Airport Style Guide: 20+ chic & comfortable airplane outfit ideas

Mastering the art of putting together a chic yet comfortable airport outfit no matter the season is something I’ve been working towards for the last 5+ years & I think I’ve finally got the perfect formula. You think I’m joking but I’m totally serious.

And since we never gatekeep over here, I’m sharing that formula with you so that you can use it when gearing up for your next great adventure.

Here’s my formula [this can be adjusted depending on the season you’re traveling in & the destination you’re headed to]:

BASE LAYER + TOP LAYER[S] + COMFORTABLE SHOES + HAT + CROSS BODY = CHIC

The base layer is usually some version of a matching set [which is almost always from Amazon]. I want it to be stretchy, easy to wash when I get to my destination & something that can easily fit under a jacket.

The top layer is usually a jacket [heavier for cold destinations or a jean jacket for warm destinations] - I try to wear my most bulky jacket to save space in my suitcase.

When it comes to shoes I aim for two things:

• First - comfort. I made the mistake of wearing new shoes on a flight one time and the horrible blisters I got were enough to remind me to NEVER make that mistake again

• Second - bulk. If I can save space in my luggage and wear bulky boots on the plane, I totally will.

98% of the time I wear hats on the plane. I have never had much luck in safely packing my hats in my suitcase and much prefer to wear them instead of risking them getting scrunched up.

Pro-tip: if you’re sitting in a window seat you can take them off and rest them flat against the side of the plane [this is for wide-brim hats].

Finally, one of the best things you can have in your airport outfit arsenal is a cross-body bag. This is the one that I’ve been wearing recently. But if you’re not looking for an investment bag - I also LOVE this affordable alternative. I put everything I need quick access to like my passport, phone, earbuds, chapstick, etc.

Combine all of these elements and you’ve got yourself a formula for success.

Now let’s get into the styling. I’m sharing 20+ chic airport outfit ideas below.

A MATCHING SET

These are what I wear 90% of the time on any flight (especially on a long haul). There’s something so simple and comfy about throwing one of these on and not having to think too long and hard about your outfit. I have had such great luck with Amazon matching sets & have linked some of my favorites below.

SWEATER + T-SHIRT + JOGGERS

This is my second most common airport outfit & you can really mix and match here depending on where you’re traveling to. Usually, my sweater is a statement piece from my favorite brand or something I’ve rented on Nuuly or Rent the Runway [code RTRALLEP for 40% off two months].

Then the t-shirt is something that matches - either a graphic tee or something plain. For fun graphic t-shirts, this is my go to shop. But when it comes to staple pieces, there’s no beating this brand [or their prices].

When it comes to joggers, I usually get those from a few different places but I’ve been loving this shapewear brand’s airport-focused line.

JEANS + T-SHIRT + SWEATER/COAT

Listen…I already know what you’re going to say… JEANS ON AN AIRPLANE?! I’m not insane, I promise. But I have a few pairs of comfortable jeans that I can wear on planes if I want to elevate my look a bit. This is important if I need to hit the ground running in my destination.

This is my favorite brand of jeans and pretty much the brand I exclusively wear. This is the pair that I wear honestly almost every day - I should buy a second pair at this point lol.

FANCY PJS

I don’t wear this often but probably should haha. This was such a luxe way to fly home from Singapore on a BRUTALLY long flight (17 hours) and still feel put together. Of course these are from Farm Rio - my favorite brand. But you can find some comfy PJs that can double as real clothes here too!

And while I wouldn’t wear these on a plane, these are my all time favorite fancy PJs that you can easily turn into a fun outfit for a night on the town.

CLASSIC CREWNECK AND MATCHING JOGGERS

Sometimes you just need a super cozy and comfy sweatshirt and joggers. This was in the dead of winter in Chicago and I was flying to South East Asia so I really didn’t want to lug around a winter coat. So instead, I opted for a very warm set like this.

This is one of my favorite brands for chic jogger sets.

A YOGA SET

I don’t do this too often because, for whatever reason, I feel like yoga sets can be a little too restrictive on flights. But if you find the right one, it’s bliss.

I love this brand for all their yoga & athleisure sets. Pair it with a cross body, something to keep you warm and a comfortable pair of shoes - these are my favorite - and you’re GOLDEN.

THE MOB WIFE COAT

I mean…need I say more?! If you want to turn heads at the airport (one of my favorite pastimes) you should bust out the mob wife coat. These are perfect for when you want to bring a statement coat on a trip but can’t imagine devoting the space in your suitcase to fit it.

Plus if you get cold on a plane this was basically like a giant blanket (I’ve never slept better on a plane haha).

I get most of my statement coats via Nuuly or Rent the Runway [code RTRALLEP for 40% off two months].

THE ACCESSORIES

Arguably these are the most important elements of your airport outfit.

When it comes to shoes - if I’m wearing a sneaker - these are the ones I’m grabbing for. They are crazy lightweight, clean up nicely if they get dirty and most importantly, I can wear them all day.

If I’m going somewhere warm, sometimes I’ll wear a sandal to the airport - I know this is controversial but I have TSA pre-check so I don’t have to take off my shoes.

If it’s the winter, I’m wearing a BULKY book most likely which often times is some version of a combat boot - those are my favorite for fall and winter travel.

For bags, I’m ALWAYS carrying my Tumi Backpack & my Away carry on [click here to get $20 off your Away order].

I put my crossbody on and hide it under the coat I’m wearing…shhh don’t tell anyone haha. My crossbody is usually this bag, or this one. But if you’re not looking for a designer bag then I would go with this bag.

For hats, this is my GO TO hat brand. But if I want to mix it up - this is my VERY close second option.

For more outfit inspiration, travel tips and destination recommendations check out the rest of the blog, shop my LTK page & my Amazon Storefront.

