This is the second part of our Thanksgiving travel tips. Read part 1 here. (The featured image is by red hand records)
Okay, you’ve heard the “pack light” litany since your first flight. Just taking the essentials, such is the mantra. The trick, of course, is defining those essentials. To wring the most utility from that carry-on or checked bag you’ve got to know how to cruelly cull, what you don’t absolutely need.
Rather than telling you what to toss, let’s focus on what to take:
Medicines are a must. But it’s the manner in which you pack those meds that matters. If they’re liquid, that’s okay. The TSA’s Web site states “All medications in any form or type (for instance, pills, injectables, or homeopathic) and associated supplies (syringes, Sharps disposal container, pre-loaded syringes, jet injectors, pens, infusers, etc.) are allowed through the security checkpoint once they have been screened. Atropens, an auto-injection system that can help treat many emergency conditions (low heart rate, breathing problems, and excess saliva related to insecticide, nerve gas or mushroom poisoning) are also allowed. We do not require that your medications be labeled.”
When you pack liquid medications, if the container is plastic, squeeze as much air out as you can. Airplane cabins are pressurized to 8,000 feet and liquids can be forced out of the top of the containers cap during flight. Squeezing out the air helps. Pack those liquids in a plastic bag, just to make sure you don’t stain your clothes.
Pack medications in your carry-on only. You don’t want to be at the mercy of a misrouted belly bag. Back that up further by packing a days worth of essential pills in a plastic bag and putting it in your pocket. On a recent “day trip” to Orlando I was caught overnight by weather. My meds were right there.
Pack an extra pair of glasses. Make sure to carry along a copy of not just your medication prescriptions, but your spectacle prescription as well.
Clothing. Pack a day’s change of clothes. No more. Make sure they’re wash and wear. You can wash your clothes at the other end of the trip. Two days’ supply of undies and socks are best.
Toiletries. Take your toothbrush. If you’ve got room, a travel size of shave cream and toothpaste is fine. That’s it. Buy what else you need when you deplane, on the trip from the airport to friends or relatives.
Power cord. Okay, a show of hands. How many of you have left home without packing your phone’s re-charger? Happens all the time. While you’re thinking about it, unplug it from your desk or bedside. Wrap it around inside front door handle of your house or apartment. You won’t forget it that way.
Take packing light to a whole new low this year and see if you don’t uncomplicate your travel life.
