Secret Packing Hacks Airlines Don't Want You To Know (SAVE BIG!)

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Carry-on packing mistakes and how to avoid them to save money on your next flight. Airlines DON'T want you to know these packing hacks to avoid baggage fees.
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Welcome to Portable Professional: your go-to resource for stress-free travel. I’m Megan, and I’m here to share my tips and tricks from 300+ flights to help you feel confident about your travels while making the most of every trip.
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00:00 Introduction
00:17 I stopped packing this
00:38 Airplane seat HACK
00:53 Stop buying travel toiletries
01:42 Do this BEFORE you pack anything!
02:35 Clothing hack for long trip
02:59 Build a travel outfit
03:47 Carry-on allowance (airline hack!)
04:01 My carry-on suitcase
05:00 Personal item allowance (airline hack #2)
05:34 Most common packing mistake (avoid!)
06:22 The most useless thing I've ever packed
06:53 THIS does NOT belong in a suitcase!
07:23 How to pack a suitcase to SAVE SPACE

[@PortableProfessional]

*Level8 Luggage (the suitcase I use and love)* : bit.ly/PP-level8 Use code: Megan15 for discount + free shipping

[@Jesse.M22]

I recently purchased 2 different pieces of Level 8 luggage. I really like them.

[@ytwatcher6020]

Pass, it weighs half the allowed limit, what else am I going to put in it?

[@luvurab]

Unfortunately it is .8” wider than Major Canadian airlines allow.

[@lynnleipold2617]

Way too heavy

[@seashell4327]

Even if it isn't, how will we use a pass through band on it for carrying our personal item on the top of it?

[@johnmcgaw2753]

I go one step further with my clothing selections: monochrome. Black trousers, grey trousers, black tees, grey tees, black merino jumpers, black shoes, black cap, grey bucket hat, black stuffable down jacket, grey rain jacket, black neck gaiter, black gloves, even black/grey underwear. Everything matches and clashing is totally impossible. The only real exception is that my hiking boots are brown since I haven't found any black ones that fit so well and dark mottled grey hiking socks for the same reason. I'm not looking to be noticed, am not looking to impress anyone. Anyway, at my age I don't need flashy to be noticed -- people are semi-amazed that I'm still getting around under my own power. 😉

[@PortableProfessional]

That is a great packing list, John! Happy travels!

[@roxanneonthemove4187]

You mentioned that you can always buy something you missed packing. That is not always the case. My husband is a big and tall size 2XLT it is hard to buy clothes even going to shopping malls in the USA, and I am short but a plus size, most place do not have clothes in our size. I spent months searching for rain/ waterproof pants to go to Norway in January, knowing I would have layers underneath. You would think with so many clothes coming from China that finding a shirt for my husband would not be a problem finding one there. It is best to do some research before you go as to what to expect weather wise or even for your activities. Sometimes investing in good quality pieces of clothing such merino wool can get you through your trip with minimal washings. I always plan to take everything I think I need, rather than wasting my vacation time searching for something. We do a lot of cruises, I would rather spend time in ports seeing something worthwhile rather than shopping for something I may not find.

[@marthadueck6461]

I’m Canadian and a plus size and found out the same thing. Plus I agree with you. Why waste precious time and money going and looking for item I have at home. My husband is very firm on that. We are not here to shop.

[@rickgonzalez1218]

Deb here. I agree. They tell you that you can buy whatever you need. I don't think so if you are plus size

[@mikerilling6515]

I’m 6’8” and I’m right there with you There’s no way I can go into any store and find ANYTHING off the rack

[@tonyadevonish9734]

I invested in a vest that had pockets for everything I needed. The hood has an attached eye mask.The additions were inflatable neck pillow, foot rest and blanket..Its truly been a great investment and I've used it on ALL my airplane trips...It was VERY handy while traveling on Frontier.

[@MiaHessMusic]

Where did you get that vest??

[@glendabowling4840]

1249

[@kluka158]

Scottevest

[@tonyadevonish9734]

@@MiaHessMusic The company is called BauBax..Last I checked they were selling an updated jacket, pants and shoes.

[@gordond8]

A vest is the best hack, I have a $14.99 one from amazon that I added a Velcro pocket, so it holds about what a Scottie vest holds. Kind of ugly but the only time someone sees it is when I take it off for the TSA scanner.

[@dkwillrn]

If you haven’t tried Turkish towels(the kind with loops) . They are light and dry almost as fast as the travel towel and you could find one large enough for a blanket. Warning- they don’t all have loops(like terry cloth). Many are smooth and don’t absorb enough for a shower. So this may be an option if you wish to take one. One other thing that I sometimes do, is lay the towel opened up fully, and patch your suitcase and fold the ends over the clothing this does not make it bulky. Happy travels!

