Ultimate Travel Packing List for Pilots

Packing as a private pilot requires a blend of essential flight gear, personal items, and potentially some creature comforts for the journey. Below is our ultimate travel packing list for private pilots. Be sure to cross-check this with the Ultimate Travel Packing List for Gentlemen, the Ultimate Travel Packing List for Ladies, and others in our Squawks.

Flight Essentials:

• Pilot’s License & Medical Certificate: Never leave without these!
• Aircraft Documentation: Including registration, airworthiness certificate, and insurance details.
• Headset: A good-quality noise-canceling aviation headset. We love our Bose! Bring earplugs, too, just in case.
• Flight Bag: To carry and organize your flying gear.
• Aircraft Keys: If applicable.
• Flight Logbook: To record flight details. Bring extra pens.
• Kneeboard: For jotting down quick notes.
• Charts & Maps: Either paper or digital, depending on preference and regulations.
• Flight Computer / iPad (tablet): Manual (E6B) or electronic, for flight planning and calculations. Remember the chargers and charger bank.
• Satellite Phone: For communication outside of reach of cell towers.
• Backup GPS: Even if your aircraft has one, a backup is wise.
• Flashlight with Red Lens: Useful for night flying. Headlamps are nice.
• Spare Batteries: For headsets, flashlights, and other gear.
• Fuel Tester: For pre-flight checks.
• Multi-tool: They have some that do everything short of brushing your teeth! Great investment, but check regulations if crossing borders.
• Sunglasses: Preferably polarized, for glare reduction.

Personal Items & Comfort:

• Personal Identification: Passport, driver’s license, or any other required ID.
• Wallet: With cash, credit cards, and any necessary permits.
• Clothing: Suitable for the climate of your destination and the purpose of your trip.
• Prescription Medications: Plus any necessary health documentation.
• Toiletries: Basics such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and deodorant.
• Snacks & Hydration: Non-perishable snacks and a reusable water bottle.
• First-Aid Kit: Stocked with basics and any personal necessities.
• Cell Phone & Charger: Plus any necessary international adapters.
• Portable Power Bank: For charging devices on the go.
• Entertainment: Books, tablets, or music devices for downtime.
• Comfort Items: Neck pillow, earplugs, and sleep mask for rest during long trips.
• Additional comfort items: Lip balm and tissues. Life can be miserable mid-flight without them.
• Clothing for Changing Conditions: Depending on where you’re flying, pack layers, a waterproof jacket, or a hat.

Safety & Emergency:

• Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or Satellite Messenger: For emergencies.
• Survival Kit: Tailored to the environments you’ll be flying over (e.g., forest, desert, water).
• Life Vest or Life Raft: If flying over large bodies of water.
• Fire Extinguisher: Ensure it’s within its expiration date.
• Emergency Food & Water: Especially if flying over remote areas.

Miscellaneous:

• Camera or GoPro: Capture your flying adventures.
• Binoculars: Useful for aerial sightseeing or spotting landmarks.
• Multi-tool or Swiss Army Knife: Always handy to have, but check regulations if crossing borders.
• Notepad & Pen: For jotting down non-flight-related notes.
• Backpack or Duffel: For carrying personal items if you leave the aircraft for an extended period.

Before you fly, always check the weight of your gear combined with the weight of your aircraft, fuel, and passengers to ensure you’re within the safe weight and balance limits. Also, adjust the list based on the nature of your journey, the specifics of your aircraft, and the regulations of the regions you’re flying to. Safe travels!

If we left anything out that you think is a good idea to include on this list, please leave us a comment so your fellow flyers can benefit!