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Travel like a Former Flight Attendant From planning → packing → flying → staying → returning home
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items As a former Flight Attendant for a major airline and after thousands of hours in the air, tight connections, long haul flights, cancelled flights, early check-in times, hotels stays, car rentals in various cities and countries these are the items I n...
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How to Book Flights Like a Flight Attendant ✈️ Flight Attendant Travel Secrets (Choose Seats, Airlines & Upgrades)
Best Travel Credit Cards & Hotels According to a Former Flight Attendant
Flight Attendant Packing Essentials (Carry-On Approved)
Airport Outfits Flight Attendants Actually Wear
Travel Snacks Flight Attendants Never Fly Without
Best Luggage According to a Former Flight Attendant
How to Book Flights Like a Flight Attendant ✈️ Flight Attendant Travel Secrets (Choose Seats, Airlines & Upgrades)
Pre-Trip Strategy, Book Smarter, Fly Better Airlines, Better Seats
Passport/Visa: Check validity and requirements well in advance. Make sure your passport will not expire within 6 months.
Copies:
Make physical and digital copies of all important documents (passport, visa, tickets, insurance). Enroll in
STEP:
S...
Planning Your Travel | Travel.State.gov
Start Online:
Visit the official TSA PreCheck website or an authorized provider (CLEAR, IDEMIA, Telos) to begin the application. Provide Information: Fill out the online form with your personal details. Schedule Appointment: Book an appointment at a...
TSA PreCheck® | Transportation Security Administration
1️⃣ Create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account Regardless of your age, you must have your own Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account.
2️⃣ Log in to your TTP account and complete the application A $120 non-refundable fee is required with each...
Global Entry Enrollment Center
Travel Insurance:
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, some flights are covered if the airlines is at fault such as (poor maintenance, crew errors, or failing to maintain a safe environment) Acts of God are not covered
Weather:
Sudden, severe ...
Travel Insurance - Affordable Plans Starting at $27 | Allianz Partners
Notify Banks:
Inform your bank/credit card companies of travel dates. Payment Methods: Carry multiple payment types (cash, cards) and get local currency.
Budget:
Set a budget and auto-pay bills. Withdraw some cash. Small bills are useful for tipp...
Banking, Retirement & Investment Services | USAA ...
Secure Home:
Arrange pet/plant care, secure the home- inside and out , and inform security company.
Clear Out:
Take out trash, clear the fridge of perishables, and clean up.
Unplug:
Turn off/unplug non-essential appliances and electronics.
W...
Home Security Systems by ADT
This is a game changer for international travel! You have phone service upon arrival. eSIMs allow you to easily add local or regional data plans when traveling abroad, helping you avoid expensive international roaming charges from your home carrier. ...
Airalo
Offers price alerts, flight tracking, and a comprehensive search for flights, hotels, and cars.
This app act as search engines, scanning hundreds of airlines and travel sites to show you the best options in one place, often with no hidden booking f...
KAYAK
Use sites like SeatGuru or your actual airline to see the actual aircraft layout, identifying good (green) vs. bad (red/yellow) seats, blocked seats, and walls. Aisle vs. Window: Aisle for easy movement, window for views/sleep; avoid middle.
Locati...
SeatMaps
Also departing and arriving on a Saturday which are off peak the flights are not as full and flying on the holiday you get a great deal and slow travel day.
United prices tend to drop mid-week
Tuesdays and Wednesdays often cited as the best days ...
United Airlines
Photograph all your contents. This makes it easier to file a baggage loss/delay claim, if anything happens to your stuff.
Check your luggage tag and identifiers. Are your bags marked with the right info? Are they easy to spot on the baggage carouse...
Hawaiian Airlines - Flights to Hawaii, Plane Tickets & Airfare
🚨🚫🚨 Booking a trip with a VPN can potentially get you cheaper flights by masking your location to bypass dynamic pricing, but❗️❗️❗️ it's hit-or-miss; you might see lower fares from countries like India, Mexico, or Vietnam, but risks include ticket...
Free VPN to protect your privacy
Best Travel Credit Cards & Hotels According to a Former Flight Attendant
Credit Cards That Actually Earn Free Travel Points, Lounges & Perks and reducing your wait time at the airport.
If you like to travel, then you're sure to love the benefits you can get with travel rewards credit cards. These card allows you to pay for your biggest travel expenses including first-class airfare, car rental, excursions and luxury hotel stays with... Chase and Amex offering strong airline/hotel transfer options. Lounge Access: Priority Pass, Centurion, and Capital One Lounges are major perks, especially with Venture X and Amex Platinum. Insurance & Protections: Trip delay/cancellation insuran...
Delta SkyMiles® American Express Credit Cards
Airport lounges offer travelers a comfortable, quiet escape with amenities like free Wi-Fi, food, drinks, and sometimes showers, accessible via airline status, credit cards (like Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire), or programs like Priority Pass. They pr...
