Proven Packing Tips from a Pilot’s Wife for Hassle-Free Carry-on Travel

A Traveler’s Legacy

I have many memories from childhood growing up as the daughter of an airline pilot, like sleeping in an airport to catch the first flight out and finding an appropriate ’90s non-rev regulation outfit to wear on the plane. Many of my memories revolve around the destinations my family visited with our standby privileges, but literally all of my memories include a single piece of luggage: my mom’s rolling backpack.

eBags Mother Lode Rolling Travel Backpack

Mother Lode Rolling Travel Backpack
Ebags

The eBags Mother Lode Rolling Backpack, measuring 21.8 inches by 15 inches by 10.5 inches, transforms into a rollaboard by simply unhooking and tucking away the back straps, weighing less than 10 pounds when worn. The exterior compartments are perfect for stashing charging cables, snacks, or anything else necessary for a comfortable flight. It often fits under the seat due to four compression straps that help keep everything tight.

“Since they don’t make the one I bought 30 years ago, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect bag ever since to replace it, and this is the closest I could find,” said Betty Jo Brown, frequent traveler and my mom. “I love this one now because it holds everything I need for staying somewhere overnight and has space for things I’ll need while on the plane… I even love that it looks more like a backpack than my other one did.”

Why Choose a Rolling Backpack?

Why does my frequent flier mom trust a rolling backpack? Checking a bag is often not feasible when traveling standby, as it can lead to a bag ending up in a different destination. This necessitates being prepared for overnight trips, which in my mom’s case, means keeping essentials on her back.

“We needed to be ready to take whatever seat was available and have our bags fit in whatever space was available,” my mom explained. “I always loved that this rollaboard counted as a backpack, and it also fits under the airplane seat just like a regular backpack would. Flight attendants appreciate it, as it doesn’t take any overhead space.”

Final Thoughts

As a professional travel writer now, I recognize the brilliance in my mom’s packing skills. She efficiently moves through airports, lounges, and taxis with this rolling backpack. It manages to accommodate overnight necessities as well as additional comfort items like a robe and slippers. “The ability to maximize space in my rolling backpack is what makes it so unique,” she stated. “I can use my robe as a blanket or pillow on the plane.”

The eBags Mother Lode Rolling Travel Backpack stands out as the smartest solution for carry-on only travel, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize efficiency and style while on the go.


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