pass, meaning that if you’re travelling with just carry-on luggage, you can skip the lines and head straight for security.

Make copies of your travel documents

It’s always good practice to make copies of all your important travel documents, like your passport and driving licence, just in case your passport is lost on your travels. Keep a copy in your luggage separate to your passport, and leave a copy with a trusted friend or family member back home.

Pack your passport and any tickets!

It’s the most obvious thing to pack, but so often people arrive at the airport only to have left their passport on the kitchen bench (or in the photocopier!). Don’t walk out the door without double-checking your passport and any travel tickets or boarding passes are in your bag. Last but not least, remember to set your alarm if you have an early airport transfer!

Haven’t booked your airport transfer yet? Head over to  Jayride.com  to search and compare thousands of airport transfer options and find the one that’s right for you. Transfer companies who have COVID-19 hygiene procedures in place are now listed with a “COVID-19 Prepared” icon on our product. Keep an eye out for the “Covid-prepared icon” when choosing your airport transfer

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Use This Helpful Air Travel Checklist Before You Fly Anywhere

Grace Lower | Nov 9, 2023

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Although I have an undeniable adoration for aviation, it’s easy to let flight stress get to me. But air travel doesn’t have to be miserable. Along with remembering a few tips for reducing flight delays and stress , I’ve found that a great way for coping with the hassles of flying is a pre-flight checklist.

No two trips are ever the same, but I always travel happier when I stick with the same set of pre-flight rituals. I’ve even created a printable version of my flight checklist to help you prepare, too.

Flight Checklist: One Week Before Flying

1. make special arrangements..

If you’re traveling with a disability or have a food allergy that requires special accommodations, now is a good time to make arrangements with the airline for additional assistance if you haven’t already. You aren’t required to tell the airline if you have a disability, but making them aware of accommodations that will make your trip easier can alleviate some stress.

2. Create your packing list.

Start checking the weather and finalizing the activities you plan to do. Armed with that information, make a list of the clothes, toiletries, all-weather gear, and other items you need to pack in your luggage.

A simple pen and paper obviously does the job, but you can also use a packing travel app . Some will even let you enter your trip information, then make recommendations for what to pack.

3. Make a shopping list.

Once you have your packing list, you’ll have a better idea of whether you need to run to the store to pick up a few items. Sunblock, a refill of a prescription medication, maybe some new socks?

Flight Checklist: One Day Before Flying

1. double-check your luggage..

If you’re using a bag that’s part of your everyday routine — a purse, backpack, or briefcase you use on a regular basis — check the pockets for items that aren’t allowed on flights. No one wants the disappointment of forfeiting their trusty miniature pocketknife that’s no big deal on an average Tuesday but that makes TSA nervous.

Then, turn your attention to the luggage itself. Remember to check the dimensions of your bag and weigh it if you have concerns you might have overpacked. Your airline will have their carry-on size and weight restrictions posted on their website, along with fees for those bags and any extra charges for going over in weight or size.

2. Put your important documents someplace smart.

I have a designated folder where I keep printouts of my hotel confirmations, tickets, and other important documents, along with copies of my passport, credit cards, and proof of travel insurance .

It’s also a good idea to save digital copies of these documents in the Cloud or other secure place you can access them electronically if the physical versions get lost or stolen.

3. Gather your travel snacks and a reusable water bottle.

Travel snacks are a simple yet effective way to cut costs. Just pack your favorite chips in a sandwich bag or toss a few granola bars into your backpack. When you're on the road and feeling on edge, a small snack can be an excellent mood-booster.

Bring a reusable water bottle, too. Fill it up after you've gone through security to save money on expensive airport refreshments.

4. Check in online.

While there are still travelers who prefer to check in at the airport, I'd much rather complete an online check-in the night before. With advanced check-in, not only can I get an extra half-hour of sleep, but I get to breeze right to security when I arrive at the airport.

5. Confirm transportation arrangements.

Is one of your friends taking you to the airport? Confirm timing with them the night before.

Using Uber or Lyft? Check the app to get an idea of pricing. Make sure your payment information is up to date if you haven’t used it in a while or your credit card has changed recently.

Driving yourself? Give your car a once-over to make sure you won't have any setbacks. If you have less than half a tank of gas, fill up now.

6. Put your luggage by the front door.

If your personal items are scattered around the house, you run a greater risk of forgetting something. Put all your bags neatly by the door so you can just grab them and go.

7. Lay out clothes for the flight.

The morning of your flight should be effortless. Rather than frantically deciding what to wear when you should be heading out the door, curate a comfortable-but-stylish travel outfit the night before. Remember to choose a pair of shoes that are easy to slip off at security. Your future self will thank you.

8. Make a mini list of all the last-minute items you'll need to pack.

Some items — contact lens case, toothbrush, cell phone charger — have to wait until the morning of your flight before they can be packed. Write those items down, and check them off your list when you're ready to finalize your packing.

Flight Checklist: Morning of the Flight

1. exercise..

In all the excitement leading up to your trip, it's more important than ever to maintain your health and wellness . Take a walk around the block, go for a jog, or complete a 20-minute yoga practice. Travel is often accompanied by extended periods of standing and sitting, so limbering up will help you arrive at your destination feeling sharp and ready to explore.

This is a good time to practice a bit of deep breathing or mindfulness. Travel makes many people nervous, and a fear of flying can be very real. If you’re feeling anxiety about your trip, take a few minutes to adopt a healthy mindset and honor your mental health .

2. Eat something hearty.

Take it from me: there is no fate worse than traveling on an empty stomach. Before you leave, make a simple, wholesome meal that will give you lasting energy. Something high in protein and fiber will keep you feeling fuller for longer while helping you avoid a sugar crash somewhere in the middle of the security checkpoint.

Even if egg salad and chili dogs are your go-to snacks, avoid anything that might upset your stomach. You'll want to be as comfortable as possible for the next few hours.

Make sure you hydrate well, too. Water will help you feel refreshed and counteract the effects of jet lag better than coffee or other caffeinated drinks.

3. Check weather and traffic reports.

Don't let inclement weather or construction projects put you behind schedule. Instead, double-check traffic or weather events prior to leaving for the airport. This will allow you to build in extra travel time as needed.

4. Pack last-minute items.

Reference that mini list I mentioned earlier and make sure you throw the last of your essentials in your bag. Take this time to also make sure you have your boarding pass, ID, and credit or debit cards. You won’t make it far without them, so double-checking always pays off.

Flight Checklist: One to Two Hours Before Flying

1. check your flight details..

While airline apps are certainly useful, review the airport's monitors to confirm your gate and any changes to your flight's status.

2. Check out your terminal.

Once you pass through security, take some time to explore. You'll want to develop a mental map of the terminal so that you'll know how to navigate to your gate when it's time to board.

Make sure to scope out any food vendors or retailers you might want to stop by later. And if you’re flying while nursing, find the best airport lactation spaces .

3. Find a seat near an outlet.

When you're ready to settle in and wait for your boarding group to be called, try to score a seat near an outlet. The downtime before your flight is an ideal opportunity to give your devices one last charge. You'll appreciate having a healthy battery when your flight lands — and during it if you’re trying to survive the boredom of a long-haul flight .

4. Move around.

You’ll likely be sitting for a while, so now’s a good time to stretch your legs while you have the chance.

If you’re flying with kids , this is a must. Let them burn off some energy before they’re cooped up in their seats, even if it’s only going to be a short flight. Some terminals have indoor playgrounds for this very reason.

Flight Checklist: 30 Minutes Before Flying

1. eat something..

Here's where your preparation will pay off. Use this time to break into the snacks you packed beforehand and enjoy something a little more satisfying than complimentary pretzels and a half-can of soda.

2. Fill your water bottle.

If you packed a reusable water bottle, now's the time to fill it up at a water fountain. Planes are notoriously dry, so a sip of water now and then will keep you feeling fresh.

3. Take one last bathroom break.

This one is self-explanatory. The bathrooms onboard your plane will be cramped at best and terrifying at worst.

4. Get excited.

With all the preparation out of the way, you should be able to sit back, relax, and focus on the adventures that lie ahead!

Adding Travel Insurance to Your Checklist Before Flights

Even with the best laid plans and most thorough checklists, mishaps can happen. That’s why travel insurance is always a good idea. Seven Corners offers a variety of plans for domestic and international trips, protecting your money, belongings, and health. And you might be surprised by how much more travel insurance offers over refundable airline tickets .

Find the right protection for your next trip by answering a few simple questions in our interactive guide . Our live agents are also ready to answer any questions and help you choose the best plan for you.

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The Ultimate Travel Checklist | 37 Things to Do Before Your Next Trip

Say goodbye to stressful planning. With this travel checklist in hand, you’ll always be ready for your next adventure.

It's easy to get swept up by the hype when you're planning out a trip. Whether it's international or local travel, daydreams of relaxing on a beach or skiing down snowy slopes can easily occupy your mind. Of course, you won't forget the basics like booking your flight and getting your travel visas in order. Meanwhile, packing lists, house chores, reservations, and transport arrangements take a back seat, right behind the more exciting stuff. As with everything important, though, it's not until you need something that you realize it's not there. Luckily, we've got just what the travel doctor prescribed: 37 things to do before your next trip.

Each item on this list will ensure that everything is in order, from your packing checklist to your house plants. If you’re looking for a quick step-by-step guide, feel free to follow the bulleted travel checklist below. For a more detailed walkthrough, follow along with the video at the end of the list and read on.

A Month Before

• Create a travel packing list
• Book your accommodation
• Apply for an International Driver’s Permit (if you plan on driving in another country)
• Check for vaccination requirements
• Get an advanced supply of prescription medication
• Get travel insurance

A Week Before

• Check the weather and change your packing list accordingly
• Pack your bags
• Notify your bank that you’ll be traveling
• Get your finances in order
• Make arrangements for someone to take care of your household
• Confirm your reservations

2-3 Days Before

• Organize your travel documents
• Arranging transportation to and from the airport
• Share your itinerary, accommodation address, and contact info
• Charge your batteries
• Double-check your bag
• Start adjusting to timezone differences
• Clean your house

A Day Before

• Take out the trash and any perishables
• Pack your travel snacks
• Double-check your personal item bag
• Unplug the electronics you’ve been charging
• Put your bags near the door
• Check in to your flight
• Download your digital boarding pass
• Set an away message for your email
• Lay out your outfit for the next day
• Eat before you go
• Take out any remaining trash and leftovers
• Pack up your toiletries
• Make sure the plants have been watered and the pets have enough food
• Unplug appliances around the house
• Grab your phone
• Triple-check you have all your essential travel documents
• Adjust the thermostat
• Grab your bags and go!

A month before the big trip, it's important to decide what gear you'll need, i.e., (1) create a packing list . It essentially acts as a travel checklist, but only for what goes in your bag. Packing checklists depend on a lot of things, such as your destination's climate, duration of stay, personal and work-related needs, and local customs and culture. That last one is a bit nuanced, but a good example would be how temples and other religious sites enforce dress codes that require the head and shoulders to be covered.

At the core of any packing checklist for a vacation (or otherwise) are your absolute necessities, like clothing, toiletries, travel documents, and medication. It’s these items that must go first before you can move on to less essential gear like electronics, cosmetics, and other accessories. If you aren’t sure where to start, you can check out ours—such as our Digital Nomad and Budget packing lists—which are good templates that you can modify as needed.

Once you’ve got a working manifest of everything you need, it’s time to (2) book your accommodation . If your trip coincides with a holiday season or travel-heavy seasons in general, hotel and Airbnb prices usually go up during those times. Additionally, finding a place to stay tends to get more difficult as more and more people book. In other words, it’s better to lock one in as soon as possible.

If you’re traveling internationally and plan on driving a motor vehicle, like a car or motorcycle, you’ll have to (3) apply for an International Driver’s Permit . Procedures and requirements may vary from country to country. The processing time can be a few weeks, so it’s best to get the application process rolling early.

While you’re on the web looking up those permits, (4) check the vaccination requirements for the country you’re visiting. If you’re unsure which vaccines are required and which are recommended, the CDC’s (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) website has an extensive travel checklist and is an excellent resource to get you sorted.

On the subject of health, make sure to top up and (5) get an advanced supply of your prescription medication from your doctor. You never know if you’ll have to extend your stay, and your specific medication may not be available at your destination. Furthermore, it’s important to check the laws and regulations on bringing medicine and drugs into the country beforehand to avoid legal troubles or confiscation.

After you have your vaccination and prescription medicine prepped, one additional layer of readiness you’ll want is (6) travel insurance . Travel insurance coverage varies depending on your provider, but typical coverage includes emergency medical treatment, personal liabilities, and loss of personal items like travel documents and baggage. Again, you never know what could happen while you’re traveling, so it’s best to be prepared in case of an emergency.

A week before your trip is a good time to (7) check the weather and change your packing list accordingly . Weather is one of the most finicky aspects of a travel checklist, as a particular day can go from sunny to rainy in a snap. That said, forecasts are still a safe bet for adapting your packing checklist. After all, what good are flip-flops and shorts when it's going to rain the entire trip? You can still wear them, but you'll be sad, wet, and look totally unprepared.

Now we really get into the thick of things: (8) packing your bags . We've already gone over how you should create your packing checklist, but there's also the question of how it all comes together. Start the process by laying out everything you think you need, then try cutting the quantity down in half. It's never too late to unburden yourself of excess weight, and who knows—maybe the extra space can afford you to bring something you initially had to cut.

Some items need to be packed last because you’ll be using them right up until you leave the house—we’re talking about toiletries, chargers, and house keys—so make sure to save some space in your bag for them. (Psst—that's where this travel checklist comes in handy.)

Once everything’s packed, keep track of your bag’s (or bags’) total weight. If you’re traveling with just a carry-on, airlines have different weight and size limits, so be sure you’re well within them. You can check your bag’s weight by weighing yourself on a bathroom scale with and without the bag then subtracting the difference. If you need a guide for packing a carry-on , we’ve got you covered.

