OMG Bestie! You Are Going To Have The Best Trip Ever!

Hey friend! I am so excited for you! I heard you are getting ready for your next big trip in 2026 and I just had to reach out. You know me, I am always on a plane somewhere, right? Well, I just read this super cool thing from a flight attendant about what people need to STOP bringing to the airport. It blew my mind! Since we are besties, I wanted to write you a huge guide so you can travel like a total pro. We are going to make sure your 2026 trip is the smoothest thing ever!

The 12 Things to Leave at Home (Trust Me!)

Okay, so 2026 is going to be a big year for travel. Things are changing at the airport! Here are the 12 things the flight attendants say you should just leave in your closet. I added some tips on what to do instead!

1. Giant Hard-Shell Suitcases: I know they look cool, but they are so heavy! If you overpack them, they are hard to lift into the overhead bin. And nobody wants to be that person struggling while everyone watches. Instead, get a soft-sided bag. It can squish into small spots! Budget $100 for a really good one that will last years.

2. Shoes with Way Too Many Laces: Oh my gosh, don’t do this to yourself! Standing in the security line while trying to untie 20 knots is the worst. Everyone behind you will be grumpy. Wear slip-on sneakers. They are so comfy and you can get through security in two seconds. Budget $60 for some cute ones!

3. Heavy Paper Books: I love reading at the beach, but carrying three big books in your backpack makes it feel like you’re carrying a bag of rocks. Get an e-reader or just use your phone. It saves so much space! Budget $10 for a book app subscription.

4. Too Much Jewelry: If you wear ten necklaces and five rings, the metal detector is going to go BEEP BEEP BEEP! Then you have to take it all off and put it in those dirty plastic bins. Just wear one simple thing and put the rest in your bag. It’s way safer too.

5. Messy Foods: Please, for the love of everything, don’t bring a messy taco or a giant burger onto the plane. It smells and it gets everywhere! If you’re hungry, get a simple turkey sandwich or a protein bar. Budget $15 for a clean snack at the airport.

6. Full-Size Shampoo Bottles: I know you want your hair to look amazing, but those big bottles always leak. I once had a whole bottle of soap explode in my bag and it was a nightmare! Use tiny travel bottles. Budget $8 for a set of leak-proof ones.

7. Rigid Neck Pillows: Those big foam ones that don’t bend? They are so annoying to carry! They take up so much room. Get an inflatable one that you can blow up when you need it and deflate when you don’t. Budget $20.

8. Belts with Big Metal Buckles: Just like the jewelry, these are a pain at security. Wear leggings or pants with a stretchy waist. You’ll feel much better on a long flight anyway!

9. Plastic Water Bottles: They are bad for the earth and they cost like $6 at the airport! Bring an empty reusable bottle and fill it up after you get through security. Budget $25 for a cool metal one that keeps your water cold.

10. Bulky Headphones: I know the big ones sound good, but they take up half your bag. Use the tiny earbud ones. They work just as well and fit in your pocket!

11. All the Cash: In 2026, almost everyone wants you to pay with your phone or a card. Don’t carry a huge wad of cash. It’s not safe and most places don’t even want to touch it anymore.

12. A Bad Attitude: This is what the flight attendants said was the most important! Travel can be stressful, but if you are nice to the workers, they will be so much nicer to you. Bring your smile!

Let’s Plan Your Florida Fun!

Since we’re talking about 2026, you HAVE to go to Florida! It is my favorite place. If you go to Orlando or the coast, here is exactly what you should do so you don’t miss the cool stuff.

Where to Eat: You have to go to a place called “The Salty Donut.” They have these donuts that are bigger than your head! Order the “Maple Bacon” one. It sounds weird but it is so yummy. Budget $6 for a donut. For lunch, find a food truck and get some street corn. It’s messy but so worth it! Budget $12.

The Best Photo Spot: Okay, listen close. If you go to Clearwater Beach, go to Pier 60 right before the sun goes down. Stand on the left side of the pier with the water behind you. The sky turns pink and orange and you will look like a movie star! It looks amazing and all your friends will be jealous of your photos.

What to Do: Go to the springs! Blue Spring State Park is so cool. You can see manatees! They are like giant floating potatoes. It costs about $6 per car to get in. You should stand on the wooden boardwalk and look down into the clear blue water. It is the most relaxing thing ever.

How Much Will It Cost?

I know you want to know the prices, so I made this handy table for you! This is for a 3-day weekend trip.

Final Tips for Your Big Adventure

When you get to the airport, don’t rush! Give yourself two hours. That way, if the line is long, you don’t have to run. Running through the airport is only fun in movies. In real life, you just get sweaty and tired.

Pack a portable charger for your phone! Nothing is worse than your phone dying when you are trying to find your hotel. Budget $30 for a fast charger. And don’t forget to pack one extra pair of socks in your carry-on. If your feet get cold on the plane, you will thank me!

I am so excited for you to see the world in 2026! It’s going to be a blast. You are going to see such pretty things and eat such good food. I can’t wait to see all your photos from the pier!

If you want more tips on how to save money and travel like a total boss, you have to join our group! We talk about all the best deals and funny travel stories every day. Come hang out with us here: https://www.facebook.com/CheaptravelVIP.FL

Love ya bestie! Have the best time!