How to Pack Like a Flight Attendant and Avoid Checked Baggage Fees

Air Canada flight attendant Alex Jade is all about efficiency when it comes to packing the perfect carry-on for her travels. When it comes to the age-old debate: folding vs. rolling clothes for packing, which is better? “I roll my clothes so they take up less room,” she spills.

Our tip: Rolling your clothes versus folding them is a great way to avoid wrinkled fabrics on arrival. For added protection against wrinkled clothing while travelling, consider investing in a travel steamer.

Jade also recommends keeping it light when it comes to multiples. “I have one pair of each item, and I try to pack easy, non-wrinkle fabrics whenever possible.”

Our tip: Do your homework on where you’ll be staying. Many hotels offer on-site laundry services (some even providing laundry machines within hotel suites), which will facilitate washing your clothing and re-using the same items several times during your stay.

With 10 years as a flight attendant for Pan Am under her belt, Quora contributer Debbi Fuller knows a thing or two about packing light. “You can check with the individual airline to see what is allowed on board but typically, you are allowed to bring on one bag which fits into the overhead,” says Debbie. Keeping your maximum allowance in mind, you can pack your carry-on confidently – and efficiently. As a rule of thumb, adds Fuller: “Bring half of what you think you’ll need.”

Our tip: Invest in a luggage scale to do a weigh-in at home and avoid any airport hassles at check-in. Amazon offers several inexpensive options.

Former flight attendant Tammy McBean says: “Those nice big suitcases are great for a car or train ride but… too heavy for most of the airlines.”

Our tip: Make travel as easy as possible with the right carry-on – as in, one that adheres to your airline’s guidelines and specifications. Luggage retailers specialize in offering airport-approved carry-on sizes, so be specific and check out a few before picking out the perfect one for your travel needs.

Laurie Kinney, a customer service agent with 22 years with two airlines, advises trimming the fat on your cosmetics when travelling. “Keep your cosmetics to a minimum. Leave the kitchen sink at home! If you think you may not need an item… it is probably correct, so do not pack it.” The takeaway: if it feels like you will never use it – go with your gut.

Our tip: Consider your everyday routine and work from there. What can you leave out and what can’t you live without? Keep in mind, most hotels provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash and moisturizer at no cost to guests.

Jade’s final tip? Stick to sample-size products when it comes to skincare and beauty essentials. “Samples are small and fun to try out when on vacation!”

Our tip: Plan ahead and set aside a few samples for your trip. Not sure you have enough? Hit up the local dollar store for some travel-sized clear containers to carry any liquids or cream products you just can’t live without.

US flight attendant Annette Long says “Pack everything you might need during the flight in a separate bag… things like a portable battery… charging cord, as well as Chapstick, earbuds…”

Our tip: Swap your everyday purse for something a little roomier on your next flight. This way you can use the purse for in-flight essentials and small items you may want accessible as soon as you land (swimsuit, flip-flops, etc.) – saving you space in your carry-on and keeping those small travel items within reach during the plane ride.

Airline professional Janice Bridger suggests travellers “pack light” and “plan to buy “vacation clothes” at your destination.” If you’re dead-set on bringing your own clothing, Bridger says “try to pack items that can be used for multiple purposes.”

Our tip: do your homework and scope out the local shopping scene. You might be surprised to discover some nearby retailers offer beautiful – and weather-appropriate – clothing at low costs, saving you some room on the flight in and allowing you to treat yourself to a little vacay shopping.

Having spent 20 years as a commercial pilot, David Barnes has packed his share of carry-on bags. Says Barnes, “My #1 tip for packing a perfect carry-on bag is to use a set of packing cubes. It’s amazing how much space you will save with these. I love them!”

Our tip: Homesense and online retailer Amazon often carry large selections of packing cubes in all sizes (and colours) to take you from travel novice to jetsetting expert.

When you're pairing down items, it's important to be mindful of the weather where you're headed. As Quora user and cabin crew professional Rishi advises: “Check the weather, pack accordingly.”

Our tip: Being aware of local weather conditions will allow you to pack a carry-on of only the essentials, minimizing over-packing of clothing that isn’t weather-appropriate anyways.

As JetBlue Airways worker Laurie K notes: “Shoes can take up space so if you can wear the same with a couple of outfits that helps. When in doubt leave it home!”

Our tip: Keep in mind: you’re on vacation. So give the sky-high stilettos a rest and opt for stylish flats you can dress up or down, a lightweight pair of sneaks (try wearing these for the flight), one pair of slides for the beach or pool, and if you absolutely can’t skip the heels – a pair of block-heel sandals that work for day and night. Shoes tend to weigh the most in your luggage – avoid making this common packing mistake and don’t overdue it!

In a travel vlog, Australian flight attendant Rosalie Edith suggests Ethique solid beauty bars, available as shampoo, conditioner, facial scrubs, moisturizers and cleansers.

Our tip: Opt for the gift bundle packages, which come pre-packaged and make for an excellent – and leak-proof – alternative to heavy liquid containers.

Flight attendant blog MaryHop offers airport outfit options for every getaway. Common themes? Layering! When it comes to packing light, wear whatever heavy outerwear pieces or chunky knits you can’t leave behind and save space in your suitcase – not to mention, keeping cozy on the flight!

Our tip: Whatever your destination, an oversized knit or cardigan will keep you cozy as you fly and double as a rolled-up pillow for your seat.

One common travel hack from flight attendants? Ziploc bags! Alex Jade encourages you “save time at security and minimize the risk of anything leaking in your carry-on by packing liquids in Ziploc bags in your purse.”

Our tip: Pack a few extra clear sealable baggies with you, in multiple sizes, in case you need them for the flight back.

Wondering where you should travel to next? Take our quiz to find out where your next vacation should be.