With spring break fast approaching, students are scrambling to make last minute preparations for their vacations. This is a compilation of plane travel tips that have been tested by Pleasant Valley students and staff.
There is plenty of preparation to do beforehand that makes the trip less stressful. If someone is willing to invest some time into packing thoughtfully, their trip can be more organized and simplified.
Lynne Lundberg, a teacher at the high school, suggested keeping the suitcase small; it will be easier to carry and transport because of both size and weight. For someone who is planning on buying souvenirs or gifts, Lundberg recommended packing a folded up tote bag. It will take up a small amount of space in the suitcase, but it will carry plenty of purchases on the journey home.
For footwear, Lundberg limits what she brings to two pairs of shoes as a maximum. “I always make sure they are good, all-purpose, comfy shoes with arch support and toe protection,” Lundberg said. Shoes can take up a surprising amount of space. Being savvy with which shoes one packs can create more room in the suitcase for other supplies, like clothes.
As with the shoes, Lundberg recommends packing as few clothes as possible. She chooses to bring clothes that work in multiple combinations. This means there are a variety of outfits to create and wear without having to carry a huge suitcase everywhere.
Senior Mackenzie Wisneski chimed in with a tip on further space-saving with clothes. If the clothes are rolled into small tubes, they take up less space and are easier to find than if they are folded. “For me, traveling is all about getting creative. You have to manipulate tiny suitcases to fit your extensive wardrobe,” Wisneski said.
Lundberg also made sure to mention an aspect of packing that many overlook: toiletries. The many bottles and tubes can add up to be a lot of extra weight; a whole tube of toothpaste is not necessary for only a week of travel. Lundberg found that putting moisturizer in a contact case is much more effective than bringing the whole container. Some stores carry small, refillable travel size containers in place of full-size bottles.
Once the suitcase is packed, Wisneski mentioned adding a finishing touch. Attaching a brightly colored ribbon to the outside of the suitcase will make it stand out. It will be easy to find when it is time to go to baggage claim.
Packing a suitcase is half of the necessary preparation. The rest involves what additional items will be brought on the plane.
Lundberg again focuses on limiting bulk and weight when traveling. She avoids bringing physical copies of books, and instead opts for a Kindle. An e-reader is sleek, light, and takes up almost no space–making it perfect for air travel.
To stay comfortable, Wisneski suggested wearing fluffy socks with slip on shoes. The shoes will be easy to take on and off, and the socks will combat the chilliness of the plane. Lundberg recommended bringing a light sweater to stay comfortable.
Senior Solange Bolger offered the practical advice of packing an extra pair of undergarments in the carry-on. This precaution ensures that the traveler is covered if there are any complications mid-flight. It is also useful in the event that the airline misplaces someone’s luggage for a few days; they have that backup in their carry-on.
Wisneski prepares for a flight by braiding her hair beforehand. When she takes it out at the end of the plane ride, Wisneski feels more put together with this easy style. Keeping her hair tucked away decreases the chances of feeling uncomfortable during the flight. Wisneski also keeps herself comfortable by chewing gum during takeoff and landing. This prevents the pressure from building up in her ears.
Senior Grace Babka swears by using Spotify Premium for in flight entertainment. She can listen without relying on spotty plane wifi. “I get bored easily, especially in tight spaces like planes where I can’t really move. I use Spotify to keep my mind off of it,” she said.
In summary, preparing for a trip is about creating as effortless of an experience as possible. Most people suggested packing as lightly as possible; limiting the sheer volume of items packed will simplify the travel experience. This compilation of advice from students and teachers may help to reduce stress when preparing for trips in the future.
