Ultimate Guide to Travel Gear Packing

Pre-Packing Strategy: The Foundation of a Perfect Pack

The secret to a stress-free journey begins long before you leave for the airport. A thoughtful pre-packing strategy is not about restriction; it’s about freedom. It’s the difference between dragging a heavy, disorganized bag and gliding through your travels with everything you need, and nothing you don’t. By making a few key decisions upfront, you set the stage for a smoother, more enjoyable experience.

Choosing Your Luggage

Your luggage is your mobile home base, and selecting the right one is the first critical step. The ideal bag is a seamless extension of your travel style, not an obstacle. Consider the nature of your trip, your destinations, and your personal comfort before you commit. For guidance on what to bring, check out our Photography tours Essentials: What to Bring and How to Prepare.

• Carry-on vs. Checked: The choice between carrying on and checking a bag impacts your budget, time, and peace of mind. A carry-on is perfect for shorter trips, offering the advantage of skipping baggage claim and keeping your belongings with you at all times, which reduces the risk of loss. However, it requires disciplined packing due to strict size and liquid limitations. A checked bag provides ample space for longer journeys, bulky gear, or souvenirs. The trade-off is the potential for airline fees, the wait upon arrival, and the small but real risk of it being delayed or lost.
• Backpack vs. Suitcase: A travel backpack is the companion of the adventurer. It offers unparalleled mobility for navigating cobblestone streets, train station stairs, and varied terrains, keeping your hands free. It’s the natural choice for multi-destination trips or rural explorations. A suitcase, particularly a spinner with four wheels, is ideal for city breaks, business travel, and single-destination stays where you’ll be moving primarily between airports and hotels with smooth surfaces. It excels at keeping formal wear organized and wrinkle-free.
• Hard-shell vs. Soft-shell: This decision balances protection and flexibility. Hard-shell luggage offers superior protection for fragile contents and provides better water resistance. Its rigid structure prevents overstuffing. Soft-shell luggage, on the other hand, offers more give. Its flexibility can be a lifesaver when trying to fit in one last item, and exterior pockets provide convenient access to documents or a jacket.
• The importance of quality wheels and handles: Do not underestimate the profound impact of these components. Look for smooth, 360-degree spinner wheels that glide effortlessly beside you, reducing strain on your arm. A sturdy, telescoping handle that locks securely at a comfortable height is non-negotiable. Flimsy handles and sticky wheels are a constant source of frustration and a common point of failure on lesser-quality bags.

Creating a Master Packing List

A packing list is your single most effective tool against the twin perils of overpacking and forgetting essentials. It transforms packing from a chaotic scramble into a deliberate, calm process. Whether digital or physical, your list is the blueprint for a perfectly packed bag. For a comprehensive guide on preparing for your adventures, explore our tips on things you should do before any photography trip.

• Researching your destination: Your list must be informed by your destination. Begin by checking the weather forecast, looking beyond temperature to factors like humidity and chance of rain. Next, list your planned activities—will you be hiking, attending a formal dinner, or lounging by a pool? Finally, be aware of any cultural norms regarding dress, particularly if you plan to visit religious sites that may require covered shoulders or knees. Understanding your destination’s nuances can greatly enhance your travel photography experience.
• The “Rule of Three”: To build a versatile travel wardrobe, consider the “Rule of Three.” For a key clothing category like trousers, choose three different but complementary items: for instance, one pair of dark jeans, one pair of tailored chinos, and one pair of comfortable linen pants. Ensure each of these can be worn with most of the tops you plan to bring. This simple framework promotes mix-and-match possibilities and elegantly curbs the tendency to pack for “just in case” scenarios.
• Using digital tools and apps vs. a physical checklist: Modern travelers can leverage apps like PackPoint, which generate lists based on destination and activities. Alternatively, a simple list in your phone’s notes app is easily editable and always with you. For those who prefer a more tactile approach, a physical checklist offers the distinct satisfaction of ticking off items by hand. We’ve created a versatile downloadable packing list template to help you get started.
• Planning for laundry access: This is a crucial variable that dictates volume. If you will have access to laundry facilities—whether in a hotel, an apartment rental, or a local laundromat—you can pack for half the duration of your trip and re-wear items. If you won’t have laundry access, you must either pack enough for the entire trip or plan to hand-wash essentials like socks and undergarments in your hotel sink with travel detergent.