[@kariforgie457]

Delta has been cracking down on international flights to South America. That belt bag or cross body counts towards a personal item. Make sure it can be shoved into your backpack before you get in the boarding line!

[@PortableProfessional]

Good advice, Kari! Thanks for watching!

[@THEEnfantTerrible]

I noticed this recently too. Atlanta to Lima this past October they were really scrutinizing people and forcing them to get everything into 2 bags before boarding. AND coming home they weren’t allowing big bottles of liquid even though they were purchased after security.

[@caveatemptor93]

I used my belt bag as a packing cube inside my carryon. That let me have more space on my personal item bag. My personal item bag was a small hiking day pack. Removing the attached raincover and putting that into the carryon bought me valuable inches.

[@696969bold]

I get cold easily and have some weight on my body. I always put my waist pack UNDER my hoodie or sling it to the side UNDER my jacket. There have been good graces so far.

[@lyndamartin1109]

My tip is...if you fly often to visit friends or family, leave a few outfits and pairs of shoes, purses and toiletries etc at their home then you need only a personal bag for the flight. I live in Australia but visit family in the USA twice a year and do this. It's so much easier, no heavy luggage to check in and collect at the carousel, this makes customs so much easier to get through.

[@PortableProfessional]

Great tip, Lynda!

[@elanthys]

Yes 100%! I've started doing that when I visit my folks back home and it's real peace of mind knowing you can straight up forget about toiletries and other things.

[@sherryware]

Yes, I've been doing that for years now. I have a plastic tub of items in my daughter's attic for my once or twice a year visits. A personal bag under the seat is all I need for the 2-3 hour flight.

[@0AmyK0]

Yes! I have a pair of shoes I leave at my parent's house, and I can do laundry there, so I can fly with an underseat bag.

[@littlegoobie]

This is me also. I live in 2 places and i actually don't need anything when going between them. The problem is, i tried flying with next to nothing a few times and was pulled aside by security for secondary screening interviews twice. It looks suspicious with a return flight that's months ahead (or no return) and you have nothing but the clothes on your back and a shopping bag with a magazine in it. Airport security also has access to your airline check-in info so they know if you checked any bags, they also have photographs of the bags you checked so you can't lie. Anyways, i carry the bare minimum to look like i'm a legit traveller if that's where i'm going.

[@weilyan]

Canadian here...ever since moving to Asia, I find that size is not a concern but it has always been weight. My 20L backpack can be loaded out to be 13 kg, so i always struggle to keep the weight down...not the size.

[@catwomanva]

Years ago, we went to San Antonio for my brother's Air Force Boot Camp graduation in October or November. While it's typically pretty warm, we planned ahead and brought at least one sweater and a jacket with us. It was well worth it as the day of the graduation it was COLD! There were so many other families there in sun dresses and short sleeves freezing their butts off, some ladies were wearing Air Force sweatshirts they just purchased over their thin dresses. Thankfully, it warmed up the next day and the rest of the trip was much warmer. We were so glad we planned ahead.

[@magietagie]

I am a chronic over packer… your tips are great but I think I need a support group! 😉

[@well-blazeredman6187]

You need a packing-list.

[@PortableProfessional]

Haha! You got this!

[@magietagie]

@@well-blazeredman6187 I make a packing list every time! And I always include too many things on it! 😉

[@uncle-pete]

I live in Sydney and my daily train to the office passes the Airport Station. So many use trunk sized bags that you could empty an entire wardrobe into. For domestic.

[@kyls73]

​@@uncle-peteI'll be flying domestic to Sydney and then overseas for two weeks. Will need that big suitcase.

[@kswanson2440]

I travel with a backpack only. Now I also bring a cinch stop trash bag. Before sliding my pack under the seat, it goes in the bag. Why? A man puked on me and my pack mid-flight. I was left with nothing to change into. Even if it hadn't gotten on my stuff, it made me think twice about putting anything directly on the plane floor. Put that underseat item in a bag.

[@crystalgale15]

thank you for mentioning this. I will definitely put a plastic bag around our carryone back packs from now on

[@mymai5859]

Great tip

[@lynnebattaglia-triggs1042]

Trash bag is a good idea. Backpacks? I can’t count how many times I have been whacked by someone’s backpack when they whirl around.

[@kenshinhimura3003]

Good idea.

[@lindag5076]

I tried a backpack, a Copaxan? Well every time I turned around I was whacking someone…lol I came home and gave it to my granddaughter… I find they are more awkward than a personal crossbody bag.

[@gordond8]

Backpack is the only way to go. Wheels, Handles and hard sided just take space. Budget airlines, like Spirit, have typical personal items size restrictions at 18x14x8, many airlines don't specify personnel item size but the agent may inspect questionable personal items. Packing cubes are fine for organization, but don't expect them save any space.