Alle's A-List: Spring Break Essentials

It’s Spring Break Season - wooooo! After Friday’s snow in Chicago, all I can think of is escaping somewhere warm lol. That said, I can’t believe it is already the end of March! I feel like this year is FLYING by but I’m so excited about this upcoming year of travel! 

Starting with our Gals Abroad Getaways trip to India & the UAE in less than a month!

While I’m not going on an official “Spring Break” trip per se - I did just get back from sunny Palm Springs where I got to host the BNP Paribas Tennis Open for a 3rd year in a row and soak up some incredible weather while working with my amazing colleagues!!

So whether you are lounging in a beach chair, exploring a new city, or just taking a little “you” time, I hope you take some time this spring to enjoy a little break from your everyday routine.

And if you are heading somewhere warm…Here are some of my Spring Break Essentials to add to your packing list. The best part of all? These are all on Amazon Prime so you can get them ASAP!

MY TOP 10 SPRING BREAK AMAZON FINDS

#1  A Staple Straw Hat & A Hat Clip to Help Carry it 

 #2  An Easy to Pack Tote Bag

#3  My Fav Sunscreen (feels like you’re not even wearing it) & a cute pouch to store your SPF

#4  A Comfy Sandal

#5  Cute Easy Dress

#6  Liquid IV

#7  Cute & Cheap Sunglasses (Amazon has the BEST)

#8  Swimsuit (comes in a ton of colors)

#9   A Trendy Swimsuit Coverup Set

#10  Collapsible Water Bottle

Travel Essentials for Women: 30+ items I Pack on Every Trip

30+ TRAVEL ESSENTIALS FOR WOMEN

After traveling to 40 countries and starting my own group travel business taking women around the world with me on our Gals Abroad Getaways group trips, I think it’s safe to say I’m an expert in knowing what you need to bring on a trip.

I’ve been on every type of trip you can imagine, from exploring the various corners of India to island hopping in Greece. On each of those journies, I’ve learned some valuable lessons on what are truly essential items to pack that I hope will be helpful to you.

To make it easy on you, I’ve broken this post into sections like essentials, health, wardrobe, beauty, etc. to make sure that every step of the travel process is covered.

ONE IMPORTANT POINT TO MAKE: I am a maximalist. This is NOT a guide to packing carry-on only. I am typically checking one bag, and carrying on a rolling suitcase & backpack. I am first and foremost concerned with the functionality of each item but I’m also really into aesthetics. So if you like to travel in style with ease, you’ve come to the right list.

If you’re looking for the backpacker’s guide to traveling for two months…I’m sorry I cannot help you with that lol.

Rather this is a comprehensive list of all the women’s travel essentials that have become must-pack items on every trip I take.

THE BASICS

I’ve come to learn that having a successful trip starts with the bones. A great suitcase, fantastic organizational items and things that will make your packing process more streamlined are all essentials in my book.

Passport Case

A passport case is such a fun travel accessory. It’s like a wallet for your most important travel item, so I like to keep my well protected. I love that these passport covers can be customized.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, I adore this one from Ban.do and it’s under $20!

CLICK HERE TO SHOP THE CUSTOM CASE

Away Luggage Set

I am a HUGE Away luggage fan and I can confirm they totally live up to the hype. I got the special edition Serena Williams teal set in the carry-on, medium and large and LOVE THEM.

I think the compression system inside makes my luggage feel more organized & the wheels are buttery smooth. And…you HAVE to get the carry-on with the battery pack.

PRO TIP: if you’re planning to use the carry-on on international flights, don’t get the bigger carry-on. It’s bigger than many of the dimensions most international carriers allow.

CLICK HERE FOR $20 OFF

Stoney Clover Lane Pouches

I am OBSESSED with this colorful, customizable accessories brand! Their pouches, passport cases, luggage tags and backpacks make your lineup of travel accessories so much more fun! This is the company I used to make my Alle Abroad backpack! I especially adore this travel sunglasses case!

CHECK OUT THE SELECTION

Packing Cubes

These are insanely helpful for keeping your suitcase organized. Everyone uses these in different ways but I like to use them for keeping my underwear, bras, socks, staple pieces in one tidy place. I put my PJs & workout gear in one and if I’m going to be swimming I use a cube to pack all my swimsuits.

CLICK TO SHOP

Hanging Toiletry Case

I love a hanging toiletry bag. Space in the bathroom can be limited so having something that hangs is a total gamechanger. This one has THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews and it comes in a few different colors.

SHOP HERE

Tumi Voyageur Backpack

I’ve had this backpack for 3 years now and I really can’t say enough good things about it. Tumi truly knows what it’s doing and even though it’s a splurge, you’ll have it for years and it will truly stand the test of time. Plus it comes in a few different colors (which is something they just offered).

shop here

Hanging Jewelry Organizer

Are you sensing a tend? I love hanging things and having my jewelry in a place where I can easily see it all in one place gives me a better chance of actually wearing the things I brought with me.

shop here

Convertable Tote Bag

This is a big one. If you’re like me and you have A LOT of crap to carry around with you when you’re traveling, a bag like this will be your new best friend. It packs down super small and can hold everything from my laptop, camera, and anything I might need while I’m out and about (plus it comes in A TON of cute colors)

shop here

Shoe Dust Bags

Friend, if you are not packing your dirty shoes separately from the other items in your suitcase, it’s time to change up that bad habit.

I won’t get into all the nasty crap that could be on the bottom of your shoes (literally and figuratively) so it’s time to start storing them in a place where you can control the dirt.

