Focus on Safety First

One of the easiest and most important items on an overseas travel checklist is also arguably the most ignored. Travel insurance and State Department alerts can be incredibly important in emergencies abroad, but many tourists bet they won’t become part of the small percentage of travelers who require evacuation assistance or protection from hotel or flight cancellations.

Subscribing to the State Department’s STEP alerts for your destination can help you stay up to date on upcoming and current travel restrictions, strikes, and areas of political unrest. Any alerts you receive will let you know whether or not to plan for some unexpected obstacles in advance.

Travel insurance can cost as little as a few dollars per travel day and cover anything from lost luggage to emergency medical attention, potentially saving you hundreds, maybe even thousands of dollars.

Get Your Travel Documents and Credit Cards in Order

Make sure your passport and any necessary travel visas are up to date. Some countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months after your scheduled return, so make sure you won’t be turned away or delayed at customs because of an old passport. Not sure if you need a visa? Check the State Department’s travel page for your destination.

Keep physical and digital copies of your passport and all your paperwork in case anything is lost. Share copies of your passport, itinerary, and contact numbers with family and friends whom you can contact in case of an emergency.

Notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel dates so they don’t deny your purchases, and ask about international ATM fees so you can find out which ones won’t charge you. It’s always a good idea to bring multiple cards in case one stops working.

Don’t underestimate how helpful a cell phone photo of your passport can be. Whether you have to go to the consulate and report it lost, or are just filling out a customs card and need your passport number, it will likely come in handy. Email the image to yourself to have an extra digital copy in case your phone runs out of batteries or goes missing. You may also want to bring a spare copy of your passport photo on your trip; having it handy will speed the processing of a new document.

Get Vaccinated

It’s best to get the necessary vaccinations out of the way as soon as possible since it can take a few weeks to build full immunity. Some also require multiple doses, which may need to be administered over days, weeks, or even months. Talk to your doctor about getting the CDC-recommended shots, as the protocol for vaccines varies by country. For example, dozens of countries require proof of a yellow fever vaccination if you’ve been to at-risk areas. A travel clinic can help you sort out which vaccinations and medications you might need.

Keep your vaccination certificate in your carry-on in case customs requires you to present it when entering the country.

Study Up on Your Destination

Whether you’re a travel app connoisseur or more of a paperback guidebook person, having some source of knowledge about your destination is invaluable. Read about the region you’re traveling to in advance to gain insight into important information such as currency exchange rates, useful phrases, tipping norms, appropriate clothing, and cultural/legal customs. It’s best to be prepared so you don’t land yourself in a compromising situation.

Make Sure Your Home Is Cared For

There’s nothing worse than realizing once you’re six time zones away that you forgot to stop your mail delivery or ask someone to water your expertly cultivated house plants. Make sure your daily tasks are covered before you leave, or appoint a trusty friend to do them for you.

You can find a house or pet sitter to do your chores if you’re willing to list your home on TrustedHouseSitters.com. Plus, you could find lodging through the site for your trip abroad if you can do the same for someone else.

Stay Connected

Want to stay in touch while traveling abroad? If you haven’t taken your phone overseas before, call your mobile provider to ask about international phone plans that might be available. If your carrier’s plans are expensive, an international SIM card can be a good alternative.

Download the Necessities

Sometimes, the most important thing you’ll pack is in your smartphone rather than your suitcase. Offline maps are your best friend when traveling with limited data or battery. You can find Wi-Fi in many places, but downloading offline maps through Google Maps will allow you to follow your GPS without using up data.

Downloading in-flight entertainment could also save you if your TV malfunctions on a long-haul flight. Streaming won’t be available without consistent in-flight Wi-Fi (which you shouldn’t ever depend on) but you can pre-download movies and TV shows through most platforms.

Don’t forget a portable backup charger. Watching hours of your favorite TV show is sure to drain your battery life, and there’s nothing worse than finally finding a Wi-Fi spot only to have your phone die.

Pack These Essentials

While the contents of your checked bag will largely depend on the climate you’re visiting, you’ll want most of your trip’s essentials easily accessible in your carry-on. Start with this international travel checklist of items to pack:

• Passport and visa
• Medications
• Insurance and ID cards
• Cash, debit cards, and credit cards
• Pen to fill out customs forms
• Portable charger
• Earplugs, eye mask, and sleeping pills
• Electrical converters and adapters specific to your destination
• Headphones
• Antibacterial wipes
• Sweater/scarf in case the plane is chilly
• Cell phone and charger

For more ideas, check out our ultimate packing list.

Consider taking photos of your packed suitcase (both inside and out) in case it gets lost. That way, airline employees will know what to look for, and you’ll know what was inside if you don’t get it back and need to file a claim.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling Abroad appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The tips we’ve gathered can help streamline your packing process, maximize your luggage space, and ensure you’re well-prepared for any trip. We’re excited to share our favorite packing tips, each based on real-world travel experiences and lessons learned on the road. These insights will help you pack smarter and travel lighter. 

Use Packing Cubes (in the Right Situation)

I always use packing cubes if I’m traveling with a duffle bag or backpack as my primary luggage. Otherwise, I wind up getting annoyed digging around trying to find the one item I need that’s inevitably at the bottom. My favorite packing cubes are Eagle Creek’s Pack-Its, which compress your clothes so you can fit even more in.