[@thedavidguy01]

I have a complete list of things to pack that I have honed over the years so there’s no need to think, plan or worry about what I will take. Obviously there are some items for cold weather and some for warm weather but, overall, packing from the list is simple and quick. As you suggested, I pack for 1 week no matter how long the trip. Interestingly, the list has gotten much shorter over the years, but I think I have pared it down as much as I can. Both my wife and I have traveled carry on only since 1999.

[@PortableProfessional]

That's great, Dave! Happy travels to you and your wife!

[@littlegoobie]

i'm like that too. I'm so short-listed that my rollers stay out on the floor with some things permanently in them. I consider them put away by dropping the handle. When it's to go, i raise the handle. hahah. I have a short list of 5 essential, MUST haves to fly, and everything else has become optional or "oh well" if i forgot it. I used to fly with an checked bag, then i went to just a 23" carry-on 20 yrs ago which is a good size but you can run into problems with regional planes and their tiny overheads. I whittled it down a few inches every few years and ended up at my current 17" roller which is just enough to get most extras. I've even flown with just a Filson "twill tote" which is a glorified man purse. It actually worked out okay, it all depends on what you can and can't do without.

[@mottawa1]

I keep master packing lists on my laptop by season (winter, summer, etc.) or by type of vacation (city, hiking, beach, etc.).

[@LGnLA]

💯💯💯💯

[@SD45-ET44AC]

A positive attitude will take you far. The worst weather experienced on vacation was Hurricane Sandy, but wherever I go with my wife is wonderful as I love spending time with my wife, yes even during a hurricane. Vacations that are miserable include breaking your femur, needing emergency surgery or having a heart attack.

[@Stormbrise]

We went to Paris in August, and it is normally good weather. However, this week that year was wet. However being from the Pacific Northwest and my husband from Scandinavia, we did make the most of it despite the rain. Long walks in the rain, a couple of cheap rain ponchos, and we still have fond memories of the trip.

[@coloraturaElise]

When I go overseas for longer trips, I pick 4 colors that work well together, so everything is mix and match. Last time it was black, white, hot pink, and sapphire blue. I had tops, a jacket, pants, capris, shorts, skirts, a hat, purse, pashmina, and 2 pairs of shoes and was able to have over 2 weeks of outfits without repeating. That was in addition to my concert gown (fuscia) and shoes (it was an opera-singing trip). On the first 2 pages of my travel journal, I made a list of what I was going to wear each day while I was sitting in the airport, and even had some combinations left over that I never used.

[@letterbox203]

I like packing 1 week mix/match clothes for two weeks of vacation time. Anything else you can get locally. As for the weather, i always pick sunny destinations and have not had bad luck, just a day or two of heavy rains.

[@leighnisbett9691]

Toiletry items might not be suitable if you have sensitive skin or are allergic to certain chemicals within the hotels bathroom supplies and you need to consider taking your own bathroom supplies .

[@Brody2477]

I also pack my favourite pillowcase and buy a decent pillow before I start my trip. I hate some of the pillows at AirBNBs and hotels. I have also recently purchased a large neutral scarf that will also work as a travel blanket for the plane.

[@jolimiller1268]

Always great advice! Most great common sense, but seldom realized. Thank you Megan!

[@PortableProfessional]

You're so welcome! Happy travels!

[@ddraiss]

I'm a photographer as a side hustle. Last weekend I flew to Florida for a weekend gig. I flew what I call "uhaul airlines" in this case Frontier, but Spirit, Allegiant and Breeze fall into the same category. I took only my camera backpack, which is "Personal Item" Size In in was: Camera gear: Two full size DSLR camera, two lenses (long telephoto, and medium telephoto) two card readers, 4 camera batteries, dual battery charger, loupe (to see screen in bright sunlight) BlackRapid camera strap, 7 memory cards (2 in each camera, plus 3 extra), battery bank, usb charging brick, and cords Clothes in Compression packing cube: 2 pair shorts, two pair socks, 2 pair boxer briefs, work out style shorts to sleep in, razor, toothbrush On top of my camera gear was two t-shirts, and a sun hat. I wore Jeans, Long Sleeve shirt, shoes, wool socks, mid weight jacket. When I arrived, I stopped at a Walmart and bought a $9 quad chair for the photo gig, and a travel size deodorant. Frontier wanted about $100 round trip for a carry on or checked bag. I paid ZERO extra. $80 round trip flight Cleveland Ohio to Tampa FL.

[@PortableProfessional]

Wow! You really planned that well! Hope the photo gig was a success!

[@westzed23]

I'm a photographer and haven't flown for awhile. Thanks for all these great tips.💜

[@tedtalksrock]

This is why women should have a travel allotment …men can get away with packing lightly without any toiletries or make up.

