TRAVEL
Ten Travel Tips From a Former Flight Attendant
Source: iStock
They traverse the globe, spend hours in the air, switch between different time-zones and need to pack smart, so when it comes time for us to travel there is definitely something we can learn from flight attendants.
In an interview with Travel + Leisure former flight attendant Ann Hood, who now works as a successful author, shared ten things she learned from flying that she still uses today:
Don’t Ignore the Emergency Card – sometimes emergencies can happen, so Ann says she always reads the emergency card placed in the seat pocket and locates her nearest emergency exit.
Don’t Check a Bag – by not checking your luggage you will save time upon landing. It also urges you to pack smart and not overpack.
Pack Smart – Ann recommends packing smart by including a sweater and a bathing suit. Pack comfortable clothes in neutral colors and include one dressier item. She suggests leaving jewelry at home and packing two pairs of shoes that match everything.
Take Two Carry-on Bags – bring two carry-on bags – one for the overhead bin and a smaller bag to go under the seat in front. The smaller bag contains toiletries, reading material, boarding pass, technology and your travel plans.
Moisturize – ask any flight attendant and they will tell you to pack moisturizer as nothing dries out skin like flying.
Bring Bottled Water – hydrate and pick up some bottled water once through security you can drink on the plane.
Grab a Pillow and Blanket – Ann told Travel + Leisure to grab a pillow and blanket as soon as you board the plane. Even if you don’t think you will use one grab them anyway in case you change your mind.
Dress for Comfort – Ann recommends dressing for comfort on a plane and in layers as the temperature can change onboard a plane. Ann reveals she always wears a short-sleeve tee and packs a sweater and extra socks in her carry-on.
Pack an Empty Bag – Ann suggests packing a fold-up bag in your suitcase, which you can use to bring home souvenirs and other goodies you pick up on your travels.
Embrace Ziploc Bags – Ann told Travel + Leisure she swears by ziploc bags and always packs a few, revealing they are great for holding wet bathing suits, smelly socks, bars of soap, seashells and other random things that may make a mess of your carry-on!