The Art of Efficient Packing: Techniques for Maximum Space

Once you have your packing list finalized, the next challenge is fitting everything into your luggage. The right techniques can dramatically increase your available space, minimize wrinkles, and make your travel experience significantly smoother. It’s less about cramming and more about strategic placement and using the right tools for the job. For a comprehensive guide on what to bring, check out our Photography tours Essentials: What to Bring and How to Prepare.

Rolling vs. Folding vs. Bundling

The debate over the best way to pack clothes is ongoing, but the truth is that different methods suit different items. A hybrid approach is often the most effective way to maximize space and protect your garments. Understanding these packing techniques is a crucial part of things you should do before any photography trip.

• When to Roll: This is the go-to method for most casual travel wear. T-shirts, knit tops, pajamas, casual pants, and jeans are perfect candidates for rolling. The technique involves folding the item in half lengthwise and then rolling it tightly from one end to the other. This compacts the fabric, saves a surprising amount of space, and helps prevent hard creases from forming.
• When to Fold: Reserve folding for more structured or delicate items. Dress shirts with collars, blazers, tailored trousers, and fabrics like stiff linen or silk fare better when carefully folded. Folding helps maintain their shape and prevents the kind of wrinkling that rolling can cause in less pliable materials. Use tissue paper between layers of very delicate items to reduce friction and creasing.
• The Bundle Wrapping Method: For travelers carrying a suit, a formal dress, or other easily wrinkled outfits, bundle wrapping is a superior technique. It works by layering clothes around a central, soft core (like a small pouch of socks and underwear). You start with the most wrinkle-prone items, like a blazer, laying them out flat and then wrapping less delicate items around the core on top of it. This creates soft curves instead of sharp folds, dramatically reducing the chance of deep-set wrinkles upon arrival.

Mastering Packing Organizers

Packing organizers are the key to transforming a chaotic suitcase into a model of efficiency. These tools help you compartmentalize, compress, and protect your belongings, making both packing and unpacking a far more pleasant experience. Getting your gear organized is just one aspect of preparing for your next adventure; learning about Tips and Good Habits for a Photo Trip is also essential.

• Packing Cubes: Think of packing cubes as portable drawers for your luggage. These zippered fabric containers allow you to group similar items together—all your shirts in one, pants in another, undergarments in a third. This not only keeps your suitcase tidy but also provides light compression. When you arrive, you can simply transfer the cubes directly into the hotel drawers, making settling in take mere seconds.
• Compression Bags: For truly bulky items, compression bags are essential. These are plastic bags that allow you to squeeze out every bit of excess air, shrinking items like puffy jackets, ski pants, and heavy sweaters to a fraction of their original size. A word of caution: while they save immense space, they don’t reduce weight, and they can cause significant wrinkles in fabrics not designed for compression.
• Toiletry Bags (Dopp Kits): A good toiletry bag is non-negotiable for preventing spills and keeping your personal items organized. Look for one with a waterproof or water-resistant lining and multiple compartments to separate liquids, solids, and tools like tweezers or nail clippers. Many modern kits come with a transparent, detachable pouch specifically for your 3-1-1 liquids, simplifying the TSA screening process.
• Electronics Organizers: In our connected world, we travel with a web of cables, chargers, adapters, and power banks. An electronics organizer tames this chaos. These padded cases with elastic loops and zippered pockets keep all your tech accessories in one place, protecting them from damage and saving you from frantically digging through your bag to find the right cable. Consider the Essential Camera Accessories for Beginners to supplement your tech gear.

Strategic Luggage Layout

How you arrange items inside your suitcase is the final piece of the packing puzzle. A well-balanced and strategically layered bag is easier to handle and navigate through airports. This careful planning is part of what makes attending photography tours so rewarding.

