Compared to other people my age, I fly a lot. And since I’m gearing up now for another round of planes, trains, and buses, I figured I’d share my go-tos for both domestic and international travel.

It’s not complicated, but for those who haven’t done much flying I hope it helps! And if you think I missed something leave it in the comments!

In a Small Purse:

ID / Passport
You can’t get on a plane without it so this is #1. Keep it close, keep it safe, and never let it out of your sight. Passport for sure if you’re going abroad or are from a state with a questionable driver’s license.

Phone
Pretty self explanatory. Keep in mind for some airlines you can have your boarding pass on your phone but still need to check bags at the counter, and if you’re going abroad and don’t have international data just put it on airplane mode and turn WiFi on and off as you need.

Wallet
Also pretty self explanatory. Credit cards (with travel notices set), cash in the currency wherever you’re going (maybe $100 US worth), and your government-issued ID if you’re not using a passport.

In my Backpack:

An Empty Reusable Water Bottle
Why bother buying one at the airport or getting countless cups on the plane if you know you have one at home? Be sure it’s empty when you go through security and just fill it up on the other side. You should probably be open to drinking tap water if you do though because even in 2018 not all airports have water fountains.

Headphones
Always, always, always have headphones. The ones they give you on planes or make you pay for are trash. Also so wasteful. I personally always have a pair of normal headphones in case there are TVs and beats because they block more sound if I’m listening from my phone or iPad.

iPad
Checking my privilege on this one, but if you are lucky enough to have an iPad they’re great for travel. I don’t always bring my laptop but I do bring the iPad because I can fit all the music, movies, and games on there I want. Not only is it much smaller and lighter to travel with but it can keep me entertained through even the longest, tv-less flights.

Snacks
I definitely overpack on the snacks because I’m vegan and god knows what I’ll find at the airport, but everyone should always take snacks. You never know if they’re going to feed you, what they’re going to feed your, or if you’ll sleep through all the meals so be prepared. Plus airport food is crazy expensive so if you’re trying to be healthy or save dough, grab a few things at the grocery store the night before.

Just beware of the liquid restrictions because they definitely apply to things like jars of peanut butter, jelly and cream cheese.

Light Toiletries
Again, just in case my bag gets lost I always have extra contacts (I wear glasses when flying), my makeup bag, a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and hand sanitizer. If you want to get fancy you can toss a little facial mist or moisturizer in there as well.

An Extra Pair of Underwear
Some people do full a extra set of clothes. I think that’s a bit much. Even if your luggage gets lost and you have to spend a few extra hours in the clothes you have on, what’s the one thing you’ll want? Clean underwear.

Chargers
I also tend to take every charger I may need in my backpack because you never know. If they lose your luggage somewhere over the Atlantic, you’re still going to need power to take pictures and keep in touch with people along the way. Unless you’re going to a technology-free retreat, in which case, less power to you.

A Sweater
Yes, planes are notoriously cold but I’ve also overheated on them so you really never know. But having a sweater on your body or in your bag is always a good idea.

My Heaviest Shoes
Depending on where you’re going you may need everything from sneakers to snow boots to sandals, so I always wear the heaviest shoes I’m taking on the plane. Because hello more room for clothes or souvenirs!

See you in Chile and Argentina in nine days, and let me know where you’re off to next!