Other than friends and family, you’ll also want to (9) notify your bank that you’ll be traveling . No, you won’t need to shed a few tears of sadness for them like you would for your pet. You’ll be doing this so that they won’t flag your purchases outside your typical area as fraudulent. Tell them the exact dates you’re traveling and where you’ll be. There are few things more embarrassing than having your credit card declined when you’re trying to pay for a fancy dinner; worse if you’re treating someone else.

On that note, check up on any upcoming bills that may come your way while you're gone. In other words, (10) get your finances in order . Don't worry—this won't be as complicated as doing a complete audit; you're simply making sure you're not coming home to find the electricity and internet disconnected.

This one's for the pet lovers and plant havers: (11) make arrangements for someone to take care of your household . Oh, how we wish we could just take our dog and/or three-foot fern with us to the Bahamas. But alas, it's not the most practical idea. The next best thing? Ask a neighbor, friend, or family member to feed and water them from time to time while you're away. Just make sure to bring them back something nice (for the caretaker and the pet/plant).

Someone else who might miss you while you're away is the mail carrier. To keep mail from piling up unnecessarily, you may want to contact your local post office to put your mail on hold if you're going on an extended trip.

While you're still a week away from your trip, (12) confirm your reservations . This not only goes for your accommodations but also for restaurant reservations and any specific events you plan on attending. Last-minute changes to events aren't unheard of, so it's worth re-checking.

Okay, by this point, your hype levels are probably fast approaching critical mass. Hold your horses and passports, though, because there are still a few things to do during these last few days.

Still holding your passports? Okay, good, because it’s time to (13) organize your travel documents . Without these, there is no trip, except to the terminal or station. The documents you’ll want to keep track of are your passport, itinerary, insurance, visas, and tickets. If your everyday wallet can fit all those, then great. If not, passport wallets do exist, and some bags come with dedicated security pockets that can take them in.

The trip from where you're staying and to the terminal probably isn't the one you're particularly excited for, but it's worth prepping for anyway. (14) Arranging transportation to and from the airport is just as important in our eyes, unless you fancy a long walk. To avoid expensive parking fees or taxi fares, you can ask a friend or family member to give you a ride. There's a chance they won't be available on that day, though, so having someone extra as a backup is a good idea. If you’re taking an Uber or Lyft, schedule a pickup in advance so you won't have to wait long on the day itself. The same goes for when you're riding from the airport to wherever you're staying; book it now, so you aren't left waiting needlessly for a ride.

At this point, you’ve already told friends and family about your big trip, but now it’s time to (15) share your itinerary, accommodation address, and contact info . You won’t be doing this to brag, but to make sure they know where you are and how to reach you in case of an emergency.

If there’s something that needs constant attention throughout this travel checklist, it’s the (16) charge levels of your batteries . Even when they're just idling, laptops, smartphones, and handheld consoles like the Nintendo Switch are slowly but surely sipping power. Topping them up just before you leave ensures they're ready when you actually need them.

Okay, now it’s time to (17) double-check your bag . It's not like anything's escaped between now and the time you've packed it a few days back—this is just to make sure you haven't forgotten anything. Plus, it gives you the chance to make a few tweaks to what you've packed and to squeeze in some last few items if you want to.

After you’ve double-checked—and maybe even triple-checked—your bag, you’re probably feeling a bit tired. Too early to go to bed? It may not be the worst idea to (18) adjust now and prevent jet lag . If you’re traveling to a different time zone, you can prepare yourself for the switch by changing your habits. This includes eating dinner an hour earlier or later (depending on the time difference), and the same goes for your sleep schedule.

This may be the least popular tip on the list, but it's worth doing anyway: (19) clean your house . Think your house is dirty as it is? Imagine it days or weeks later when no one's been home to keep things tidy. Trust us, piled-up laundry (worse: piled-up dirty dishes) only becomes more of a chore after you've come back from your trip, exhausted from all the traveling you just did. Do them now.

You've already cleaned the house, expelling all the dirt off of plates, clothes, and any reachable surfaces. But this is the day before the main event, and there's one more thing (or set of things) to throw out. Have you guessed it? Yep, time to (20) take out the trash and any perishables you have lying in the kitchen and pantry. We support eating as much as you want of the perishables since wasting food is just, well, wasteful.

While you’re in the kitchen, you can go ahead and (21) pack your travel snacks . Airport snacks tend to get pricey, and you won’t believe how much you can save just by bringing your own. Just be mindful to pack foods that are easy to eat, not messy, and don't smell. It’s also worth checking out which foods are considered liquids and need to follow TSA’s 3-1-1 rule (we’re looking at you, goat cheese).

Now, (22) double-check your personal item bag , a.k.a your carry-on. This is to ensure your travel essentials are all there, especially your travel documents and money. After you’ve done that, (23) unplug the electronics you’ve been charging , like your laptop, game console, and power bank. By this point, almost everything is packed up, so (24) put the bags near the door where you can grab them and go.

There are just a few more things to sort out before you hit the hay! Before you go to sleep, (25) check in to your flight to save time at the airport. Most airlines have an app that allows you to check into your flight 24 hours ahead of time. Checking in this early lets you pick a good seat, so do that if you haven't already. If you've been issued a (26) digital boarding pass , take this chance to download it to your phone now to save you the hassle later.

Before you put down your phone for the night, make sure to (27) set an away message for your email . That is, unless you’re traveling for work or working remotely . If this is your vacation, turn off all work-related notifications so you can make the most out of your well-earned rest.

Once you’ve put down the phone, (28) lay out your outfit for the next day . Having your clothes laid out and ready will help speed things up as you’re rushing out the door. We don’t know about you, but we move faster just before we sleep than after we’ve just woken up.

At last, we've finally arrived at the day you've been waiting for. It's the main event: the day you actually leave for your trip. Hopefully, you weren't kept up all night by the excitement for your adventure, though we really can't blame you if you were. At the very least, you can go ahead and (29) eat breakfast or lunch to help stave off any hunger that could lead to unnecessary snack purchases at the airport. After you're done eating, (30) take out any remaining trash and leftovers you still have lying around.

Remember when we said some items need to be packed last? Well, it's time to get those aboard as well. After you've freshened yourself up, (31) pack up your toiletries and place them where you can easily get to them when you get to security. Putting them underneath anything else will hold up the line as you search through your bag to get to them, as TSA officers need to check those fluids to make sure they meet regulations. Bring out your packing checklist and ensure all remaining items are in your bag.

And don't forget about your housemates! Namely, your house plants and pets. (32) Make sure the plants have been watered and the pets have enough food to last until your designated caretaker gets to them.

The next tip will help you save money on electricity. (33) Unplug appliances that won’t be in use while you’re away, as they can still sip a tiny amount of electricity if, say, they have LED indicators. This includes TVs, microwaves, coffee makers, and desktop computers. Plus, unplugging will help prevent any potential fires if something accidentally shorts while you’re away. Speaking of unplugging, make sure you (34) grab your phone , earbuds, or Kindle in case you’re doing any last-minute charging.

Yay! You’re almost out the door. But wait! It’s time for another passport check. (35) Triple-check if you have all of your essential travel documents . You can never be too careful in trying to avoid being that person awkwardly digging through their bag at the last minute just before boarding.

While you’re walking towards the door, make a quick (36) walk-over to the thermostat and reduce the temperature . No one’s going to be home, so there’s no need to rack up a pricey heating bill. Needless to say, keep your pets and indoor plants in mind when you’re adjusting this. At this point, consider doing one last pass over this full travel checklist to make sure you're all set to go.

Got all that? Well then, time to (37) grab your bags and go! Careful not to trip in excitement!

If you’re reading this while you’re on a train or aboard your flight, congratulations! 37 travel checklist to-do’s sound like a lot, but once you’ve completed this travel checklist a few times, it becomes second nature. These are tips we follow ourselves and we haven’t missed a beat ever since. No missing passports, accommodations are on point, and the pets are just as happy to see us as when we left them—and it makes the trip all the more worth it.

This travel checklist is brought to you by the Pack Hacker team. We’ve collected these tips through many fun trips and a couple not so fun ones.

December 20, 2021

Author: Jude Miguel De Leon

Miguel loves road trips and actively takes the scenic route to make things interesting. When he's not behind the wheel with a trunk full of gear, you'll find him tinkering with a computer; a hobby he picked up while watching tech reviews starting at age 12. You'll never see him consider a product without being armed with plenty of product research & testing first.

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The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling Abroad

Shannon McMahon

Editor Shannon McMahon is always planning her next trip and often writing in her travel journal. Follow her on Twitter @shanmcmahon_ and on Instagram @shanmcmahon .

Shannon joined SmarterTravel in 2015. A former news reporter, she's lived in the south of Spain, spotted elephants in Sri Lanka, gone spelunking in the Caribbean, hiked Jordan's Petra Basin, interviewed Sao Paulo's Michelin-Star chefs, and explored China via bullet train. Travel trends, news oddities, and her visits to up-and-coming destinations are some of her favorite things to write about.

Her stories have also appeared online on USA Today, The Sun, Huffington Post, Business Insider, blog.TripAdvisor.com, Boston.com, and more. Her educational background is in journalism, art history, gender studies, Spanish, and film. She's been quoted as an expert travel source by CNBC, People.com, MarketWatch, The Washington Post, USA Today, and more.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Plenty of extra thick hair elastics. They tame my frizzy curls and come in handy in a surprising number of packing and hotel dilemmas."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "Climbing (yes, climbing, it's steep!) the Great Wall of China before it's gone."

Travel Motto : "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness." - Mark Twain

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window, of course."

Email Shannon at [email protected] .

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Traveling internationally is an adventure best planned ahead of time, and not just when it comes to booking flights and packing. Sure, showing up at your gate sans passport or forgetting melatonin for your red-eye flight can put a damper on your long-awaited escape, but most of your preparation should be dedicated to ensuring health, safety, and financial necessities are covered. To save you some prep time, we’ve compiled this international travel checklist for your next long-distance journey.

Focus on Safety First

One of the easiest and most important items on an overseas travel checklist is also arguably the most ignored. Travel insurance and State Department alerts can be incredibly important in emergencies abroad, but many tourists bet they won’t become part of the small percentage of travelers who require evacuation assistance or protection from hotel or flight cancellations.

Subscribing to the State Department’s STEP alerts for your destination can help you stay up to date on upcoming and current travel restrictions, strikes, and areas of political unrest. Any alerts you receive will let you know whether or not to plan for some unexpected obstacles in advance.

Travel insurance can cost as little as a few dollars per travel day and cover anything from replacing a broken camera to emergency medical attention, potentially saving you hundreds, maybe even thousands of dollars.

Get Your Travel Documents and Credit Cards in Order

Make sure your passport and any necessary travel visas are up to date. Some countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months after your scheduled return, so make sure you won’t be turned away or delayed at customs because of an old passport. Not sure if you need a visa? See this list of every country that requires a visa for Americans .

Keep physical and digital copies of your passport and all your paperwork in case anything is lost, and give copies as well as your itinerary and contact numbers to family and friends whom you can contact in case of an emergency.

Notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel dates so they don’t deny your purchases, and ask about international ATM fees so you can find out which ones won’t charge you. It’s always a good idea to bring multiple cards in case one stops working.

Don’t underestimate how helpful a cell phone photo of your passport can be. Whether you have to go to the consulate and report it lost, or are just filling out a customs card and need your passport number, it will likely come in handy. Email the image to yourself to have an extra digital copy in case your phone runs out of batteries or goes missing. You may also want to bring a spare copy of your passport photo on your trip; having it handy will speed the processing of a new document.

Your Questions About Online Passport Renewal, Answered

Get Vaccinated

It’s best to get the necessary vaccinations out of the way as soon as possible since it can take a few weeks to build full immunity. Some also require multiple doses, which may need to be administered over days, weeks, or even months. Talk to your doctor about getting the CDC-recommended shots , as the protocol for vaccines varies by country. For example, dozens of countries require proof of a yellow fever vaccination if you’ve been to at-risk areas. A travel clinic can help you sort out which vaccinations and medications you might need.

Keep your vaccination certificate in your carry-on in case customs requires you to present it when entering the country.

Study Up on Your Destination

Whether you’re a travel app connoisseur or more of a paperback guidebook person, having some source of knowledge about your destination is invaluable. Read about the region you’re traveling to in advance to gain insight into important information such as currency exchange rates, useful phrases, tipping norms , appropriate clothing, and cultural/legal customs. It’s best to be prepared so you don’t land yourself in a compromising situation.

8 English Words You Should Never Use Abroad

Make Sure Your Home Is Cared For

There’s nothing worse than realizing once you’re six time zones away that you forgot to stop your mail delivery or ask someone to water your expertly cultivated house plants. Make sure your daily tasks are covered before you leave, or appoint a trusty friend to do them for you.

You can find a house or pet sitter to do your chores if you’re willing to list your home on TrustedHouseSitters.com . Plus, you could find lodging through the site for your trip abroad if you’re willing to spend some time with someone else’s furry friends.

Stay Connected

Want to stay in touch while traveling abroad? If you haven’t taken your phone overseas before, call your mobile provider to make sure it will work in the country you’re visiting and to ask about international phone plans that might be available. If your carrier’s plans are expensive, a mobile hotspot can be a cost-effective alternative.

Download the Necessities

Sometimes the most important thing you’ll pack is in your smartphone rather than your suitcase. Offline maps are your best friend when it comes to traveling with limited data or battery. You can find Wi-Fi in many places, but downloading offline maps through Google Maps or CityMaps2Go will allow you to follow your GPS without using up battery life and roaming data.

Downloading in-flight entertainment could also save you if your TV malfunctions on the long-haul flight. Streaming won’t be available without consistent in-flight Wi-Fi (which you shouldn’t ever depend on) but you can pre-download movies and TV shows through Amazon Prime , and music streaming service Spotify allows paying users to download tracks for offline use with the press of a button.