Depending on what makes sense for my trip, I organize my packing cubes in one of two ways:

1. By day: Each cube contains a complete outfit for a specific day.
2. By category: Separate cubes for pants, tops, and other clothing types.

I label each cube using a piece of tape with a written description of what’s inside. This allows me to quickly see what’s inside without opening them.

However, I never use packing cubes if I’m traveling with a wheeled suitcase—in that case, I prefer to roll my clothes to keep them wrinkle-free (and to fit more in my bag.)

Keep a Travel Go-Bag

Packing is the worst part of preparing for a trip. To save time, I keep two small bags packed and ready to go at all times. One is my toiletries kit, which I refill after each trip. The second is my in-flight bag, a small pouch I keep stocked with any essentials I’ll need on the plane (headphones, hand sanitizer, charging cable, lip balm, and tissues.)

When it’s time to hit the road again, it feels like my packing is already halfway done.

Combine Rolling and Folding

When it comes to the rolling versus folding debate, I stand right in the middle. The best way to pack a suitcase is to combine both strategies.

I fold thicker, heavy-weight items like sweaters and jeans and lay them flat at the bottom of the suitcase. Lightweight items like t-shirts and tank tops get rolled up and layered on top.

Finally, I squeeze small miscellaneous items like socks, undergarments, and swimsuits into the empty spaces in between (Bonus tip: if packing a pair of shoes, stuff your socks inside to save space).

Use a Packing Planner

Creating a packing list based on your plans for each day of your trip can help prevent overpacking. All our editors swear by SmarterTravel’s Packing Planner, a free downloadable PDF that allows you to fill in the weather forecast and your planned daily activities to help you decide what outfits and shoes you’ll need. 

Having each day broken down is helpful for eliminating the urge to throw in unnecessary clothing “just in case.” 

The post Expert Packing Tips from Our Travel Editors appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The right packing strategy is key to a smooth journey, from navigating security regulations to ensuring you’re prepared for unexpected situations. We’ve compiled a list of seven important things every traveler should do when packing their carry-on. From keeping your liquids in compliance to making sure you can lift your bag, these tips will help you breeze through security, avoid unnecessary fees, and arrive at your destination with everything you need. 

Make Sure You Can Lift Your Bag

You’ve successfully managed to jam everything in your carry-on bag, and although you have to sit on it to close it, you can zip it shut. The real question is, can you lift your overstuffed suitcase into the overhead bin? 

Don’t expect to rely on a flight attendant to put your heavy bag in the overhead bin for you. Taylor Garland, spokeswoman for the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, told the Washington Post that cabin crew members are trained never to lift bags because it could cause them an injury. 

Never pack a bag that’s heavier than what you can maneuver around the airport and into the overhead bin. 

Keep Your Liquids in Compliance

When you’re flying carry-on only, all your liquids, gels, and aerosols must follow the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule, which restricts these items to 3.4 ounces or less per container. All these liquids must be in a 1-quart size, clear plastic zip-top bag, and you can only have one bag per passenger.  

Remember that many things you may not classify as liquids (like peanut butter or makeup) are considered such by the TSA. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and leave it behind if you don’t want it confiscated at security. 

Check TSA’s What Can I Bring Tool

Many items are acceptable in checked baggage but are considered too dangerous to be allowed in the plane’s cabin, where they are accessible to passengers. 

If you’re unsure if an item is allowed in your carry-on, use the TSA’s handy What Can I Bring site, which lets you search to see if you can bring it in a carry-on or checked bag. 

You can find answers flying with everything from portable chargers (carry-on only) to baseball bats (checked bags only).

Weigh Your Bag

Although most major American airlines don’t specify a weight limit for carry-on bags, many international carriers do. These airlines have strict carry-on weight limits and will insist on weighing your bag when checking in. (Don’t think you can skip weighing your bag by checking in online—often, you’ll have to check in in person for international flights to make sure your passport/travel documents are in order.)

Carry-on weight limits vary by airline but are generally limited to 20 lbs or less. Make sure you weigh your carry-on after it’s packed to avoid getting caught out at the airline counter.

Prepare for Gate-Checking

Meeting the carry-on allowance doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be allowed to bring your bag aboard the plane. Overhead bin space is at a premium, and if you’re in a later boarding group, you may be forced to gate-check your bag.

When packing your carry-on, separate anything you wouldn’t want checked (such as valuables, travel documents, keys, medications, etc.) so that you can easily pull it out if your bag gets gate-checked. 

Separate Your In-Flight Essentials Into Your Personal Item

Packed your reading material, headphones, and snacks in your carry-on? That’s great until you have to hold up the boarding process while you dig it all out of your suitcase before you stash your bag in the overhead bin and take a seat.

Come prepared by putting everything you’ll need in-flight into a separate personal item, like a backpack or tote bag, that you can stash underneath your seat and have for easy access. 

Prepay for Your Carry-On

If you’re traveling on a budget airline and a carry-on bag is not included in your fare, don’t attempt to sneak one onboard. Budget airlines are very strict about measuring bags, and if you have to pay at the airport for a carry-on, you’ll generally pay a much higher price than if you had allocated a bag in advance. 
For example, Spirit Airlines charges $49 for a carry-on bag at the time of booking. If you wait and add a bag during check-in, the price goes up to $59. If you don’t pay for a carry-on until you get to the airport, it will cost you $79.