• Heavy Items at the Bottom: Always place your heaviest items—shoes, toiletry kits, books, or electronics—in the bottom of your suitcase, near the wheels. This creates a low center of gravity and ensures the bag rolls smoothly without tipping over when you stand it upright. For photographers, understanding how to pack camera gear, including things like using a tripod, is crucial.
• Fill Every Empty Space: Wasted space is the enemy of the efficient packer. Use every nook and cranny to your advantage. The most classic trick is to stuff socks, underwear, or small electronic chargers inside your shoes. Roll belts and place them along the perimeter of the suitcase. Tuck smaller, soft items into the gaps created by larger, rigid ones. This efficient use of space is key to mastering travel photography.
• Layering for Easy Access: If you’re using a carry-on, pack with the security checkpoint in mind. Place your 3-1-1 liquids bag and any large electronics like a laptop or tablet on the very top layer of your clothes. This allows you to remove them quickly for screening without having to unpack half your bag in the security line.
• Placing Your “First Night” Items on Top: After a long day of travel, the last thing you want to do is excavate your entire suitcase for your pajamas. Pack a small “first night” kit—a change of clothes, your toothbrush, and any essential toiletries—and place it right on top for immediate, hassle-free access upon arrival.

The Non-Negotiable Checklist: Your Core Gear

While every trip is unique, a core set of items forms the foundation of any successful pack. These are the essentials that provide comfort, safety, and functionality, regardless of your destination. Mastering this list ensures you’re prepared for the expected and adaptable enough for the unexpected.

Essential Clothing

The goal of a travel wardrobe is maximum versatility with minimum volume. Focus on high-quality, comfortable pieces that can be mixed, matched, and layered to create multiple outfits.

• Versatile Basics: Build your wardrobe around a core of neutral-colored items. Think black, navy, grey, or beige trousers or skirts, and a selection of tops in complementary solid colors. These pieces can be dressed up or down and form the backbone of all your outfits.
• Layering Pieces: A single, well-chosen layering item can adapt your wardrobe to a wide range of temperatures. A lightweight merino wool sweater, a versatile fleece, a classic cardigan, or a packable light jacket is indispensable for cool evenings, aggressive air conditioning, or changing weather.
• Undergarments and Socks: The standard rule is to pack enough for each day of your trip, plus one extra set. This provides a buffer in case of travel delays or limited laundry access. Consider moisture-wicking fabrics for active trips.
• One “Smart” Outfit: You never know when a spontaneous opportunity for a fine dinner or a formal event might arise. Pack one nicer outfit—a simple dress, or a collared shirt and clean trousers—that doesn’t wrinkle easily.
• Footwear: The Holy Trinity: Shoes are often the bulkiest items, so choose wisely. Limit yourself to three key pairs: a comfortable, broken-in pair for extensive walking; a stylish casual shoe (like a loafer or clean sneaker) for city exploring; and a situation-dependent third pair, such as sandals for a warm climate or a dress shoe for formal needs.

Toiletries and Personal Health

Maintaining your health and hygiene on the road is crucial. A well-organized toiletry kit and a basic first-aid supply can prevent minor issues from becoming major travel disruptions.

• The 3-1-1 Liquids Rule: For carry-on luggage, the TSA (and many other international security agencies) enforces this rule. All liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. All of these containers must fit inside a single, clear, 1-quart-sized zip-top bag. One bag is allowed per passenger.
• The Rise of Solid Toiletries: To bypass the liquids rule and save space, consider solid alternatives. Shampoo and conditioner bars, solid perfume, toothpaste tablets, and soap bars are effective, eco-friendly, and spill-proof.
• A Minimalist First-Aid Kit: You don’t need a paramedic’s bag, just the basics to handle common travel ailments. Include adhesive bandages of various sizes, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen), blister treatment, and any personal medications like antacids or allergy pills.
• Prescription Medications: Always pack prescription medications in your carry-on bag, never in checked luggage. Keep them in their original, labeled containers to avoid questions at security or customs. It’s also wise to carry a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s note.

Electronics and Connectivity

In our connected world, having the right electronic gear is less a luxury and more a necessity for navigation, communication, and entertainment.

• Universal Travel Adapter: A single adapter that covers multiple regions (US, UK, EU, AU) is one of the best investments a traveler can make. Look for a model with integrated USB ports to charge multiple devices from one outlet.
• Portable Power Bank: This is a true lifesaver for long travel days. A reliable power bank ensures your phone, which often serves as your map, camera, and boarding pass, doesn’t die at a critical moment. Ensure it complies with airline regulations for lithium batteries (usually allowed in carry-on only).
• All Necessary Charging Cables: Do a quick audit before you leave: phone cable, watch cable, camera cable, e-reader cable. An electronics organizer can keep this collection of wires from becoming a tangled mess in your bag.
• Noise-Canceling Headphones: Transform a noisy plane, train, or café into a sanctuary of calm. They are invaluable for enjoying music, podcasts, or simply silence during your journey.
• Optional Gadgets: Depending on your travel style, you might also pack an e-reader for lightweight reading, a dedicated camera for high-quality photos, or a tablet for watching movies or doing light work.