Don’t forget a portable backup charger . Watching hours of your favorite TV show is sure to drain your battery life, and there’s nothing worse than finally finding a Wi-Fi spot only to have your phone die.

The 10 Best Travel Podcasts

Check Your Destination’s COVID Policies

Make sure you’re aware of your destination’s most up-to-date policies regarding COVID and vaccination status. Check with the State Department website well before your trip to make sure you meet the requirements, and check in periodically to monitor for potentially changes. Similarly to the US, mask-wearing policies may be left up to the discretion of an event or venue, so its a good idea to have a few masks on hand when out and about.

Pack These Essentials

While the contents of your checked bag will largely depend on the climate you’re visiting, you’ll want most of your trip’s essentials on hand in your carry-on. Start with this international travel checklist of items to pack:

• Passport and visa
• Medications
• Insurance and ID cards
• Cash, debit cards, and credit cards
• Pen to fill out customs forms
• Portable charger
• Earplugs , eye mask , and sleeping pills
• Electrical converters and adapters specific to your destination
• Antibacterial wipes
• Sweater / scarf in case the plane is chilly
• Cell phone and charger

For more ideas, check out our ultimate packing list .

Consider taking photos of your packed suitcase (both inside and out) in case it gets lost. That way, airline employees will know what to look for, and you’ll know what was inside in case you don’t get it back and need to file a claim.

Book Your Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

An important item to check off the list: make sure you have a place to stay when you reach your destination! Book your hotel for a great rate with SmarterTravel Hotels .

Editor Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Twitter @shanmcmahon_ .

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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The Essential International Travel Checklist PDF for Newbies

by Elizabeth Gorga - Last updated on July 5, 2018

• Before You Go

So you’ve decided to take the leap into international travel and your trip is just around the corner… but now what? The plan is in motion and anticipation sets in. Whether you’re planning to study , volunteer , work , intern , and just embark on a grand adventure abroad , any form of international travel is best planned ahead of time. After all, there are more things to do before traveling than just packing a suitcase and booking a flight (try our Flights page for discounted airfare for students!).

Whether you’re an organization freak or just want to prepare yourself in the best way possible, you need a clear plan with clear steps. A before travel checklist is the way to go.

Are you ready to GET YO’ TRAVEL ON?

No idea where to start? Lucky for you, GoAbroad has you covered! Here you’ll find the ultimate international travel checklist , complete with a planning timeline and packing list to make things easy for you. From the essential to-do’s , like picking your program and applying for visas, to finalizing itineraries and saying goodbye to family and friends, our pre-travel checklist will walk you through the six months leading up to your big trip abroad.

[ Download Our Meaningful Travel Checklist PDF Right HERE ]

It’s baby steps from here on out! Get moving on your to-do list early to eliminate the stress that comes with preparing for overseas travel. If you pace yourself now, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip abroad to the absolute fullest when the time comes!

A timeline of things to do before traveling

From the moment you decide to embark on travel abroad, it’s time to start planning. In fact, it’s never too early—the sooner you start to tick off items on your before travel checklist, the sooner you can relax and have fun!

3-6 months before departure

First things first: You need to pick a program (if you haven’t already). This first step is the most important, as it will determine how you go about planning in the coming months. There are endless opportunities for meaningful travel abroad, so if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options, you aren’t alone. But selecting your program is the fun part (think online shopping!), and GoAbroad’s Online Advisor can help. Simply make a profile with your personal details and wildest travel dreams, and we’ll match you up with the best programs to help you reach your goals.

 Submit your application several months in advance—the earlier the better—and once accepted, you can start working on the travel logistics. Do you have a valid passport? If you’re an international travel virgin, you’ll need to apply for one right away. Make sure it’s valid for the dates of your trip. Have you booked flights? Are there visa requirements? Give yourself plenty of time for the paperwork. Does your program have additional requirements? Do you need a TEFL certification? What about CPR? Get crackin’ early so you aren’t pressed for time.

You’ll need to sort out your funding at this stage, too. Start budgeting to save for your trip, or look into scholarships and fundraising to cover what you can’t afford. Travel abroad can put a big dent in your bank account, but as long as you have a game plan, the price will be totally worth it. 

1-3 months before departure

Get a stellar haircut and tie up other loose ends, like doctor’s appointments or visits to the bank.

If you’re planning for an extended time abroad, your international travel checklist should include all of the necessary appointments to make sure you’re in optimum health for travel abroad. Schedule checkups with your dentist, doctor, and any specialists, sort out prescription medication for the length of your trip, and maybe even visit your hair stylist to make sure you’re feeling and looking good before you go! 

Your trip preparation checklist isn’t all tedious paperwork in the first several months. Now is the time to spread the word! Tell your family and friends so they can share the excitement with you, let your school or employer know about your plans so they can prepare for your departure, and connect with in-country staff to get more information about your program. Get inspired: do some research on your destination. Read guide books or novels by local authors. Reading ain’t your thing? Check out a documentary or listen to some music to get in touch with the country’s roots. The more you learn, the more real your trip abroad becomes!

One month before departure

Time is flying by! A month may sound like a long time, but you’ll be on that plane in no time. With your departure date quickly approaching, now is the time to hunker down and think about what still needs to be accomplished on your before travel checklist. No more procrastination!

Before you start on your one-month before travel checklist, make sure you’ve checked off any outstanding paperwork for visas and passports. Are your flights booking, programs confirmed, and budget in place? Once this is out of the way, your international travel checklist will help to finalize the fine details. Confirm your travel itinerary and accommodations with your program and lay the groundwork for any personal travel. If you plan to veer away from the group, think about transportation and hostel arrangements.

Next on the trip preparation checklist: start to tie up the loose ends. Buy the essentials from your packing list and say goodbye to friends, family, and your favorite restaurants. You don’t realize it now, but a Chipotle craving is bound to happen while you’re abroad, so eat that burrito and don’t feel bad about splurging on the extra guac!

Impt item on you before travel checklist: Eat all the guac you can!

Need to brush up on those language skills? Buy a pocket dictionary or download Duolingo for your free time to brush up on key phrases and slang of your destination. You’ll want to pat yourself on the back when you can find your way around or have a short conversation with locals without a translator. 

Speaking of communication, make a plan with family and friends on how to keep in touch while you’re abroad. You won’t want to be tied to your phone or social media, but it’s a good idea to find an outlet to share your travels with those at home. Ever considered blogging?

Start getting EXCITED! This is the time to celebrate and have fun before your big adventure. Don’t forget to throw yourself a going away party, so all your besties can wish you bon voyage! 

One week before

The time has nearly come! At this point, there aren’t too many things to do before traveling. In a perfect world, your before travel checklist should be all checked off. Your passport and visa are ready, itineraries are finalized, necessities have been purchased. If you’ve been on top of your international travel checklist thus far, your last week will be a breeze.

There are just a few things left on your pre-travel checklist during your last week before departure. If you haven’t already, you’ll want to purchase travel insurance . Some programs include this in the program fee, so best to check with them first. If not, get this sorted right away—and no cutting corners with this one! You never know what can happen, and you’ll want the best coverage possible in case of emergency while abroad. 

One of the most important things to do before traveling is packing your bags—smartly. Don’t overdo it!

Don’t forget to contact your bank and let them know you’ll be traveling. You don’t want to run into difficulties with credit or debit cards while you’re overseas. Enquire about travel cards, or think about exchanging currencies so you have cash for your first week or two after arrival.

And last, but not least, pack those bags! Make sure you keep two copies of all travel documents and IDs in your carry-on, along with some clean underwear and a toothbrush. As for the rest, your program should provide you with some must-haves before you set off on your trip abroad.

Download our travel checklist PDF ! 

Are you ready to take the plunge into international travel? If you’re committed to meaningful travel abroad, it’s time to get the ball rolling on the prep work. Download GoAbroad’s ultimate pre-travel checklist PDF to get organized for your trip abroad. Straightforward and simple, our international travel checklist will make your life a million times easier while preparing for travel!

 Not only do you get the essential international travel checklist, but GoAbroad has thrown in a bonus packing list. Whether you’re going for a week or a year, you’ll have the essentials covered. In addition to comfy clothes, don’t forget a few key items: 

• Your passport!
• Cash and debit card on hand
• Travel-sized toiletries
• Any medications or vitamins you need
• Sunscreen and bug spray
• Headphones, chargers, and adaptors
• Translating device
• Earplugs and eye mask
• A good book and journal
• Walking shoes and flip flops
• Emergency contacts for your program staff
• Extra underwear—remember, you can never have too many undies! 

Your daypack should carry all the essentials: ALL paperwork, toothbrush and deodorant for those journeys that turn into days on end without a shower, something cozy to snuggle on the plane, snacks, and anything else to make your trip more enjoyable. 

You’re ready to make all of your life abroad and international travel dreams come true.

Remember to pack light! It can be easy to over-pack, especially when preparing for an extended overseas trip. Less is more when packing for your trip abroad. Whether you’re packing for a short-term volunteer stint or a year working overseas , the strategy is the same. Stick with clothing that can be layered or hand washed, and leave heavy books, high heels, hair dryers, and random accessories at home. You’ll be able to buy any clothes you need and most toiletries upon arrival, and that extra suitcase room will come in handy later for souvenirs.

You’re ready to get those travel plans rolling

That wasn’t too bad now, was it? Now for the fun part: stop daydreaming and put those travel plans into motion. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready for every excitement and challenge that comes with travel abroad. Throw your stresses behind you and dive headfirst into the trip of a lifetime. Adventure awaits!

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The Ultimate Packing List for Vacation (with Printable Travel Checklist)

Africa Packing Lists , Asia Packing Lists , Central America Packing Lists , Europe Packing List , Ireland Packing List , North America Packing Lists , Oceania Packing Lists , Packing Tips , South America Packing Lists

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Looking for the ultimate packing list? You’ve found it. We’ve rounded up all the things you may (or may not) need to bring on your trip carefully organized by category. To help you plan more efficiently, we’ve also included an editable, printable travel checklist you can customize for every trip! Download the “Printable Travel Checklist” below!

The Ultimate Packing List

This packing list shows the exact things to bring on vacation or other types of travel. It’s broken down into three sections:

• Printable Travel Checklist: editable spreadsheet with summary of all items
• Packing List by Categories: see table of contents below
• General Packing Tips: how to pack efficiently

This is the Table of Contents:

Printable Travel Checklist

• Packing List For Luggage
• Packing List For Clothes
• Packing List For Toiletries
• Packing List For First Aid Kit
• Packing List For Makeup
• Packing List For Hair and Grooming
• Packing List For Electronics
• Packing List For Backpacking Gear

Travel Documents and Money

Travel safety.

• Pre-trip Checklist

General Packing Tips

The travel checklist features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently including a list of things to bring on vacation and other helpful reminders. It includes all the items listed in various categories above and has spaces where you can fill in your own information:

• you can write in an item’s weight (lighter items means less overall baggage weight)
• you can note if you need to purchase something or if you already own it
• and most importantly, you can organize where you’ll pack each item

Our readers looove our checklist! Below you’ll find all the corresponding details for the complete travel packing list of things to bring on vacation!

  Packing List by Categories

Below you’ll find a list of all the items you should consider adding to your packing list based on category. Print the checklist above to follow along.

Luggage: Delsey Turenne Carry On | Carry-on Personal Item: Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Airplane Outfit: Top , Bottom , Shoes

I usually suggest you first decide everything you need to bring before choosing your luggage and other travel gear. Every trip is different and the suitcase that works for one type of adventure may not work for the next.

Best Selling Carry-on: Delsey Paris Helium Aero Luggage

Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Suitcase for details on the best sizes, wheels, materials, and more.

If you’re planning a long-term trip or are traveling to a destination where wheels won’t work well, a backpack is the ideal option. Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Backpack for Travel .

You’ll want to bring a personal item for the plane in addition to (or instead of) an in-flight purse. Read this to determine what exactly is a personal item and if you should bring one on your particular trip.

A purse for travel is a must-have for a day spent sightseeing, here are the factors you should keep in mind when choosing which day bag to join you on your next trip!

Best Packing Cubes: Compass Rose

In addition to your luggage, travel accessories such as packing organizers are highly recommended. They not only help you stay organized and less stressed while traveling, they enable you to travel carry-on only on just about any trip. We recommend these packing cubes – they’re ours!

• Packing Cubes for Clothes
• Packing Organizer for Accessories
• Packing Organizer for Electronics
• Toiletry Bag
• First Aid (if applicable)
• Document Holder
• Other Organizers (as needed)
• Daypack/Personal item

Depending on where you’re going, how you’re getting there, and what you’ll be doing, this essentials list has you covered with every little necessity to help you be prepared and enjoy your trip to the fullest! 

Watch this video to discover TFG editor’s travel capsule wardrobe must-haves, that are versatile, chic, and timeless

No matter where you travel and how long you plan to go for, start by choosing ten clothing items for your trip to act as the core of what you bring. If you could only bring ten items and no more for this particular trip, what would they be?

Shirt | Tank  |  Shorts | Sandals | Hat

These ten clothing items will act as the essentials in your travel wardrobe, also known as a capsule wardrobe . These ten items should be interchangeable so you can mix and match them to create different looks.

Versatility is key to a capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

Best Selling T-Shirt: L.L. Bean Pima Tee

In order to choose these ten core items most effectively, follow these guidelines on How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe for Travel . It includes eight examples for you to follow including options for both summer and winter.

• Dress (or other) 1
• Dress (or other) 2

Visit our  travel clothing category for product suggestions including the best travel pants , stylish travel dresses , and the best  cold weather items .

TFG Editor wearing her favorite travel jacket: Eddie Bauer Charly

Now that you’ve chosen these ten must-have clothing items, consider what other pieces you need based on other considerations such as the weather and activities such as working out or swimming.

You’ll also want to choose your underwear and bras after you’ve chosen your clothing so you know exactly which fabrics, colors, and styles to choose.

Icebreaker 175 Everyday Long Sleeve Crewe

Nude colors (or the color closest to your skin tone) are best for bras as this color can be worn underneath all other colors. Here are more tips on how to choose the best bras for travel .

