Efficient packing distinguishes experienced TDY travelers from those drowning in excess luggage. Building a reliable packing system reduces pre-trip stress and ensures nothing critical gets left behind.
The Carry-On Philosophy
Many seasoned travelers never check bags regardless of trip length. Carry-on only travel eliminates lost luggage risk, speeds airport transitions, and forces disciplined packing. A week-long TDY absolutely fits in a proper carry-on with strategic choices.
Key to carry-on success is wrinkle-resistant clothing that mixes and matches across multiple outfits. Technical fabrics designed for travel perform far better than traditional business wear. Fewer pieces worn multiple ways beats many pieces worn once.
Essential Electronics
Power adapters and sufficient charging cables rank among most-forgotten items. Packing a small power strip solves hotel rooms with insufficient outlets. Portable batteries keep devices running during long travel days.
Laptop bags and briefcases that comply with personal item dimensions maximize carry-on allowance. Knowing airline-specific size limits prevents gate-check surprises. Stuffing personal items to the limit while maintaining access to in-flight needs takes practice.
Uniform and Professional Attire
TDY purposes determine clothing needs. Garrison uniform requirements differ from deployment packing lists. Civilian professional settings may call for business casual or formal attire depending on the mission.
Rolling uniform items prevents creases better than folding. Hanging immediately upon arrival reduces wrinkles further. Keeping a small travel iron or steamer solves remaining issues. Some hotels provide irons while others require bringing your own.
The TDY Go-Bag
Maintaining a partially-packed TDY bag between trips streamlines preparation. Toiletries, chargers, and other always-needed items stay ready. Only clothing and trip-specific items require addition before departure.
Restocking the go-bag immediately after returning home ensures readiness for short-notice travel. The fifteen minutes invested post-trip saves hours when the next last-minute TDY order arrives.
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