Because clothes often take up more than half of the space in your checked luggage, pack them as tightly as possible to conserve space. One method backpackers use is to roll pieces of clothing into scroll-like parcels and stack them next to and on top of each other. To prevent searching for underwear, socks and pajamas, keep these items in a lightweight bag to be packed separately from larger items such as pants, jackets and T-shirts. Wrap fragile items such as cameras, CDs, phone chargers, hairdryers or gifts in three or four layers of cotton or wool clothing to protect them and prevent excessive movement in flight. Wrap shoes in plastic bags and pack them on top of your clothes.
Keep your carry-on bag as light as possible to make moving around airports easier. Because airlines also limit the size and weight of carry-on bags, the smaller your bag, the better your chances of bringing it on-board. Make a list of essential items you will need to have on-board the flight and place any unnecessary items in your checked baggage. Keep your wallet, ID, passport and airline ticket easily accessible in your carry-on bag. Additional items may include tissues, medication, pen and notepad, reading material, a jacket and basic toiletries including a toothbrush, toothpaste and hairbrush. If it's a long flight, you may also want to pack a sweater or long-sleeved shirt, an inflatable neck pillow, an eye mask and earplugs. If you are bringing liquid or gel toiletries, make sure containers do not exceed three ounces and can fit in a single transparent, resealable plastic bag.
Avoid packing expensive jewelry, excessive cash or fragile items in either your carry-on or checked luggage to reduce the risk of theft or breakage. Also, don't pack film in checked baggage because the airport screening equipment will damage it. Avoid packing food and drinks that could leak in your checked baggage and cause a mess. Prohibited items that can't be packed in checked or carry-on luggage include flares, gunpowder, torch lighters, explosives, fuel, gasoline, lighter fluid and gas torches, flammable paints and thinners, chlorine, spray paint and tear gas.
