Be sure to check the backyard area when booking your Airbnb to confirm there are no overhanging branches and that there’s a suitable space for building a kosher sukkah.

 

To build our sukkah, we ordered enough 2x4s to build a frame from Home Depot's in-store pickup.

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We’ve used different methods for the walls. One option we used in Florida was stapling flat sheets to the frame with a staple gun. We chose blue and green sheets to blend in with the natural surroundings, and the sukkah turned out beautiful.

Another option is using s'chach mats we found at Home Depot—not just for the roof, but even as makeshift walls. You can also use privacy fencing made from reeds or other materials, which are often available at hardware stores.

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For the s'chach, we either purchased mats from Home Depot or cut locally sold s'chach mats in half to fit into a duffle bag and checked them at the gate.

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Upon arrival at our destination, we picked up our Home Depot order and assembled the sukkah at our Airbnb.

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To build the sukkah, you can either pack a drill in your checked luggage or order an inexpensive one from Home Depot to be picked up along with the rest of your materials. We've always brought our tools with us and checked them in without issue.

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For lighting, we used outdoor waterproof LED strip lights, which we easily stuck onto the 2x4 framing. They provided plenty of light and created a warm, festive atmosphere in the sukkah.​

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As for the Arbah Minim, we brought them as carry-on luggage and never had an issue. TSA agents—especially at East Coast airports—have always been well prepared, and even in other areas of the US, we were never stopped or questioned. 

If you’re traveling internationally, we recommend checking the local laws about bringing in outside vegetation, as regulations can vary. It’s also a good idea to contact a local Chabad rabbi ahead of time for any instructions regarding airport procedures. Additionally, many rabbis in popular travel destinations sell Arbah Minim sets to visitors—just be sure to reach out early enough to reserve one.