When it comes to flying, a small packing mistake can easily snowball into a chain of events that can easily throw off your entire trip. Consider these packing tips to help you avoid some common dilemmas while traveling.
Security confiscates an expensive item. According to the TSA website, bringing a prohibited item to the security checkpoint can open yourself up for criminal prosecution, something to keep in mind when you’re tempted to argue with the Transportation Security Officer (TSO) about the bottle of expensive perfume that is about to be confiscated. If you are sure you have plenty of time, you can go back to the check-in counter and ask them to check your carry-on. It’s important to make sure you have at least an hour to spare, since you will have to wait in line at check-in and go through security again. There is also no guarantee your bag will be able to be checked, so beware. If you drove yourself and didn’t check a bag, another option is to return to your car and leave the item there. Keep in mind again that you will need extra time for the walk to your car and back as well as waiting in security again. If someone dropped you off at the airport, a final option is for that person to come back and retrieve the item from you.
You purchased too many souvenirs. If you don’t have room in your bag or you purchased items that cannot be placed in your carry-on, you may want to consider shipping items back home. This is especially useful if your souvenirs are large or especially fragile. Stores that cater to tourists will likely provide the option of shipping your items back directly from the store. Keep in mind, however, that without shipping insurance or a tracking number, you have little control over what ultimately happens to your souvenirs. A safer option, perhaps, is to mail the items yourself using an international shipping company, enabling you to ensure the souvenirs and retrieve a tracking number. The cheapest option is to pack a duffel back or zippered tote that you can fill at the end of the trip.
You left something essential at home. Forgetting a passport, ID, or other essential item is probably every traveler’s greatest nightmare. If there’s time, turn around the second you realize you are missing something important. If you don’t have time and are already at the airport you can still save your trip, even if you have no chance of making your flight. Go to the ticket counter or call the airline, explain what happened and try to get on the next flight. Airline policies vary and you may find yourself in luck.
Luggage breaks. When this happens it is usually just a zipper, which can potentially result in a hole in your luggage. Pack duct tape to be prepared in the event that your luggage breaks and needs to be taped. If your luggage cannot be temporarily repaired with tape, ask for bags in a store to tie you over until you can reach a luggage store.
Something spills. Check to see if your hotel has a laundry service where you can send your clothes or ask the concierge if they can be sent to a professional dry cleaner. If you don’t have access to a stain remover or detergent, flush the stain with cold water and dab with white vinegar on the stain and then use dish soap diluted with water. Press a towel on the stain to get the entire product out as much as possible and then submerge in water. In the future, pack spill-able items in a toiletry kit to protect your clothing and keep liquid products and creams confined to a safe compartment.
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