The post 7 Things You Should Always Do When Packing a Carry-On Bag appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Pick the Right Carry-On

The right carry-on is a matter of personal preference. Do you want something super lightweight, a hard-sided suitcase, or a backpack? SmarterTravel Editors use a diverse range of bags as our go-to carry-ons, but our favorites are Eagle Creek’s Gear Warrior 4-Wheel International Carry-On, Roam Luggage’s The Carry-On, and L.L. Bean’s Approach Travel Backpack.

Whichever bag you choose, be sure to check that it fits within the maximum size limit for the airline you’re flying. Be careful when comparing measurements—some carry-on bags list their measurements without the wheels, but airlines definitely count the wheels when deciding if they will let your bag in the cabin. 

Downsize Your Toiletries

Don’t forget that flying with just a carry-on means that your liquids will be subjected to the 3-1-1 rule. Decant your regular toiletries into travel-sized containers, or invest in miniature versions of products to save even more space.

Some of my favorite travel-size items include:

• Cabinet Health’s travel-friendly OTC medication packets 
• Miniature versions of your favorite fragrances in a traveling case from Scentbird
• Gilette’s travel-size Venus razor
• Philips One rechargeable travel-size toothbrush
• Cadence’s magnetic containers

Roll and Fold Your Clothes

Does rolling or folding your clothes take up less space? We put both packing methods to the test and found that we were able to fit more folded items in our suitcase. However, I believe the real winning method is a combination of both methods—you can fold the majority of your clothes and then fit rolled-up items in the crevices of the remaining space. Don’t forget to fill up your shoes too (I like to pack socks inside of them). 

Try Compression Bags

Compression bags can help you fit more clothing into your carry-on. However, if you’re using the type that requires a vacuum to suck out the air, just make sure you’ll have access to a vacuum at your destination (lest you can’t fit everything in for the return journey.)

Or, choose a compression bag that doesn’t require a vacuum like this one that comes with a free hand pump, one that rolls up, or compression packing cubes.

Pack By Day

Being methodical about what you pack is the most important part of fitting everything in a carry-on. Rather than throwing in random pieces of clothing that you like, think through your itinerary day by day and pack a specific outfit to wear for each day/activity. This will make sure you pack only what you need (and nothing extra).

Do Laundry

It’s not glamorous but doing laundry once or twice on vacation makes it easy to travel with just a carry-on. If you’re staying in a vacation rental with free laundry machines, check to see if detergent is included (if not, detergent sheets are easy to pack and spillproof). If you don’t have access to a washer/dryer and don’t want to waste time at a laundromat, it’s easy to wash out a few items in your hotel room’s sink as you need them. Just make sure you have enough time for your clothes to air dry before you have to pack up and check out!

Wear Your Bulkiest Items

Save space in your carry-on by wearing your bulkiest clothes and shoes on the plane. Boots may be a pain to take off at the TSA checkpoint, but wearing them will free up a significant amount of space in your suitcase. The same goes for jackets and other heavy layers—they will keep you warm on the plane (or you can always take them off once you board and use them as a pillow. If you need even more room, you can always stuff smaller items in your jacket pockets (just make sure that they are securely zipped so nothing falls out.) 

Maximize the Carry-On/Personal Item Combo

You’re allowed to take a carry-on bag plus a personal item in the cabin with you when you fly. Size requirements vary by airline, but your personal item must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. I like to travel with a rolling suitcase as my carry-on, and then a large shoulder bag that slides over the suitcase handle for easy transportation. A backpack is another great choice for a personal item (especially if you’ll be hiking or want one to use as a daypack). I like to pack my toiletries, electronics/chargers, and other essentials in my personal item so that I have easy access to them during the flight (and more space in my rolling carry-on for clothes and shoes). 

Watch the Weight Limit

There isn’t a weight limit for carry-ons on most domestic flights in the US, but it is something you’ll likely encounter with international airlines (and is generally strictly enforced). Make sure to check the weight limit and weigh your bag before you fly. We’re not advocating skirting the rules, but if you check in online and can bypass the check-in desk, it’s likely that your carry-on won’t get weighed.

Separate the Essentials

Unfortunately, traveling with just a carry-on bag doesn’t guarantee that you won’t have to check your luggage. On packed flights, overhead bin space is at a premium, and you may have to gate-check your bag if you’re in one of the last boarding groups. 

Make sure that any essential items (such as keys, medications, etc.) are kept in your personal item, just in case you do have to gate-check the carry-on. It’s less likely that a gate-checked bag will get lost, but it’s not impossible. 

The post How to Travel With Just a Carry-On appeared first on SmarterTravel.

As long as airlines have been checking baggage, they’ve been sending a few somewhere other than where they were supposed to go. Fortunately, airlines are doing better recently than they did 20 years ago, so your chances for a happy ending have improved for two reasons:

• They’re losing fewer bags. The government has been collecting statistics on mishandled bag reports for decades, and the number of mishandled bag reports per 100,000 passengers has dropped from a high of seven in the early 1990s to about three since 2009.
• They’re getting better at tracking the bags they do lose. With barcoded tags and even a few RFID-enabled tags, the airlines’ systems keep excellent track of bags. The last two times I’ve had a bag problem, an agent at the lost-baggage desk was able to tell me immediately where my bag was and the flight on which it would arrive.

