Many travelers have their travel plans ruined by making these 10 common mistakes. Learn what they are, the steps you can take to ensure you’re not making them, and what to do instead. Here are the pitfalls to avoid.
10. Over-Packing
Three words lead to over-packing: “Just in case.” However, it’s important to determine exactly what you’ll need (and what you won’t) and leave it at that. More airlines are imposing weight restrictions and penalties. Challenge yourself to eliminate two or three items to lighten your load. Leave some space to bring something back.
9. Assuming Your Accommodations Have Everything You Need
While it’s not unreasonable to expect that your accommodations will be stocked with everything you may need, budget hotels and other vacation rentals may fall short. It’s important to check what amenities are provided beforehand so you’ll know what you need to bring (and can leave behind) before you pack.
8. Not Following the TSA 3-1-1 Rule for Liquids
The TSA 3-1-1 rule limits carry-on liquids to 3.4-ounce containers stored inside a single 1-quart-size plastic bag. Travelers who don’t adhere to this rule watch security screeners toss out their full-size bottles. Even if you do adhere to bringing along only 3.4-ounce containers of liquids, if they are not in a single bag, you’ll have trouble getting through security.
7. Counting on Carry-Ons
More and more frequently, overhead space fills up and passengers who haven’t boarded yet are forced to check their carry-on luggage. This can be a huge problem if you need essentials like medication. Plan to store your necessities, in-flight items, and valuables, as a separate personal item that will fit underneath your seat.
6. Focusing on Carry-On Space and Not Weight
When people think about their carry-on bags, they mostly focus on the allowable dimensions for the overhead compartment. However, what many people don’t focus on – or may not be aware of – is that most airlines also have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage. Many airlines weigh carry-on bags and if they are over the weight allowance, they get loaded as cargo.
5. Packing the Wrong Type of Bag
It’s important to think about what you’ll have to do with your bag during travel. Will you have to walk extended distances? Navigate multiple airports? A suitcase with spinner wheels is the best fit here. Will you traverse cobblestoned sidewalks? Climb numerous flights of stairs? A backpack allows the best mobility here.
4. Not Leaving Extra Space
Many travelers try to use every available inch of space in their luggage and pack them to the brim. The downside of this is it allows no space for bringing souvenirs from your trip back home. And if you wore bulky clothing on your journey, you may not have the space to wear something different on the way home.
3. Not Bringing Extra Essentials
More and more often these days, flights are being delayed. Therefore, it can be a mistake to pack only the exact essentials (such as medication or contact lenses) you’ll need for the number of days you’re on your trip. If you get delayed for a day or two, you could be stranded without these necessities. Pack a little extra.
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2. Not Checking the Complete Weather Forecast
Some travelers only check the forecast highs for their trip and forget to check the lows. It’s an easy mistake to make. They wind up seriously regretting not packing a jacket, underestimating how the temperatures plummet after sundown. Be sure to check the entire extended forecast for your trip – day and night – so you’ll have what you need.
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1. Not Using a Luggage Tracker
In general, the airline industry loses luggage a lot. The best way to ensure your lost luggage can be tracked down is by using a luggage tracker, such as an Apple Air Tag. Place this inexpensive device inside each of your suitcases every time you travel. This helps you track down your bag yourself without relying solely on the airline.
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