For underwear , we recommend an average of ten (or one for every day of your trip up to ten days). If you’re traveling longer than one week you can hand wash them along the way. Read this post for recommended travel underwear .

• Outerwear 1
• Outerwear 2
• Sleepwear 1
• Sleepwear 2
• Underwear 1-10

Add thermal underwear for cold weather trips!

Leith Dress  ( similar) |   Naot Sabrina Flat Sandal |  Rebecca Minkoff Backpack | Sunhat

Your accessories should first and foremost offer functionality such as warmth in the winter or protection from the sun in the summer. You can incorporate style into your wardrobe through the colors, prints, and designs you choose for these items.

Best Walking Shoes For Travel: Skechers Go Walk 4 Charcoal Comfortable Sneakers

For shoes, we recommend you pack three pairs (no less than two, no more than four). Bring one for sightseeing (walking), one for any special activities you might be participating in, and an additional pair as needed. The third pair can either serve for function to account for changes in the weather or it can be a dressy option.

We have an entire category on the website dedicated to the best travel shoes including ballet flats , walking shoes , travel sandals , hiking shoes , waterproof boots , ankle boots , and more.

• Purse – Day
• Purse – Night
• Sunglasses Case
• Watch (or Travel Clock)
• Gloves (if applicable)

Read this guide for a full explanation on how to choose the best travel shoes for your specific trip.

Watch this video to learn how to downsize toiletries

Toiletries are one of the most challenging things to bring on vacation especially if you want to travel light. While they vary for each individual there are some general guidelines you can follow.

“Travel size” 3oz or 100ml products and containers are sometimes more or less than what you actually need, so use travel containers like these instead. They’ll enable you to bring only the amount you’ll use for your trip.

Best Selling Toiletry Bag: eBags Pack-it-Flat Hanging Toiletry Kit

Just like luggage, the functionality of toiletry bags differs and one may not meet the needs of every trip. Read this list of the best toiletry bags for travel so you can determine which options make the most sense for your needs. Generally speaking, hanging toiletry bags like these offer the most versatility.

• Conditioner
• Leave-In Conditioner
• Soap/Body Wash
• Deodorant/Antiperspirant
• Body Moisturizer
• Face Moisturizer

Optional Toiletries:

• Baby Powder (hot climates)
• Pumice Stone
• Hair Styling Product
• Female Urinal Device
• Menstrual Cup
• Toilet Paper

Read this guide on how to choose toiletries for your trip .

First Aid Kit (optional)

Not all travelers pack a full-size first aid kit and you can usually buy most things on the road. However, it’s a good idea to take one or two doses/packets of each of these items and create your own “mini first aid kit ”.

• Prescription Medication
• Contact Solution (if needed)
• Pain Relievers
• Travel-size Tissue Packet
• Digestion Tablets
• Upset Stomach Medication
• Allergy Pills
• Motion Sickness Tablets
• Antibacterial wipes/gel
• Bug Repellant (Deet-Free)
• Travel Size Sewing Kit

Watch this video to learn how to downsize your makeup.

Just as with clothing, create a capsule makeup collection when you travel that includes only the essentials. Use small travel containers like these to avoid taking large products such as foundation and concealer.

• Eyebrow Pencil
• Eye shadow palette
• Lipstick/lip gloss

Read this guide on how to downsize your makeup when traveling.

Hair / Grooming

Instead of bringing all your hair tools when traveling, contact your accommodation to determine if they provide items such as an iron or hair dryer.

Best Travel Hair Dryer: BaBylissPRO Travel Dryer

Instead of full size products, invest in travel size dryers or straighteners if needed. A nicely groomed mane adds the perfect finishing touch to a perfectly planned travel outfit.

• Travel Size Hair Brush
• Travel Size Mirror

Optional Hair Tools:

• Travel Size Blow Dryer
• Travel Size Hair Dryer Brush 
• Travel Size Flat Iron 
• Travel Size Curling Iron 

Read more tips on styling your hair while traveling .

A travel adapter allows TFG editor to charge her laptop, tablet, and phone all at once!

Electronics

The amount of electronics you bring will depend on whether or not you’re traveling for business or leisure.

International Universal Travel Adapter

If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to read this guide which explains how to protect your electronics from the different voltage abroad . Use a travel adapter like this one when visiting different countries on the same trip.

• International Travel Adapter
• Phone Charger
• Phone Cover
• Camera Charger
• Camera Battery 
• Camera Memory Card
• Camera Cover
• Memory Stick (with important info)
• e-Reader Charger
• e-Reader Cover

Optional Electronics:

• Tablet Charger
• Tablet Cover
• Laptop Charger
• Laptop Cover
• Laptop Case
• Screen Protector
• Keyboard Protector
• External Hard Drive
• External Hard Drive Cord
• Portable Power Bank
• Portable Power Bank Cord
• Music Device
• Music Device Charger

Read this post for tips on preparing your electronics before a flight .

Editor’s Favorite Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack (similar)

Backpacking/Budget Travel Gear

(if applicable)

If you’re backpacking around the world, traveling long-term, or traveling on a budget, there are a few additional items you’ll need to bring on your trip.

Other travelers may also find some of the below items useful. Click on the item below to learn about each one and why they might be important for you to bring.

• Sleeping Bag Liner
• 2 Travel Locks
• Travel Towel
• Swiss Army Knife
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Packable Tote
• Mosquito Net
• Pillow Case
• Laundry Bag
• Laundry Line
• Travel Pillow
• Disposable Poncho
• Travel Size Umbrella
• Passport Size Photos (for visas on the go)

If you’re traveling on a budget, read this post. If you’re staying at hostels, read this post. If you’re going on a round-the-world trip, read this post.

With the exception of your passport, cash, and cards, many of the below items are available in digital form. Use this as a reference checklist.

• Passport Copy
• Passport Holder
• Boarding Pass
• Itinerary (some airlines require this printed when you have to check in in-person)
• Visas in passport (if needed)
• Immunization Records (if there are health requirements such as yellow fever)
• Emergency Cash in USD (enough for one full day)
• Credit Cards
• Drivers License / Alternate Form of ID
• Language Guide
• Notebook (to note addresses in paper, not phone)
• Pen (to fill out immigration forms)
• Emergency Contact Info
• Travel Insurance
• Copies of all travel documents (in memory card, USB stick, or stored in email)

Watch the video above for tips on how to keep your stuff safe while traveling.

Traveling is generally very safe, but the most common issue is theft. There are a few precautions you can take to protect your belongings, such as using one of these anti-theft devices.

Compass Rose RFID Secret Bra Wallet

Anti-theft products  that are worn under your clothing are particularly useful to conceal valuables in places like Spain or Nicaragua. We recommend this RFID secret bra stash to conceal your cash and cards safely and discreetly!

Best Selling Anti-theft Bag: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Black Messenger Bag

While not necessary, some female travelers make feel more comfortable with an anti-theft purse  in places such as Paris or Thailand where purse snatchings are common.

• RFID Anti-theft Bra Wallet
• Anti-theft Travel Purse (optional)

Never carry your passport while sightseeing – this is a common mistake that leads to theft. Read these tips to learn how to keep your passport (and other belongings) safe while traveling .

Pre-Trip Checklist

These are a few essential things to do as soon as you book your trip.

• Call banks to inform of travel plans
• Immunizations
• Check weather at destination
• Check baggage restrictions
• Check visa regulations
• Check immunization requirements (i.e. yellow fever)

Read this post to see my personal pre-trip checklist featuring my complete packing routine.

Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube ! 

In order to avoid overpacking, take the time to plan and research before your trip. Find out the weather forecast, cultural considerations, and finalize your activities so you can accurately determine exactly what you will and will not need for your trip.

The biggest game changer for me was using packing cubes – they completely transformed the way I traveled and I was able to travel full-time carry-on only for several years!

The video below shows you the technique I use to travel carry-on for every trip:

Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes

As shown in the video, I use slim size packing cubes . When I first started using them in 2013, I was finally able to downsize my luggage from a 65L Osprey Aura backpack to the 40L Osprey Farpoint .

The clothing used in the video is an example of what someone would pack for a long trip consisting of various climates, activities, and the need to be ready for anything.

Read this post where I explain everything you need to know about packing cubes including what they are, how to use them, their benefits, and the best brands. Trust me, they’re the ultimate game changer!

Destination Packing Lists

We have specific packing lists for destinations all over the world. Visit this page to find your destination!

And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “ Stop Overpacking “. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here !

What else would you add to our travel packing list of things to bring on vacation? Share and comment below!

For destinations, please read:

• Europe Packing Lists
• Asia Packing Lists
• Africa Packing Lists
• North America Packing Lists
• South America Packing Lists
• South Pacific Packing Lists

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I hope you liked this travel packing list of things to bring on vacation! Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

96 comments.

Your packing lists and tips are the best! It’s so easy to forget an important item, and your lists help avoid that. Thanks!!

Is ultimate packing list is what help me to prepare our very first 17 day trip in Europe (Italy and Spain). I’ve recently sent it to Friends to share the wealth! I absolutely love the Travel Fashion Girl site!

Love this whole blog, this entire post is very helpful all being in one post! Thank you for helping us travel!

The idea of packing cubes was not foreign to me; however, after reading all these tips and putting them into practice, my hubby and I were both able to travel 3+ weeks in Europe last Fall with only an AWAY carry-on suitcase and a backpack that I ordered specifically to fit under the seats on European inter-company smaller planes. Thanks so much for saving us, as we will likely never travel the same as we used to!

Thank you for creating these packing list. They are very helpful.

This list has been incredibly helpful!! I have always maintained a customizable packing list that I came up with years ago, but this took my list to the next level and was significantly helpful in keeping myself organized for a recent 2-week, backpack-only, trip I just took to Europe! I have traveled to 35 countries and continue to return back to TFG for fresh tips, outfit ideas, the best packing tools, and lots of other helpful information! Thank you so much to TFG and this wonderful community of women!!

Super helpful info- I added a bunch of tops and dresses to my Amazon list. I’ve already got many of the items you recommend- one of my favorites is the electronic cords organizer. I never leave home without it!

Your packing lists are fantastic! I don’t have to think so hard! Thank you!

I have used these packing lists time and time again. They have helped me pack exactly what I need and cut down on items I won’t need. I used to be an overpacker but these lists have solved that problem!

I have been traveling carry-on only for years now (whether it’s a hardside bag or my backpack), and I’m always looking for new capsule wardrobe ideas!

I printed out the packing list for Italy the beginning of this year as I prepared for my May departure. I kept it in my purse at all times so no matter where I was, I had it to refer to when I was I happened to be in a store. It was super helpful in keeping me focused. Thanks !

Thank you for publishing all of this wonderful information!

Love, love, love these checklists! I used one on my two week trip to Italy last May and it was so helpful. Planning to use one again on our girls trip to London and Paris in April. 🧳

I have always used a packing list. It helps me know that I haven’t forgotten something and not over pack. I love the Compass rose packing cubes…I bought a set for hubby and myself. We use them a lot. Thanks for all of your tips and info…now to just get a trip planned!!

I love everything about travel fashion girl, but having these already made printable packing lists are the best thing ever! They are going to come in really handy as I’m preparing to take my two teenage granddaughters to France in March and this will give them a good idea of what they need to pack and how to do it. Of course I will supervise lol!

Thanks so much for sharing this list! It was so helpful for my recent trip to Panama. The Leith dress was a great addition to my travel and everyday wardrobe!

I’ve been working with fine tuning my packing list for years. If my husband says, “do you want to go to …?” I can be fully packed for any type of trip in 20 minutes.

This is so helpful! I love the lists!

Love these tips!! Super helpful !!!

Never j ew what a packing cube was until I read your site. You are a life saver! Now I can’t live without them!

Love lists to help me feel confident that I’m ready! Your lists and advice are so helpful.

These lists are so helpful and love the packing cube video.

I love your blogs, you do amazing research have have great practical tips on how to best travel.

I went to Italy in the spring and the first thing I did before getting ready to go was read your blog to see what I should get that would help make it the best trip.

I also try to travel with only carry-on luggage, so you helpful suggestions are amazing.

I have used these packing list as the basis for my upcoming trip to England. This is the most prepared and least anxious I have ever felt about packing for a big trip. I love that the list comes with shopping links/reccomendations as well as reccomendations on where to pack it. If you’re short on time – the most helpful shopping list was the toiletry list. It provided great suggestions on how to stay within the TSA 3-1-1 guidelines even if you are planning to be away for a lengthy trip! Thank you!!

I love this blog!! These packing lists are a lifesaver!!

Thanks TFG for the best Packing Checklist! I use it everytime I go! And this year, 2022, I’ve been making up for not being able to go for the past two years. After a cruise in March and a month in Hawaii in the summer, I’m now packing for a Baltic cruise after a couple of days in London. The destination lists for London, Finland, Norway, etc. have been so very helpful, too. I’m pretty confident that I’ve packed what I’ll need. Haven’t yet tried carry-on-only and probably never will, but I’m pretty proud that I put at least 5 items back into the closet instead of in my suitcase this time!

While researching for our two-week vacation to Munich, Prague, Vienna and Budapest, I discovered your web site. I am so happy I did! Since we were traveling to so many places in a relatively short period of time, and using a carry-on and personal bag only, it was essential that I pack efficiently. Your capsule wardrobe and packing cubes were a game changer! I admit I fudged a bit and threw in a couple of extra items but never even wore them. Thank you so much for the great information!!

Love this! Very helpful for us overthinkers.

I honestly go over this packing list every time I go on a trip! So helpful. Also a side note, their subscription emails are amazing. Simply the best.

When I was finally able to travel internationally, this list was what I used to help me organize. Congratulations on 10 years and all you e accomplished- and thank you. 🙂

Love, love, 💕 the packing lists! I’ve been using them for several years. I started prepping for my 3 week trip to Peru in September. Thank you for the guidance, recommendations and inspiration!