These can easily fit 3 pairs of my shoes in each bag and come in a bunch of fun colors and patterns.

shop here

Cute Travel Toiletry Bag

It might not be the most practical but it’s big, cute, and fits full-sized products.

shop here

A rolling rack

Okay, this is a GAMECHANGER when you’re packing because it helps you visualize what you’re bringing and keep it separate from the other items in your closet. Also this will help you come up with a color palette for your suitcase so you can pack in the same color scheme which makes selecting accessories so much easier.

shop here

FOR THE PLANE

What you pack in your carry on is easily one of the most important parts of air travel. These items are what can make your journey less stressful and uncomfortable and as enjoyable as possible. You of course know the basics like tablets, books & things to entertain you, but here’s my essential carry on items.

Compression Socks

I initially didn’t believe the hype but ahead of a 17 hour flight a few years ago, I decided to give them a try and let me tell you, I’ve never looked back since.

Truly though, these socks are so important for long-haul flights.  There’s a condition called Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) that causes blood clots from traveling for an extended period of time in cramped conditions (ugh as if economy class wasn’t bad enough lol). So if you want to protect your legs, I strongly suggest traveling with these. They ain’t sexy, but they sure do work!

shop now

Deep Contoured Sleep Mask

I never used to think I needed these because I have the delightful ability to fall asleep pretty much anywhere. But I find that I sleep deeper when I’m wearing a mask. Plus, I love having a mask for when I’m wanting to rest but the lights/windows are open on the plane.

shop here

Travel Blanket and Pillow

If you’re sitting in economy, but want to elevate your experience, this pillow will do just that. Plus it also doubles as a blanket. And if you’re skeptical like I am about whether or not the blankets and pillows on long-haul flights are actually clean…this is going to be your new best friend.

shop here

Luggage Cup Holder

If you’re like me and you always have too many things in your hands at the airport (enter my iced coffee) this cupholder let’s you safely store your liquid fuel as you breeze through the airport and still have one hand free.

shop here

Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

THIS IS A LONG-HAUL FLIGHT GAME CHANGER. If you are a big fan of noise-canceling headphones on flights like me, you obviously are pretty bummed out when you can’t use them to watch your favorite movies on your long-haul flight. This fixes that by connecting to your Bluetooth headphones to the TV on the plane.

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Chapstick

There is no worse feeling that forgetting/not being able to find your chapstick when you need it (especially on the plane), am I right? So I buy this fun variety pack and put a chapstick in my purse, my backpack, and put the rest in my toiletry bag for when I inevitably lose one lol.

shop here

BEAUTY / HAIR / SKINCARE

Here’s the thing, everyone’s beauty routine is going to be unique to them. I try and keep mine simple and easy when it comes to makeup and skincare while I’m traveling. That said, here are a few of the non-negotiable items that I’ve been using for many years that come with me on every trip.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen

I’m trying REALLY hard to wear sunscreen daily, especially when I travel. Supergoop! makes it super easy because this sunscreen is so light & fluffy it honestly feels like you have nothing on your face when you swipe it on. It’s a GREAT clean beauty product that actually WORKS. Say goodbye to gloopy sunscreen that never seems to sink in. I snag this at my local Sephora and they have TONS of amazing products, even sunscreen for your part!

CLICK TO SHOP

IGK Mini Beach ClubVolume Texture Spray

If you’re looking to cut down on your travel hair products this will be your new BFF. It’s a salt-free, texture spray that gives your hair hella volume and a solid hold if you’re looking to achieve that “Oh, I just left the beach” look.

CLICK TO SHOP

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream

This is the holy grail of moisturizers. It’s a concentrated 30 percent hyaluronic acid cream that transforms atmospheric vapor into fresh, pure water, WOW SCIENCE. And it feels super light and goes perfectly under makeup. I slather this stuff all over my face on long haul flights and at night before bed.

shop here

Lashify Lashes

These are my secret weapon for having a full set of lashes and not really needing to do much else while I’m traveling. I like to say these fall in-between lash extensions & strip lashes. These are DIY lash extensions that last anywhere from 5-10 days depending on the bond you use.

You get to customize your “lash map” to find your own style & the best part is that you get to wake up with perfect lashes while you’re on the go.

I have a code that takes 10% off your kit. I will say that these take a bit of practice but after the first two or so times, it will be easy breezy!

click for 10% off

ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation

I swear by this stuff! It’s the perfect light & minimal base that I use instead of foundation when I’m traveling. If you want just a little bit coverage but not feel like your make up is weighing you down (especially in hot destinations) this is going to be your new favorite thing.

My color is Morgat ST 11.5 - but you can always go to your local Sephora to get matched

shop here

Cream Blush

I love this super natural cream blush for travel. It gives you this perfect rosy glow without being too aggressive. Also, I love that it’s easy to toss in your bag.

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Mini Brush

I love traveling with one of these because after a long flight or a day out and about, it’s nice to just run this through my hair to freshen up.

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Travel Razor

I LOVE a mini razor and I love that this comes in a perfect little travel case.

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Uviña Skin

Uviña Skin is a mother and nurse-owned brand that makes it REALLY easy for you to have healthy, glowing skin! They have this super easy 3-step skincare routine helps cleanse, calm, brighten, and hydrate your skin using ingredients inspired by tradition and culture.

All products are easy to pack in a carry-on (hello, face cleansing bar!), TSA-friendly and are simple to use and made with non-toxic, naturally-derived ingredients.

Use Code: GALSABROAD for 20% off your order (minimum $20 purchase)

CHECK THEM OUT

Tarte Cheek Palette

This is a great space saver and has bronzer, blush, and highlighter. I LOVEEEE Tarte products and also use their fake awake eyeliner to fight jet lag lol.