Documents, Security, and Money

Your most important items are not clothes or gadgets, but the documents that allow you to travel. Keeping them secure and accessible is paramount.

• Passport, Visas, and Photo ID: Your passport is your single most important travel document. Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Keep any necessary visas with it, and carry a secondary photo ID, like a driver’s license, as a backup.
• Digital and Physical Copies: Prepare for the worst-case scenario of lost or stolen documents. Have photocopies of your passport, visas, and driver’s license stored in your checked luggage, separate from the originals. Also, save digital copies in a secure cloud service or in your email.
• Travel Wallet or Money Belt: Keep your essential cards, cash, and ID organized and secure. For areas where pickpocketing is a concern, a money belt worn under your clothes offers an added layer of security.
• A Mix of Payment Methods: Don’t rely on a single source of funds. Carry at least two different credit or debit cards (in case one is lost or blocked) and a small amount of local currency for immediate needs like a taxi or a snack upon arrival.
• Emergency Information: Keep a small card in your wallet with the contact information for your country’s embassy, your travel insurance provider’s 24-hour emergency line, and a close contact back home.

Customizing Your Pack: Trip-Specific Add-Ons

While a well-curated core wardrobe forms the foundation of any packing list, the true art of preparation lies in tailoring your gear to the specific demands of your destination. The essentials will get you there, but these trip-specific additions will ensure you are comfortable, prepared, and able to fully immerse yourself in the experience, whether it’s on a sandy shore, a bustling city street, or a remote mountain trail. Understanding things you should do before any photography trip can help tailor your packing.

The Beach Vacation Pack

Packing for a coastal getaway is about more than just a swimsuit. It’s about sun protection, relaxed comfort, and keeping sand and water away from your valuables. The goal is to be prepared for long, leisurely days by the water and balmy evenings.

• Swimwear and cover-ups: Pack at least two swimsuits. This allows one to dry completely while you wear the other, preventing discomfort. A versatile cover-up, like a sarong, linen shirt, or kaftan, can take you from the beach to a casual lunch spot with ease.
• Reef-safe sunscreen and after-sun lotion: Protect your skin and the delicate marine ecosystems by choosing a mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen. Sun exposure can be intense, so a quality after-sun lotion with aloe is essential for soothing and rehydrating your skin at the end of the day.
• Sun hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle: A wide-brimmed hat offers superior protection for your face and neck. Polarized sunglasses are crucial for reducing glare off the water and protecting your eyes. Staying hydrated is paramount in the heat, and a reusable water bottle is both an environmental and practical choice.
• Waterproof phone pouch or a small dry bag: A simple waterproof pouch keeps your phone safe from splashes, sand, and even brief submersion, allowing you to capture photos near the water without worry. For more gear, a small roll-top dry bag is an excellent investment.

The Urban Explorer (City Break) Pack

City travel demands a blend of style, comfort, and practicality. You’ll likely be on your feet for hours, navigating public transport, visiting museums, and enjoying diverse dining experiences. Your pack should support long days of exploration that often transition into evening activities without a stop back at the hotel. Exploring different locations can influence your city packing strategy.

• A comfortable, stylish daypack or crossbody bag: Choose a bag that is large enough for your daily essentials (water bottle, map, power bank) but streamlined enough not to be cumbersome in crowds. A crossbody bag offers added security, while a minimalist daypack provides better weight distribution.
• Broken-in walking shoes: This is the most critical item for any city trip. Never bring brand-new shoes. Your primary pair should be well-worn and proven for all-day comfort, whether they are stylish sneakers, supportive flats, or comfortable boots. Blisters are the quickest way to ruin a day of sightseeing.
• A portable umbrella or lightweight rain jacket: Urban weather can be notoriously unpredictable. A compact, travel-sized umbrella or a packable rain jacket can be a trip-saver, easily stowed in your day bag until needed.
• Outfits that can transition from day to night: Pack smart, versatile pieces. A simple dress can be worn with sneakers for daytime exploring and elevated with a scarf and nicer shoes for dinner. For men, a pair of dark, well-fitting chinos can serve the same dual purpose.