[@patriciachirgwin3238]

Pre-accurate weather reports, I travelled to the West Coast to go on a cruise to Alaska. Thankfully, I had packed some items for a three day stay in Vancouver before the cruise. I always thought that Alaska was pretty cold compared to the rest of North America, but found out to my cost that I was wrong! I packed heavy sweaters and a coat, only to find that instead of it being cool and wet in August, it was 80°F and sunny the whole week I was there! As you can imagine, a lot of the clothes I brought were not appropriate, and I had to re-wear a lot of the items I had brought for my time in Vancouver! I have always paid attention to the weather report, since that fiasco! Live and learn! Thanks for the tips!

[@alisiawilliams7390]

I always, always check the weather before I pack. It helps to leave the pieces behind you do not need.

[@auzzygirl8175]

As a plus size lady it's not so easy to find clothing in my size so packing is extra challenging knowing that l most likely won't easily find clothing in my size at my destination.

[@gordflint]

I think about the places and restaurants I am likely to visit, and the weather and make sure clothes I take mix and match as you mention. Even though vacay I leave items with team logos or writing at home as they reduce clothing versatility. On a recent 3 week Japan trip I took 1 weeks worth of clothing and at night after long days tracked down local laundry mats. Adventure in itself lol

[@MK-cc5ve]

Congratulations on tipping over 100,000! You do great work, I’m always excited when I see there is a new video from you. Yippee!🇨🇦

[@alanbirkner1958]

Hi! We've gone on 2 week cruises with just an overnight bag each. If you bring a pair of gloves and a hat, you can come back to O'Hare in February. We're in our 70's. We each carry a small tote bag for meds. We've seen people with 2 huge suitcases who have to take cabs and have help. My husband uses a cane and he can still manage his own stuff. Tina, Al's wife

[@PortableProfessional]

You guys sound amazing! Enjoy your travels!

[@shinnam]

Microfiber towels shed those fibers into the water supplies. Clothes: if you have packed the wrong kind of clothing: buy second hand local. Might get a really cool memento from your trip. Works well if you are changing multiple climates. Also the local second hand may have great deals for items needed for the climate. For example if you have relatively small feet, there are great second hand boots in Sweden, since teenagers outgrow boots rhat are hardly worn.

[@detangojet]

Simply adorable!!

[@renferal5290]

Earlier this year, when I was in Scotland, it was so cold that I spent a small fortune on a pure wool jacket. It was really nice and high quality, but I would have been just as happy if I could have found a hoodie. When I go to the UK again next year, I'm bringing a jumper even though it will be July

[@PortableProfessional]

Good idea! I know I have experienced some cool July weather here in Canada so I would plan for the same in Scotland!

[@annsimpson8786]

We do sell hoodies all over Scotland you know!!🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@renferal5290]

@@annsimpson8786 I know LOL I was a fool!!

[@mikebro1]

I removed the foam from my neck pillow and stuffed my puffy jacket inside. It worked perfectly for a jacket in Mexico City, and an awesome pillow for Puerto Escondido! I'll always carry that neck pillow on a flight.

[@PortableProfessional]

Great idea, Mike! Thanks for sharing!

[@valeriebudhwa6834]

Thank you beautiful young lady for educating us when traveling and what’s not to do . Your traveling tips are so helpful and appreciated. God bless you. Look forward for more of your videos.

[@MegaLokopo]

If you don't need it while traveling, buy it when you get there, if you can't buy it when you get there, ship it there before hand. Traveling with a backpack that is less than 5 pounds when fully "packed" is an amazing experience.

[@cosmicadventurer1999]

Always appreciate your tips!

[@PortableProfessional]

Glad to hear it!

[@marcielston3019]

Airlines target hard-shelled wheel bags for - as you say - forced checking. The last couple of times we flew the last 30ish people had to check their carry-on bags. Not gate check, but checked through destination. People who buy cheap tickets are catching on, and using much stealthier carry-on sized backpacks. Sometimes they're HUGE but since they're smooshable and not rolling around on the floor, the gate agents seem to let them pass while targeting the next hard-sided roll aboard.

[@thunderwolfgang3018]

Thank you so much for the tips.

