What to bring

A checklist of documents, gear, and things to know — tuned to your Space-A category and the kind of flight you're catching. Pick the inputs that match your situation.

Your flight

Space-A category

Route

Flight type

Travelling with dependentsWith an infant or toddler

Documents

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Valid military ID card (CAC, dependent ID, or retiree ID)
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Government-issued photo ID backup
Driver's license or passport — some terminals spot-check.
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Determine your Space-A category
Run the eligibility wizard before you show up — the terminal will ask.
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Valid tourist passport
Most OCONUS destinations require one, even when you're official ID-eligible. Check expiration is at least 6 months after travel.
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Visa, if required for destination
Check the US State Department country page. Some destinations require a visa even for short stays; some require nothing.

Before you go

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Check country clearance / SOFA / ISOPREP
A handful of destinations (Turkey, UAE, Bahrain, Djibouti, etc.) require country clearance or a SOFA certificate. Verify with your sponsor's command ahead of time.
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Sign up at every terminal along your route
You can sign up at up to ~40 terminals total. Your sign-up date sets your priority — earlier is better.
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Check the terminal's Facebook page
Most terminals post schedule changes there before anywhere else.

Pack

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Carry-on bag + one small personal item
Patriot Express allows checked bags; organic flights vary. Assume carry-on only unless told otherwise.
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Snacks, water bottle, phone charger, power bank
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Entertainment (book / tablet / downloaded shows)
No inflight wifi or seatback screens on most military flights.

Good to know

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Dress code: business casual
Slacks + collared shirt for men; equivalent for women. Flip-flops, tank tops, and athletic shorts get denied boarding.
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Arrive 3+ hours before roll call
Roll call is the line-up where seats get assigned. Missing it = missing the flight.