USE CODE ALLEPIERCE FOR 15% OFF

shop here

Megababe’s Deodorant

I recently have switched to natural deodorant and Megababe has my new routine on LOCK. I start with their space soap bar (use it in the shower every day), then I detox with this mask 1-2 times a week & end with their deodorant. Truly a game changer and I love that it comes in a small travel size which is easy to slip in my purse.

shop here

HEALTH

Health and travel go hand in hand. We’ve all unfortunately had that one incident where we’ve gotten sick on a trip that haunts us all. So no matter if you’re combatting traveler’s tummy or just trying to stay healthy before a big trip, here are some of my essential go to health items to make sure you’ve always go on hand.

Acidil

GUYS, this is not a drill. If there were such a thing as a magic pill, Acidil would be it. It’s saved me time and time again from upset stomachs abroad and at home.

Basically, Acidil relieves heartburn, acid indigestion, bloating or upset stomach. It’s honestly a miracle. My mom and I discovered this product when I was in middle school because I used to get stomach aches ALL THE TIME. So this is something I’ve been using for almost 14 years.

We never travel without it. You can thank me later.

CLICK TO SHOP

Throat Spray

Travel can be incredibly hard on the body and this is my secret weapon to staying healthy while I’m constantly on the move.

This throat spray gives you immune support in the most natural form: Bee Propolis. This is nature's ultimate protector and the bee hive's immune system. It’s been used for centuries for immune support, sore throats and combating various ailments.

shop here

LIQUID I.V.

I first discovered this product in a Coachella Swag bag LOL. I mean, if you want to talk about dehydration, all you need to say is Coachella.

These are little electrolyte powder mixes that you can add to your water for rapid hydration. I pop a few of these into my travel med case and I know I’m good to go just in case.

shop here

TECH

These items will be your new BFFs on your next trip. From the converter I’ve brought around the world with me to the ultimate hack in ensuring you know exactly where your luggage is at all times - these are my travel tech essentials.

Voltage Converter & International Travel Adapter/Power Strip

Listen…those little adaptor cube things are BS. You can plug 1 or maybe two things in there and they’re clunky and most of the time fall out of the outlet. THIS bad boy is all you will ever need for your international converter/adaptor needs. I use this to charge my computer, phone, camera & most importantly plug my hair curler into it with no worries of frying it. It comes with adaptors that work for various countries & I swear it’s the best $40 you will ever spend.

CLICK TO SHOP

Bandolier Phone Case

Bandolier cases have changed the way I travel and honestly made my life so much easier. I know it seems weird to carry your phone cross body like a purse but it’s INCREDIBLY convenient, especially when traveling. Whether you’re juggling a bunch of bags at the airport or trying to balance taking photos on your camera & iphone, having your phone handy around your shoulders is such a game changer.

SHOP

Noise Canceling Headphones

No matter if you’re on a short flight or a long-haul flight the most essential item you can have is a pair of noise-canceling headphones (especially if you have a screaming kid near you…).

I was a long-time airpods pro gal (which are totally great) but these really changed the game and the battery lasts forever.

click to shop

Portable Tripod

If you’re solo traveling or can’t trust your travel companion to take the perfect shot - a portable tripod will be your best content creation hack. Plus this one comes with a Bluetooth remote which means you don’t need to be running back and forth with a self-timer looking like a crazy person. You can capture your content in peace and keep it moving haha.

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Power Bank Portable Charger

If you’re not already traveling with one of these you’re doing it wrong. There is nothing that drains your battery faster than traveling haha.

shop here

Apple Airtags

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

shop here

3 in 1 Wireless Charger

I’ve got all the Apple things (iPhone, Apple watch and Airpods) this charges them all - we LOVE efficiency when we travel.

shop here

WARDROBE

When it comes to what to wear on a trip, there’s SO much that goes into figuring out what you need for that specific trip. So rather than trying to cover it all, I thought I’d share a few staple clothing items that I pretty much pack on every trip.

Rent the Runway

This is my secret travel wardrobe weapon. Instead of spending tons of $$$ buying a whole new vacation wardrobe, Rent the Runway allows you to rent fun new items from thousands of designers without breaking the bank. I’ve been using it since 2016 and I truly cannot imagine traveling without it.

Use code RTRALLEP for 40% off of two months!

START RENTING

Sam Edelman White Sneaker

These are the most amazing white sneakers I have ever found. First and foremost they are so comfortable and can be worn for HOURS. But as a great bonus they are light as a feather too!

shop here

Sling or Fanny Pack

Fanny packs are fantastic for traveling (especially on a plane) this is where you can keep all your must-have essentials that you need to access easily while on the plane.

shop here

A Hat (or a few)

I LOVEEEEEEE hats. And I especially love them when I’m traveling and don’t feel like doing my hair lol. They automatically elevate any outfit. My go-to for summer hats are either Brixton or BTB Lost Angeles. And when It comes to hats that are great for any season then Lack of Color is where you need to shop.

A Comfy Airport Outfit

There is no outfit more important than the one you wear on the airplane. I like to strike the right balance between comfort and class and I find that Free People has some of the best lounge sets for travel days.

You’ll always want to have some sort of a wrap or scarf to keep you warm & I like to make sure to wear shoes that slide on easily.

Also if your bags are WAY over stuffed, I often wear my most bulky coats on the airplane.

shop here

Waterproof Sandals

I swear by these! I wear them EVERYWHERE and can walk around for hours in them.

They come in a million colors and really aren’t too expensive.

Even if you’re going to a winter destination these are still nice to have for walking around in the hotel room, going to the spa, etc.

shop here

Sunglasses

I always like to travel with a few pairs of inexpensive sunglasses so that if for whatever reason you lose them or they get damaged it’s not a huge bummer.

But if you’re lookin for a splurge-worthy pair, these are my absolute favorite sunglasses.