Although airline performance has improved, what you do when an airline mishandles a bag remains about as it was in the 1990s. Below is guidance about what to do if your luggage is delayed, lost, or damaged, as well as tips for preventing these scenarios.

What to Do If Your Luggage Is Delayed

If your bags don’t arrive on the carousel, try not to panic. Most so-called “lost” baggage really isn’t lost; rather, it’s delayed. And in most cases an airline can reunite you with your baggage within 24 hours.

When you realize that your bag isn’t going to show up on the carousel, go immediately to your airline’s lost-baggage counter, which you’ll find in most big-airport baggage areas. In smaller airports, ask any airline employee where to go. Even if you have someplace you need to be, report missing baggage before you leave the airport. (Some airline contracts specify that you must file no later than four hours after arrival; others say 24 hours.) When filing your claim, give the attendant a hotel or home address, as well as a phone number where you can be reached.

Hand over your baggage check (but write down the numbers) and fill out the form, making sure to get a copy of any relevant tracking numbers, websites, and phone numbers (some airlines have an online system while others will provide you with a phone number to call for updates). Note the name of the agent that handles your claim as well as the estimated time your bag will arrive.

If your bags are on the next flight, you could have them within a few hours. If they’ve been sent to the wrong airport, it could take a couple of days. If your baggage is delayed on a connecting itinerary involving more than one airline, you deal with the airline that flew you to your final destination, even if you think the first airline was responsible.

The airlines typically bring you your luggage when it is found; you will rarely need to return to the airport to pick it up. If you’re staying at a hotel or resort, alert the front desk about an incoming bag. Airlines usually deliver delayed bags at no cost to you, but some may ask you to pay.

Additionally, many airlines will reimburse any unexpected expenses caused by the loss or delay (keep your receipts!). No law requires any specific assistance, only that airlines must have a policy and make it available to you.

At a minimum, airlines typically cover overnight needs such as toothpaste and such; some lines stock and hand out regular overnight kits at the lost-baggage desk. If your bag is lost on a flight arriving at an airport other than your home, many airlines offer to cover all or part of the cost of items you may need to continue your vacation or business trip. Some airlines offer a set daily allowance; others offer to reimburse you for items you buy on the basis of receipts. And some airlines say almost nothing beyond “We’ll get your bag back.” Very little is set; prepare to negotiate.

Only one major U.S. airline, Alaska, provides any monetary compensation for delayed baggage: If the line doesn’t deliver your checked baggage within 20 minutes of arrival at the gate, it issues a voucher for $25 toward a future flight or 2,500 frequent-flyer miles. Other airlines do not issue refunds of baggage fees until your suitcase is declared lost.

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Anticipate the delay by packing all of your entertainment essentials in the versatile and stylish carry-on bag from Everlane.

What to Do If Your Luggage Is Lost

If an airline doesn’t get your bag back to you within five days, the bag may be truly lost. An airline defines “lost” at anywhere from five to 30 days, at which point both you and the airline proceed on the assumption that you’ll never see your bag again.

If the airline loses your bags, make sure you get a written claim for damages. This may require a different form than the original “missing luggage” form. This can be done at the airport or online.

The maximum an airline pays on lost bags and their contents is generally limited to $3,500 per passenger on U.S. domestic flights, and a varying rate per passenger for checked baggage on international flights based on the Warsaw Convention or the Montreal Convention. In the United States, if you paid a checked baggage fee for your lost bag, the airline must refund your fee. Check your carrier’s website for specifics.

You can purchase “excess valuation” protection from your airline if your checked baggage is worth more than these limits, but before doing so, make sure the items aren’t already covered by your homeowner’s or travel insurance policy. Some credit card companies and travel agencies also offer optional or automatic supplemental baggage coverage.

The airlines typically have a long list of items for which they will not be held responsible; these include jewelry, money, heirlooms, and other valuables. These items should always be left at home or packed in your carry-on bag.

Any lost baggage claim process is obviously a negotiation. Airlines will typically cover only the depreciated value of whatever you say you lost, not the original purchase price. They will ask for receipts, even for a suit you bought 10 years ago. You may go back and forth several times before reaching a deal. The airline may offer you a voucher for future travel in lieu of cash, which is generally a good deal only if the voucher value is double to triple a satisfactory cash value and, even then, only if the voucher conditions actually allow you to travel.

What to Do If Your Luggage Is Damaged

Once you’ve gotten your bags off the carousel, immediately check them for damage or other signs of tampering or mishandling. Report any damage before leaving the airport; airline customer service agents will often want to inspect the bag.

Keep in mind that most airlines won’t cover minor damage such as bumps, scratches, dents, and scuffs, nor will they cover damage to straps, pulls, locks, or wheels that are the result of normal wear and tear. Airlines will generally cover broken fragile items packed in your luggage only if they are packed in a container designed for shipping. And they exclude damage or loss claims for a long list of high-value items such as jewelry, computers, and cameras that are both fragile and tempting targets for theft.

Airlines won’t take responsibility for damage that occurred during a TSA inspection. If you think your baggage was damaged during a TSA inspection (all inspected bags will have a written notification inside), call 866-289-9673 to report it. When that happens, expect a protracted “he said, she said” tussle between the TSA and the airline.

