How to Pack a Carry-on Bag for a Flight
Tips to Ease the Stress of Traveling Amidst Airport Baggage Rules
Sep 28, 2009
It’s easy to understand why many people get stressed when traveling by plane, as the rules for what can be brought in a carry-on bag keep changing. To add to the confusion, most airlines are now charging at least $15 per checked bag, so travelers have even more incentives to only take carry-on bags. Here are some steps to take when packing for a trip to ease stress.
Only Take Carry-On Bags
Even though any liquids over three ounces can’t be brought through security – meaning large bottles of shampoo, lotions and hair gels will have to stay behind – traveling with only carry-on bags is worth the hassle. Portions of traveling are completely cut out, as there is no waiting to check the bag, and no waiting at the end for the bag to come off of the plane. There is also no chance that the bag will be lost.
Invest in Travel Sized Toiletries
Beginning in 2006, the only liquids allowed through security must be three ounces or less or they will be disposed of during security procedures. Even if everything is in a three ounce container, all items must fit in one quart sized plastic bag and only one bag is allowed per passenger. This has resulted in TSA’s 311 rule. The result of this need is that almost any toiletry is now available in a travel size. The local drugstore should have everything a passenger needs.
Reduce the Amount of Clothing and Shoes
The typical traveler, especially the American traveler, packs too many clothes and shoes. Try to find pants and shoes that are wearable multiple times. This also frees up space for any shopping done on the trip.
Fly Through the Security Line
Although the length of the security line can’t be controlled, each person can be prepared to expedite themselves through the line when their turn comes. The following should make this process more efficient::
- Walk up to the security line with picture ID and boarding pass already out.
- Once past that checkpoint, put both items into a pocket.
- When approaching the bins and the conveyer belt, remove shoes and belt before arriving.
- Of the two carry-on bags allowed, the items that need to be removed should be at the top of the bag, or if nothing else, all in the same bag. There is nothing worse than fishing through multiple bags while the line grows more and more anxious.
- Laptops must be in their own bin, but everything else – shoes, change, belt, etc. – can be put into the same bin.
Board the Plane as Early as Possible
Due to the aforementioned checked bag fees, more passengers are bringing only carry-on bags. This means that the overhead storage space is at a premium. Since planes board by zones now and not rows, there is no way to tell when a passenger will board until they print out their boarding pass. However, attempt to be in the front when the assigned zone is called to at least have a chance at some storage.
Although there are many things to remember when packing for air travel, these tips should help provide clarity. Packing for a trip does not have to always been stressful.
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