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Flight Attendants Reveal the 10 Biggest Luggage Mistakes Travelers Should Never Make

And more importantly, they share what to do instead.

Flight attendants are the unsung heroes of travel. Even during turbulent times, they keep us comfortable, safe, well-fed, and hydrated. Most importantly, they do all of this with a smile on their face. And, though they stay very busy during the flight and are racing to catch their next one, they still manage to stay in-tune with their passengers — and have picked up on their countless in-flight woes, especially when it comes to luggage. Internally, there’s a long, unspoken list of things flight attendants never pack and an equally long list of ways they pack strategically. Still, us passengers don’t always get the memo, and mistakes happen. 

For example, as passengers, we’re not supposed to ask flight attendants to help lift our bags into the overhead bin. Flight attendants are forbidden to assist with this because if they get injured while doing so, it’s not covered under their worker’s compensation. Instead of asking them to help, we can do our part by packing bags we know we can handle on our own. 

To save you time, money, and stress on your next trip, we found a few friendly flight attendants willing to talk about other common luggage mistakes passengers make as well as what to do instead to ensure a smoother, hassle-free trip. Again, not all superheroes wear capes. Some are disguised as cabin crew.

Relying on a flimsy paper tag

What to do instead: Slip an Apple AirTag in your bag

New Apple AirTag Leather Key Ring
AMAZON

Many airlines give out free paper name tags to stick on your checked luggage, and they have a tendency to fall off. Even if you use a real tag, it’s useless when it comes to tracking your bag. That’s why Lisa Wilkes, a flight attendant of 13 years, advises passengers to put an Apple AirTag in the suitcases they’re checking. “If anyone takes the wrong suitcase, you can track it instantly,” she tells Travel + Leisure. On Amazon, the Apple AirTag has nearly 96,000 five-star ratings, and one traveler wrote that it “saved” their vacation. 

To buy: amazon.com, $28 

Packing your bulkiest shoes 

What to do instead: Wear them on the plane, or don’t pack them at all

TOMS Women's, Alpargata Paper Source Slip-On
AMAZON

“Footwear takes up a ton of room in suitcases,” Wilkes said. “So you’ll save space by wearing your largest shoes during your flight.” Personally, she likes to pick up a lightweight pair of shoes from a thrift shop that employs people with disabilities. But, if you’re looking for something that can be delivered to your doorstep before your flight, consider these Toms Slip-On Shoes, which also have a feel-good component since the brand donates one-third of its profits to organizations that provide mental health resources, increase access to opportunity, and end gun violence. These particular slip-ons have nearly 4,000 five-star ratings, feature supportive memory foam insoles, and come in 15 colors and styles. They’re also currently up to 53 percent off.

To buy: amazon.com, $26 (originally $55) 

Packing an attitude

What to do instead: Pack a small gift for a flight attendant

Evian Facial Spray, 1.7 oz. Travel 6-Pack
AMAZON

“Bring a small gift for flight attendants,” Wilkes suggests. “We see a lot of super difficult [and] mean passengers, so when someone does something nice, we really appreciate it.” It can be something as simple as a granola bar, notes flight attendant Shea Kepler. Or, you can give them something like a travel-sized bottle of Evian Facial Spray, which will keep their skin hydrated and healthy at any altitude. You can get a six-pack of these for $45 at Amazon, where they have nearly 5,800 five-star ratings. And, don’t be surprised if your gift begets a gift. Wilkes says they often give passengers who give them gifts complimentary snacks. 

To buy: amazon.com, $45

Not packing another layer for the plane

What to do instead: Pack a lightweight sweater that will keep you warm 

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Full-Zip Hoodie
QUINCE

We’ve all been there: teeth chattering at cruising altitude and trying to make the most of the thin blanket the airline (hopefully) provides. That’s why Wilkes says it’s smart to always have a sweater on your person: “Even if it’s blazing hot outside, the plane might be chilly.” To save space in her bag, she rolls her clothes, a trick many flight attendants swear by. For a layer that will keep you warm but isn’t bulky, consider the Mongolian Cashmere Full-Zip Hoodie from Quince. It’s made of sustainable cashmere, is incredibly soft, and it goes with pretty much everything. 

