I’ve been on more planes than I can count, both on the clock and off. And if I had a dollar for every chaotic traveler I’ve watched panic-chug a beverage in security or realize they left their passport at home…well, I wouldn’t still be paying off credit cards.
Here’s what I’ve learned from helping thousands of passengers and making a few mistakes of my own along the way. These are the things you can do to make your experience 100% better, 100% of the time, whether you’re flying commercial, private, or backpacking Ryanair-style through Europe.
1. Download your airline’s app
Don’t treat this as optional. This is the best way to get your boarding pass, gate info, flight alerts, and sometimes free entertainment.
2. Charge your phone and bring a backup
Airport outlets are war zones. I’ve seen grown adults unplug strangers. Don’t be the one with a dead phone and no gate info. And don’t even think about asking your flight attendant – think fire hazard. I recommend having a backup battery pack, but make sure it’s FAA-approved.
3. Screenshot your boarding pass
Apps crash. Wi-Fi fails. Murphy’s Law lives at airports. Cover your bases.
4. Double-check your terminal and gate. Twice
They change more than airline policies. Especially if you’re connecting. Don’t assume, confirm.
5. Use the bathroom before boarding
Lav lines mid-flight are brutal. It’s worse when you go during boarding, earning the wrath of people walking on and the annoyance of the flight crew. Pre-board pit stops = peace of mind.
6. Hydrate ahead of time
Cabin air is drier than your Hinge date’s replies. Start drinking water 24 hours before you fly.
7. Moisturize face, hands, and lips
Crusty doesn’t travel well. Keep a small moisturizer in your personal item and reapply often.
8. Wear layers
As someone who freezes at 37,000 feet, trust me: layers are your best inflight accessory.
9. Bring an empty water bottle
Fill it after security. Don’t get stuck buying a $7 bottle from Hudson News.
10. Pack snacks
I’ve worked flights with no food service. Plan ahead unless you want to pay $12 for a sad trail mix.
11. Wipe down your seat area
Flight crews don’t deep-clean between every flight. If you wouldn’t lick it, don’t trust it.
12. Download playlists/podcasts and movies ahead of time
In-flight Wi-Fi is a lie. Come prepared. Even airport Wi-Fi isn’t always free or reliable.
13. Update your emergency contact info
Do it for your mom.
14. Check your passport (like, right now)
International flights require 6 months’ validity after your return. I have personally seen how this has ruined honeymoons.
15. Turn off the stove / curling iron / etc.
Yes, I’ve had passengers deplane in a panic over this. Create a checklist and triple-check it.
16. Sort out your liquids
TSA will toss your expensive serum with zero remorse. Know the 3-1-1 rule and follow it.
17. Take a photo of your luggage
It’s easier to track down baggage with a photo than by saying “black… with wheels?” Take that photo before putting it on the scale at check-in!
18. Wear TSA-friendly shoes
Meaning, quick and easy to take off and put back on. You’ll thank yourself when the line is long and the energy is chaos.
19. Keep meds, chargers, and valuables in your carry-on
Checked bags go missing. Often. Essentials should always be within arm’s reach.
20. Bring a pen
Still necessary for customs forms. And Sudoku if the Wi-Fi’s trash.
21. Set your phone to your destination time
Helps beat jet lag and mentally get in the zone. Especially helpful if you’re working a trip.
22. Share your itinerary with someone
Helps beat jet lag and mentally get in the zone. Especially helpful if you’re working a trip.
23. Use AirTags
Pop one in your luggage, purse, even carry-on. It saved my luggage and sanity more than once.
24. Know your seat and boarding group
Unless you’re flying Southwest, don’t loiter at the gate area like you’re about to start a race. Respect the boarding groups.
25. Download offline maps
Especially if you’re traveling abroad. Google Maps is useless without service.
26. Pack gum or mints
Great for ear pressure and even better if you’re talking to seatmates.
27. Know your carry-on size limits
And don’t argue with gate agents. They didn’t invent the bin size, but they’ll make you pay for it if it doesn’t fit.
28. Give yourself (and your flight crew) grace
Things happen. Flights get delayed. Plans shift. Control what you can and learn to roll with the rest.
Final Boarding Call:
As a flight attendant and a frequent flyer, I promise you, traveling doesn’t have to be a hot mess. It just takes a little planning, a lot of hydration, and a whole lot of flexibility. Save this checklist. Send it to your most chaotic friend. And go into that airport like the cool, calm, carry-on queen you are.