Amex Platinum Card®
Hilton's free guest loyalty program where members earn points on hotel stays and spending, redeemable for free nights and experiences, while unlocking perks like free Wi-Fi, member-exclusive rates, and elite status benefits (upgrades, breakfast credi... Free to Join: Anyone can sign up at no cost to start earning. Earning Points: Earn points for stays, spending at Hilton properties, and even with partners like Lyft or on co-branded credit cards. Redeeming Points: Use points for free nights across 9,...
Hilton
Marriott Bonvoy is the loyalty program for Marriott International hotels, combining Marriott Rewards, SPG, and Ritz-Carlton Rewards, allowing members to earn points for stays and spending, which can be redeemed for free nights, upgrades, and unique t... Members earn points on hotel stays, dining, spa services, golf, and through co-branded credit cards. Redeeming Points: Points can be used for free hotel nights, airline transfers, Marriott Bonvoy Moments experiences, and merchandise. Brands: The prog...
Discover Marriott Bonvoy | Join The Best Hotel Rewards Program
I love staying at the Embassy Suites for multiple reasons, for both leisure and business for an upscale experience. All guest enjoy perks like complimentary made-to-order breakfast, Evening Reception: Free drinks (beer, wine, spirits) and light appet...
Embassy Suites by Hilton - Spacious Two-Room Suite Hotels
Flight Attendant Packing Essentials (Carry-On Approved)
Packing Like a Flight Attendant Carry-On and Checked Luggage Energy
Packing cubes help sort, organize, and quickly locate items, reducing the stress of packing. Keep your belongings in order, and avoid the frustration of unpacking for just one item. Enhance your journey with efficient organization
Veken 10/8 Set Travel Packing Cubes & Bags
Very spacious, so far it fits several usb cords, a battery pack, two plug adapters, ear pods, and there is still room for more. The two - section design with several separate net compartments is smart, makes getting things easy without worrying anyth...
FYY Travel Cable Organizer Pouch Waterproof
Primary function, weighing luggage, has never let me down it's accurate and easy to use, Guarantee you meet airline weight limits without any surprises fees at check-in.
Etekcity Digital Luggage Scale 110lbs
I'm big into organization and cleanliness. Great value. Easy to use. I use them for travel and also for storing small items and keeping them dust and moisture free. These are a great addition to my packing cubes for traveling. They are durable and th...
20 Pack Clear Waterproof Travel Shoe Bags
The Apple AirTag 4 Pack is a game changer for keeping track of your belongings! Whether it’s your keys, wallet, luggage, or backpack, these little devices make it super easy to locate your items. They're especially great for traveling, providing peace of mind as you keep an eye on your luggage.
Apple AirTag 4 Pack - Track Keys, Wallet, Luggage
Great for long plane trips. To use, open the tray in front of you, place the straps on the bars that hold the tray, then fold up the tray. You can rest your feet with your knees up and move you knees side to side for different positions.
BASIC CONCEPTS Airplane Foot Hammock - Travel
They are convenient to have when traveling. Great that it is a two pack. Uses one, while the other is charging.
[2 Pack] Mini 5200mAh 20W PD Charger for iPhone
It’s lightweight and really comfortable to wear hands-free, which makes it perfect for travel, walks, workouts, or just chilling outside. The fan has multiple speed settings, so you can adjust how much breeze you want. Battery life is solid and it ch...
JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan, 5 Speeds, 4000mAh
Incredibly Plush and Comfy. The memory foam is excellent quality soft, supportive, and nothing like the stiff travel pillows brought before. It genuinely makes sleeping while sitting upright so much more comfortable, whether you’re leaning back in an...
Travel Pillow with Large Hood Memory Foam Grey
Got these for my long haul flights and it was definitely worth the investment. They 100% worked. Very important to get up every couple hours to walk and move your muscles. But for something SUPER long, it's definitely worth the peace of mind! They're...
Physix Gear Compression Socks 20-30 mmHg
These definitely block out a lot of the noise around you and if it’s 100% noise around you you’ll hear about 10 percent noise, with these in, so that’s pretty good. I wear them to bed and they do not hurt your ears at all.
Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs – Reusable 24dB Noise Protection
I love these Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra headphones. I used these on all my domestics and international flights and the active noise canceling (ANC) was amazing. I also liked that I could toggle quickly between ANC and "Aware Mode" with just one tap of a button so I could hear announcements or quickly speak to people at the airport when needed.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen Wireless Headphones
If you are always hot & wished you had a fan, this is the fan for you!! It’s so convenient & easy to carry. With the 5 different speeds perfect for airports and in flight.
