Smooth Sailing: Effortless Hacks for a Stress-Free Flight Day

18. Charge Devices Fully Before Leaving Home

Technology is your lifeline on travel days—your phone holds your boarding pass, navigation tools, entertainment, contact info, and emergency resources. That’s why it's critical to charge all your devices fully before you even leave the house. A fully charged phone or tablet can save you during delays, gate changes, or when your in-flight screen isn’t working. Yet many travelers forget this simple prep step and end up competing for outlets at the airport—only to find them all in use or broken. Start charging the night before your flight and top up again while getting ready. Don’t forget your accessories—smartwatches, headphones, Kindle, or camera batteries. Also, pack a fully charged portable power bank in your personal item; choose one with at least 10,000mAh capacity to get a full phone recharge or two. For longer trips or group travel, a multi-port USB charger or compact travel power strip can be a lifesaver in airports, hotels, or shared spaces. If you're heading overseas, check the voltage and plug type of your destination and bring a universal travel adapter with surge protection. Bonus tip: Store all your cables and charging accessories in a dedicated pouch so you’re not digging through your bag in a panic mid-flight.