To buy: onequince.com, $100 

Packing critical items in hold

What to do instead: Store your plane essentials in your carry-on

PACKISM Clear Makeup Bag with Zipper 3 Pack
AMAZON

Before he started the website Turtle Trip, James Kinsella was a flight attendant. And every week he’d see passengers, especially on long-haul flights, forget things like their medication, contact lens cases, earplugs, and other essential items. “We very much stress to take your time and create a list of what you’re packing and where it needs to go before you fly,” Kinsella explained. Of course, it helps to have a separate smaller bag for these items you want on the plane. Consider something like these TSA-compliant Packism toiletry bags, which are clear so you can see their contents and will immediately know if you’re forgetting something. And, a set of three costs less than $20. 

To buy: amazon.com, $16 

Bringing oversized hand luggage 

What to do instead: Get a carry-on bag you’re confident will fit

Travelpro Maxlite® 5 International Carry-On Expandable Spinner
TRAVELPRO

While Kinsella acknowledges that sometimes if you’re friendly to your gate attendant you can get on your flight with oversized hand luggage, it’s best to not even bring it in the first place. This is especially true if you’re flying on discount airlines that will penalize you with hefty checked baggage fees. He personally loves the brand Tripp for carry-on luggage, but since it’s U.K.-based, it’s not the easiest to get stateside. Instead, consider Travelpro’s Maxlite 5 International Expandable 21-Inch Carry-On Suitcase. It’s designed to fit the carry-on restrictions of most international airlines, which tend to be slightly stricter than those in the U.S., and equipped with thoughtful features for stress-free packing 

To buy: travelpro.com, $145 (originally $170) 

Trying to sneak on with overweight bags

What to do instead: Invest in a portable luggage scale 

Amazon Etekcity Digital Hanging Luggage Scale
COURTESY OF AMAZON

According to Kinsella, almost every flight sees one or two passengers going over the weight limit with their bags. “That sometimes leads to heated debates at the check-in counter, with extra fees or a last-minute repack being the options,” she warned. You can avoid this, however, if you have a portable luggage scale like the best-selling Etekcity Luggage Scale. It’s small, accurate, and easy to use; simply hang your bag on it and hold it up, and it will show what your bag weighs in both pounds and kilograms. On Amazon, it has nearly 45,000 five-star ratings. One shopper wrote,“This has been a lifesaver and has made traveling less stressful.”

To buy: amazon.com, $11  

Using flimsy luggage with breakable components

What to do instead: Invest in a bag that can take a beating 

Tumi International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On
TUMI

Before she founded In-Flight Insider, Carolyn Paddock was a flight attendant for both commercial airlines and private jets. One phenomenon she witnessed was passengers using bags that were either low quality and/or on their last legs. “Cheap bags can and do give out mid-trip,” according to Paddock, who cites busted zippers, wheels that fall off, and broken handles being common occurrences. That’s why she recommends making a “decent investment” in your luggage by opting for something like Tumi’s International Expandable 4-Wheeled Carry-On Suitcase. At $895 it’s not cheap, but it has protective bumper rails and impact-resistant side panels. It also comes with a five-year limited warranty.  

To buy: tumi.com, $895 

Using soft-sided luggage 

What to do instead: Switch to hard-sided bags 

Monos Carry-On Pro
MONOS

Flight attendants make mistakes, too. For example, in his nearly two decades of working as a flight attendant, Nick Wilson has mostly relied on his fabric Travelpro suitcases issued by his employer. However, his airline is in the process of retiring them. “They are not as trendy or in style anymore,” Wilson explained. “So we are going to be using hardshell plastic luggage. They weigh less, look better, and are less prone to liquid damage.” When he’s traveling for leisure, not business, Wilson uses his Monos Carry-On Pro Suitcase, which features a handy built-in front compartment for easy access to your travel essentials and is built with durable polycarbonate to create its “unbreakable” shell.

To buy: monos.com, $295 (originally $311)

Not packing an extra bag 

What to do instead: Stash a collapsible bag in your luggage

For Spirit Airlines Personal Item Bag
AMAZON

Flight attendants can often tell if a passenger is headed out on their trip or returning from it based on how many bags they have. And passengers who shop a lot often have to carry their purchases by hand or buy an extra bag during their trip. Of course, that can be avoided if you think ahead. “I always keep a small collapsible bag inside my luggage so in case I return with more than I left with I can then use it as a shoulder bag on the way home,” Wilson assured. This foldable duffle bag from Amazon-favorite brand Narwey has nearly 13,000 five-star ratings and leaves travelers in awe with its packable construction that hardly takes up any space in your suitcase. 

