10 Things You Must Do Before Your Next Flight
Written on March 27, 2025
The endless preparations before travel can feel harrowing, and getting ready for flights tends to be one of the most stressful parts of any trip. With these ten reminders, you’ll be positioned for a great start to your journey.
At Home
Download and use your airline’s app – After downloading the app, log in and provide your flight details so your travel plans are ready to go. Then, monitor your flights for schedule changes and if you’re not checking a bag, check in online to avoid the queues and kiosks at the airport.
Learn your luggage limits – Many airlines have implemented size restrictions on carry-on luggage (and sometimes, personal items too) so before packing for your trip, make sure your bag’s dimensions are appropriate for your airline. Note that European carriers often differ from U.S. airlines.
Prepare your liquids – When you’re packing your carry-on and personal item, don’t forget the liquid limits. Your 3.4 oz (100 ml) containers must also be tucked into a quart-sized bag. Skip the guesswork and make it simple by ordering a TSA-approved travel kit online.
Check your tech – Wrangling the cables, cords, and devices can be a daunting pre-travel task. First, check to make sure you have everything you need for your trip, then pack it all in a designated tech travel organizer.
Invest in a quality travel pillow – With endless options available, find and pack a travel pillow that works for you. For a short flight, it can be a comfort; for a long-haul flight, it’s a necessity. Your neck will thank you.
Dress in layers – Between the weather in your home city, your arrival city, and the airports and flights in between, it is challenging to dress appropriately for all scenarios. Plan your outfit in advance, and wear light layers so you can be as comfortable as possible. Avoid restrictive fabrics, and for longer flights consider compression socks.
Bring your own water bottle – Rather than purchasing an overpriced bottle of water once you’re through security, pack your own reusable bottle to fill at a drinking fountain. A collapsible option will save even more precious real estate in your carry-on items.
At the Airport
Use a VPN – The airport might have free Wi-Fi, but hackers are a concern. Protect yourself by using a VPN.
Once You Board
Moisturize your skin – Cabin air is extremely dry, so protect your skin with frequent moisturizing and lip balm application.
Wipe things down – Packing sanitizing wipes comes in handy for cleaning your seatbelt buckle, arm rests, and tray once making your way to your seat. (And your hands as needed, too!) Because they don’t count towards your liquids limit, disinfecting wipes are also a nice alternative to traditional gel sanitizer.
Ready to take flight? When you work with our team, we can further guide you in your travel preparations.