SHOP HERE

Planning a trip right now? Don’t FORGET TO CHECK OUT SOME OF THESE OTHER RESOURCES

• WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE A TRAVEL ADVISOR

• HOW TO START A TRAVEL BUCKET LIST

• CHECK OUT MY DESTINATION GUIDES

• WORK WITH LINDA TO PLAN YOUR NEXT TRIP

• JOIN US ON A FUTURE GALS ABROAD GETAWAY

Friendly reminder, this post contains some affiliate links. That means I receive a small compensation should you make a purchase from these links. This does not cost you anything extra. Thank you for your continued support of Alle Abroad!

How to Stay Healthy While Traveling

HOW TO STAY HEALTHY WHILE TRAVELING IN ANY SITUATION

No matter whether you’re trying to avoid getting a pesky cold or staying clear of COVID-19, this post covers all my best tips for staying healthy while you’re on the move.

I’ve been traveling almost full-time since 2018 and there are some specific tips I’ve picked up that help me stay healthy when I’m on back-to-back work trips, trying to make sure I don’t lose my voice before a speaking gig or traveling for months on end.

SCROLL FOR COVID SPECIFIC TIPS and be sure to follow the CDC's travel advisories and take extra precautions when traveling as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

HOW TO STAY HEALTHY BEFORE YOUR TRIP

PLAN AHEAD TO MINIMIZE STRESS

This is a HUGE one for me and one of the best tips I can give. If we’re honest, traveling or even getting ready to travel can be stressful. And a lot of the stress might come from the pre-travel research process involved in planning a trip.

So my first tip for you would be to hire a travel advisor and let an expert handle all the nitty gritty details.

OR join us on one of our Gals Abroad Getaways group trips!

Outside of those options, spend some time before you travel, researching your destination. I like to create a google doc with a list of places I want to see and things I want to do and then I map out a rough itinerary.

Before you leave be sure to make copies of your passport, any important travel documents, travel insurance cards, your vaccine card and even your international driver’s license — just in case you lose any of these items. I also have a folder on my phone with photos of my passport, vaccine card and my driver’s license.

GET TRAVEL INSURANCE

Make sure that when you’re planning your trip you find out if your medical insurance covers you overseas. Most often in the case of an accident or illness that requires hospitalization while traveling, most travel insurances and credit card benefits will only get you so far (which might not always be the best option for you and the quality of care could be subpar).

Getting a comprehensive travel insurance policy will always be your best bet to make sure you are fully covered and taken care of on your trip. With our Gals Abroad Getaways Group trips we make purchasing travel insurance mandatory and with any trip that Linda plans for her clients 99.9% of them get a travel insurance policy.

This helps to ensure that you’re protected against cancellations, lost luggage or unexpected life events that might prevent you from going on your trip.

There are plenty of options, we personally use Travelex Insurance for our clients. But I’ve also heard many of my peers in the industry recommend World Nomads for travel insurance.

PREPARE FOR UNEXPECTED HEALTH HICCUPS

Listen, when I travel, I am bringing the whole drug store with me (I get this from Linda haha). But I find that really anything can happen when traveling when it comes to getting sick. I’ve gotten the flu, colds, headaches, broke my toe, Linda broke her ankle in France, and in these COVID times…well, all I’ll say is that being overprepared is never a bad idea.

Bring your go-to lineup of remedies when you travel because your favorite over-the-counter remedies may not be available in the destination you’re visiting. Think of everything: headaches, blisters, stomach aches, brutal hangovers, getting your period, extra COVID tests, indigestion, any meds that might be required for the destination you’re visiting aka Malaria meds if you’re visiting certain countries in Africa. Chec out my recommendations for your own mini-emergency kit below.

CREATE YOUR OWN MINI EMERGENCY KIT

Having a bag full of “just in case” medications will be the BEST thing you pack for a trip to make sure all your bases are covered in case you fall ill. It’s for those illnesses in the middle of the night when you’re in a hotel room and have no access to any other medications.

The contents will probably vary depending on what you need most, but here’s what I’ve got in mine:

• Acidil - homeopathic medicine that helps with Acid Reflux, Heartburn, Indigestion, and Upset Stomach

• Nux Vomica - homeopathic medicine that helps with hangovers & super rich meals

• Band-aids in a few different sizes

• Antibiotic cream

• Pepto Bismol tablets

• Cough Drops

• Soar throat & immune support spray

• Anti-diarrheal medication

• Gas-X

• Benadryl or other allergy medicine

• Tylenol or other pain relievers

• Nausea medication

• Dramamine

• Melatonin or other sleep aid

• Hydration packets

• Hand sanitizer

• a few days of other prescription medications you may need

I put all of this into a pouch like this one. I keep it small so that it can easily fit in a tote bag or backpack. Once you’re home, make sure to restock your pouch so you’ll be ready for your next trip.

If you are prone to a weak stomach, talk to your doctor about taking some probiotics before your trip. It’s also not a bad idea to have your primary care doctor prescribe you anti-diarrheal medication should you fall ill (consult your doctor on what’s best).

TAKE SUPPLEMENTS

I think it’s really important before and during your trip to do anything you can to boost your immune system. I’ve been taking these Host Defense Mushroom pills to support your health with 17 powerful mushrooms formulated to support your immune system. I take two of these daily in the few days before my flight and during my trip if I feel that I need them.

I also like this brand Moon Juice which has something called Brain Dust for staying sharp and helps with adjusting to new time zones. You should also check out their Dream Dust if you need help falling asleep.

HOW TO STAY HEALTHY ON THE PLANE

WEAR COMPRESSION SOCKS ON FLIGHTS

If there is one thing I swear by, it’s wearing these FUGLY compression socks on any flight longer than 3 hours. Here’s the thing, when you sit for long amounts of time in cramped positions aka your Economy Class seat you’re more likely to develop blood clots in your legs. But when you wear these super sexy socks you encourage blood flow and reduce swelling.

