What Luggage Do Pilots Use? How Do Pilots Pack? Find the Best Answer

I was curious what luggage do pilots use? I researched it to find out, and this is the answer.

No one has a universal answer to what an airline pilot uses.

Whether the pilot provides the luggage or has chosen it for themselves, most airline pilots have a carry-on. Some choose for themselves, and some travel with well-known brands, such as Samsonite, Rimowa, and Luggage Works.

The size must be no more than 10 inches because the cockpit is small, so the shirt size must be limited. For example, 12″ wide, 17″ long, and 14 inches high is about the max size for a Boeing 737.

In most cases, it’s not as large or tall as the standard carry-on and has that long telescoping handle.

A pilot needs a bag that’s easy to pull around, so a bag with wheels is a must for long-distance if you get a cart or pull.

Many pilots suggest that you shouldn’t go cheap on your bags. You will be using these bags often, so investing in a quality bag would be wise.

And the size of the bags depends on what airline you are flying and the size of the cabin of the plane. Boeing cockpits are often less spacious than an airbus.

Where do pilots have their luggage during the flight?

The pilots often have their suitcases behind their chairs in the cockpit.

Every airline has rest areas for crew members to rest and get away from cabin service.

You’ll discover what kind of aircraft have a particular area for the crew.

What luggage do flight attendants use?

Most airlines often provide suitcases branded with their logo and labeled as travel pro luggage.

This is a suitcase with a telescoping handle, four wheels, and unique, expensive luggage.

Flight attendants change the wheels of luggage from roller skate wheels to those that last longer and have more padding.

If you are going on an airplane with luggage, make sure it is sturdy and strong, and keep noticing how the airport staff treats the bags.

 What do airline pilots typically carry with them in their luggage when flying?

Pilots will always need to have the items on this list for their flight. Some gear will be provided by the airline.

I’m not a pilot. What I found online in my research.

  • Required employee ID
  • Passport with a minimum of six months validity in it because some countries require compulsory
  • There are many documents the pilot needs for all the pilots’ licenses, type ratings, instrument ratings, medical certificates, what vaccines the pilot has taken, and other documentation required by the airline.

I agree. Everything must be valid, of course.

  • Earplugs and ear protectors are great for keeping the noise down.
  • A fine pen made of high-quality materials and used to write things down and sign papers.
  • Notebook
  • Electronic flight bag, iPad-like tablet, and a charging cable.
  • A strong flashlight is a must-have for night flights. For the walk-around inspection of the vertical stabilizer, for example.
  • Always be sure to have cleaning wipes in your cockpit. They will keep your cockpits clean.
  • Pilots must wear a high visibility vest at the airport to ensure that they are visible while walking on the ground and terminal. The pilot could be fined for not wearing it.
  • If the pilot has weak eyesight, a spare pair of glasses is recommended if the pilot’s glasses break.
  • Noise-canceling headset
  • It’s recommended that you keep spare batteries handy for either headset or flashlight
  • Sunglasses are an essential accessory and a protective barrier for the eyes.

It’s bright inside the cockpit up in the air, especially in the clouds. 

Extras just in case:

  • First-aid kit, nasal spray, headache pill (ensure it is permitted to take any medicine)
  • A spare pair of underpants, a sock, deodorant, toothpaste, and toothbrush, If the pilot unexpectedly spends somewhere a night
  • Extra money

Read More: Best checked luggage 2022