[@freedomthroughspirit]

I prefer small compression bags over packing cubes, but both are good. My favorite carry-on only travel tips are: Bring a carry-on that's soft and 100% guaranteed to fit under the seat so I never have to worry about the overhead bin space (my purse is my personal item and it fits next to the carry-on under the seat). Before boarding the plane, wear my long-sleeved shirts and jackets (some tied around my waist) so I have it for cold flights and for backrests (and bag fits easier under seat). Inflatable pillow (small) is great for flight and for hotel rooms when I don't like their pillows. Downsize every toiletry to tiny using little ziplocked plastic baggies for most things (and for my supplements). Ask TSA to do a hand check for my food items (in ziplock bags all within one bigger sack) going through security (which they do no problem) to avoid my food getting irradiated for no good reason. Wool shirts are fabulous for repeated wears (we like WoolX, Woolly, etc. brands). Keep colors simple to mix and match and layer. I never worry about "outfits" just things that mix and match fine together, sporty casual, with some jewelry and light scarves so it has a pop of color. We did a month in Europe like this with no issues, twice, it's VERY liberating to feel free traveling like this. Overpackers -- embrace the freedom of less stuff to pack, worry about, keep track of, etc. It's wonderful.

[@PortableProfessional]

I like your packing style, especially the less stuff, less worry. You have it down to a science. Happy travels!

[@freedomthroughspirit]

@PortableProfessional Thank you! Happy travels for you, too. 💜

[@danabanana3453]

Traveled to Miami in late July, which is monsoon season. Embrace wearing swimwear underneath your clothes or buy/pack rain gear on arrival.

[@lorrainebeightler8265]

Always great advice.

[@PortableProfessional]

Glad you think so! Thanks for watching, Lorraine!

[@megumim6795]

"remember the other places have stores, too" That's true. And if your destination is the same country or the place you often visit/know well, it's definitely good advice. However, are you sure, that you can go shopping on the arrival day? Do you check their opening hours and locations beforehand? (and you're super sure that there is no flight delay) Do you know the varieties and price range of those items? Heck, do you know the names of those items in their languages? Not everyone can speak English, let alone your mother tongue. So... my advice is to bring things which you think you might need if you don't know much about your destination.

[@Frazpas]

First time in USA during June, we had lots of warm weather clothes. Travelling from Las Vegas to San Francisco was a shock as in the morning the sea mist made it cold. We had to buy some warmer clothes.

[@timjones1479]

Your videos make me feel like I’m a great traveler!😂😂❤

[@nedywest71]

Thank you!

[@sandiwilliamson2764]

❤ love your info

[@marthadueck6461]

We went to Cuba just before Covid and we checked the weather but an unfortunate snow storm hit the east coast and we felt the effects from that so instead of hot and sunny we had cool weather. Couldn’t even go swimming. ☹️ Thankful has Canadian we had sweaters and lightweight jackets along. Plus the pants we wore and extra t shirts I alway pack because I don’t trust the weather man😊. You can’t just go shopping for clothes there. And buying plus size forget that. It’s also good to pack a light weight skirt in place of one pair of pants and a “nicer” T-shirt for those unexpected occasions when you need to dress up. Or want to.

[@yourfavoritefrog]

I travel long hauls (like half the globe each time) , with transfers and I have stopped using hard-case suitcases. Sure they look safer for your belongings, but they actually break quite easily. Good quality soft luggage can stand a lot !

[@maryquitecontrary1631]

I had the opposite experience. I packed for frigid temperatures in Sweden and it turned out to be fairly mild, in my opinion. I ended up buying lighter weight clothing so I wasn’t constantly sweating.

[@belindamohar]

I have to disagree with the packing cubes, for me i can pack better using the roll, fold method depending on my trip and bag I'm using. I am currently going on a 6 day trip in the winter and only bring a backpack and small messenger bag . I have packing cubes and tried many times using them , did not work for me. now they take up space in my drawer.

[@zeitgeist888]

I agree. I have used packing and compression cubes before and find that they can be nice for staying organized or if you have to go through a suitcase in the airport but never fit the luggage exactly so some items need to be left out of packing cubes to utilize all the space. They also take up space and weight and once dirty clothes come into the picture things get less organized and compact. Add it handles on most suitcases that are narrower and you can lose a lot of space in and around the handles with a packing cube. If they work for you great but I prefer folding and rolling items.

[@belindamohar]

exactly that's why i do not like them@@zeitgeist888

[@THEEnfantTerrible]

I love my sea to summit airlite travel towel. It dries better than nothing when catching a swim or a soak on a day trip away from provided towels and I’d never carry a big bulky store bought towel with me

[@StephanieSoltero-dt2wl]

For the towel advice; not all Airbnb or places to stay provide you with a towel to take to a hot springs, beach or other outdoor water activities. Even if you buy a regular towel when you arrive to your destination, laundry is not always provided. With a microfiber bath/beach towel, you can easily wash them in a bathroom sink, and they quickly dry overnight. The microfiber bath/beach towels we bought for our trips to Japan and then Iceland were lifesavers.

[@kathygann7632]

Allegiant airlines carryon costs $46 so a great personal item saves lots of money. Some flights only cost about $46 so it doubles the cost of the trip. Take fewer clothes and you can take a couple of free trips each year.