Diveblues Portable Turbo Fan, 5 Gear, Battery Operated
Airport Outfits Flight Attendants Actually Wear
Airport Outfit Formula Comfort Without Looking Sloppy. apply the (3-3-3 rule) 3 pairs of shoes, 3 tops, 3 pairs of pants and you will have 27 outfits….a minimalist packing/wardrobe strategy.
When flying always remember to cover your legs, wear shoes not flip flops, bring a large scarf, pashmina or light jacket just in case. The temperature on board is very cold or hot depends on your baseline. You want to dress with that in mind. Blend comfort with polish dressing in layers, stretchy but structured bottoms (like joggers, trousers, leggings), breathable fabrics (merino wool, cotton, linen), and easy slip-on shoes, elevated by chic outerwear.
Alo Yoga | Yoga leggings,clothes, and accessories for studio to street
Comfortable Bottoms: Ditch tight jeans for joggers, wide-leg trousers, or quality leggings (if comfortable for you) for freedom of movement and sleep. Breathable Fabrics: Choose soft, breathable materials like merino wool, cotton, or travel-friendly ...
Gap
Banana Republic has great travel options for men and women. Classic & Chic: Black functional pants + white tee + bomber jacket + white sneakers + trench coat. Modern Athleisure: Matching sweat set (hoodie + joggers) in a neutral color + stylish sneakers + denim jacket. Elevated Trousers: Flowy satin or ta...
Banana Republic | Timeless Style for Women’s & Men’s Clothing
Lululemon durable and long-lasting. The fabrics, especially the "buttery-soft" Align collection material, receive frequent praises from everyone I know for their comfort and performance. If you're a 34 band size, suggest a medium or 10. For a tighter fit, try sizing down to a small or 8. Lulu Lemon has plenty of airport ready to wear options for men and women.
lululemon
Travel Snacks Flight Attendants Never Fly Without
Snacks & Hydration Flight Attendants Pack Never Rely on Airport Food
Great protein snack at the airport, in flight or on your layover! A serving is two small balls and they taste completely unprocessed, no chalky or fake protein taste to it. Real chunks of coconut and chocolate.
simplyFUEL Protein Balls Chocolate Coconut
hese bars are my go to snacks! They taste natural without all the extra added junk in them. I tend to buy them regularly. Definitely recommend!
That's it. Variety Pack 100% Natural Fruit Bar
I’ve been a fan of this brand for years, and this snack line they have been a carry on staple for my trips and in my snack pantry.
Navitas Organics Cacao Goji Superfood Bites
Perfect snack for traveling and will last in your suit case. It contains most everything I love in a trail mix: dried pineapple, banana, coconut, cranberry, walnuts, cashews, and dried papaya. These flavors together taste fantastic! It is the perfect...
Power Up Premium Trail Mix 14oz, Vegan, GF
It’s also great for travel, long days outside, or whenever you need an extra boost. I notice a big difference in how hydrated I feel, especially after workouts or on days when I just didn’t drink enough water. It definitely works quickly within about...
Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier Lemon Lime
Best Luggage According to a Former Flight Attendant
Luggage That Survives Real Travel Not Cute but Durable
ROAM Luggage made in the USA, and you can personalize by adding your initials. There's no mistaking my bags for anyone else's. The 360° wheels glide effortlessly, even when the bag is fully packed, which makes running through the airports, crazy weather and uneven sidewalks less stressful. One of the biggest selling points for me is the lifetime warranty. I actually had a zi...
All Luggage
My parents have been Samonite loyalist for over 40 years and they have traveled the world with the military.Tried and true quality, lightweight designs, smooth-rolling wheels, and good value, making them a trusted brand for frequent travelers.
Samsonite - Durable & Innovative Luggage, Business Cases, Backpacks & Travel Accessories | Shop.Samsonite.com
Although I'm no longer flying, Travel Pro is still my luggage of choice. No guess work all of their luggage is airline compliant. Aside from being known for its impressive quality and durability warranties, Travelpro® luggage is the #1 brand of choic...
Travel Luggage, Suitcase Sets, Weekenders & More | Travelpro®
Airport Lounge Essentials Flight Attendants Swear By
Lounge Life Essentials Delays, But Make Them Comfortable
My go to cozy travel set! Have in 4 colors. The fit is great, material is cozy and not cheap. Shrinks a little bit in the wash so I size up.
LILLUSORY Womens 2-Piece Cardigan Pants Set
The fit was great, maybe a tad long in the pants but love how nice the fabric is. Very comfortable, I’m getting a couple more sets in different colors
SUUKSESS Women 2 Piece Lounge Set Wide Leg
The large was great, and I have plenty of wiggle room but a medium would have fit as well. The material is superb quality, thick and soft, no imperfections. Doesn't wrinkle.
Trendy Queen 2PC Summer Sweatsuit Set
I use them for airport lounges, in flight, shower slippers and they keep my feet from the water that builds up in the gym showers. They also provide great support.
