Travel Confidence: What Really Matters When Packing
I get all kinds of questions, and I’m always happy to help! But in our quest for travel confidence, it’s essential to distinguish between what truly enhances our travel experience—and what’s simply not worth worrying about. Just because companies advertise a product as a ‘must-have’ doesn’t mean it’s necessary for YOU. True confidence comes from knowing what you actually need and letting go of unnecessary extras. Travel smarter, trust your own judgment, and focus on what truly matters.
✅ A QUESTION concerning Aerosols and Carryon Luggage:
“What do you use for dry shampoo if no aerosol is allowed in carry-ons?”
✅ My ANSWER:
To answer this question ask yourself if you need the extra bulk and weight of packing a can of dry shampoo in your bag when you travel. Think about what you really need to pack for your trip. Travel is meant to transform and enrich your life—not complicate it with unnecessary worries.
- The key to a stress-free and meaningful journey?
- Prepare Smartly:
Research your destination in advance—learn about travel requirements, weather, culture, and local customs. Take time to plan the details of your trip, including transportation and the airport process. And most importantly, pack light! Keeping things simple makes travel easier and helps you stay focused on the experience, not your luggage. - Focus on Essentials:
Be intentional about what you bring. Most “must-have” products are far less necessary than they seem. Travel with a mindset of simplicity—it’s liberating and reduces stress. - Think Critically:
Let’s prioritize smart, honest packing over mindlessly following the crowd or succumbing to trends. Travel confidence comes from knowing less is truly more!
- Prepare Smartly:
PLEASE NOTE, dry shampoo aerosols are allowed in your carry-on luggage as long as they’re under 3.4 oz (100 ml) and fit in a 1-quart (1-liter) resealable plastic bag. But why bother? Less is more.
Aerosols like dry shampoo, hairspray, and deodorant are generally allowed as long as they meet these requirements. Exceptions may apply for medically necessary items, which must be declared at security. Larger aerosol containers should go in checked luggage.
✅ Carry-On Liquids Rules EXPLAINED: Avoid These Mistakes!
As a Biochemist, I can tell you that dry shampoo isn’t great for you or the environment (lots of chemicals!). It’s not a travel essential—it’s a distraction. However, if you absolutely need it, there are lots of DIY recipes with ingredients found in your kitchen.
I’ve used dry shampoo as an example but there are plenty of other items that you may not need to pack for your trip.
Here Are 15 Non-Essential Items for Men and Women:
1. Multiple pairs of shoes
2. Heavy or multiple books
3. Too many outfits (e.g., excessive casual and formal wear)
4. Excessive grooming products (e.g., shaving cream, cologne/perfume)
5. Full-size toiletries (e.g., shampoo, conditioner, lotion)
6. Multiple tech gadgets (e.g., extra cameras, tablets, laptops)
7. Jewelry and accessories (e.g., watches, rings, necklaces)
8. Travel pillows or blankets
9. Unnecessary documents (e.g., printed tickets, brochures)
10. Too many snacks
11. Full makeup removal kit (for women) or extra skincare products
12. Multiple devices for entertainment (e.g., laptop, e-reader, tablet)
13. Extra workout gear (e.g., multiple pairs of gym shoes, clothes)
14. Extra hats, scarves, and gloves (for warm destinations)
15. Fancy or bulky dress shoes (unless specifically needed)
Packing less means freeing yourself to focus on the experiences that make your journey meaningful. When you prioritize what’s truly important, you’ll feel lighter, freer, and more in control.
Travel confidence comes from embracing simplicity and focusing on what really matters.
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