Also, it’s not a bad idea to get up from your seat from time to time to walk around and stretch your calf muscles.

PACK SANITIZING WIPES AND USE THEM

Multiple studies have found that the tray table, yes, the very same one that you eat your crappy airplane meal off of is the dirtiest place on an airplane. Some other areas to clean - the seatbelt buckle and the overhead air vent. Plus, let’s be real, it only takes a few seconds to clean these surfaces with a wipe.

Stock up on these individual packets before you jump on the plane

USE AN APP LIKE TIME SHIFTER TO HELP YOU ADJUST TO YOUR NEW TIME ZONE

I have been using this app to help me shift between time zones since 2018 and it truly works (this is what astronauts use so you know it’s legit).

If you’ve ever traveled overseas you’ve probably experienced the annoyance of jet lag which is caused when you the sleep-wake and light-dark cycle shift too quickly.

The Timeshifter app gives you advice in the days leading up to your trip to help alleviate the disruptive symptoms of jet lag - tips like telling you when to get light or start/stop drinking caffeine, etc. It also helps with your return travel back home to help you start shifting back to the time zone you’re returning to.

You plug in your destination & departure and return dates & Timeshifter will come up with a personalized plan for you to help you shift - it’s seriously so cool!

STAY HYDRATED

This is a big one, especially on long-haul flights. They basically suck you dry and leave you feeling like a tired lump of flesh haha (wow graphic lol).

So, step one is to bring your own water bottle - this is the one I travel with but I’ll link some other options below.

The next step and I’ll admit I’m no scientist, is that I pour one of these hydration multipliers into the water bottle so that I get my water to work overtime (and minimize the number of times I go to the bathroom). You can also try these 1Above tablets that work to prevent jet lag, boost energy and give you immune support.

It seems like a no brainer but try to avoid salty snacks on a flight because they will dehydrate you. Also avoid coffee. One because it’s HORRIBLE on all flights (aside from Austrian Airlines Biz class) and two because it also can dehydrate you.

When it comes to alcohol, you do you boo. Even though it might not be great for hydration, I find that a glass of wine on a long-haul flight puts me right to sleep.

BOOK A WINDOW SEAT

There have been studies that have shown that window seats are less prone to airborne illnesses. Besides the window being my seat of preference, I just feel like its my cocoon of personal space vs the dreaded middle sear or the aisle where you have a million people walking by you and brushing up against you.

PROTECT YOUR EARS

I recently learned that exposure to airplane sound (typically 85 dB) for more than eight hours a day can lead to temporary hearing problems - YIKESSSSSSS for anyone on a flight longer than 8 hours. You can save your ears by investing in some noise-canceling headphones like these.

TIPS FOR STAYING ACTIVE / HEALTHY WHILE TRAVELING

OPT TO WALK WHEN POSSIBLE

The easiest (and free) way to stay active while exploring the destination you’re visiting is to walk! This is my favorite thing to do when I arrive at any new destination. On the first day, I put on my most comfortable walking shoes and pound the pavements.

These are my favorite tennis shoes for walking & these are my favorite shoes for running.

DOWNLOAD A FITNESS APP & BRING SOME ACTIVEWEAR

Listen, I won’t be that person that tells you to work out every day while you’re on vacation. BUT if you have a gym in your hotel, or even want to pack some resistance bands, a little movement, if the day’s activities are looking to be more stagnant, might not be a bad thing.

I have the Peloton app (Click here for a 90-day guest pass for the app) and will bring some resistance bands with me when I’m traveling and try to squeeze in a 10 or 15-minute workout in my hotel room. Nothing crazy, but just something to get your heart rate up.

PACK HEALTHY SNACKS FOR THE PLANE & WHEN YOU’RE IN YOUR DESTINATION

This is so simple, especially when you think about how much $$$ you spend when you buy water and a snack at any airport (I’m always SHOCKED at how expensive these items are). So the best way to ensure you have access to healthy snacks and save your credit card is to pack healthy snacks.

My go tos are:

• Dang Coconut Chips

• Blake’s Seedbased Rice Crispy Treats

• Go Macro bars

• Smart Sweets

• Nuts

• Popcorn

DOWNLOAD A MEDITATION APP

I’m a huge believer in the power of meditation and I’ve been meditating now for 10 minutes almost every day both when I’m at home and when I’m traveling. It’s a great way to center myself before I jump into the craziness of the day when I’m on the go & is a great tool to turn to when you start to feel overwhelmed.

Currently, I use my Peloton app (Click here for a 90-day guest pass for the app) for meditation OR I also like the guided morning meditation by Gabrielle Bernstein the author of this awesome book Super Attractor: Methods for Manifesting a Life Beyond Your Wildest Dreams.

KEEP A GRATITUDE JOURNAL

This is another morning practice of mine that I like to continue while I’m traveling because it somewhat doubles as a travel journal. It’s been shown by many studies that journaling can be a powerful tool for improving mental health and it’s been proven to reduce stress and improve your mood.

In the morning when you’re traveling write down at a minimum three things you’re grateful for, three goals for the day & I like to write down anything that happened the day before that I’d like to remember or reflect on.

I’ll link some cute journals below.

TIPS FOR TRAVELING DURING COVID

KEEP AN EYE ON THE LATEST TRAVEL ADVISORIES IN THE DESTINATION YOU’RE VISITING

Travel requirements will vary depending on where you are traveling. Some destinations are still requiring travelers to be vaccinated, wear masks, get tested, or stay isolated for a period of time after arrival. Before you travel you need to always know what these requirements are.

It’s also important to remember that these requirements can change often and quickly depending on local conditions.