[@musicdaydreams2506]

I always bring a travel blanket and always need it. I get so cold on planes that a hoodie isn’t enough. It usually fits nicely in the front outside pocket of my carry on.

[@alexandradamico4498]

I still love my Turkish towel! I use it as an airplane blanket, a shall, a towel, a picnic blanket, and more!

[@PortableProfessional]

It's great when you can get so much use out of one item!

[@Gracie-qg5lm]

Years ago I went to Chicago in late fall. I didn’t check the weather before I packed. The day started warm and sunny. However, by the afternoon it started to snow and I wasn’t prepared for that. I ended up buying a sweater, gloves and a warm hat which could have been easily packed if I had checked the weather.

[@thefozzybear]

Air Canada, Westjet, and Flair Airlines' new carryon dimensions are 21.5 x 15 x 9 inches. The Holiday group which makes most of the luggage for Canada now has 21.5 inch carryons.

[@Elaines-travels]

I check luggage and for my carry on use a bag that fits under the seat. I have a bad back and hauling around a heavy bag that I have to lift over my head to put into the overhead bins is just asking for trouble, I put an airtag into my checked luggage in case of problems

[@billroettgen7099]

Megan, I love your stuff, including this one, but the title is not worthy of you or us - buying a towel or checking the weather are hardly secret hacks the airlines don't want you to know.

[@RDens4d]

Yep, a trip to Disney World in late January. Paid three times for clothes, including a coat, just ti stay warm 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@iluvmooz]

Hello! I have traveled to various countries and one thing I found that is cumbersome, is the size regulation of carry-on luggage varying between airlines. I want to be able to maximize the space of my carry-ons so I buy the biggest size allowable within the US (I live in the US) but outside of the country, many airlines have smaller bags regulations which sucks to have to purchase a separate bag for international travel. Do you have any tips in regards to this situation? I have discovered it is not a “one size fits all”. Also, some international airlines have weight restrictions on carry-ons as well. I would love to hear your advice. Thank you.

[@lesleymcneill1403]

If you can manage a smaller bag on international trips why not use that bag for local trips. You wouldn’t need more luggage for a local trip.

[@EsmereldaPea]

I just ran into this. Planning my first international trip in 20 years. Cannot find a carryon that's under 9" in depth. Icelandair says max of 7.8" so I called them. She said as long as the total dimensions don't exceed, I was good. But I do NOT trust what she said. I am taking the carryon I bought to the airport before using it so they can tell me to my face that it's good (or have my suspicions confirmed).

[@brentsummers7377]

Great advice! And keep watching the 10 day weather forecasts for your destination. It might make the difference between taking a warm puffer coat or just a rain jacket plus light jersey. And whether to take a checked bag or just a carry on. If you have a long wait at an airport before you can check in at a hotel what is going to more annoying, a carry on bag with wheels or a fairly heavy duffel bag? Neither is ideal😂

[@kryssygee4814]

❤Love all your videos💚With most of Canada's carry on rules (22lbs) level 8 is just wayyyyyy too heavy!!!! That's a lot of clothing left at home on the bed. 😱

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks, Kryssy! I agree that the lighter the bag the more you can bring. Happy travels!

[@badarock177]

Thhank you for going straight to the point and not telling the history of human life on Earth before you started ❤

[@PortableProfessional]

You're welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@michaelmcmanus5196]

The multi-pocket vest trick (hack) is such an overlooked technique. TSA only cares if what you have is in violation of their prohibited items list. Having a bag that fits under seat in front of ya is a huge plus. Put dragbag in the overhead and keep your “pack” with ya. See what airline crews use for a dragbag and use same. Careful on the larger 26” crew bag due to size.

[@briannabenson4173]

Yes other places have stores but if it’s something that has to be ordered & takes weeks to ship & yes likely you won’t need it but if certain emergencies did happen on your trip it could literally be life saving then IMHO, it’s likely worth bringing it.

[@gayathriparthasarathy255]

Magie, I'm a chronic overpacker too. W son s wedding, and wedding things to pack. I'm dreading packing this time. Ugh. Gayathri

[@diann5158]

That suitcase is 1.5 inches over with most US airline state is max. Need to do your research. Love level 8 and wish they made this bag to 45 inch standard.

[@heatherframpton9693]

Thanks for these ideas for use for our future flights! 😁✈️🧳❤️

[@JennNofficial]

still watching til my trip to Denver in two days love all these tips

[@PortableProfessional]

So glad you find the videos helpful! Have a great trip, Jennifer!

[@JennNofficial]

@@PortableProfessional aww thanks !!! 😊

[@ZeldaJeanE]

Great idea, I often flip my backpack around so th straps are not towards the floor

[@kimlindsey5178]

My husband & I went to Disney World for my 50th. I had been keeping my eye out for the weather in Florida. The day before we got there, the temp was 80-90 F degrees . We got there and a cold front came in with record lows . We packed for warm weather and got a week of high temps of low 50’s and would go down to high 30’s F.

