For style and durability, July luggage is worth the splurge. Photo: Courtesy July
Writer: Karla Walsh
Flip open TikTok or Instagram and you might feel like you’ve stumbled into some sort of flight-focused Festivus. Travelers have taken to social media to explain “airplane rules” or to air their grievances about what should and shouldn’t be done in transit.
Airport beers at 8 a.m.? Totally reasonable. Mini skirts? You’re out. Matching athleisure sets? In. Also in: any kind of food once you’re past security, where calories don’t count. But fragrant food like tuna salad: never ever.
With 63 flights slated for 2025, I’ve certainly seen my share of airport etiquette dos and don’ts. Along the way, I’ve picked up a few tips of my own, which I’m happy to share. And I have to say: They’re more useful than most of the hot takes on TikTok.
Roll out. After putting July brand luggage through the paces for more than 100 flights, I can confirm it’s worth the splurge. Sturdy yet chic, and stackable so you can wheel your way through any concourse with ease, my favorite combo for short trips is the Carry On ($295, july.com) hard case roller bag with the Carry All Split Weekender ($245). To ensure your bag never gets lost in the shuffle, add a monogram for $50.
Raise a glass. Science suggests that air travel is dehydrating, so it’s wise to bring a reusable water bottle. For something more flavorful, try a Sayso steepable drink mix ($15 for 8, drinksayso.com). The low-sugar sachets come in flavors like Spicy Margarita, Espresso Martini and Honey-Rosemary Moscow Mule. Place one in a glass of still or sparkling water or, if you’d prefer, spike it with a mini bottle of booze from a flight attendant.
Prepare your throne. Let’s face it: Using the airplane bathroom is less than pleasant, but it is possible to improve it. Snag a bottle of Poo-Pouri Royal Flush Pocket Sprayer ($7, pourri.com) before you walk down the aisle, then give the toilet bowl a few spritzes. The essential oils trap any “off” odors below the surface so you can pee in peace and wash up without having to rush quite so much.
Refuel wisely. Emergency snacks are like a safety blanket on flights, which occasionally take much longer than originally scheduled. To ward off the hangries when I fly out of Des Moines, I often swing by Hudson News to stock up on snacks, like pistachios, chicken bites and Fairlife ultra-filtered milk. I prioritize protein because it keeps me full the longest (and science backs that up).
Listen up. Two in three Americans feel more nervous about flying this year than in the past, according to a survey by the Harris Poll and the Points Guy. A soothing soundtrack won’t calm all your frayed nerves, but it certainly can’t hurt. My current favorite chill-out album is the original score to “Hidden Figures,” which you can find on Spotify or a similar streaming service. (You may want to download it before you board.) Otherwise, download an app like Insight Timer, Calm or Headspace for some mid-air meditation.
Snooze soundly. A chic face mask blocks light when you’re ready to snooze and politely signals to others that you’re powering down. The 100% silk Slip Rose Contour Sleep Mask ($75, slip.com) initially landed on my radar thanks to my friends at Travel + Leisure. I’m now a fan, too, due to the smooth, soothing fabric, soft foam padding and eye inserts that allow enough room to preserve curled eyelashes.
