Packing seems like it should be the easiest part of a trip, but knowing what to bring and what to leave behind (especially when traveling by air) is easier said than done. As a frequent business traveler, I’d love to share some of my tips of dealing with TSA requirements and maximizing the valuable real estate inside of that 1 quart Ziploc baggie…
3-1-1 is tricky! I like to tell TSA agents that the liquid requirements and limits were obviously created by a bunch of men in a room, plotting to drive the female population into an even further state of crazy. Three ounces? A quart-sized bag? Do not panic, my friend. I am here to help. Below are my top travel tips compiled from years of weekly travel for work and pleasure.
1. 1. If you are traveling with friends, see what you can share. A three-day weekend for two people doesn’t require more than one hairspray bottle, travel-sized toothpaste, or more than a small container of moisturizer. Nothing has changed since kindergarten; sharing is awesome!
2. 2. Save old makeup and moisturizer containers that can be re-used. The travel containers sold in stores are often much larger than what you actually need.
3. 3. Don’t bring shampoo, but bring conditioner. We all know that the quality of hotel-provided shampoo and conditioner is paltry at best. But skip bringing that salon-quality shampoo-for a few days, your hair isn’t going to suffer.
4. 4. Contact solution is considered a “medical” item, so you don’t have to put it in the liquids bag! It’s a great day for nerds everywhere.
5. 5. Shop during the holidays or at Sephora for small perfume vessels. I really like the long glass-tube style; I think it fits into the bag much better.
6. 6. Use the lotion at the hotel—ask for more if you need it. I promise you, the lady at the front desk is not judging you for asking for several more bottles of lotion. They cost like $.25. The hotel is NOT losing money on your room. Just like with the shampoo, your skin will survive.
7. 7. Do NOT bring shaving gel. It’s big, bulky, and not necessary.
8. 8. Don’t bring liquid makeup remover—buy the travel pack face wipes and save on space!
9. 9. Put your liquids bag in an outside pocket or your laptop big, which will give security easier access and help you get through faster.
So, what is in my quart sized bag? Travel-sized toothpaste, a silver-dollar sized container of moisturizer, travel container of my conditioner, small perfume bottle, some hair serum to fight the hotel shampoo situation, and eye cream. I have some extra room in there in case the TSA decides to get a hair up their ass and decide that my makeup is considered a “liquid.” (This is when I give them a lecture on the sexist nature of these regulations. I like to think they really appreciate it.)
The main thing to remember when packing is that if you forget something small, you can always pick it up at your destination. Hotels offer travelers basic toiletry needs: razors, toothpaste, sewing kits, shaving cream, etc. Don’t be afraid to ask!
Finally, when in doubt, leave it out. If you’re unsure about needing something, put it to the side, finish packing, and if there’s room, bring it. If there’s not, ditch it. Happy travels!
