Don’t even think about pulling out that giant suitcase. If you’re only traveling for 4-5 days, don’t stress yourself out lugging around a heavy suitcase. These three packing tips below is all you need to prepare for your short trip. Sign-up to the newsletter for a free printable or digital Packing List and Before I Travel check sheet.
1. Carry light and avoid the fees
Pack a small carry-on suitcase and a small personal bag, such as a bookbag or small duffle bag. That way you can still pack a lot without having to check in a bag and avoid the fees.
*Quick tip
While at the gate, airline passengers are often asked if they would like to check in a bag if their plane is at maximum capacity. Sometimes you have no choice. At this point the baggage check in process is complimentary so there is no fee. If you do decide to bring a medium-to-large size duffle bag, you can wait until you get to your gate to ask the gate attendant to check in your bag or volunteer when they announce it before boarding.
2. Pack Interchangeable Accessories
Packing accessories that you can wear with multiple outfits saves space for other items you wish to bring back from your trip. For example, bring a pair of shoes that can be paired with more than one outfit. For a recent weekend trip to Charlotte, I wore a pair of sneakers on the plane that I was able to wear with other outfits during the trip.
3. BYOS (Bring Your Own Snacks)
Airport snacks are always 3x more expensive than those purchased at your local convenience store. Even though you can’t bring beverages through security, you can definitely bring any outside solid foods, such as candy, sandwiches, chips, and nuts. Check the TSA website for a full list of acceptable foods. Bring your own empty water bottle because many airports now have water stations where you can fill up your bottle – saving you money on expensive bottles of water after you go through security.
*Quick Check !
When returning to the USA from international trips, be mindful of what foods and items you’re bringing back from other countries. Check this site for a list of foods that are prohibited from entering the United States. Customs will confiscate certain items no matter whether you carry them or if you are transporting them in your luggage.
For more information on items that are prohibited and restricted, visit the TSA website before you leave home.
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