Why take a pen on international flights?
We are always conscious about what to take and what not to take on a flight. We even make lists while browsing the internet. Clothes, make-up, electronic devices, neck pillows and even water bottles. Everything is on that list. But has anyone ever told you to carry a pen with you during an international flight? This time, I am telling you, carry it. Even travel experts say that a simple ballpoint pen is the most overlooked essential item for international flights. Now the question is why carry it. Because many airports still require you to fill out immigration and customs forms through paperwork. And in that case, you cannot rely on the availability of a pen at the airport.
Why carry a pen
The simple solution to this is a cheap, plastic, blue or black ink pen. Which can save you from worries and can even help you in unexpected travel situations beyond immigration. Because this simple writing tool is an essential thing. It may be needed at any time. Georgia Fox, a travel advisor with tour operator Alteza Travel, had a pen-related experience during a recent trip to Tanzania. “I landed in Dar es Salaam after an overnight flight, and the immigration hall was packed and noisy,” Fox said. “We were all lining up to get off the plane. But by the time I got to the counter, they were all gone.” Fox said she had to wait a long time for a pen. Imagine how you would feel if you were to encounter such an obstacle at the beginning of your trip. Or if you had to spend time on such a time-consuming task on your way back home exhausted from your trip. How can your mood swings be? Many countries still have paper customs and immigration forms that passengers must fill out before they can enter. Finding a pen can be a real pain, especially at major international airports, where so many people travel every day.
What kind of pen to take
Fox also has advice on what kind of pen to bring. He always opts for plain, non-metallic pens. Fancy metal pens or fountain pens can sometimes cause problems at airport security. Also, you should stick to basic ink colors rather than bright, flashy colors. “I use cheap plastic ones, just blue or black,” says Fox. “If the ink looks suspicious, you may be asked to rewrite the entire form.”
However, a pen can come in handy in many situations during your trip, beyond immigration paperwork. Erin Carey, founder and director of public relations firm Rome Generation, always brings a pen with her as a backup in case her phone dies. “A pen can also come in handy if your phone dies and you need to write down an address or phone number. Or you might meet someone you want to get back in touch with. You might need to get their email address.” A pen is also a must-have if you need to fill out a form for someone who has lost their luggage.
Many unexpected things can happen while traveling. Having a pen by your side can help you prepare for those unexpected problems.