This spreadsheet is my favourite clothing packing list, and one I recommend to everyone for carry-on only, or even just lightening the load on small checked bags. It even works for kids’ packing. Excellent, comprehensive resource, thank you for creating it, and sharing it with us all!

Thank you for these wonderful suggestions!!! Going to London in early October and the printed checklist will be very handy. Thank you!!!! Love those pants!!!! I need them!!!!

Love this resource!! Seriously has been so helpful for planning a 2 week Europe trip! Also was so helpful for my week in Montana during the winter! Highly recommend!!

I love all your travel tips! I will definitely be referring to your packing list for my upcoming trip to Spain and Portugal.

The packing cubes are a great idea, but what about wrinkles? And is a steamer able to work on an adapter only?

Hi Tammy, one of the keys to avoiding wrinkles is to choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics and to use the bundle wrapping method inside the packing cube! You can find more tips here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-pack-clothes-without-wrinkles/

I love your blog❣️ I just returned from Portugal and met a new friend who turned me onto your emails. Please subscribe me, as I’m not on Social Media. All my best, and safe travels.

Hi Linda, just gone ahead and subscribed you to our newsletters. Hope you had the most incredible time in Portugal!!!

Thank you, your information has been most helpful. Amazon.ca doesn’t seem to have any of your recommended items for sale at present, especially The Comnpass Rose Slim Cubes. I used them on our last cruise and it made packing easy before, during and after the Cruise. Would recommend this to any traveller. M. J. Sutherland

That is so amazing to hear thank you Jean!!! Unfortunately at this moment in time we are not sure when we are going to begin making our compass rose products again 😢

Hey, I’ve really enjoyed your site and recommendations on traveling lightly. I’m not sure if you’re still active on here but the link to your packing checklist seems to be broken.

Hi Sara, I am really sorry about this, we are having some problems fixing this issue on the blog.

If you would like a copy of our packing list, please email us at [email protected] and we will send you a copy straight away.

I pack one cube with everything I’ll need for the night and the next morning. This way I dion’t always need to unpack the whole bag, and can leave everything in place for the first night . Sometimes this means I don’t have to schlep a heavy bag upstairs when I’m tired–I can leave it downstairs and deal with everything once I’m rested.

Hi Laura, this sounds like a fantastic idea, thank you for sharing your packing strategy with us!! 🙂

I’m *so* with you when it comes to packing cubes. They make it super easy to find what I need, and it helps me fit more than I thought possible into my backpack. I’m also a HUGE fan of earplugs. I’ve used them on the train or bus to sleep, on the plane to drown out engine noises, and at loud concerts. I highly recommend getting custom silicon earplugs that you wash off and use again, especially if you have trouble using the foam ones (like I totally do no matter how many times I try).

Your packing lists have been a huge help for me when it comes to planning my trip to Europe. Keep the great material coming 🙂

Thank you Theresa!

Hi Alex, I”ve just discovered Travel Fashion Girl & I”m so glad I did. I”m about to travel for the 1st time to Singapore with my family, 5 kids included. Have you been there before? Can you offer me any advice? We”ll be travelling for 1-2 weeks. Desperate for your advice as a novice traveller. Thank you so much in advance . Liz xx

Hi Liz, read this: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-singapore-vacation-tips-from-local-fashion-blogger/

I love detailed lists – helped me stay organized when I travel. Thank you for this!

Great post! I will go to Sicily soon and this look like a great way to start organizing my trip.

Thanks Patrizia!

Thank you so much for this wonderful resource.

Glad you like it Michala!

As always I love reading all your post, but this one is probably my favorite!! It’s packed with really helpful tips, it’s something I always come back to, and is in many cases encouraging…. Lol but that couldn’t be any more true!!

Yay!!! Glad you enjoyed it even more than the others 🙂

This list makes me happy! Im an excel spreadhseet list make and this is perfect for a base to customize. Thanks!

Glad you like it! enjoy 🙂

So in going through the Ultimate Packing List (thank you for this by the way), I have a question about the clothes the traveler is wearing! I assume that’s included in the 10 items, but per the packing list, they are packed in something. You don’t get an extra set of clothes on top of the 10 items, right?? 🙂

For my Russia packing list (pre-UPL), I listed out all the items and then listed what was going in my suitcase, what in my backpack and then finally, what I was wearing! 😀

Great job for your trip to Russia Julie! That’s right, no extra clothes for travel – they are included in the ten items. However, ten is a good number to use as a guideline but it’s okay to go up or down a few items, too 😉

Hi, this is so helpful for me so I do not forget anything. The older I get and the more I travel, forgetting something seems to happen far too often. But not any longer!

Glad you like it Gayle!

I have been using these packing lists this Spring and Summer and they have totally changed the way I plan and pack for a trip! I love being able to customize it. The main thing this did was make me think about WHERE I wanted to put everything. I then also added a little “how many times I wore it/used it” column so I could analyze at the end as well and start planning for the next trip. Thank you so much for these organizers!

Wow that’s a great idea, good job Nadja!

So excited to use this packing list for my three big trips next year: mediterranean cruise, Machu Picchu and Cairo/Nile Cruise/Jordan!!

AMAZING destinations!

Great packing list post, we just spent 4 weeks in Alaska and now we are off to FiJi. Your packing list is a huge help.

That’s awesome David, thanks!

Great post! This is very helpful for people who need help on what to pack!

Thanks Valerie!

Please email completed packing lists! Thank you

Hi Isabelle, they are on the way towards your inbox right now!

Thank you for making this packing list editable! I’m particularly loving the “How to Pack It” column, which is missing on so many other lists. It really helps me figure out which packing cubes/organizers to use, how to place it in my bag and also to mentally include clothing I’ll wear while traveling.

Thanks Megan! Glad you liked the “How to Pack It” column 🙂

Excellent packing list!! This will be very useful for me!

Thanks Helene!

Thanks Helene! Glad you’ve found it helpful 🙂

Right now I am packing for my trip to Italy and I am using only your list. It is amazing. For the first time I feel that I do not overpack, that I have everything what I really need, and that I won’t forget any stuff. Your blog has changed completety the way I pack. Thank you 🙂 xoxoxo

Yay! That’s great to hear, thank you Justine!

Great post! One question: Do the clothing lists include items you’re wearing, or just what’s in your bag? Also, I always bring dental floss; in addition to keeping my gums healthy, it’s awesome for sewing!

They include all clothes including what you wear on a flight 😉 Dental floss is a good add!

Perfect timing for my trip to Europe next month. Thanks!

Glad you like it Kim!

Wonderful, detailed list. I recommend your site to anyone asking about travel and packing light. Especially friends who want to travel and still look fashionable!

Thank you Kim 🙂

This is so comprehensive! I plan on referencing this next time I travel. Thank you for the breakdown.

Yay! Glad you like it Heather 🙂

I am going to Italy in October and I am so excited to find this blog at travelfashiongirl.com. I have been stressing about what to pack. Now, I have a detailed list to follow and I couldn’t be more happy! Thank you TFG!

Love it! You thought of everything! Will use this on my next trip (instead of recreating a new list which I seem to always do). Thanks!

Yay!!!! Glad you like it ?

Love having all of this info in one post! Thanks for the tips!

While I enjoy all your posts, this one is SERIOUSLY the best I’ve seen on your site – or any site, for that matter! Thanks so much for gathering this all together for your readers. You’ve thought of everything!!!

Ah-maz-ing! Just what I needed!!!

There’s a lot of different types of products that need to be stored during travel, but finding those emergency items is what’s important when you’re out there all prepared! These print-out lists are exactly what I’ve been using for myself since high school, & for nostalgia sake, that original template I put together & taped over to “laminate” it, is still there slipped behind the zippered space in my overall bathroom bag. Thanks for sharing your process! It seems like a lot of work that many individuals have appreciated finding!!

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Airplane Pre-Flight Checklist: Your Guide to Safe and Efficient Flying

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Have you ever wondered what pilots do before they’re ready to whisk you across the world? Welcome to the intriguing world of the pre-flight checklist.

• Understand the importance of an airplane pre-flight checklist
• Learn about the history of the pre-flight checklist
• Dive into key items found on a pre-flight checklist
• Discover how pre-flight checklists contribute to aviation safety

Also check out: Flying with disabilities

The Crucial Role of the Pre-flight Checklist

As the facts suggest, the pre-flight checklist isn’t a simple procedural formality . The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) indicates that 20% of all general aviation accidents are due to improper pre-flight inspections. These incidents could have potentially been avoided with thorough checklists.

A Brief History of the Pre-Flight Checklist

The pre-flight checklist has roots in the 1930s with the U.S. Army Air Corps. Given the complexity of modern aircraft – a Boeing 747 checklist contains over 300 items – it’s no wonder these checklists have become an aviation mainstay.

The Importance of a Pre-Flight Checklist

Captain Sully Sullenberger, famous for his successful water landing on the Hudson River, once said, “A pre-flight checklist is a pilot’s best friend. It ensures that nothing is overlooked and that all systems are functioning properly before takeoff.”

The National Transportation Safety Board further emphasizes the importance of pre-flight checklists, stating, “The pre-flight checklist is a critical tool for ensuring aircraft readiness.”

How to Use a Pre-flight Checklist

While the specifics of a pre-flight checklist can vary depending on the aircraft type, there are common elements to all. For example, you’ll always see inspections of flight controls , fuel levels, engine operation, and navigation systems.

A Deep Dive into the Pre-Flight Checklist

Pre-flight checklists are not one-size-fits-all. They are specifically designed to fit each aircraft model’s unique requirements. From a small Cessna to a massive Airbus A380, each aircraft has its own dedicated pre-flight checklist.

1. Exterior Inspection

The exterior inspection, also known as the walk-around, is usually the first step. During this stage, the pilot checks the aircraft’s exterior for any visible issues like structural damage, fluid leaks, or tire wear. They will also inspect the wings, tail, and control surfaces to ensure they’re securely attached and free from obstruction.

2. Cockpit Preparation

Next, pilots move into the cockpit to prepare the aircraft’s interior. They’ll ensure the necessary documentation, such as the aircraft’s registration and the operations manual, is on board. All circuit breakers should be checked to ensure they are in place, and the flight instruments are set to their default positions.

3. Engine Start-up

Once the cockpit is set, it’s time to start the engine. But this isn’t as simple as turning a key. Pilots must follow the specific engine start-up procedure to ensure the engine is running smoothly and efficiently.

4. System Checks

With the engine running, pilots can now check the aircraft’s various systems. This includes the fuel system, electrical system, avionics, and flight controls. Each system has its own specific checklist to ensure nothing is missed.

5. Final Checks

The last items on the checklist are usually performed just before takeoff. These include setting the flaps, checking the flight controls for freedom of movement, setting the trim, and finally, a full power run-up to ensure the engine is operating correctly.

To illustrate the level of detail in these checklists, consider that the pre-flight checklist for a Boeing 747 has over 300 items. It’s a comprehensive process that leaves no stone unturned in the pursuit of safety.

As John King, co-founder of King Schools, aptly put it, “The pre-flight checklist is the foundation of safe and efficient flying. It’s a simple tool that can prevent catastrophic accidents.” 1

Whether you’re a frequent flyer, an aviation enthusiast, or someone intrigued by the procedures that ensure your safe journey, understanding the pre-flight checklist offers fascinating insights. It reminds us of the immense responsibility pilots undertake every time they step into the cockpit, with the safety of their passengers paramount.

Why is a pre-flight checklist important?

A pre-flight checklist is crucial to ensuring all systems are functioning correctly, contributing to overall flight safety.

Who uses a pre-flight checklist?

Pre-flight checklists are used by all pilots, regardless of the aircraft they are flying.

What’s on a pre-flight checklist?

The specifics can vary, but common elements include flight controls, fuel levels, engine operation, and navigation systems checks.

When was the pre-flight checklist introduced?

The pre-flight checklist was first introduced in the 1930s by the U.S. Army Air Corps.

You might also like: Airplane travel gadgets

• FAA Accident Statistics
• History of the Pre-Flight Checklist
• Boeing 747 Pre-Flight Checklist ↩
• Captain Sully Sullenberger on Safety
• NTSB on the Importance of Pre-Flight Checklists

This post is also available in: English Deutsch

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The Ultimate Packing List for Flying With Kids

From activity books to wipes galore, everything you need for your next flight with kids.

Alesandra Dubin is an LA-based lifestyle writer and editor. As a veteran digital journalist, she's covered travel, food, parenting, and more for over 15 years. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and countless other online and print outlets. An avid traveler, she often trots the globe with her husband and their twins. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @alicedubin. Alesandra holds a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley.

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Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

The trick to flying with young kids? Careful preparation. Our writer has traveled the world with twins, and she knows that flying with children can be miserable if you don't bring the right items on board with you. But with the right tools, a flight with your youngsters is not just feasible but can even be fun. We've rounded up all the supplies you’ll need for feeding, cleaning, soothing, and entertaining little ones — plus transporting all that cargo. So use this guide to prepare properly for your next family flight .

Packing Checklist for Flying With Kids

We've broken down all categories of things you’ll need to pack when flying with children and included the exact items we’d recommend.

Read more about our specific recommendations below and start your own checklist, too.