Joomra Non Slip Quick Drying Shower Slippers
Flight Attendant Must-Haves for Sleeping on Planes
Onboard Comfort & Sleep You’re Responsible for Your Own Comfort
If you want peace of mind and if you are a person who doesn’t like sitting on dirty plane seats then this is for you. Ever since Covid my family tends to wipe everything down, yes including the airplane seats. I read somewhere that airlines does not ...
Disposable Airplane & Public Seat Covers (12)
Perfect on a long flight in coach! People sitting next to me are always impressed. I also offer them one. Easy clean up. Description of product is accurate. You can leave it on the whole flight even when the tray is upright.
15 Disposable Travel Tray Protectors by Mighty Clean
This travel blanket and pillow set is a must for flights and road trips! The material is incredibly soft and cozy, keeping me warm without feeling heavy. I love that the blanket folds neatly into the matching pillow case super convenient for packing ...
EverSnug Travel Blanket & Pillow 2-in-1 Grey
The scent is also so good, if you own any other product from this brand you know how good it smells.
Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo Dark Tones
Natural Vitality Calm Magnesium Gummies! They taste great like a light, fruity treat and they’ve really helped me relax and unwind at the end of the day.
Natural Vitality Calm Magnesium Gummies, 240
Flight Attendant Hygiene & Safety Travel Essentials
Cleanliness, immunity, comfort while traveling.
These body wipes are excellent to have on hand. Travel, suitcases, purses, tote bags, bedside. They are big sizes like 2 wash clothes in one. Whenever I'm in need to freshen up this is my go to.
Body Wipes for Women Sensitive Skin - 54 Wipes
Powered by two AAA batteries, it provides a very strong stream of water for your cleaning needs.
Portable 140mL Electric Handheld Bidet IPX6
I really love these mouthwash packets they’re super convenient for travel or when I’m out all day. The mint flavor is fresh but not too strong, and it leaves my mouth feeling clean and refreshed.
Travel Mouthwash Packets - Alcohol & Fluoride Free, Fresh Mint (20)
I love Earth Breeze laundry detergent sheets! The sheets dissolve completely in both hot and cold water, leave clothes smelling fresh and packs well in your suit case or carry on.
Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets Fresh Scent 30 Ct
I take one of these as soon as I board my flight as preventative. Or start to feel a tiny whiff of symptoms, it works really well to nip the illness in the bud.
Airborne 1000mg Vitamin C + D & Zinc, 30 Tabs
When traveling don't forget to pack your multi vitamins.
Goli Stress Less Glow More Digest Bundle
Portable mini humidifier! It’s compact, quiet, and works great in my hotel room, bedroom, office, and even my car. I appreciate the sleek design and USB power option.
Portable Mini USB Humidifier, 300ml, White
Flight Attendant Hotel, Pet & Post-Trip Essentials
Hotel, Pets & Coming Home Reset The Full-Circle Travel System
Comes in a sturdy bag to store or travel with relatively lightweight, and it comes in a little bag so it’s easy to place anywhere in your luggage. What surprised me was how easy it is to set it up and how strong this little doorstop is. Anyone who tr...
Portable Door Lock - Travel Security Stopper
I traveled overseas and took this with me and used it in every hotel room I stayed in along the way. It gave me peace of mind and comfort to know that if there were a trace of any unwanted 'guest', this product would take care of it. There was no odo...
Hygea Natural Lice, Mite & Bed Bug Spray 3oz
If you’ve ever walked into a hotel room and thought, “Is that smoke detector really just a smoke detector??? This your device for peace of mind and safety.
Upgraded AI Hidden Camera & GPS Detector
Best nanny cam for travel, when your staying multi days in a hotel or Air B&B.
Mini 2025 4K WiFi Wireless HD Nanny Cam
I always bring these disposable sheets when I travel, using these makes me feel a lot more comfortable sleeping in unfamiliar places, especially when I’m not sure how clean the sheets really are.
4 PCS Disposable Queen Bed Sheet Set for Travel
First these are individually wrapped which are a plus. It keeps the cover clean and protected and I can rapidly throw it in my suit case or purse when traveling or out and about.
XXL Disposable Toilet Seat Covers 30 Pack
Everything went well from check in, security and the flight. Put a towel at the bottom for extra comfort.
Petskd Expandable Pet Carrier 17x11x9.5in Blue
These patches did everything they were created to do.
2026 Motion Sickness Patches Non-Drowsy 24ct
I usually step off long flights feeling sluggish and puffy, but now I feel noticeably more comfortable and refreshed when I landed.
Jet Lag Remedy Pills - Energy, Immunity, Swelling Relief
I love that I found this wallet. I should have bought it sooner! It’s well constructed for travel.
Mountain Voyage Co Slim RFID Wallet Men