13 Things to Ditch Before Boarding a Plane
You are fumbling at the airport security checkpoint, trying to repack some of the items you carried, filling up your bag. Does this sound familiar? It’s a typical scenario for frequent flyers. Packing for air travel isn’t as straightforward as you’d think, and some items, overlooked frequently, may lead to unnecessary delays, fees, or negative ecological impact.
When you know what to leave behind, your travel experience will be smoother, more economical, and eco-friendly. Below is a well-researched checklist with 13 things you should always leave behind when packing for your next flight.
Loose Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries can be a fire hazard when improperly transported. Due to short circuit risks, loose batteries must be packed in carry-ons, not checked bags, and stored in a protective case. Make sure to double-check your battery storage.
Oversized Liquid Containers
We all know, but we often forget in a hurry. Liquids must be 3.4 ounces or smaller (100ml) and fit in a single quart-sized bag.
Carrying oversized bottles can result in confiscation and slowdown at security checkpoints. Instead, choose travel-sized versions of your favorite products or reusable containers.
Prohibited Food Items
Sandwiches or small snacks often pass through security, but soft cheeses, jams, or spreads over 3.4 ounces will be flagged.
Meanwhile, even if you are traveling internationally, fresh produce or homemade food might be confiscated by Customs. Pack food according to TSA guidelines and research your destination’s food regulations.
Disposable Water Bottles
You won’t get through security with a full water bottle since it violates the TSA’s liquid regulations. Disposable bottles are among the 40 million tons of plastic waste we create annually.
Instead, try a collapsible, reusable bottle. You can now fill up for free post-security at many airports with hydration stations.
Unnecessary Gadgets
Is a two-hour flight a requirement for both a laptop and a tablet? Carrying too much electronics adds to your carry-on weight and increases the hassle of removing them at security. Pack only the gadgets you’ll use, and pre-download your entertainment with the device you will stick to.
Full-Size or Unapproved Power Banks
An additional restriction prohibits portable power banks greater than 100 Wh or those lacking manufacturer labeling from being carried on board.
If the details aren’t visible, airport security may confiscate it. Pick a compact, TSA-approved power bank to charge your devices on long-haul flights.
Books You Won’t Read
Books are great, but carrying a few hardcovers can be a drag. E-readers are a lightweight option that gives unlimited access to thousands of titles without sacrificing packing space. As 50 percent of Americans use e-books, they’re a sensible option for today’s travelers.
Non Recyclable Packaging for Single Use Toiletries
Single-use plastic shampoo sachets and toothpaste tubes are unnecessary. Instead of individual bottles you’ll use just once, use refillable containers, or even a travel soap bar and toothpaste tablets. These liquid-friendly options are more popular among conscious travelers and comply with liquid regulations.
Other High-Value Items with No Insurance Cover
If you pack expensive jewelry or electronics without travel insurance coverage, you risk a lot of loss. The returns of a survey by Allianz showed that 47 percent of travelers store valuables in their luggage unprotected. If you can, insure high-value items or leave them at home.
Uncomfortable Shoes
While stylish and uncomfortable shoes may tempt you, they are generally not ideal for airport travel or when you’re likely to sprint toward a connecting flight. Sneakers or slip-on shoes are practical for getting through the airport and on the airplane.
Too Many Clothes
While packing excess clothes seems harmless, extra luggage makes other baggage heavier and adds weight to planes, increasing fuel use and, ultimately, more carbon emissions.
According to International Air Transport Association (IATA) study data, even reducing a small amount of weight can significantly cut carbon emissions. Strategically plan your outfits to travel with, and always use travel-friendly fabrics that are light and versatile.
Jewelry & Excessive Accessories
While you might find wearing bulky jewelry and accessories to the airport more convenient, they will only slow you down at security when duty calls you to take them off. Secure them in your bag so you can zip through the metal detector hassle-free.
Unnecessary Paperwork
Those days of rummaging through suitcase pockets for printouts and finding your boarding pass and confirmation are over.
Airlines have gone mobile with check-ins and e-tickets, slashing paper. It should be simple as long as your devices are charged and your airline app is updated.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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