You will most likely need to produce a receipt for any repairs or be required to use airline-sanctioned luggage repair vendors. Ask the baggage claim attendant for specific information. You don’t want to find out that you have paid for a repair that isn’t covered.

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What to Do If Your Luggage Is Stolen

Head directly to the baggage carousel when you get off your flight to minimize the potential time for your bag to be stolen. Many airlines scan bags when they’re loaded into the baggage claim area and keep records, especially at larger airports. If your bag goes missing after you’ve left the baggage claim area, your claim is no longer with the airline, but with the police. Your homeowner’s insurance may cover a stolen suitcase; if it doesn’t, consider purchasing travel insurance.

How to Appeal Your Lost Luggage Complaint

If you can’t reach a satisfactory resolution with your airline and you feel the need for further assistance, file a complaint with the Department of Transportation’s Aviation Consumer Protection Division.

How to Prevent Lost Luggage

Of course, all of this information assumes the worst has already happened and damage control is needed. Nothing undermines a well-planned vacation quite like no-show luggage. So how can travelers safeguard their stuff? The obvious solutions are to book a nonstop flight or pack everything in a carry-on, but clearly this won’t work for everyone. Fortunately, there are other ways to ensure you can avoid these worst-case scenarios altogether.

1. Put your name and cell phone number on the outside and inside of your bags, and include a travel itinerary. Luggage tags can easily be torn off in the rough-and-tumble handling process, but a name and contact info—along with a copy of your itinerary—placed on top of your belongings inside your bag will almost certainly stay put.
2. Take a picture of your luggage. If your bag has gone AWOL and you’re attempting to get it back, photo evidence will help. Take a picture of the outside of your bag to show the airline staff member who is helping you locate it. Snap a picture of the inside of your bag as well; this will come in handy in case you need to file an insurance claim for your lost belongings. It’s also wise to take a quick photo of your baggage-claim ticket, in case you lose it.
3. Customize your luggage. Suitcases, unfortunately, sometimes suffer from a case of mistaken identity at the baggage carousel. This is especially likely to happen when half of your plane is traveling with the same black Samsonite. Give your bag a makeover with a colorful luggage strap or some neon duct tape. For more ideas, see 9 Ways to Make Your Luggage Stand Out.
4. Arrive at your departure airport early. Travelers who check in late—whether they arrived at the airport with only minutes to spare or got held up in a meandering check-in line—are more likely to get separated from their bags. Baggage handlers need time to process luggage and load it onto planes. Aim to arrive at the airport a couple of hours before your flight (or more for international flights or busy holiday periods).
5. Avoid tight connections, as these increase the likelihood that your bags will go missing. If your flight is late, the window of time for airport staff to transfer your bag from one plane to the next narrows. Some booking sites sell domestic multi-leg itineraries with layovers of less than an hour, which doesn’t leave any wiggle room in an industry in which flights are frequently delayed. International connections can take even more time if you have to reclaim your bags, go through security, and check them again. For this reason, it’s important to allow plenty of time—two or more hours, ideally—on international layovers, and at least 90 minutes for domestic connections.
6. Don’t put valuables or “can’t be without it” items in your checked baggage (medicine, important papers, jewelry, laptops). Pack all such items in your carry-on. See 10 Things Not to Do When Checking a Bag for more information.
7. Make a list of packed items and their estimated value before you leave. It sounds tedious, but when an airline asks what was in your bag, you don’t want to forget anything of value. If you make a packing list before you travel, hang on to it—this is an easy way to remember everything you put into your bags. Keep receipts for any expensive items you pack, as you may be required to send copies of them to the airline in the case of a lost bag. If you absolutely have to check some of those items, insure them separately: An airline won’t cover them even if you buy excess-value coverage.
8. Make sure the person who checks your baggage attaches the correct destination ticket to every bag, and get a claim ticket for each. Always remove old claim tags to prevent confusion about your destination. Better yet, opt for a smarter luggage tag like Dynotags, SuperSmartTag, or ReboundTAG.
9. Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on bag so you’ll have something to wear if your checked bag is lost or delayed. If you’re traveling with a partner, consider dividing each person’s clothes between your checked bags; this way if one of the bags is lost, you’ll each still have some of your belongings.

Travel insurance is the best guarantee that you’ll recoup any losses. See Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know for more information.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated with the latest information. Ed Perkins, Caroline Costello, and Margaret Leahy contributed to this story. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post How to Cope with Lost Luggage on Vacation appeared first on SmarterTravel.

This got me thinking: why is this happening? Planes know how many passengers will be on board, so shouldn’t they have enough room for everyone’s carry-on bag? I did a little research to find out why this happens, what airlines are doing to avoid this in the future, and how to avoid it happening to you. 

What Causes Airlines To Require Gate-Checking Carry-On Bags?

There are a few reasons why more and more, airlines are asking passengers to gate-check their bags. Some are because of what a passenger does, and others are because of the airline. 

1. Your Bag is Too Big 

If you have a ticket that only allows one personal sized item on your flight, but you bring a regular sized carry-on, the flight attendant will have you check your bag, and you’ll have to pay to check that bag. If you have a regular ticket with a regular carry-on sized bag included, but you have a giant, oversized carry-on, the same rule applies. And please, don’t be the person who tries to get a giant bag past the flight attendants. 