[@PortableProfessional]

Oh wow! Hope you had a wonderful time regardless! Great excuse to treat yourself to some birthday shopping!

[@ladytrader688]

A friend of mine went through my bug out bag that I intended to take car camping. I was shocked how many “just in case” items were expired! 🤣

[@Cdnl4927]

I love that comment about embracing being an “outfit repeater”. 😂 As soon as I see travel videos with the person packing outfits for each day with different clothes, I keep movin’ because it’s a waste of my time. Nobody cares if you wear the same item a couple of times, as long as it’s clean and not smelly. If you have access to laundry, then there’s really no need in bringing so much clothes. Part of the fun is buying stuff at your destination, too. 😊

[@user-gc4zy2sr2g]

I bought some of the thin detergent sheets for our two-week trip to Italy. Only packed a backpack. I took only white tops which I washed in the sink at places we stayed for more than one night. It worked out perfectly and I didn’t even wear everything that I took.

[@Cdnl4927]

@@user-gc4zy2sr2g that’s cool. One backpack is kinda sorta my goal but I also get a nagging feeling if i don’t take advantage of personal item allowance, since it doesn’t cost extra but we are definitely paying for it regardless.

[@olivialancaster3880]

We went to the Grand Canyon at the end of May. Arizona is hot and dry right? Packed 2 suitcase’s of summer clothes 🤣😂 Woke up to snow the first night and it was cold the entire two weeks, yep did a lot of practical (multi-use) shopping fast!!

[@PortableProfessional]

Oh wow! Not what I would have expected either! Hope you found some good shopping deals.

[@gvarph7212]

The one *just in case* item I always have with me while traveling is an first aid kit. Other *just in case* items are usually a nice to have that that you can just buy at the destination after you realize you need them, but I you are in a situation where you need a med-kit, you usually really need a med-kit NOW

[@CIDteenie]

Thanks!

[@PortableProfessional]

You are SO welcome. Great to have you on the channel and seeing your Super Thanks made my day. Happy Travels! 😍😊🌎

[@nanszoo3092]

I went to New York in July when I was about 18 and was told it would be hot and sticky. Being a South Florida girl, I had plenty of warm-weather clothes and sandals to pack... Unfortunately, it rained all week, making the temperature uncomfortably cool for my warm weather constitution and I was stuck with no sweaters or long-sleeved shirts, plenty of shorts, but only one pair of long pants.

[@lisaspikes4291]

I had a windbreaker type jacket that was a little more substantial than a regular windbreaker, that I used to always carry with me. It came in handy so many times, and it folded up into the size of a book. Plus, it had a hood with laces that I could tie to my bag so I always had it! I got it in Ireland, so it was also a souvenir! Unfortunately, iv lost it somewhere. I keep an eye out for something similar, but so far, no luck. ☹️

[@PortableProfessional]

That sounds like the perfect travel jacket! Hope you find the perfect replacement!

[@isabelleg9118]

Check Mountain Hardwear brand they have quite a few coats of that type

[@littlegoobie]

ah. This just occured to me that the blankets were not out on the seats on my last flights. 5 segments and none of them had them out. winter season and to a very winter destination. I don't use them anyways, but i wonder when they stopped. definitely a recent change.

[@newgabe09]

This is cuddly fun if you're flying in a country (US seems to be the only one) that doesn't have a WEIGHT limit on carry on bags.

[@azeembakhsh8910]

Great informative video but sorry bit long I get bored with long videos. Stay blessed

[@lesleymcneill1403]

I recently travelled interstate in Australia on a budget airline. 7 kg (15 lbs) limit for carryon plus 1 TOGETHER. I was travelling for 5 nights to a family funeral, just made the weight limit. On the return flight our bags were weighed.

[@ricardo68]

Speaking of weather; I’ve been to the far east twice in my life, once to Hong Kong and once to Taipei, both times for a week and both times I never saw the sun while I was there. So I can say that I’ve never seen the sun in Asia.

[@PortableProfessional]

Well that's unfortunate!

[@lynda.grace.14]

My savior is business-casual black with accents of gray. Everything matches and always looks chic. Yoga wear doubles as pajamas and also works as layers if required. Toiletries in mini-containers are wonderful space-savers. Medications you know work for you are a wise bit of insurance, but can be removed from boxy packaging and put in zip log bags with only the face of the package or pharmacy-printed label on the bag. So flat. Carrying those on your person in a pocket is even better. Easier than trying to get the right meds in a language you don't speak or understand.

