As a seasoned flight attendant, I’ve spent a good part of my life in the air, in transit, and packing and unpacking. Over the past decade, I’ve perfected an art form: the ability to pack the perfect carry-on. Trust me; this ability has been a game-changer for my flying experience, but it does not happen overnight. The meticulous process involves a checklist and a strategy that varies with every individual. Here are 14 hacks; a decode of the culmination of my 10 year experience on packing a smart, efficient carry-on. Imagine standing in line at the boarding gates, at ease while your fellow passengers scramble, fumbling with their oversized luggage and a multitude of loose items. This serenity springs from careful planning and smart packing. Pack your carry-on as if it were your entire world for those strenuous flight hours. Essentials first, segregate your items into must-haves and good-to-haves. Must-haves usually comprise travel documents, medications, a change of clothes, a compact toiletry kit, electronics and chargers, and a few snacks. The hacks are in the packing. Keep in mind the weight and size restrictions and don’t shy away from using every nook and cranny of your bag.