I do a quick google search for the place I’m visiting & also check the CDC website

AVOID CROWDS

Before you even start your journey you can make your travels less stress filled by choosing to travel on a day that is likely to be less busy. In my MANY years of traveling I have found Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the airport to be less busy and Fridays and Sundays to be manic. So traveling midweek if possible, and avoiding peak travel days will help you to avoid the throngs of people. Fewer people = less stress and fewer chances to be surrounded by people who might be sick.

IT’S OKAY TO STILL WEAR A MASK

The easing of masks requirements had many travelers feeling all the feels (both good and bad) but if you still feel more comfortable wearing a mask on planes, on public transportation, and in crowds then you do you boo, especially if you are immunocompromised or at a higher risk for infection because of underlying health conditions.

PLUS, some international destinations may still require masks. For example as of September 2022, on ferries in Greece, masks are required.

Here’s a great article my friend Caroline wrote for the Points Guy about her decision to continue to wear a mask on planes and public transportation.

FOLLOW THE ORIGINAL COVID 19 SAFETY RECS

If the pandemic taught me anything, it’s that some of the good habits we adopted like frequently washing our hands, wiping down surfaces on the plane are good habits to continue past the lifespan of this pandemic. Here’s some of the things I will continue to do:

• Wash my hands regularly

• Carry hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes with me on the plane

• Avoid touching my mouth, eyes and face after touching “high touch” areas like door handles

• Avoid crowded indoor areas with lack of airflow

• Follow the CDC’s guidance and my medical professional’s advice on vaccines and booster shots

BOTTOM LINE

It's so easy for our healthy lifestyles to go to the wayside when we’re traveling (guilty), especially when you're on much deserved vacation (rose at 11 a.m.?! YES PLEASE). But there are some healthy travel habits that you can adopt to ensure you have a good time, stay healthy and even get in sneaky exercise without feeling like you are depriving yourself of an indulgent vacation.

Plus, you deserve this trip so if there are some small things you can do to avoid getting sick or feel stressed wouldn’t you want to try them?!

My best tips for surviving the airport this summer

LET’S JUST SAY IT…SUMMER TRAVEL HAS ALWAYS BEEN A SH*T SHOW BUT THIS SUMMER IS A WHOLE NEW KIND OF HELL…

The best analogy I can give is the summer 2022 travel season is like the sloppy drunk friend you desperately want to send (safely) home but you can’t because you’ve volunteered to be their designated driver…

Did that make sense lol??

Anyways, in today’s post, I wanted to blast off some of my best travel tips that will help you survive the airport and get to where you need to go with as little stress as possible.

But before we get into the tips, I figure it’s probably best to explain WHY things are the way they are right now.

Summer 2022 is the time when travel returned to pre-pandemic levels - YAY!!! This is what those of us in the industry have been hoping for!!!

BUT NOT SO FAST!

Here’s the catch. While demand is certainly there, supply has not caught up. As is the case in MANY industries coming out of the pandemic the entire airline industry is facing massive shortages of pilots, flight attendants, air traffic controllers, and just an overall airline staffing. Add in the usual summer weather hurdles and sprinkle in the MILLIONS of people flocking to the airports and you’ve got yourself a real mess.

BUT let’s not focus on the negative, instead I want to empower you with some simple steps you can take to alleviate your stress and anxiety if you’re traveling this summer.

We’ve waited too long to be able to travel again and idk about you but I’m not letting ANYTHING stop me from having a fabulous travel-filled summer.

WHAT TO DO BEFORE YOUR TRIP BEGINS

HIRE A TRAVEL ADVISOR

I recognize this tip is a little self-serving since my mom Linda is a travel advisor but I cannot stress this enough. There has never been a more important time to have an expert on your side helping you navigate these wild and crazy travel times especially if you haven’t traveled during the pandemic.

Think of a travel advisor as someone who is your right-hand person. They are there to guide you through the entire planning process and help you navigate what to do when and if things go wrong. No one wants to sit on hold for hours waiting to get through to airlines - travel advisors often have airline contacts or direct numbers to their wholesale partners that they can jump on the phone with to negotiate and advocate for your rebooking, flight credit and or refund.

Click here to get in touch with Linda today.

GET TSA PRECHECK, CLEAR AND OR GLOBAL ENTRY

I’ve been saying it for years - if you travel out of the country or travel frequently you need Global Entry or at the very least TSA PreCheck (but if you travel internationally Global Entry is more bang for your buck because it includes TSA Pre-Check). There has never been a more important time to have these expedited security services.

TSA is $85 for a five-year membership, and Clear costs $189 per year. If you travel internationally Global Entry is $100 and includes TSA PreCheck.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW TO APPLY

BOOK THE FIRST FLIGHT OUT

I’ve always been a fan of early morning flights (the more time I get to spend in the destination the better) but nowadays this habit is really paying off because aviation experts are saying that there’s less of a chance of your flight being disrupted by delays that could happen throughout the day. So 6 a.m. flight it is haha.

BOOK NONSTOP IF YOU CAN

Nonstops are always my preference, even if they cost more because in the long run there is less of a chance for delays, lost luggage, etc. And sometimes the money you save by connecting is not worth the pain and time of sitting there when you miss your connection or the airline doesn’t get your bag onto your second flight in time…

DO NOT BOOK TIGHT LAYOVERS!!!

If you can’t fly nonstop give yourself A BIG BUFFER (I’m talking at least 2 hours for a domestic flight and 3 for international especially if your tickets aren’t married aka you need to collect and recheck bags).

HOW TO NAVIGATE THE AIRPORT WITH AS LITTLE STRESS AS POSSIBLE

DOWNLOAD YOUR AIRLINE’S APP AND CHECK TO SEE IF THERE’S AN EXPEDITED BAG DROP

When I fly United and check in with their app, it gives me this notification that I can go to this special place to drop my bags and skip the crazy lines. Typically these offers are only shown to travelers who use the app to check in so if you haven’t done so already, download your airline app, make a frequent flier account and use the app to check in.

