What should I pack in my carry-on or checked?

Pack essentials like ID, phone/charger, meds, valuables, a change of clothes, and snacks in your carry-on, while bulkier items, non-essential liquids/toiletries (following TSA rules), and anything you don't need mid-flight go in checked bags, ensuring electronics with lithium batteries (like power banks) stay with you due to fire risk.

What to pack carry-on vs. checked?

Pack essentials (meds, docs, valuables, electronics, change of clothes) in your carry-on, while bulkier items, most toiletries (liquids over 3.4oz), and non-essentials go in checked bags, but always keep lithium batteries/power banks in your carry-on due to fire risk. Checked bags offer more space but risk loss; carry-ons keep necessities with you but are subject to size/liquid rules.
 

What is the 5 4 3 2 1 rule of packing?

The 5-4-3-2-1 packing rule is a minimalist travel formula to build a versatile capsule wardrobe, typically meaning 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 pairs of shoes, 2 dresses/layers, and 1 signature accessory/item (like a swimsuit or scarf) for a week-long trip, focusing on mix-and-match pieces to save space and reduce overpacking, often fitting everything in a carry-on. It's a flexible guideline, adaptable to your destination's weather and plans, encouraging neutral colors and versatile items for numerous outfit combinations.
 

Do pills have to be in original bottles when flying?

For domestic U.S. flights, the TSA doesn't require pills to be in original bottles, so pill organizers are fine, but for international travel, original containers with labels are strongly recommended by the CDC and State Department to avoid issues with customs and varying local laws. While the TSA allows unlimited solid medication in carry-ons, having a doctor's note and keeping meds in original bottles (especially for international trips) provides clear proof of legitimacy and helps with potential questions from officers, particularly for controlled substances. 

What are the 5 biggest packing mistakes to avoid?

• Mistake: Not Creating a Capsule Wardrobe.
• Mistake: Not Using Packing Cubes.
• Mistake: Traveling With a Subpar Carry-on Suitcase.
• Mistake: Forgetting About the Power of a Personal Item Bag.
• Mistake: Not Having a Strategy for Toiletries.

NEW Carry-On RULES for 2026 (Don't Get Caught at TSA!) | Airport NOW

What is the 3-5-7 rule in packing?

This approach helps you create a versatile travel wardrobe using just 3 bottoms, 5 tops, and 7 layering or accent pieces—perfect for mix-and-match ease without overpacking. Whether you're heading out for a long weekend or a 10-day escape, this rule works beautifully for summer and even early fall travel.

What cannot go in a carry-on bag?

You can't pack firearms, explosives, large sharp objects (knives, tools over 7 inches), large quantities of liquids (over 3.4oz/100ml), flammable items, or certain sporting goods (bats, ski poles) in a carry-on; these pose safety risks and must be checked or are outright banned, though electronics, medications, and some sharp items (like nail clippers) with limitations are generally allowed. 

What medications can I not bring on a plane?

No medications are universally "banned," but many require caution, permission, or are restricted, especially narcotics (oxycodone, codeine), stimulants (Adderall), sedatives (Xanax, Valium, Benadryl), and some ADHD/weight-loss meds, as they can be illegal in other countries or pose aviation risks. Always check your destination's laws, carry prescriptions with doctor's notes, keep meds in carry-ons, and inform TSA, as some substances (like CBD, certain stimulants) face scrutiny.
 

Should I carry a copy of my prescription?

Bring a Copy of Your Prescription and Doctor's Contact Information. When traveling, especially abroad, carry a written prescription or a note from your doctor listing all your current medications, their generic names, and dosages. This documentation can help if: You lose your medications or need to replace them abroad.

Can you fly with pills in a Ziploc bag?

Yes, you can fly with pills in a Ziploc bag, but it's highly recommended to keep prescription meds in their original labeled bottles, especially for controlled substances or international travel, to avoid delays and confusion with TSA, though they are generally allowed in carry-on or checked bags without the original bottle. A doctor's note isn't required by TSA but helps for complex meds or crossing borders, and keep them in your personal item for easy access. 

What is the 7 rule for outfits?

The "Rule of 7" is a styling formula where you count points for items in your outfit, aiming for 7-10 points for a complete look by assigning basics 1 point and statement/layered pieces 2 points, helping you add or remove elements to feel more put-together, addressing that "something's missing" feeling. 