The Adventure Travel Pack

When your itinerary involves hiking, trekking, or exploring the great outdoors, your gear’s performance and utility become the top priority. The focus shifts from aesthetics to function, durability, and protection from the elements. Every item should serve a distinct purpose. Packing the right gear is crucial for successful travel photography.

• Appropriate footwear: This is your most important piece of gear. Choose hiking boots for ankle support on rugged, uneven terrain or lighter trail runners for speed and comfort on well-maintained paths. Ensure they are thoroughly broken-in before your trip.
• Moisture-wicking clothing: Avoid cotton, which absorbs moisture and can leave you feeling cold and damp. Instead, opt for layers made from materials like merino wool or synthetics. These fabrics pull sweat away from your skin, regulate body temperature, and resist odors over multiple days of wear.
• Waterproof/windproof outer layers: A reliable outer shell jacket is non-negotiable. It will protect you from unexpected rain and wind, which can be dangerous in remote areas. Layering—a base layer, an insulating mid-layer like a fleece, and a protective outer shell—allows you to adapt to any weather condition.
• Water filter or purification tablets: Access to safe drinking water is vital. A lightweight, portable water filter or a small bottle of purification tablets allows you to safely refill your water bottle from natural sources like rivers and streams, reducing the weight you need to carry.
• Headlamp or small flashlight: A headlamp is superior to a flashlight as it keeps your hands free for tasks like setting up a tent, cooking, or navigating a trail in the dark. It’s an essential safety item for early morning starts or unexpected delays.

Carry-On vs. Checked Luggage: A Strategic Division

The decision to check a bag or travel with only a carry-on is more than a matter of convenience; it’s a strategic choice that shapes your journey. An intelligent division of your belongings between these two options provides a safety net against lost luggage, ensures comfort during transit, and helps you navigate the airport with ease. Think of your carry-on as your 24-hour survival kit and your checked bag as the supporting cast for the rest of your adventure.

What to ALWAYS Pack in Your Carry-On

Your carry-on bag is your lifeline. Should your checked luggage be delayed or misplaced, the contents of this bag will be all you have. Pack it with the assumption that you might not see your other bag for at least a day. This is not about paranoia; it’s about prudent preparation.

• A complete change of clothes: This includes a fresh top, undergarments, and socks. Choose a versatile outfit that could be worn to dinner if needed. Arriving at your destination with the ability to change into clean clothes is a simple but profound comfort.
• All essential medications: This is the most critical rule. Never pack prescription medications in a checked bag. Luggage can be lost or exposed to temperatures that could damage your medicine. Keep them in their original containers to avoid issues at security.
• Valuables: Anything of high monetary or sentimental value should remain with you. This includes jewelry, laptops, cameras, tablets, and other electronics. Airlines have limited liability for such items if they are lost or damaged in checked luggage. Consider learning about camera gear 101 for newbies to ensure you pack wisely.
• Important documents: Your passport, visas, driver’s license, boarding passes, and any hotel or rental car confirmations must be in your carry-on. While digital copies are useful, the original documents should never leave your person.
• Basic toiletries: A small kit with a toothbrush, travel-sized toothpaste, deodorant, and face wash can make you feel human again after a long flight. This small pouch ensures you can freshen up upon arrival, regardless of when your main luggage appears.

What’s Best for Checked Luggage

Your checked bag holds the bulk of your belongings—the items that are not immediately essential or are too large for the cabin. It’s the home for everything that supports the full duration and scope of your trip.

• Full-size liquids and toiletries: This is the place for your favorite full-size shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen, and lotion. You can pack these without the constraints of the 3-1-1 liquids rule. It is wise to secure them in a waterproof bag to contain any potential leaks.
• Bulky items: Heavy coats, sweaters, hiking boots, and extra shoes consume significant space and weight. Placing them in your checked luggage frees up your carry-on for essentials and makes your journey through the airport much more comfortable. This is also where you might pack items for specific activities, such as photography tours essentials.
• Souvenirs and non-essential items: Any gifts or souvenirs you purchase on your travels are best placed in your checked bag for the journey home. The same goes for items you can live without for a day, such as extra books or specialized gear.
• Items not permitted in the cabin: Certain items are prohibited in carry-on luggage for security reasons. This includes pocket knives, multi-tools with blades, large scissors, and trekking poles. Always check the latest transportation security regulations before you pack.

