Using Your Carry-On for In-Flight Entertainment Only
There’s a huge misconception when it comes to carry-on bags—they’re not actually for magazines, gum and giant headphones, at least not exclusively. Your carry-on is the only bag guaranteed to make it to your destination. Should the airlines lose your checked bag, make sure to have an extra set of clothes and all essential medications with you.
Bringing Your Everyday Purse
You don’t need those work papers, business cards or the 82 candy and gum wrappers that are stashed in your big daily bag. You don’t need the big bag either. Make an effort to downsize and try to take a clutch or a messenger bag instead.
Under Valuing Accessories
Instead of bringing 10 different outfits, save tons of space by packing scarves and a versatile cardigan—these two items will make each outfit look different.
Violating TSA Liquid Guidelines
The 3-1-1 rule: each (one) passenger is allowed one clear quart-sized bag, in which they may fit 3.4 ounce bottles of liquid.
Forgetting a Combination Lock
If you’re traveling alone dragging all of your belongings everywhere is a huge inconvenience. Take a small combination lock and never again share the tiny bathroom with all of your bags. Locks are especially handy in hostels but avoid key locks, as small keys can easily be lost.
Not Changing Your Chargers
If you have more than two devices that need power from the wall save yourself so much hassle and get a universal charger. If you choose to bring your laptop, remember that will charge devices and definitely remember to check the outlet style of your destination. Paris is just as beautiful with a dead camera—just harder to remember, trust me.