[@magicunicorn6535]

The first time I traveled to Norway, I was expecting cold, rainy weather. I brought no shorts, and packed lots of wool sweaters. When I got to Oslo, they were having an unusual heat wave, and it was 94 degrees!

[@canyonoverlook9937]

Packing tip-check a bag.

[@lizzaangelis3308]

Had both on the same day. I was just hoping the storm would be weaker than it looked on radar

[@Lisa-sr9xn]

I ALWAYS do just-in-case-packing ... 😅 Even my handbag is full of just in case items. I'm a mum of two, so just-in-case-cases do happen quite regularly, though. 🤣🤣🤣

[@iancvisuals707]

A key thing to note is that if you are country or plane hopping, you need to make sure your carryon complies with the most strict section of your journey or be prepared to pay. I took a trip a couple years back and decided to spend a night/day in Paris before flying over to London because I scored a cheap $35 ticket. Unfortunately since it was a separate flight, even though part of my itinerary, I got nailed with 90 Euros in check bag fees because my carryon didn’t comply with the short haul airline between Paris and London. That was almost 3x the ticket cost just for the bag fees.

[@PortableProfessional]

That is good advice! Thanks for sharing!

[@bosvigos9165]

Black and white. It makes coordinating very simple, a couple of colourful, super lightweight or silk shawls. These can be adapted for beach, and any outings that might require you to cover up. Wear any costume jewellery you want to take. I pared everything down after too many years of too much!

[@PortableProfessional]

I love the multipurpose shawl! Happy travels!

[@reneeburich9497]

We usually travel to warm/hot weather destinations, so even if we’re gone for only 5 days, that’s 10 outfits I need; I tend to sweat on my back, so there goes one top or one dress after only one wear. I try to find a washer and dryer after a few days because I run out of tops!

[@user-gc4zy2sr2g]

One trick I’ve used for hot destinations is when you shower for dinner, put on clean top that I’ll wear the next day. It’s already cooler in the evening so it doesn’t get all sweaty. That way it’s not twice the amount of clothes.

[@reneeburich9497]

@@user-gc4zy2sr2g I usually, though, soak my back before bedtime because of chronic pain, but good idea.

[@Gatorfanforlife]

Love your beautiful smile❤❤❤❤❤

[@libbylandscape3560]

I use to be an over packer but found the secret of less, at least for me, is to notice what I DON’T use/Do use, and the next trip pack only the things that I DID use. It didn’t take many trips to whittle down my packing list to the basics…..I will toss in a few extra pair of undies & bras just in case tho. I use a soft carryon (actually a rectangular backpack) that can have the depth extended if needed, but still fits under the seat. This holds all my clothes leaving plenty of room for my iPad sling backpack, my tote/purse, meds in a baggie, extra shoes, and wooly ruana which does double duty as a blanket. It’s a tight fit sometimes but will still fit under the seat….and bonus points for acting as a footrest when my legs start aching. I find that spraying my clothes with 70% isopropyl alcohol will keep them fairly clean if a laundromat isn’t available, along with packing a few of the fuzzy/flocked hangers and a dry sprayer from a spray bottle. Once at my destination I just need to stop at a drugstore or grocery to pick up a 32 oz bottle of 70% isopropyl alcohol and I’m all set….also I spray my toothbrush after brushing w/isopropyl alcohol to keep it clean, so this helps w/that.

[@Frazpas]

One notable exception to getting stuff at your destination is Cuba. There is very little to buy for travel there.

[@PortableProfessional]

Good point! Not all destinations may be convenient for shopping!

[@zombielovesquad8751]

I'm going on a cruise from Texas to Spain and then I'm flying to Edinburgh. I have to pack for the 90s in the Caribbean to the 40s in Scotland all in one case. Ack!!!

[@PortableProfessional]

Not simple but possible! Think layers! Sounds like an amazing trip!

[@GOJ739]

I prefer Lojel because I HATE clamshell openings on Hardsided luggage. It takes up so much space.

[@K2dawilla]

Where do you get all these in between videos of pretty much every possible scenario you are explaining?

[@TravelWorld429]

This packing tip is not for everyone… Since baggage fees on Spirit are high, a friend of mine, who is super cheap, showed me his method. At the bottom of an old windbreaker, he opened up the lining and stuffs clothes into the lining and closes it up with safety pins. Never had an issue with the airline. Not my style, but want to throw it out there.

[@chicanica64]

Very good trick! Thanks.

[@iluvmooz]

You are my favorite KZbinr when it comes to information on packing and travel tips!

[@PortableProfessional]

Yay! Thank you!

[@c.grande6552]

I don’t think a handle like the level 8 carry on would fit my trolley sleeve.

[@BonnieWong-oh4nv]

*yutulux* The canvas tote actually reminds me of the Hermes Garden Party too. Thanks for making this video to suggest more budget friendly alternatives. love it!