Entertainment 

• Best Tablet: Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Tablet
• Best Headphones: Puro Sound Labs BT2200s Kids’ Bluetooth Headphones
• Best Tech Stand: Airglo Cell Phone and Tablet Holder
• Best Coloring Book: Unicorn Imagine Ink Magic Ink Book
• Best Book: "Where’s Waldo? The Fantastic Journey"
• Best Activity Book: On the Plane Activity Book
• Best Craft: Purple Ladybug Wax Craft Sticks
• Best Game: Magnetic Travel Games
• Best Set: Mini Voyager 4-7 Jetsetter Travel Kit
• Best Sound Machine: Frida Baby Portable 2-in-1 Sound Machine
• Best Pillow and Blanket: Roamwild Kids Travel Pillow and Travel Blanket Set
• Best Portable Bed: Flyaway Kids Bed

Food and Drink

• Best Reusable Water Bottle: Yeti 12-ounce Kids Water Bottle
• Best Lollipops: Ring Pops (20 Count)
• Best Snacks: Healthy Snacks Variety Pack
• Best Snack Activity: Fred Match Up Memory Snack Tray
• Best Changing Pad: SkipHop Portable Baby Changing Pad
• Best Multi-purpose Wipes: Hello Bello Unscented Baby Wipes
• Best Face Wipes: Baby Wipes by Boogie Wipes
• Best Surface Wipes: Lysol Disinfecting Surface Wipes
• Best Hand Sanitizer: Kinia 8-pack Hand Sanitizer Holders
• Best Diaper Bag: Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack
• Best Crossbody Bag: Kibou Vegan Leather Fanny Pack Diaper Bag
• Best Kids Backpack: Herschel Backpack Kids 9L
• Best Wheeled Backpack: Jansport Driver 8 Backpack
• Best Carry-on Suitcase: Rockland London Hardside 20-inch Spinner
• Best Ride-on Suitcase: Jetkids by Stokke Bedbox 19-inch Ride-on Carry-on

Accessories

• Best Luggage Trackers: Apple AirTags
• Best First Aid Kit: PreparaKit Take Along First-aid Kit
• Best Storage Bags: Hefty Slider Storage Bags

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Entertaining kids is absolutely critical to keeping the peace on any flight. For babies and younger kids, one rule of thumb is to think of entertainment in 15-minute increments; bring enough options to rotate activities often. For older or generally tech-minded kids? Well, the magic power of screens sure comes in handy.

Best Tablet

Amazon fire hd 10 kids edition.

Why We Love It: This tablet has plenty of storage space and comes in a virtually indestructible case.

What to Consider: This isn’t as full-featured as, say, an iPad, so kids will outgrow it eventually.

Tablets are great for long-stretch occupation — just be sure to download your child's favorite shows and movies ahead of time rather than relying on airplane wifi to stream. Amazon’s Fire for kids simpler and less expensive than standard adult versions, and it comes with an indestructible, kid-friendly case with a stand. The Fire HD 10 also includes a two-year guarantee and a yearlong subscription to Amazon Kids+. We find this to be a great investment to keep children from ages 3 to 5 occupied.

Best Headphones

Puro sound labs bt2200s volume limited kids headphones.

Why We Love It: These Bluetooth headphones have a safe maximum volume for kids.

What to Consider: They are pricier than some alternative kids' headphones.

In the same way that you’ll likely lean hard on that tablet to keep kids occupied, you'll depend on quality kids' headphones to go with it. This compact but powerful pair is made to protect early hearing damage by following the World Health Organization’s recommendation of an 85dB-limited volume range. The Bluetooth capability has a 30-foot range of movement so the child can feel free to move about the cabin, too.The lightweight, durable headphones come in nine fun colors.

Best Tech Stand

Airglo airplane travel essentials.

Why We Love It: This universal tech holder is a great hands-free solution for use in planes, cars, and more.

What to Consider: It might not be the most secure stand for larger phones or tablets.

This nifty gadget is the brainchild of a flight attendant who saw a need for a phone stand that would allow passengers to watch movies and TV shows on long flights. Now kids can also watch on your devices hands-free with this tool that fits any brand’s gadgets. It folds fairly flat when not in use, and this lightweight stand could also be repurposed to hang a bag on a chair or tray table.

Best Coloring Book

Bendon unicorn imagine ink magic ink book.

Why We Love It: This compact book is small, self-contained, and mess-free.

What to Consider: The cover is slightly misleading: This book isn’t actually full of unicorn themes.

These invisible ink activity books are self-contained — no crayon collection to roll under plane seats — and guaranteed mess-free. Kids just use the Imagine Ink marker to stay busy with 16 pages of games, all in a portable-size book just right for tossing in a travel bag. We've found invisible ink books particularly effective for children aged 3 to 6.

Where's Waldo? The Fantastic Journey Paperback

Why We Love It: This book is challenging for kids of all ages (including pre-readers) and delivers on a healthy dose of nostalgia for parents as well.

What to Consider: A book will never be as tempting as a tablet for tech-addled kids.

Books that challenge little ones keep them entertained. And Where’s Waldo does just that — even for kids who aren’t reading yet. The paperback book is not only small and lightweight for travel, but its journey motif fits in nicely with vacation adventures, too.

Best Activity Book

On the plane activity book.

Why We Love It: This lightweight book gets kids excited about their flight, with plane-themed games and activities.

What to Consider: You’ll need to bring and keep track of your own coloring implements.

Engage kids in the excitement of travel with this activity book that has an airplane journey theme. Think: spot the identical pilots on their way through the airport, true-or-false airplane and flying facts, and more. Just pack a pencil (or probably two).

Purple Ladybug Wax Craft Sticks for Kids

Why We Love It: This generously stocked wax stick kit has plenty of sticks to share between or among siblings.

What to Consider: You'll probably leave some sticks on the floor and in the seats.

This set of wax craft sticks will be a novelty for most kids, and waxy sticks won’t roll away as easily as crayons or markers. This kit comes with 300 sticks in 15 colors and two different lengths, plenty for multiple siblings to have a go. Kids can endlessly shape and reshape them with no noise and no mess.

The Purple Cow Magnetic Animal Homes Matching Puzzle

Why We Love It: Magnetic pieces keep this tin game set together for play on the go.

What to Consider: Pieces are only magnetic on one side.

Nothing’s more frustrating than trying to travel with a game that’s rendered immediately useless after some essential piece slides irretrievably under an airplane or car seat. This compact game set provides a frustration-free alternative with magnets that keep everything together. We recommend it for children over 2.

Mini Voyager 4-7y Jetsetter Travel Kit

Mini Voyage

Why We Love It: This kit combines a customized array of kids entertainment items into one grab-and-go bundle.

What to Consider: You may save money by finding and buying all of these items separately (if you have the time and inclination).

If creating a DIY bag of entertainment ideas for every flight seems like a lot of work, buy this kit, which compiles it all for you in one convenient bundle. Choose from multiple items to build your own customized pack based on your kid’s interests and ages, including stickers, books, toys, and games.

When kids don’t get adequate rest, the whole thing goes off the rails in a hurry — for everyone. In addition to comfy clothes and layers, these packable items help keep children warm, soothed, and rested on the plane.

Best Sound Machine

Fridababy 2-in-1 portable sound machine.

Why We Love It: This portable sound machine also has a nightlight, and it hooks onto a tray table hinge or arm rest.

What to Consider: It can be hard to differentiate the buttons in the dark.

This little machine produces five soothing sounds for kids, including shushing and a heartbeat. It has an adjustable strap, so you can hook it onto an arm rest or or tray table hinge, or a car seat or stroller once off the plane. During your flight, just but be mindful of using anything beyond pink noise in flight out of respect to your fellow passengers. Conveniently, it also has a nightlight with three glow levels which could help you locate items in a dimmed cabin, too.

Best Pillow and Blanket

Roamwild kids travel pillow.

Why We Love It: This cute and cuddly set is a pillow, blanket, and toy all in one.

What to Consider: While the sleeve-style cover adds comfort to an armrest, it’s still an armrest — so it may be too firm for some kids’ tastes.

A travel pillow and blanket are always useful tools in keeping children cozy for long flights. This one has a niche feature: After you remove the blanket, the sleeve-style toy slides over any armrest to transform it into a kids’ pillow. So, it’s a penguin toy, a comfy pillow, and a warm blanket, all in one cute and compact package.

Best Portable Bed

Flyaway kids bed.

Why We Love It: Not just a place to sleep, this comfy surface also keeps toys and accessories from rolling onto the floor.

What to Consider: You’ll be happy to have it on the plane, but then you’ll be committed to traveling with it for the duration of your trip.

When kids are overtired, everyone loses. And a tool like this can be just the ticket for helping them sleep on long flights. The bed for babies, toddlers, and little kids inflates in 90 seconds and deflates quickly, too. It comes in a carry bag with a pump included, and it can be wiped clean.

When it comes to traveling with kids, you’ll always need more snacks than you think. Think you’ve packed enough? Great, now double it. And don’t forget a refillable water bottle to kep your kiddo hydrated.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Yeti rambler jr. kids bottle.

Why We Love It: This water bottle is impressively leakproof and made to withstand a beating.

What to Consider: The bottle itself is heavy, especially compared to its relatively small 12-ounce payload.

Staying hydrated with kids while traveling is a must, and this water bottle means business. The Yeti is durable, spill proof, and double-wall insulated to keep drinks cold (or warm) for hours. Plus, a straw cap makes it easy for kids to sip on the go.

Best Lollipops

Ring pop individually wrapped bulk lollipop variety party pack.

Why We Love It: It acts as both a snack and a bribe — er, reward , that is — and can help reduce ear discomfort on planes.

What to Consider: Nope, there’s no nutritional value here!

Lollipops and their ilk are a multifunction tool for traveling with kids: It’s a snack! It’s a reward! It keeps them busy! And the act of swallowing while sucking on them can also ease ear pressure on takeoff and landing. Even better, Ring Pops are a smart, toy-like alternative to stick lollies for hands-free holding.

Best Snacks

Stuff your sack healthy snacks variety pack organic care package.

Why We Love It: This variety pack includes 18 different flavors to keep kids interested.

What to Consider: The packaged snacks may be organic, but they are still processed food.

Having kids means having snacks handy at all times; traveling makes it all the more necessary to keep kids fed and comfortable to combat whining. This variety pack includes 25 organic packaged snacks from 19 different brands; 18 different flavors keep them intrigued as little surprises unfold throughout a long journey.

Best Snack Activity

Fred match up memory snack tray.

Why We Love It: Dispensing snacks this way keeps the experience fun for kids — and prolongs the process to keep them busy, too.

What to Consider: Make sure your child is able to push buttons.

Snacks serve two important functions: nutrition and amusement. For that reason, try to prolong these food breaks as a way to keep kids busy and amused. Try putting different snacks into this fun tray with compartments; it’s fun for littles to discover treats behind each door, and it adds time to the whole process. For slightly older toddlers and children, you can make a memory game out of it.

Keeping kids clean — and cleaning up after them — has long been a top concern among traveling parents. A global pandemic only underscored the importance of traveling with wipes and sanitizer.

Best Changing Pad

Skip hop pronto changing station.

Why We Love It: When you travel with your own changing pad, you’re guaranteed a non-public surface no matter where you are.

What to Consider: A separate changing pad may not be necessary if you have a diaper bag that comes with one.

Change a diaper on the go without fear of exposing baby to gross, public surfaces. This changing pad takes the form of a clutch, with a large mesh pocket that holds four diapers and accessories, plus a translucent wipes case. A front zipper pocket holds essentials like keys and cash. Drop it in any bag, or clip it on a travel stroller or luggage handle instead.

Best Multi-purpose Wipes

Hello bello unscented baby wipes.

Why We Love It: You can use these extra-soft baby wipes on just about everything.

What to Consider: These full-size packs aren’t tiny.

Is there nothing a baby wipe can't do? From diaper changes to on-the-go hand cleaning to wiping up half-eaten miscellany, traveling with baby wipes is a must. These are super soft with aloe and chamomile extract — and no alcohol, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, or parabens.

Best Face Wipes

Boogie wipes.

Why We Love It: These hypoallergenic, ultra-soft saline wipes are great for cleaning snotty faces and even clearing airways.

What to Consider: If you don’t want to pack a bag full of different wipe options, this specialty product might be the first to go.

With kids, runny noses are just about guaranteed for chunks of the year, and they're even more likely when you add in the fatigue and exposure from traveling. These hypoallergenic and alcohol-free cloths are designed expressly for nose-wiping, with gentle saline, vitamin E, aloe, and chamomile to soothe sensitive skin.

Best Surface Wipes

Lysol disinfecting wipes to-go pack.

Why We Love It: You’ll find tons of uses for this travel-sized package of wipes when traveling through public spaces with (or without) kids.

What to Consider: These are ideal for surfaces, but they are not for use on kids’ faces.

These germ-busting wipes are ideal for cleaning nonporous surfaces like a tray tables or seatback entertainment screens, and they're a must for both safety and peace of mind when traveling with littles known to touch everything.

Best Hand Sanitizer

Kinia 8 pack empty mixed kids hand sanitizer.

Why We Love It: These cute and colorful hand sanitizer holders keep gel easy to access for frequent cleanups.

What to Consider: Be advised these containers come empty, so you’ll need to fill with your favorite brand.

In addition to wipes, hand sanitizer is a must for quick cleaning on the go. Keep your gel handy by filling these colorful jelly wrap silicone carriers. The 1-ounce, flip-top-cap bottles attach with adjustable silicone cords to backpacks, diaper bags, and just about anywhere else.

Depending on kids’ ages and sizes, they may be candidates to tote their own cargo. Backpacks, rolling bags, and even ride-on options help keep the process moving smoothly. Adults, on the other hand, can benefit from bags that keep hands free in case they need to carry tired children or hold little hands along the way.

Best Diaper Bag

Dagne dover indi diaper backpack.

Why We Love It: This bag is sleek, chic, and unisex, and it delivers on functionality with tons of specialized compartments.

What to Consider: It's spacious and deep, so smaller items can be hard to spot in a hurry (and when are you not in a hurry when traveling with kids?).

Traveling with kids means prioritizing performance in a diaper bag ; we're huge fans of Dagne Dover because the brand fuses functionality with style so well. Done in chic, 100-percent vegan neoprene, this backpack-style diaper bag also clips to a stroller upon arrival. It includes a mini changing mat and extra pouches, with an extra zipper opening for easy access to wipes.

Best Crossbody Bag

Kibou diaper bag.

Why We Love It: This crossbody doubles as a compact diaper bag for hands-free convenience.

What to Consider: A diaper bag this small obviously isn’t a feasible option for longer outings or multiple babies, so consider your usage.

