My Dad's a Pilot: 15 Must-Have Travel Essentials—From $6

The Ultimate Travel Essentials: A Dad’s Influence on My Packing List

Growing up, I had the privilege of traveling with my dad, who worked as a pilot for Delta Air Lines. His experiences and travel habits shaped my own approach to packing and traveling. From his advice on what to bring to his preference for a carry-on-only lifestyle, his influence is evident in every item I pack today. As a travel writer with over 15 years of experience, I still rely on his tips and tricks when preparing for any trip.

My dad taught me the value of minimalism and being prepared for anything. He would often say, “Pack a swimsuit and wear comfy shoes for the airport.” This advice has stuck with me, and I’ve now visited 86 countries. Some of my favorite memories include meeting him at Atlanta Airport during layovers, swapping stories and travel hacks over coffee.

Here are some of my favorite "dad hack" travel essentials that I turn to most often:

Best Pilot-Approved Travel Accessories

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside 22-inch Carry-on

This is a must-have for international travel. It's lightweight, durable, and holds more than the average suitcase. My dad uses a similar model, which he bought from Costco due to their generous return policy.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

This adapter is perfect for both international and domestic travel. It turns a regular outlet into a multi-plug charging hub, making it easier to charge all my USB devices without cluttering the room.

Anker Power Bank

A power bank is essential for staying connected while traveling. My dad emphasized the importance of having a reliable power source, and this one is a great option for keeping my phone charged.

SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack

This backpack is ideal for airport use, featuring a trolley strap and SmartScan technology for TSA scans. It’s a practical choice for anyone who travels frequently.

Amazon Essentials Water-resistant Packable Puffer Jacket

This jacket is a lifesaver for unexpected weather changes. It can double as a travel pillow and is easy to pack.

Gear Aid Heroclip Carabiner

Carabiners are useful for securing items while traveling. This one reminds me of the J Hook my dad used to carry, making it a nostalgic and practical choice.

Other Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hnhmt Portable Door Lock and Door Stop Alarm Set

My dad used to travel with a doorhanger alarm, which was quite loud. I now use a similar device to deter break-ins and feel safer while traveling alone.

On Low-top Sneakers

Comfortable shoes are a must for airport travel. These sneakers are stylish and easy to slip on and off, making them perfect for long trips.

Soundcore P40i by Anker Noise-canceling Wireless Earbuds

These earbuds are great for sleeping on flights and pairing with an AirFly to avoid uncomfortable airline headsets.

Columbia Glennaker Lake II Packable Rain Jacket

A packable rain jacket is more practical than an umbrella. This one is compact and comes in handy for unexpected rain or wind.

Black Diamond Cosmo 350 Headlamp

A headlamp is a versatile tool for navigating hotel rooms or dimly lit areas. My dad always had one on hand, and I’ve adopted the same habit.

Linvo Polarized Wayfarer Sunglasses

These sunglasses are affordable and stylish. I love that they come in a two-pack, so I don’t have to worry about losing them.

Tide Travel Sink Packets

These laundry detergent packets are useful for cleaning up spills or messes while traveling. They’re small and easy to pack.

Autrends Mini Duct Tape

Duct tape is a lifesaver for fixing things on the go. We’ve used it for everything from covering hotel lights to patching up suitcases.

Topoko Stainless Steel Vacuum Water Bottle

This water bottle is convenient for hands-free travel. It clips easily onto a carry-on and has a non-slip coating for added security.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with my dad taught me the importance of being prepared and carrying only what’s necessary. These essentials reflect his influence and have become staples in my travel routine. Whether you're heading to Rome or Hawaii, these items are sure to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.