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AirVenture Packing Tips for the New Owner

These things will make your time in Oshkosh more enjoyable, and they’ll protect you and your aircraft.

The proper items and equipment can make your first flight to AirVenture a fun one. [Photo: Shutterstock]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Ensure aircraft safety at AirVenture by using robust, purpose-built tie-downs and consider employing pool noodles on wings to mitigate lift during high winds, especially for taildraggers.
  • Optimize personal device charging by setting up a secure system for power banks, such as using a locked bait cage at public charging stations to prevent theft.
  • Enhance personal comfort and self-sufficiency with items like a small USB-powered fan for sleeping, and portable cooking/coffee brewing equipment (e.g., Jetboil and AeroPress) for meals.
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With EAA AirVenture just around the corner, aircraft owners across the country are spending time monitoring the weather forecasts and carefully planning what to pack for the trip to Oshkosh, Wisconsin. With luck and preparation, we will soon be relaxing next to our beloved machines and soaking up our favorite event of the year. If, on the other hand, Murphy’s Law kicks into gear, we will soon be kicking ourselves for forgetting to pack a tent, underwear, or some other item critical to our enjoyment of the event.

Having attended AirVenture on and off for about 25 years, I’ve learned certain lessons the hard way. Don’t skimp on a cheap tent, for example. Don’t bring just one pair of shoes. And remember that while effective, the strongest bug spray will destroy certain synthetic fabrics. 

Jason McDowell

Jason McDowell is a private pilot and Cessna 170 owner based in Madison, Wisconsin. He enjoys researching obscure aviation history and serves as a judge for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association. He can be found on Instagram as @cessnateur.

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