2. You have Too Many Bags

If you have the correct size bag, but you have two of them, the flight attendant likely will ask you to check one. The only people allowed to carry an extra bag on board are people with medical devices. Of course, this doesn’t include bags from the airport- although I have been on flights that make you consolidate everything, so you should be wary of purchasing too much at the airport if you can’t fit it into your carry-on. If you’re allowed a personal item and a carry-on, keep it to that, please. 

3. The Flight is Full

When I was forced to gate-check a bag, my main issue was they had a certain amount of passengers that they had room for. Why would an airplane not have enough space for every passenger to have a carry-on? While in the moment I was too annoyed that I’d have to check my bag to realize it is because now that most airlines require you to pay to check a bag, everyone is just taking a carry-on, and they likely are bigger than what you’d take when you were checking a suitcase. So between more people carrying on than before, and bigger bags, space fills up fast. A full flight means less room in the overhead bins. Often, airlines will ask passengers to volunteer to check their bags, and allow them to board earlier than their designated zone, or even get a seat closer to the front. When people volunteer before boarding starts, it speeds up the boarding process, and makes for happier passengers. However, some flights just don’t have enough room, so after a certain number of passengers have boarded, everyone has to check their bag. 

What Are Airlines Doing to Stop This? 

To me, the answer is simple: make checking a bag free again. Free checked bags means less carry-ons (or smaller ones, at least), making more room in the overhead bins. However, those fees are a bit too tempting for airlines to stop, despite record revenue numbers and growing profits. Instead, major airlines are improving overhead bin space to accommodate larger bags and higher volume of bags. 

Remy Milburn from United Airlines explained that “As part of United Next, United is equipping planes with larger overhead bins with enough space for one carry-on per person. Last year, the A321neo joined United’s fleet – this aircraft is equipped with larger overhead bins.”  He went on to explain that United has already started to expand their fleet with larger overhead bins,  becoming “the first airline to add new, larger overhead bins to Embraer E175 aircraft.” 

While Delta isn’t expanding the overhead bins, they are putting new doors on the overhead bins on their refurbished fleet. These new doors will allow for larger bags to easily fit, therefore, making more room for everyone’s bulging bags. 

Earlier this year, American announced plans to retrofit “its A319 and A320 aircraft beginning in 2025. The retrofit will refresh the interior with power at every seat, larger overhead bins and new seats with updated trim and finish.”

Even Southwest, which allows two free checked bags, is jumping on the bandwagon and redesigning their fleet to include larger overhead bins. 

How To Avoid Gate-Checking Your Bag

While it’s great to hear airlines are trying to remedy this issue, those airplanes aren’t going to be ready for another year or two, and not every plane will have the extra room. So what can you do to ensure you won’t have to check your bag upon boarding? 

Upgrade Your Seat

An easy yet expensive way is to upgrade your seat. It’s tempting to pick a seat that doesn’t come with an extra fee, but that will guarantee priority boarding and all the overhead storage you need for your carry-on. If you really hate checking your bag, that extra $100-300 for priority boarding, first class or business class might be worth it. 

Use Rewards and Credit Cards

Many frequent flyer programs and credit cards offer priority boarding as a perk. If you join the programs or get the credit cards, you’ll be able to board earlier. Keep in mind, some rewards programs offer earlier boarding once you hit a certain status or have a designated amount of points. 

Airline Credit Cards that offer priority boarding: 

This is by no means a complete list of credit cards that will get you priority boarding, but for some of the major domestic airlines. 

United: 

• United Business Card
• United Club Infinite Card
• United Explorer Card
• United Quest Card

American: 

• Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard
• Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard
• Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard
• AAdvantage Aviator Silver World Elite Mastercard
• AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite Mastercard
• AAdvantage Aviator World Elite Business Mastercard

Delta: 

• Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles Gold Business American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express Card

Southwest: 

• Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card

JetBlue:

• JetBlue Business Card

Airline frequent flyer programs that offer priority boarding: 

Like the credit cards, this is not a complete list, just a list of some of the major domestic airlines.

Delta:

• SkyPriority
• SkyTeam Elite
• SkyTeam Elite Plus

American: 

• OneWorld Priority
• AAdvantage

United:

• MileagePlus Premier Statuses 

JetBlue:

• TrueBlue Members (when you reach 10 tiles)

Pack Small

Perhaps one of the most obvious answers is to just bring a personal sized bag with you when you fly. These bags must fit under the seat in front of you. You may think it is impossible to do, especially if you are heading anywhere for more than a night or two, but I promise you, it is possible. I once bought a super cheap ticket to the UK, and was able to pack everything I needed for four days in a tiny suitcase. I had just bought a house and the extra expense of checking a bag or bringing a larger carry-on was not in the cards. If you only have one bag and it will fit under the seat in front of you, you won’t be forced to gate-check it. Gate-checking is only for overhead bin bags. If you’re skeptical, read our guide on how to pack in just a personal-sized bag, which also recommends some of the best personal-sized bags for you to take on your next trip. 

Prepare for Your Trip

Stay informed, research the carry-on and personal size item requirements for the airline you are flying before you head to the airport. Look up what aircraft you will be flying, and research the overhead bin size. Smaller aircrafts are going to have less space (this was my problem, I was flying from Washington DC to Hartford Connecticut, and it was a small plane for a short flight). Staying informed and being prepared will help you make a better decision when it comes to what luggage you decide to bring. 