This vegan-leather waist pack, which extends into a crossbody, is a great choice for traveling through airports and wearing on the plane. The ultra-compact diaper bag has tons of features so you can travel hands free: A built-in waterproof pocket holds 20 wipes wet for up to a week, a detachable changing pad unfolds from the back flap, a hook holds a pacifier or key, slots secure credit cards or cash, and the nylon lining is wipeable and stain resistant. It's even possible to use this as a regular bag once your little ones are out of diapers, too.

Best Kids Backpack

Herschel heritage backpack | kids.

Why We Love It: Encouraging kids to carry their own backpack builds independence while keeping the family’s cargo moving.

What to Consider: This kid-size version is best for ages 3 to 7; move up to youth size for older kids.

Herschel has just the right size backpack for children preschool age and up to carry their own gear — both to help out the family and to develop a bit of self reliance. This kid-proportioned version is just 13 inches high and has a removable sternum support strap. The next size up is right for youths ages 8 to 12 and, at 15 inches high, it also features a 13-inch laptop or tablet sleeve.

Best Wheeled Backpack

Jansport driver 8 core series wheeled backpack.

Why We Love It: A rolling backpack keeps the weight off kids’ backs and holds a solid amount of cargo.

What to Consider: This well-equipped pack is substantially sized and a better bet for grade school ages and up.

This 21-inch rolling backpack is packed with features for bigger kids. It has two spacious main compartments plus skate wheels and a telescoping handle for a smooth ride. An exterior mesh bottle pocket stretches to fit large bottles, and a 15-inch laptop sleeve has a buckle to keep technology extra secure. It comes in an array of solid colors and appealing prints, and you can easily tuck away the shoulder straps when not in use.

Best Kids' Carry-on Suitcase

Rockland london hardside spinner wheel luggage carry-on.

Why We Love It: Kids can grow with this 20-inch spinner, small enough to manage but large enough to hold proper cargo.

What to Consider: A 20-inch spinner will be too large for preschoolers to easily maneuver.

When it comes to kids’ roller bags, we advocate for choosing a piece small enough for them to manage but large enough to hold a meaningful amount of cargo. To be worthwhile, it must be an efficient use of hands and bin space, not just a character-shaped gimmick that holds very little. Our writer's twins have these durable hardside cases, which they’ve carried independently since age 6 (going on three years and many miles and still going!).

Best Ride-on Suitcase

​​stokke jetkids bedbox.

Why We Love It: This wheeled ride-on suitcase transforms into a leg rest or bed in flight.

What to Consider: Not all carriers permit the use of items like these as leg rests while in the air.

This ride-on rolling suitcase has hidden talents beyond scooting through the airport: It transforms into a leg rest, or an in-plane bed, to help keep kids comfy and rested during the flight, too. Bonus: It even includes two sheets of stickers for kids to personalize their own luggage.

It may seem overwhelming to keep track of all the things you need to bring, especially after you've left home. GPS trackers can be lifesavers for locating your items during the journey, and a small first aid kit and plastic slider bags prepare for just-in-case moments and help clean up mid-flight messes, too.

Best Luggage Tracker

Apple airtag 4-pack.

Why We Love It: Track your kids’ stuff — or even your kids themselves — amid hectic environments like airports.

What to Consider: These tiny trackers are made to interface with Apple devices only.

In crowded, chaotic environments — especially when the dependability of baggage handling could use improvement — a small GPS tracking device tucked into a bag can make all the difference in reuniting with it after, say, a kid blithely walks away from their belongings after being distracted by a candy display. You can also use these tags on children themselves, with an array of specialty wristbands, keychains, and necklaces designed to incorporate the tags for wearability.

Best First Aid Kit

Preparakit small compact first aid kit for kids.

Why We Love It: This well-stocked first aid kit covers the basics in a compact, highly portable package.

What to Consider: You can save money if you choose to compile your own kit with customized supplies.

This TSA-approved mini first aid kit contains all the essentials for babies and toddlers in a package just about the size of a wallet. The curated array of 50 items includes bandages, gauze, tape, scissors, thermometer strips, and more. There’s also additional room to add your own prescription or over-the-counter medication.

Best Storage Bags

Hefty slider storage bags.

Why We Love It: They have a stand-up bottom for convenience.

What to Consider: They're less durable than sturdier bags made for freezer storage,

There are so many uses for slider storage bags while flying with kids: Use them within backpacks to organize cables, toys, and snacks. Or, use them to separate wet or soiled items, and to collect trash tidily. Plus, they’re super lightweight and waterproof.

Prioritize new or special items

When it comes to keeping kids entertained during a long flight, they’re most likely to stay engaged when playing with something that is new to them. Now’s the time to choose new or rarely used games, books, toys, and technology to pack in your kit for maximum novelty value.

Consider portability

You may be accustomed to your full arsenal of supplies at home, but carefully consider how portable and necessary each of these items is before committing to travel with it. Luggage fees add up, arms and hands quickly fill, and only the truly portable items are usually worthwhile to bring along on travels with kids.

Children over the age of two must have their own ticket, and therefore are entitled to the same baggage privileges of other ticketed passengers in the category. Check your airline and ticket class for the specific baggage allowances.

Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby or toddler food (including purée pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces are allowed in carry-on baggage, according to the TSA regulations ; these are considered medically necessary liquids. Just make sure to take these items out of your carry-on bag to be screened separately.

The same permission applies to breast milk and formula cooling accessories, like ice packs and freezer packs.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Alesandra Dubin is a career travel and lifestyle writer and a frequent traveler. She’s also a twin mom with plenty of hard-earned experience from world travels with kids.

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18 smart travel essentials flight attendants always pack, from a hotel door lock for safety to a portable oven

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To find the best carry-on bag essentials, who better to turn to than flight attendants? After all, they've made a career out of being frequent flyers. We spoke with four flight attendants from Delta, Jet Blue, Etihad, and United about their favorite travel products, as well as the tips and tricks they use to travel as efficiently as possible. 

Their top travel products include everything from a portable humidifier and a mini oven to a hotel door lock and a foldable mug . Whether you're planning on flying, taking the train, or going on a road trip, these 18 products will help you stay organized and energized throughout your trip. And, if you're looking for something to pack it all in, be sure to check out our guide to the best luggage .

Here are the top travel essentials, according to flight attendants

Briana taylor, jet blue airlines.

Follow JetBlue flight attendant Briana Taylor's lead and save money by skipping overpriced airport and hotel food. Instead, pack a portable oven. She also makes sure she's always safe by bringing a hotel lock. 

Briana's travel essentials:

A lot of flight attendants pack their own lunches to save money instead of buying hotel or airport food all of the time. The Hot Logic is very convenient to use on planes that have outlets. It’s also good for traveling as some hotels don’t have microwaves inside of their rooms.

Our planes are now stocked with disinfecting wipes, but before that, I bought my own Lysol wipes to wipe down everything. Other attendants use the spray, which can be easier than having to wipe everything down.

There’s a lot of scary stories out there about women traveling alone, especially among flight attendants. When traveling alone or staying in a hotel alone, having a portable lock just for extra security makes you feel more at peace.

I use a lot of small makeup bags. I usually end up using them for small things like travel-sized perfumes, hand sanitizer, hand lotion, and other small items. I think having a bag to put some of my small everyday items in is helpful.

What’s helpful for me is having an extra bag for laundry, sometimes I use parts of my suitcase but I don’t normally get to. When I’ve been away for a longer time, having an extra laundry bag to keep all of my stuff that I’m going to wash when I get home is helpful.

Lori Thompson, Delta Airlines

Lori Thompson, a flight attendant with Delta, ensures she's always prepared for a trip with items including a portable humidifier, a handy tech organizer, and a packable blanket, among others.

Lori's travel essentials:

Our hotel rooms can be rather dry, and after traveling a mini humidifier adds much needed moisture into the air.

I make sure I have enough charging cords/blocks for all my electronics (cell phone, tablet, watch, wireless headphones) and a small zippered pouch like this one works great to store all these items.

This is an item I always travel with and has come in handy when there are not enough outlets in the room, especially when traveling internationally.

I use a small zipper pouch to bring some much-needed essentials when traveling, such as waterproof bandages, Ibuprofen/Tylenol, Neosporin, and Vitamin C. You never know when you might need any of these items and they can be quite expensive to purchase when traveling. If you don’t want to create your own kit, you can buy one like this that comes pre-stocked.

These have been a life saver for me. It keeps all of my clothes organized and helps me to pack more efficiently.

I have always had a packable blanket with me for those chilly flights. These are nice to have in case there is not a blanket available on your flight.

Jenessa Andrea, United Airlines

United Airlines flight attendant Jenessa Andrea saves on space by using small storage capsules that replace large containers, and a mug that can be folded down when not in use. 

Jenessa's travel essentials:

These containers organize products while also being the perfect interchangeable system so I can change up what I’m bringing on trips depending on location.

I cut these up and use these as laundry detergent for washing clothes in the sink of hotels when I’m on a time crunch or don’t have access to laundry.

My entire family is in dental so oral care is in my blood, but there were no toothpaste tablets I could find that had fluoride in them, so I was hooked ever since I found this product.

I love how portable these are, I always have one with me either in my purse or suitcase, I’ve used these when I purchase too much or if it’s raining to protect my purse.

I’ve found that water bottles are just too space-consuming in my bag but I also need something to hold my drinks so finding a solid solution like Stojo solved that issue easily.

SZEP Barbara, Eithad Airlines

While working as a flight attendant with Etihad Airlines, SZEP Barbara makes sure to protect her skin while in the air with a travel-size SPF moisturizer and stays prepared for any city she lands in by always traveling with a universal adapter. 

SZEP Barbara's travel essentials:

An item that I always have with me are my facial creams. I prefer to use onboard cream with high moisturizer and SPF.

The last item that I always carry with me is an international travel adapter. As cabin crew, we travel around the world and different countries have different sockets so I like to always be prepared.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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8 Incidents in 2 Weeks: What’s Going on With United’s Planes?

While no one was injured, most of the mishaps required emergency landings or diversions. One safety expert said the incidents were not the result of “systemic problems.”

By Christine Chung

An engine fire sparked by plastic packaging wrap , a tire lost shortly after takeoff and a plane veering off the runway : These are among the eight incidents that have occurred over the past two weeks on flights operated by United Airlines. While no injuries — or worse — have been reported, the mishaps have generated headlines and stoked rising anxiety about aviation safety among federal officials and passengers alike.

All of the incidents happened on flights that took off from or were headed to airports in the United States, and five involved airplanes made by Boeing, a manufacturer already under intense scrutiny. In January, a door plug blew out of an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jetliner in mid-flight, forcing the plane to make an emergency landing.

United, one of the world’s largest airlines, flies aircraft manufactured mainly by Boeing and Airbus. In an email United began sending to customers on Monday, the company’s chief executive, Scott Kirby, wrote that while the recent incidents were unrelated, they were “reminders of the importance of safety.”

“I want you to know that these incidents have our attention and have sharpened our focus,” he continued, adding that every case was being reviewed by the airline and would influence its safety training and procedures.

Here’s what travelers should know about the latest in airplane woes.

What exactly happened on or to the planes?

Most of the incidents reported in the last two weeks required emergency landings or diversions.

March 4: A Boeing 737-900 departing from George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston returned to the airport to make an emergency landing after one of the plane engines ingested and burned plastic wrap .

March 7: A Boeing 777 leaving San Francisco for Osaka, Japan, made an emergency landing at Los Angeles International Airport after the aircraft lost a tire .

March 8: A Boeing 737 Max 8 veered off the runway upon landing at George Bush Airport in Houston and tilted onto the grass .

Later that day, a flight leaving San Francisco for Mexico City was diverted to Los Angeles after the Airbus A320 experienced issues with its hydraulic system.

March 9: An Airbus A320 heading to Salt Lake City turned back to Chicago O’Hare International Airport after it reported maintenance issues .

March 11: A Boeing 777, flying from Sydney, Australia , to San Francisco, turned back after takeoff because the plane had a hydraulic leak.

March 14: An Airbus A320 that departed from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport had a hydraulic leak shortly before it landed in its scheduled destination, San Francisco.

Later that day, a Boeing 737-800 that took off from San Francisco landed at Rogue Valley International Medford Airport in Oregon missing an external panel .

Are the recent issues typical, or cause for concern?

The mishaps were not the result of “systemic problems,” said Robert Sumwalt, a former chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board who now heads a new aviation safety center at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

“Some of these issues are things that happen occasionally, but often don’t get reported in media,” Mr. Sumwalt said, though he emphasized that none were acceptable.

Kyra Dempsey, who writes about aviation accidents in a blog called Admiral Cloudberg, said that United’s recent issues were being “falsely conflated with Boeing’s troubles.”

“While it’s bad luck that United had so many incidents in such a short period, in general such incidents happen frequently around the world and they aren’t on the rise overall,” Ms. Dempsey said.

How has United responded?

Mr. Kirby’s 270-word message to United customers, including to members of the airline’s frequent flier program, started to be sent on Monday morning, said Josh Freed, a spokesman for United.

Starting in May, United pilots will have an extra day of in-person training, a change that was already planned before the incidents, Mr. Kirby wrote. The airline will also use a “centralized training curriculum for our new hire maintenance technicians” and will dedicate additional resources to the carrier’s supply chain.

What government agencies oversee these issues, and how are they responding?

The Federal Aviation Administration regulates the country’s aviation system and investigates safety incidents on U.S. airlines, while the N.T.S.B. investigates the causes of accidents, collisions and crashes involving planes flown by U.S. carriers, in addition to other accidents involving commercial and mass transit operators. Both agencies have discretion on what they investigate, Mr. Sumwalt said.

Currently, the N.T.S.B. is investigating the incident that occurred on March 8 in Houston, when the plane veered off the runway, an agency spokesperson said. The N.T.S.B. is also looking into a Feb. 10 Los Angeles-to-Newark flight , operated by United, that experienced severe turbulence, leading to injuries among more than a dozen passengers. (The Boeing 777 landed normally, but the flight was met by medical personnel.)