Navigating Airline Restrictions

Airlines are increasingly strict about luggage size and weight, and failing to comply can lead to unexpected and often expensive fees at the gate. A little preparation can ensure a smooth check-in process. Knowing these details is part of the preparation for any photography trip.

• Why you need a portable luggage scale: This small, inexpensive device is one of the most valuable tools in a traveler’s arsenal. A portable luggage scale allows you to weigh your bags at your hotel before you head to the airport, eliminating any guesswork and allowing you to redistribute weight if necessary. It can pay for itself in a single trip by helping you avoid one overweight fee.
• Tips for staying under the weight limit: If your bag is close to the limit, wear your heaviest items—such as your hiking boots, heaviest jacket, and chunkiest sweater—on the plane. Consider the weight of the suitcase itself when purchasing one; lightweight models can save you precious kilograms.
• Understanding size restrictions: It is essential to know that a “carry-on” and a “personal item” are different. Each has its own size limitations, which can vary significantly between airlines, especially with budget carriers. Always check your specific airline’s website for their current dimension requirements before you start packing. A soft-shell bag often has more give and can be easier to fit into a tight sizer than a rigid hard-shell case.

The Final Countdown: Pre-Departure Checks

The bags are packed, the itinerary is set, and the anticipation is building. Before you walk out the door, a few final, deliberate checks can make the difference between a seamless departure and a stressful start. This is not the time for frantic last-minute additions; it’s about a calm, methodical review to ensure everything is in its right place. For a comprehensive guide, consider these things you should do before any photography trip.

The Day-Before Final Review

The day before you travel is your final opportunity to tie up loose ends. Taking a few moments for a final review will give you the confidence that you are truly ready to go.

• Weigh your bags to avoid surprise fees. There are few travel frustrations as costly as an overweight baggage fee at the check-in counter. Use a portable luggage scale—a small but invaluable investment for any frequent traveler—to check both your carry-on and checked bags. This allows you to redistribute weight or remove non-essential items at home, rather than in front of a queue of impatient travelers.
• Check your packing list one last time. Pull out the master list you created and do a final mental or physical check. Have you packed your phone charger? Did you remember the prescription medication? This final pass is your safeguard against forgetting something simple but crucial. It’s the moment to ensure every item on your list has made it into the correct bag. This is also a good time to ensure you have your photography tours essentials.
• Ensure your 3-1-1 liquids bag is compliant and accessible. For those traveling with a carry-on, the liquids rule is non-negotiable. Double-check that all your liquid containers are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and that they all fit comfortably inside a single, clear, quart-sized bag. Place this bag in an outer pocket of your carry-on or right on top of your belongings for quick removal at the security checkpoint. A smooth security experience sets a positive tone for the entire journey.

Packing Your “Personal Item” Bag

Your personal item—be it a backpack, tote, or crossbody bag—is your in-flight command center. Packing it thoughtfully is key to a comfortable and stress-free transit experience. This bag should contain everything you need to access without having to stand up and open the overhead bin.

• Curate for in-flight comfort and entertainment. Think about the duration of your flight and what will make it more pleasant. This is where you should pack your noise-canceling headphones, a book or e-reader, a portable power bank, and any snacks you prefer. A reusable water bottle (empty, to be filled after security) and a travel pillow can also significantly enhance your comfort. For those interested in capturing memories on the go, remember that travel photography can be maximized with your mobile device.
• Keep essential documents within immediate reach. Your passport, boarding pass, phone, and wallet are the keys to your journey. Designate a specific, secure, and easily accessible pocket for them. This simple habit prevents the panicked pat-down of pockets and frantic rummaging through your bag at every checkpoint, from security to the boarding gate.
• Leave a little extra space. It’s wise to leave a small amount of empty space in your personal item. You might want to buy a bottle of water, a magazine, or a small snack at the airport. Having this buffer zone means you won’t have to struggle to close your bag after a last-minute purchase.