Fly An Airline with Free Checked Bags

One simple way to avoid having to gate check your bag is to fly Southwest, the only airline that has no baggage fees (unless you are checking more than two bags). An important thing to note is that if you do go with Southwest, you need to check in as early as possible, so you will get a decent boarding group and will still have plenty of room in the overhead bin for your carry-on. Even Southwest’s overhead bins can get full! 

Bottom Line

There are a few surefire ways to avoid having to gate check your carry-on bag: purchasing priority boarding, using a credit card or frequent flyer status, and only bringing a personal-sized bag. If none of these ways work for you, then you’re just going to have to take the risk that your flight won’t be full or that most of the other passengers won’t have a carry-on bag. 

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The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here.

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection. You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps, crushable hats, self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers, bug-repellent clothing, wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing, and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon, prAna, and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit.

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket, coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear.

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels, so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour, you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips.

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise. Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list.

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list, a Mexico vacation packing list, and even a ski trip packing list.

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit, which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication, as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters. Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag, backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas. Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker, duct tape, toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only.

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer, while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport, have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

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Yet, when it comes to our suitcases, we tend to forget that the wheels have rolled over a multitude of unclean surfaces—from city streets to airport floors to hotel carpets. These wheels are essentially the “shoes” of our luggage, and they’ve encountered a host of germs and contaminants along the way.

A recent study by Reckitt’s Lysol Pro Solutions reveals the alarming level of contamination that can accumulate on everyday items we use while traveling, such as backpacks. The results were staggering—backpacks picked up as many germs from a desk as they did from a public bathroom floor, with levels akin to what is typically found on a toilet seat or in a garbage bin. The backpacks tested harbored E. coli, fungal species of yeast, and intestinal bacteria, all of which can make you sick.

Now, consider the fact that your carry-on bag has likely endured an even busier journey than that of the backpacks in the study—it’s been stowed under an airplane seat, placed on the floor of a bustling airport, and shoved in the backseat of an Uber. And now, you’re bringing that very same bag into your home and placing it directly on your clean bed to unpack. This practice can unknowingly introduce a veritable host of unwanted germs and bacteria into your personal sanctuary.”

As Dr. Igor Ignatovich, Senior Microbiologist at Reckitt, aptly stated, “Like many other items we carry with us each day, these could be significant vectors of germ transmission.” The implications are clear—the suitcase that we so casually plop onto our beds can serve as a conduit for the transfer of all manner of undesirable microbes.

If the germ factor doesn’t sway you, consider the risk of bedbugs. When you travel, you could unknowingly stay at a hotel with a bedbug infestation. When you place your suitcase on the hotel bed to pack and then put it on your bed at home to unpack, you’re essentially providing a direct route for the pests to hitch a ride back to your own home and invade your mattress. 

Instead of putting your suitcase on the bed, we recommend utilizing the luggage rack to pack and unpack your suitcase at a hotel. (Ideally, you’ll place your suitcase in the bathtub at a hotel while you check the bed for bedbugs before unpacking.)  Packing and unpacking on the floor is the safest option when you’re at home. If you’re a frequent traveler, you could even invest in your own luggage rack for your house. If you must use your bed, consider placing a large trash bag or towel underneath your suitcase as a barrier. Just be sure to wash and thoroughly dry that towel on a high heat setting to eliminate any potential stowaways. 

To keep things extra sanitary, consider cleaning your suitcase after each use by swabbing the handles and wheels with an antibacterial wipe.

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Travel Pillows

Starting off on a controversial note: skip the travel pillow next time you’re packing a carry-on. Many fancy new models that claim to solve airplane neck pain are over-engineered and ineffective. Even the classic u-shaped options fall short of expectations and are a pain to keep attached to the handle of your luggage  while hurrying through the airport. Skip the hassle in favor of a travel shawl or blanket scarf that can be bundled up for neck support or used as a blanket in the chilly cabin.

Travel Iron

These mini devices are undeniably cute, but also undeniably unnecessary. Most hotels provide an iron or steamer in-room. If not, odds are you can find one by calling down to the front desk. In a pinch, hanging a wrinkly garment in a steamy bathroom while you shower will do the trick. Either way, leave this gadget behind. 

Travel Hair Dryer

Like irons, hair dryers are frequently provided in-room or by request from the front desk. However, if traveling with your own hair care devices is a must for your routine, minimize the number of items you need to pack by opting for a multitool that can dry, style, and diffuse. 

Luggage Scale

Sure, it can feel high tech to hang your suitcase from a fancy scale, but you know what works just as well? Any household scale. If your bag is small enough, just set it down on the scale to get the weight. For heavy-duty luggage, simply weigh yourself alone, then weigh yourself holding the suitcase, and find the difference. Violà—instant luggage scale.

Mini Toiletries

We all know those cute little bottles of shampoo end up right in the garbage as soon as you unpack. Even tossing them in the recycling is no guarantee that they’ll be disposed of properly.  Not only is this bad for the environment, but also bad for your wallet. Skip the pre-filled drugstore minis and go for reusable containers like these from Cadence. They’re TSA-friendly, designed to be used with haircare and skincare products, and look nice enough to live on your bathroom counter at home until the leftover product is used up.