Safety experts said some issues don’t necessarily rise to the level of an investigation by either agency.

For example, partial loss of some of an airplane’s multiple hydraulics systems is common, said Michael McCormick, an assistant professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a former F.A.A. control tower operator. The F.A.A. may or may not get involved for this kind of issue, unless there’s a pattern, Mr. Sumwalt said.

The January episode involving the blown door plug aboard the Alaska Airlines jet is under investigation by the N.T.S.B. and the Justice Department.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Boeing: A Company in Turmoil

Boeing is weathering a particularly difficult period: two fatal crashes, a loose panel that blew out during a flight, quality concerns and production slowdowns..

‘Shortcuts Everywhere’: Quality issues have plagued Boeing  even after two fatal crashes. Many employees blame the company’s focus on increasing production speed .

A Major Reshuffle : Boeing said that it was overhauling its leadership  amid its most significant safety crisis in years, announcing sweeping changes that included the departure of its chief executive, Dave Calhoun , at the end of the year.

United’s Planes : An engine fire sparked by plastic packaging wrap, a tire lost shortly after takeoff and a plane veering off the runway: These are among several recent incidents that have occurred  on Boeing flights operated by United Airlines.

Alaska Airlines Flight 1282: After a section of a plane blew out  10 minutes after it took off , there was increased scrutiny  on the plane’s manufacturer: Boeing . The Justice Department has since launched a criminal investigation .

Quality Control Issues: An audit that was initiated by the Federal Aviation Administration after the Alaska Airlines incident found dozens of problems  throughout Boeing’s manufacturing process and one of its key suppliers.

‘I would happily fly any Boeing aircraft’: Experts say travelers should feel safe flying

“We don’t have to worry that there’s something systemically wrong with aviation,” Clint Balog, an associate professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, told USA TODAY.

It has been a year of heightened tension around air travel. A series of high-profile incidents has spotlighted safety at airlines and manufacturers, leading many travelers to wonder if flying is still the safest way to get around.

“We’re in a period the last couple months where there are more incidents happening, and because more incidents are happening, we’re now paying more attention to it,” Balog said. “We’re in a time frame where we have a cluster of these incidents.”

Laura Einsetler, a captain at a major U.S. airline and author of the Captain Laura blog , said people are also more aware of aviation incidents than they were in the past.

“One aspect is that now with social media and the internet, we’re seeing every single thing that we can possibly see that’s happening around the world. The perception is that more things are happening when at the same time, 2023 was actually the safest year in our industry of all time,” she said. 

Boeing, the vaunted airplane manufacturer, has been front and center in the wave of incidents. An explosive decompression on an Alaska Airlines flight in January brought renewed attention to its already muddied 737 Max program. Before the pandemic, two 737 Max jets crashed abroad, killing 346 people. Those early disasters cast a shadow over the latest iteration of the jet that Boeing was still trying to get out from under. The Alaska Airlines incident only narrowly avoided deaths or significant injuries, according to experts. 

Cruising Altitude: I've covered Boeing's 737 MAX for years. Here's a quick rundown of the issues.

In response to that incident, the Federal Aviation Administration opened an audit of Boeing’s manufacturing processes and found the company’s safety culture lacking.

Even so, Balog said, flyers should feel safe on Boeing planes.

“I would happily fly any Boeing aircraft, including the 737 Max. It’s a great aircraft,” he said. “No organization is flawless, and when errors occur in aviation … it’s not surprising they happen in groups like this. These instances are rarely spaced out evenly.” 

Einsetler, too, said passengers shouldn’t worry too much about taking to the skies.

“When you see pilots who are putting our lives on the line every day to keep everyone safe, then you can be assured that if we feel very safe and comfortable to be at the tip of the spear, to be at the front of the flight deck operating the aircraft for you, then you should feel confident that we will keep you safe,” she said. 

Boeing is hardly the only aviation company that has been in the spotlight.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby sent a letter to its customers Monday responding to a series of issues that have put the airline in the headlines. In just the past two months, United planes have experienced a stuck rudder pedal on landing, an engine fire and a wheel falling off a departing jet.

Kirby’s letter insisted that the incidents were unrelated and that United is renewing its focus on safety.

Balog said Kirby is right to assert that the incidents are one-offs.

“Fundamentally what they all have in relation is these are human-factors issues. These are human-error issues,” he said. “It’s not related to an aircraft, it’s related to the humans who are performing these functions. A tire falling off a Boeing 777 on takeoff is a human-factors issue; it’s a maintenance issue.” 

Balog said that a series of incidents like what has happened at United can point to an organizational failure, but that it doesn’t necessarily mean there’s some inherent danger in the way United runs its operation.

Ultimately, he said, human mistakes are easy enough to correct.

“There are going to be problems because you’ve got humans involved in these incidents and humans involved in this operation of flying the general public around. To feel safe you have to look at the overall picture,” Balog said. “No human endeavor is entirely safe. You’d be hard-pressed to find any operation that is safer than commercial aviation in the world today.”

Einsetler also said the aviation workforce has more new employees than it has had in a while, so there may be some regrowing or training pains as newer hires get up to speed.

What do the recent incidents mean for travelers?

While Boeing has been especially in the spotlight with aviation incidents, Balog and Einsetler said passengers need to understand that each incident is largely distinct.

“In most of these cases they are unrelated events. As an industry we take note, understand and learn from so that it doesn’t happen again,” Einsetler said.

Passengers may wonder if problems at Boeing or some maintenance problem is the root cause of a particular incident, but Balog said that’s the wrong question to ask.

“As far as the passengers understanding what the root causes are, they really can’t,” he said. That’s why regulators conduct monthslong investigations into aviation incidents to really dig down and analyze all the factors that contributed.

“I don’t think there’s anything particularly organizationally wrong at Boeing. It’s not surprising that a predominance of these issues would be on Boeing aircraft,” Balog said. “There are simply more Boeing aircraft out there.” 

Who is responsible for investigating aviation incidents?

In general, the National Transportation Safety Board has jurisdiction over accident and incident investigations, and the FAA, as the industry regulator, also has a role to play, including designing and enforcing new rules based on the NTSB’s findings. Industry stakeholders like airplane and parts manufacturers and airlines may participate in investigations based on the specifics of each incident. 

How many incidents has Boeing had this year?

The Alaska Airlines door plug failure was the main focus of Boeing’s problems, and while Boeing aircraft have been involved in some other high-profile incidents, including a LATAM 787 that took a dive, possibly because of an unexpected cockpit seat movement, the manufacturer has not been directly implicated.

▶ January: A midair cabin blowout compels Alaska Air to perform an emergency landing of its recently acquired 737 Max 9 aircraft, prompting the FAA to ground 171 of the jets and begin an investigation. The FAA also bars Boeing from increasing Max output, but lifts the grounding of Max-9s once inspections were completed.

▶ February: The NTSB publishes its preliminary report on the Alaska Air incident. According to the investigation, the door panel that flew off the jet midflight appeared to be missing four key bolts.

▶ March: The FAA's 737 Max production audit found multiple instances when Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems allegedly failed to comply with manufacturing quality control requirements. Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun announced he would leave the company by the end of the year, and other executive changes were announced.

Contributing: Reuters

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected]

The Best Flights to View the 2024 Solar Eclipse From the Sky

By Rachel Chang

April 8 is shaping up to be a busy day for US airlines, as travelers chase the total solar eclipse sweeping across the nation from Texas to Maine —a rare event that won’t be visible from the contiguous US again until 2044.

While many eclipse-chasers are booking up hotels and Airbnbs located along the path of totality , some travelers are taking to the skies in order to get as close to the celestial event as humanly possible.

Ideally, these eclipse flights will allow for prime viewing of the moon passing in front of the sun, since the atmosphere tends to be clearer above the clouds. But with the eclipse only lasting between one to four minutes , there are "many challenges with trying to time being on a commercial airplane during an eclipse flight,” airline industry analyst Mike Arnot tells Condé Nast Traveler .

For one, it can be difficult to know which side of the plane will have the best view of the eclipse, which depends on the plane's exact flight path. And of course, there's always the risk that weather could cause route changes or delays. In fact, there's been so much hype around the eclipse that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has even issued a domestic notice in recent days warning of “possible impacts to air traffic and airports along the eclipse path” from April 7 to 10. Aircraft should be ready for potential holdings and rerouting, as well as delays due to higher traffic volumes, the FAA says, noting that airports in the greater Boston , Chicago , Cleveland, Fort Worth , Indianapolis , Kansas City , and Memphis areas are the most likely to see flight disruptions.

These potential obstacles haven't stopped airlines from touting their eclipse flights, though. Below, we've rounded up the best ways to view the eclipse from the sky, including special flights specifically scheduled to chase the eclipse, as well as regularly scheduled flights that will likely overlap with the path of totality.

Several airlines have announced special flight routes that will trace the eclipse's path of totality.

Delta Air Lines

The Atlanta-based carrier has scheduled two special flights specifically to chase the eclipse path. First flight 1218, which will depart at 12:15 p.m. from Austin and land in Detroit at 4:20 p.m. on an Airbus A220-300, sold out within 24 hours, so Delta added flight 1010 from Dallas Fort Worth, which will leave at 12:30 p.m. also landing in Detroit at the same time aboard a bigger Airbus A321neo.

Delta also says that five of its regularly scheduled flights will also have “prime eclipse-viewing opportunity,” citing flight 5699 from Detroit to New York’s Westchester at 2:59 p.m local time on a ERJ-175, flight 924 from Los Angeles to Dallas Fort Worth at 8:40 a.m. on an A320, flight 2869 from Los Angeles to San Antonio at 9 a.m. on an A319, flight 1001 from Salt Lake City to San Antonio at 10:08 a.m. on an A220-300, and flight 1683 from Salt Lake City to Austin at 9:55 a.m on an A320.

United Airlines

United Airlines has 11 flights scheduled within the pathway—and on select flights, passengers will receive complimentary eclipse glasses. Six of those flights will depart from Chicago O’Hare: flight 5693 to Little Rock at 12:45 p.m., flight 490 to Houston at 12:47 p.m., flight 455 to Dallas at 12:49 p.m., flight 247 to Toronto at 1:00 p.m., flight 2440 to New York’s LaGuardia at 1:00 p.m., and flight 2187 to Washington Dulles at 1:20 p.m.

The other five leave from Houston , with flight 1438 heading to San José del Cabo at 11:55 a.m., flight 6128 to Columbus at 12 noon, flight 6109 to Detroit at 12:05 p.m.; flight 1318 to Cincinnati at 12:23 p.m., and flight 1687 to Indianapolis at 12:25 p.m.

While the New York City-based air company warns that the many factors from weather to air traffic control guidance “may route flights traveling along that corridor out of the eclipse [zone],” the carrier has identified seven flights currently scheduled to travel within the totality path.

Two flights depart from Austin : flight 694 to New York City’s JFK airport departing at 10:37 a.m. and flight 1138 heading to Boston leaving at 11:44 p.m. Boston also has a pair of departures, flight 1565 to San Antonio at 12:05 p.m. and flight 215 to Dallas Fort Worth leaving at 2:53 p.m. Also on the list: flight 1881 from JFK to Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental at 1:45 p.m., flight 1826 from San Antonio to JFK at 1:01 p.m., and Houston to Boston, leaving at 1:45 p.m.

Southwest Airlines

Over at Southwest , the network's schedule planners have been busy studying projections of the shadows of the eclipse (the umbra and penumbra), to figure out the flights that will have “the greatest likelihood of offering customers on onboard the best view,” a spokesperson tells Traveler .

The top three are flight 1252 from Dallas’ Love Field to Pittsburgh at 12:45 p.m., flight 1721 leaving Austin for Indianapolis at 12:50 p.m., and flight 1910, departing St. Louis for Houston’s Hobby at 1:20 p.m.

Additionally, the airline says five Southwest flights “may also cross the path of totality during their scheduled operating time.” Those include flight 955 from  Dallas’ Love Field for Chicago’s Midway at 12:50 p.m., flight 506 departing Milwaukee for Dallas’ Love Field at 1:05 p.m., flight 1734 from Houston’s Hobby for Indianapolis at 1:35 p.m., flight 1682 from Chicago’s Midway for Austin at 1:30 p.m., and flight 3108 taking off from Nashville Dallas’ Love Field at 1:40 p.m.

Alaska Airlines

Seattle-based Alaska Airlines says that two of its flights from San Diego are the best for the April 8 eclipse viewing: flight 390 to Boston departing at 8:10 a.m. and flight 322 to Washington Dulles, leaving at 8:05 a.m.

Stacey Lastoe

Tonya Russell

Steph Koyfman

Emily Pennington

“As long as skies are clear, our guests will have some of the best seats to the solar eclipse on April 8 while 30,000 feet in the air,” Alaska's vice president of revenue management and network planning Kirsten Amrine said in a statement shared with Traveler .

Semi-private carrier JSX will be hosting a special two-hour flight through the totality path led by former NASA astronaut and current JSX pilot Bill Gregory, who has logged 400 hours in space. “With Dallas taking claim as the biggest city in the path of totality, we are thrilled to make this ultra premium and rare viewing opportunity a reality via JSX,” CEO Alex Wilcox said in a statement.

The two-hour flight 4824 will fly round trip from the company’s private hangar at Dallas’ Love Field starting at 1 p.m. local time. Every passenger will have a window seat, and will also receive eclipse viewing glasses and themed cocktails.

Chartered flights

With so many factors at play for commercial flights, aviation analyst Arnot says that the best bet for those who live within the eclipse path is to charter a Cessna 172 with a pilot. Most flight schools offer “discovery flights"—short private trips with a certified pilot instructor—that you could potentially time with the April 8 eclipse.

That said, smaller planes typically fly below the weather, scrapping the advantage of getting above poor conditions. But even if there is cloud cover, the control of a chartered fight might still provide the most bespoke experience, according to Arnot.

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