To buy: amazon.com, $14

COVID-19 Updates: US to drop COVID testing requirement for International Flyers Sunday, June 12th, 2022

Yes, you are reading this right! Starting Sunday, June 12th, US travelers are no longer required to test for Covid before returning to the US. Several people I have spoken with about international travel have been waiting for this day to come, and it is here! Do you want to go to an All-inclusive Resort, Plan a Destination Wedding, Book an Unforgettable Honeymoon, or take that Cruise you have been dreaming of? Please contact me via email at mary@vacationstoanywhere.com to chat about the travel experience you have been waiting to take! A quick reminder, I can book you anywhere in the world! 🙂

According to the CDC, as of Sunday, June 12, 2022, air passengers entering the U.S. will no longer be required to present documentation of a negative COVID-19 viral test (called a Qualifying Test) to return to the U.S.

Please note that COVID-19 testing requirements vary by country. It is important to stay up-to-date with Covid-19 testing policies that may impact your vacation to destinations outside of the U.S.

For more information regarding COVID-19 testing updates, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Additional Information:

Family Travel Trends

Multigenerational Travel

Multigenerational travel is still one of the fastest-growing segments of the travel industry and will undoubtedly continue to be popular after extended families have been apart for so long and are eager to be together again. A survey conducted by Marriott Bonvoy found that spending time together and creating memories are the top reasons why families go on trips together. It also found that 93% of grandparents take at least one multi-generational trip per year and that 89% of parents said they are planning on taking a family vacation this year. Needless to say, family travel isn’t going anywhere.

Sound like fun? Cruises are a great way to explore with the whole family.

Domestic Family Travel

Many aspects of family travel have remained unchanged, despite the pandemic. However, domestic travel remains much more prevalent than international travel. In a 2021 survey conducted by the Family Travel Association (FTA), 83% of respondents plan to take a multi-day vacation in the U.S. within the next year.

Beach vacations are what 61% of families are planning, according to FTA’s survey. Theme parks, water parks and national parks are trending too, with 51% and 46% of responding families interested in taking these kinds of trips. Lucky for them, theme parks are open and national parks are free to visit a few days every year, with multiple pass options on the non-free days.

Use of Travel Advisors

It’s no joke that the state of travel is much different now than it was pre-pandemic. Cancellation and safety protocols are more important than ever before to travelers. Lucky for them, travel advisors are the experts. According to FTA’s 2021 survey, 65% of respondents say they would consider using a travel advisor in the next two years. Many said that the pandemic has increased their likelihood of using a travel advisor. From peace of mind, many family travelers are leaning towards travel advisors for their destination expertise and in-depth product knowledge.”

Families are here to make memories and travel advisors are here to make that happen!

Did you know…

little girl walking holding her parents hands
  • The most popular vacation types for families are beach vacations, visiting theme parks and visiting national parks. Millennial and Gen Z families tend to take city vacations or visit water parks.
  • Family travelers’ main sources for travel inspiration are family travel-related social media content.
  • When family travelers who used a travel advisor to book in the past were asked why they used one, 48% said travel advisors have in-depth knowledge and 43% said they have better rates and prices. See, you advisors really are the best!
  • Kids are now decision makers, too! Sure, the adults hold the purse strings, but kids have more influence than ever on their vacation’s destinations and activities.

Family Travel Facts

Top U.S. Destinations for Family Travel:

united states of america
  1. Orlando
  2. Maui
  3. Fort Myers
  4. Oahu
  5. Tampa  
  6. Fort Lauderdale
  7. Phoenix
  8. Destin
  9. Clearwater
  10. Denver
chart
What types of destinations are families planning to travel to?

Domestic – 83%
International – 19%
Source: Family Travel Association 2021 Family Travel Survey

Let me help you plan your Dream Vacation, Destination Wedding, Honeymoon, Family Reunion, or Cruise! Please reach out to me with any questions you may have!