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Preparing for a flight is a bit like a puzzle. I love making sure all the pieces line up so I have everything I need (all in a carry-on, of course!) and that I have the best possible experience.
Lately, I’ve been struck by how a few key items have become integral in that process. The stuff that makes packing efficient, flights comfortable, and arrival stress-free. They are my tried-and-trues!
Wanna see what I consider to be my absolute essentials for traveling by plane?
1. Tom Bihn Synapse 19
Tom Bihn’s website heralds this bag as “a supremely organized backpack” and I tend to agree. While it is the same size as your run-of-the-mill booksack, the genius lies in its design. There are all sorts of pockets and compartments that allow you to pack like a pro! This bag made one-bag travel a reality for me and I can’t imagine boarding a plane without it. In a recent Uber to the airport, my driver balked at my lack of luggage and I’d never felt so proud. All thanks to my Tom Bihn!!!
2. Nomatic Compression Packing Cube
Since first discovering packing cubes, I’ve tried several kinds. However, after a few trips with this guy…I AM HOOKED. Everything smooshes down so small!
More here.
3. Tom Bihn Side Effect
This is an awesome place to store all the little things you might need access to without having to sling a backpack off your back (See also: purse, lol). So it’s the perfect companion for my Synapse. You can also detach the strap and use it within your main bag to store items like cords, toiletries, or underwear. Then pop the strap on once you’ve reached your destination and *BAM* purse. Very versatile little piece. I actually have TWO!
More here.
4. Hero Clip
This little doodad let’s you hang your bag, water bottle, hat, beach towel, etc. off of just about ANYTHING. Hang your backpack off of the nearest tree branch on a picnic. Hang your purse off the table at your favorite dive bar. Hang your water bottle off your exercise bike. Hang your day bag off your wheely suitcase as you whisk it through the airport. You get the idea… Oh, and my #1 use for mine? Hanging my Tom Bihn up in bathroom stalls. (TMI?)
More here.
5. Tangle Teezer
Back when I traveled like every weekend for speech & debate, I would throw a big, plastic paddle brush in my suitcase and 9 times out of 10 it would be broken by the time I was back home. NO MORE!
More here.
6. Yube Moisturizer
Yu-Be’s highly concentrated glycerin formula isn’t greasy. It just soaks right into the skin! It’s also enriched with Vitamin E and B2 to nourish and repair. Perfect for dealing with that dry cabin air.
More here.
7. Podcasts <- shameless plug HERE, lol
I love a good book while up in the air, but those hours in the airport are all about people watching. Podcasts let you do both! I’d love if you checked out mine but here are some other rad options!!
What products are your favorite when traveling by plane?
P.S. CLICK HERE for my top air travel tips.
(Please disregard the staple that was left behind from the packaging which I carelessly forgot to remove because I was too excited but thankfully got rid of before it impaled anyone’s ankles, AHEM!)
Finding delight. 