After working at the airport I have tried(with effort) to adopt the light traveler’s way. As little hand luggage as possible IS the most comfortable way to travel.
Unless I’m going somewhere where I have a change of clothes(like when my love lived in England), then I need a simple versatile change of clothes and some other bits.
Must haves:
Toothbrush: Especially if it is a long flight, I need to brush my teeth at some point.
Lip balm: I detest the feeling of dry lips.
Chargers: I usually have at least 3 electronics with me, and my over-the-ear headphones have this really wonky charger so a minimum of 2 types is needed.
Phone: To stay in touch and basic entertainment, we are talking about downloaded podcasts, movies, TikToks, and books. With this one and a good battery percentage, I’ll be good.
Something warm: I’ve been on enough cold planes without the possibility to warm up so this is a must for me now!
Chewing gum: As a sensitive ears girly, I need this during take-off and landing to minimize the pain.
passport and documents: should be #1. Without these, you get nowhere.
Something analog: for when the eyes get tired from the endless screens.
Earplugs and eye mask: For when it’s time for the well-needed sleep(or nap). I used to use the noise-cancelling function of my head-phones but noticed it’s better to save the battery by bringing a pair of traditional ones as well.
Nice to have:
Face wash: same sentiment as with the toothbrush, but I feel like I CAN survive a day without washing my face if I do it before I go to the airport.
Wet wipes: Such a handy little thing to freshen up your face, hands or the meal tray on your seat especially if you are stuck in a middle seat and have a hard time excusing yourself to your seat neighbor to get up to the loo.
Laptop or tablet: If the entertainment system in your seat isn’t working, sure, your phone will do, but some downloaded videos on your bigger screen is SO nice to have!
Snacks: You can get them at airports or even on the flight but being a bit prepared will save you A BUCK! It has never happened to me but if you are traveling stand by you can be so unlucky that the meal service runs out and you are left without. So being prepared will save you a looong and hungry flight.