Smart Luggage with Chargers

Lithium batteries, often used to power portable chargers, are allowed in the plane cabin. However, passengers asked to gate check their luggage will have to remove the battery, leaving them with a normal—and expensive—suitcase. You’ll get more mileage out of your investment by springing for a separate portable charger that is TSA-approved and can travel between your luggage, your purse, your daypack, or even your pocket.

Passport Covers

Most TSA checkpoints will ask you to remove passport covers before going through security. Don’t be the person holding up the line while wrestling your passport free from its case. If you still want to keep your passport protected, opt for a wallet like this one from Royce, which lets you store your passport in an easily accessible sleeve alongside your ID and credit cards.

Packing Cubes

If you’re moving apartments or organizing a suitcase for an extended trip, packing cubes are for you. For everyone else, these organizational tools only add bulk to your bag, take up valuable space, and create a frustrating mess as you unzip every pouch searching for your toothbrush. Most travelers can skip the cubes and go with old fashioned rolling and folding to maximize luggage space.

Items with Hidden Pockets

The boot with the secret pocket or the scrunchie that lets you zip up your extra cash may make you feel like a secret agent, but the novelty will wear off quickly. Who wants to take down their hair or unzip their shoes every time they need their credit card? Instead, invest in a pick-pocket proof bag. 

Cameras

Unless you’re a professional or passionate hobbyist, you don’t need to drop a thousand dollars on high-tech photography equipment. With a bit of practice, your smartphone can capture stunning shots worthy of your Instagram grid.

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Though classified as carry-ons, the suitcases on our list offer ample space to fit everything you need for long trips while still meeting the size requirements for overhead bins on most flights. Want to see if the suitcase will adhere to your favorite airline’s carry-on allowance before buying? Check out our complete guide to carry-on bag sizes for each major airline.

Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner

I’ve taken the Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner on trips of up to two weeks (no laundry required). The suitcase is simply that spacious. If I need even more packing room at the end of a trip, the Freeform expands an additional inch with a zipper in the middle.

I love that this hardshell suitcase has two compression dividers with multiple zippered pockets to keep things organized. One of the pockets is even waterproof, making it a great place to stash a wet swimsuit that doesn’t have time to dry before my flight. The ingenious features don’t stop there—the suitcase’s interior conceals a hidden cord, allowing you to connect your portable power pack and charge your phone conveniently from the exterior.

Made out of a durable and lightweight Polypro material, this suitcase weighs just 6.5 lbs, making it one of the lightest options on our list.

Dimensions: 23” x 15” x 10” 

Roam Large Carry-On

Travel with ease and style using Roam’s Large Carry-On. This lightweight yet spacious piece is designed to accommodate all your travel essentials and then some. Its clever construction meets most major U.S. airlines’ carry-on size requirements while still offering plenty of interior packing space. 

Roam’s suitcase is more of a square shape than the typical carry-on rectangle, which I find makes it easier to pack. The included compression dividers work miracles, helping you to fit in even more than you might think. 

This suitcase can be completely customized, allowing you to pick the color of every aspect, from the wheels to the zipper. 

Dimensions: 22” x 16.25” x 9”

Away The Bigger Carry-On Flex

If you tend to accumulate lots of souvenirs on every trip (or just can’t be bothered to neatly repack everything on your last day), Away’s The Bigger Carry-On Flex is the perfect carry-on suitcase for you. This large hardside suitcase is designed to offer you flexibility, with the ability to add extra space as needed. 

With its expandable capacity, The Bigger Carry-On Flex offers an additional 2.25″ of space when fully flexed, allowing you to seamlessly stow those last-minute items or souvenirs you couldn’t resist. However, be warned that expanding this suitcase will push it past the carry-on allowance of many major airlines—so you may have to check it if you fully expand it. 

Dimensions: 22.7″ x 14.7″ x 9.6″

Monos Carry-On Plus

The Carry-On Plus is the biggest carry-on suitcase in Monos’ line. This suitcase is designed to fit in the luggage sizers of most major U.S. airlines, but you might have to check it if you’re traveling on a small plane. 

Made of a highly durable polycarbonate shell, the Carry-On Plus resists dents and scratches to stay looking new after numerous journeys. Unsure if the Carry-On Plus will be the right size for you? Monos offers a 100-day trial for all of its luggage, so you can test it out and make sure you love it before committing. 

Dimensions: 23″ × 15″ × 9.5″

Briggs & Riley Essential 22″ 2-Wheel Expandable Carry-On

The Essential 22” Expandable Carry-On is stalwart luggage brand Briggs & Riley’s largest carry-on option. The suitcase features a patented system allowing you to expand the bag by simply pulling a handle, bringing it from 9” to 11.5” wide. 

The suitcase’s interior is a well-organized haven, featuring an array of pockets and dividers that offer dedicated spaces for all your travel essentials. From chargers to shoes, you’ll find the perfect spot for every item, ensuring a clutter-free and streamlined experience.

One standout feature is the innovative handle design, which is mounted on the suitcase’s exterior. This ingenious solution eliminates the traditional interior handle bump, leaving the inside surface flat and smooth. No more struggling to pack around awkward protrusions, as this design allows for wrinkle-free packing, making the most of the available space.

Dimensions: 22” x 14” x 9”

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