GET TO THE AIRPORT EARLIER THAN YOU NORMALLY WOULD

I am notorious for getting to the airport hours before I need to (it’s the 65-year-old dad in me haha). But again, this habit is paying off these days. Lines and wait times are longer then they’ve ever been and it’s best to err on the side of caution then risk missing your flight. My rule of thumb is 2 hours early for domestic flights and at least 3 hours for international.

DOWNLOAD THE MYTSA APP

This is a recent tool I’ve added to my toolkit - the Transportation Security Administration–powered app gives you a real-time look at security line wait times at airports around the country. BOOM YOU’RE WELCOME. But also you should still get TSA PreCheck…

CONSIDER UPGRADING FOR LOUNGE ACCESS

Because of all this extra time you now have, since you gave yourself enough time to check in and you have TSA PreCheck, you might want to spend it relaxing at an airport lounge where you can enjoy free drinks, snacks and free Wi-Fi.

PS if you are working on your airline status buying an annual lounge pass with your airline co-branded credit card can help with milage vs getting a card with the lounge pass included (although those have high annual fees where the lounge pass is usually included and the annual fee is like $100 less than the cost of the lounge pass).

OR you can get a Chase Sapphire Reserve card that comes with a Priority Pass membership.

I like to refer to the Points Guy for all these tips because they are WAY more well-versed than me. But I’ve gotta say, the lounge is worth the price tag simply for the free snacks, wine & stress-free experience.

HOW TO HANDLE LUGGAGE

AIRLINE STATUS IS YOUR NEW BFF AND IF YOU DON’T HAVE STATUS IT’S TIME TO WORK ON THAT

If you’ve never been in a committed relationship with an airline…it’s time. (I’m United loyal and it’s really worked to my advantage recently - aka not paying for overweight luggage on 3 trips now is one example)

TSA PreCheck and Clear can help with security lines, but they cannot help you when it comes to skipping the line to check your bags. BUTTTTTT if you have elite status with an airline you get to go in the fancy elite line that is MUCH shorter and drop your bags and be on your way.

TRAVEL CARRY ON ONLY IF YOU CAN (Wow I don’t think I’ve ever given that advice and I won’t be taking my own advice but you totally should if you want to haha).

Listen, I’m never going to be a carry on only gal but I understand the appeal. And if you don’t want to deal with the potential risk of your luggage not making it to your destination with you (especially if you have a connecting flight) this might be the time to test out carry on only.

If I were to travel carry on only I would use the Away Bigger Carry-On (but only domestically cause they are usually too big on some smaller international carriers) and if you want $20 off any Away luggage CLICK HERE - I’m a HUGE Away fan and have an entire 3 piece set.

IF YOU ARE CHECKING A BAG HAVE 1 - 2 DAYS OF CLOTHES WITH YOU

For all my checked bag or die friends (hiiiiii it’s me) be sure to pack at least a day or two of clothes and other essentials in your carry on in case you do draw the short end of the stick and get separated from your beloved checked bag.

AND IF YOU’RE NOT FING AROUND YOU CAN JUST SHIP THAT SH*T

I’m honestly considering this for my trip to Greece in October… here are some deets on baggage shipping services.

WHEN SH*T HITS THE FAN

CALL THAT AMAZING TRAVEL ADVISOR YOU HIRED ;)

This is when you can lean on that expert you hired to help you navigate this situation. Recently Linda helped one of her clients traveling to Greece reunite with her lost luggage and leaned on our INCREDIBLE partners in Greece to track down and deliver the luggage so her client didn’t have to wait at the airport.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

So this is the hard truth part…Airlines are not required to compensate passengers when flights are delayed or canceled because of problems that are beyond their control, aka bad weather. They also aren’t required to provide a refund when the passenger initiates the cancellation or flight change.

BUT BUT BUT it is required by US law that you get a refund if an airline cancels, delays or alters a flight or if you’re bumped from an oversold flight due to issues with the airline.

GET AHEAD OF THE PROBLEM

If you see a bunch of delays or cancellations it’s time to start coming up with plan B, C and D. First start with the airline that your ticket is booked with but also with their partner airlines, especially if you are flying internationally. I like to use Google Flights for my flight research.

GET THOSE MILES HUNNAY

First, make sure you’re signed up for your airline’s loyalty program. And then if the airline rebooks you onto a different flight after a flight was canceled, it can (but not all do this unprompted) offer you miles for inconveniencing you. Airlines should be offering your compensation, or hotel stays but in these situations try to see if you can tack on the miles on top. It never hurts to try (and ask nicely)

KEEP YOUR COOL BOO

I learned in one of my favorite books - "Never Split the Difference” that the WORST thing you can do is yell or get angry with the gate agent - that’s only going to make them less likely to help you and they hold all the power. Plus you look like a total idiot in the process.

Just remember their airline employees are probably just as stressed as you but they’re not off to some tropical vacay…they’re just trying to do their job the best they can. And if you find that you’re speaking to someone who isn’t being helpful, politely asking to speak with a superior can be a game-changer (sometimes).

MOST IMPORTANTLY PLEASE BE KIND

If you’re traveling for leisure, don’t forget to enjoy wherever it is you are going. And along the way, please be kind and compassionate to all the airline employees who are helping you get to where you need to go despite all of these insane hurdles. Travel is an incredible privilege and after 2 years of being grounded, let’s not make the return to the skies any harder than it already is for everyone involved.

Did you find this list helpful? Are there any airport travel tips you find helpful that I didn’t include? Drop them in the comments below!