Air Travel Packing Tips

Air travel packing norms remained static for so long, especially what you could take on board and had to check as baggage. Then 9/11 and the formation of the TSA changed a lot. Recently, the airlines started squeezing out dollars everywhere and are now charging for every bag- the what, how, and quantity of our luggage is needing updating.

The TSA had a defined list of what is permissible to pack. Checked baggage is relatively the same as it has always been; it is just more likely to be inspected, regardless of what one takes on board. However, carry-on is a different story. Toiletries and liquids are limited to three ounces and must be carried in clear bottles (easily inspected). Therefore, it may be advantageous to see what one can acquire at their final destination; this would help with hassles and reduction of weight. Electronics if carried-on should be tested to be quickly and easily turned on and off. Getting through security easily and quickly should be the goal, which means carrying all metal one can in luggage rather on person.

The airlines are working double duty to get all the money they can. Concerning checked bags, many airlines are charging per piece of checked luggage and then double dip by charging more for the weight of each piece. Therefore, keeping an eye on weight is becoming a concern not just for transport, but also for fiscal sense. Three big users of weight are shoes, jeans, and books. Consider shipping these items rather than packing them. Domestically in the US, this could make a lot of sense if one uses the United States Postal Service (USPS) Priority Mail flat-rate boxes. One can pack these up to seventy pounds and ship them to and from their destination. Keeps the hassle of transport to a minimum and save money.

Do everything to travel with carry-on only. Not every situation is this possible, but in most situations it is more than possible. Plus, like most things, the more you do it, the easier it gets. It first starts with the bag, making sure it meets carry-on standards that have the average around 21 x 14 x 7 inches. With many US airline policies, a traveler also gets a smaller personal type bag (that means laptop, purse, and briefcases) to carry-on board. The first thing to consider is if someone carries a laptop often, then get a nice sized laptop case to carry-on board. A convenient configuration is to get a roller carry-on and a laptop case that can be secured to the telescoping handle to the roller carry-on. Ladies, try stashing the purse in the laptop case. Many computer accessories have been miniaturized including the laptop itself, a laptop bag may provide a lot of room for underwear, exercise wear, lingerie, etc. However, keep it light in the laptop bag because one may wind up carrying it by the shoulder strap at some point, and weight would just wear one down.

Hopefully these air travel packing tips will help one get through security faster, save money on checked bags, and help in transport of their luggage.