What is the golden rule of packing?

The 10 rules of packing

1. The Golden Rule: Take half of the clothes you were planning to bring and twice the money.

Is it better to roll or fold clothes when traveling?

Rolling saves space in your bag, especially if you only have hand luggage. You can organise your bag better, by being able to see every item of clothing. Rolling is great for small items. Especially for items made from synthetic fibres like nylon as they will be less likely to wrinkle.

What not to pack in suitcase for flight?

When flying, don't pack dangerous, flammable, or explosive items like fireworks, gasoline, or aerosols in your checked bags; keep electronics with lithium batteries (vapes, power banks), essential documents, medications, valuables (jewelry, cash), and a change of clothes in your carry-on for safety and convenience. Also, avoid putting certain compressed gases, poisons, and large quantities of alcohol (over 70% ABV) in any luggage.
 

Do phone chargers go in hand luggage or suitcase?

According to global air safety regulations, spare lithium batteries, including power banks or portable chargers, must be carried in hand luggage and are not permitted in checked baggage. This is because power banks can pose a fire risk. Keeping them in the cabin allows flight crews to act quickly if any issue arises.

How best to pack toiletries in a checked bag?

Sure, a plastic sandwich bag will work in a pinch. But an average sandwich bag is smaller than one quart, meaning you won't have as much space for your liquids. Those thin plastic baggies also run the risk of ripping. Instead, opt for a durable toiletry bag that can hold items of all sizes and shapes without tearing.

Will TSA stop you for prescription drugs?

Medically required liquids will be subject to additional screening that could include being asked to open the container. You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened. You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage.

What is the eyeglass rule?

The Eyeglass Rule requires that optometrists and ophthalmologists provide patients a copy of their prescription after the completion of an eye examination without extra cost.

Is it illegal to carry unmarked pills?

Possessing prescription medication without the original container can lead to complications. If law enforcement encounters you with medication that lacks proper identification, they may suspect illegal possession, which could lead to potential charges or fines.

Do pills need to be in original containers?

While TSA does not require that medications be in original prescription bottles, some US states and other countries may have different rules, so it is best to store the pills in their original bottles labeled with your name.

What medications disqualify you from flying?

No medications are universally "banned," but many require caution, permission, or are restricted, especially narcotics (oxycodone, codeine), stimulants (Adderall), sedatives (Xanax, Valium, Benadryl), and some ADHD/weight-loss meds, as they can be illegal in other countries or pose aviation risks. Always check your destination's laws, carry prescriptions with doctor's notes, keep meds in carry-ons, and inform TSA, as some substances (like CBD, certain stimulants) face scrutiny.
 

How to go through TSA?

To go through TSA smoothly, be prepared by organizing documents and packing electronics/liquids for easy removal, wearing simple shoes and clothing, arriving early, and following officer instructions, which typically involves placing items in bins for X-ray and walking through a body scanner or metal detector, with potential for pat-downs if flagged. Key steps include having your ID/boarding pass ready, separating large electronics and following the 3-1-1 liquids rule, and being ready to take off shoes/jackets. 

What is the most confiscated item at airports?

The Most Frequently Detected Prohibited Items in Airport Baggage Checks

1. Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs) ...
2. Knives and Sharp Objects. ...
3. Firearms. ...
4. Explosives and Flammable Materials. ...
5. Realistic Replicas and Novelty Items. ...
6. Ammunition. ...
7. Flammable Household Items. ...
8. Restricted Powders.

Can I take my purse and a backpack on a plane?

Yes, you can generally bring a purse and a backpack on a plane, as most airlines allow one carry-on bag (like a backpack) and one personal item (like a purse or small bag), but the purse must fit inside the backpack or under the seat in front of you to comply with size rules. The backpack usually goes in the overhead bin, while the purse (or other personal item) must fit completely under the seat in front of you. 

Which airline has the most legroom?

For the most legroom in standard economy, JetBlue consistently ranks first among U.S. airlines, offering around 32-33 inches of seat pitch (legroom), with options for even more space; Southwest Airlines is a close second, followed by Delta and Alaska. For premium economy or business class, airlines like Air New Zealand and Aeromexico offer significantly more space, with options up to 42 inches of pitch.