The proper packing of a carry-on is crucial when traveling.
Regardless of the type of carry-on you have, what’s inside is what matters. Below are must-haves and recommendations for your carry-on.
When packing your carry-on focus on creating a seamless airport experience. A travel wallet and easily accessible toiletry pouch will help you breeze through security.
Not to be pessimistic but there is always a slight chance your checked luggage will be lost or delayed. You’ll want to board with anything that would make it less of a headache to spend a day or two waiting to be reunited with your suitcase
With these carry-on must-haves, you’ll be prepared for anything:
TRAVEL PILLLOW: The conventional, U-shaped neck pillow is perfect should you want to sleep during the flight. Most can clip on to your carry-on bag.
EYE MASK: If you want to block out the light during a day flight or require extra darkness to sleep, an eye mask is essential
COMPRESSION SOCKS: If you’re going to be sitting in an airplane seat for longer than four hours, you may want to change into a pair of compression socks to help with the circulation in your legs. This will keep your feet from falling asleep and help to prevent blood clots.
EARPLUGS: For any scenario where you don’t necessarily want to be wearing your headphones, earplugs are perfect. They will drown out the ambient noise around you.
IN FLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT: Long flights can be grueling without something to pass the time. Make sure to have a book, magazine or digital device with games, movies and more to entertain you.
PORTABLE CHARGER: Only a few airlines provide USB slots for charging your devices in-flight, so if you want to watch the movies and shows you downloaded, make sure to pack a portable battery.
DISINFECTANT WIPES: Always use alcohol wipes to wipe down your seat, armrests, tray table and entertainment screen as soon as you board your flight.
TOILETRIES: The lost luggage struggle is possible. Keep your essential toiletries in your carry-on so you are prepared.
TRAVEL ADAPTER: If traveling abroad, pack your travel adapter.
COPY OF YOUR PASSPORT AND ID: Your passport is the most important item to remember for an international trip. You should also remember another form of ID; license or other photo ID.
HAND LOTION: Flying is a drying experience. The key is to stay hydrated. That includes your hands. Always have a travel size lotion available.
NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: It’s sometime necessary to have a way to tune out unnecessary noise of other passengers. Wired headphones allow you to tune out the noise and also work in the in-flight seat back entertainment, making them a solid choice.
SNACKS: Always have snack options with you. This way you ensure you will have something you enjoy when you get hungry.
CHANGE OF CLOTHES: In the event your airline loses your luggage, make sure you keep a change of clothes in your carry-on. Comfy basics and pajamas that can get you through a day or two before your luggage is returned.
FACE MASKS: Since we’ll all be wearing protective face coverings in public for the foreseeable future, you’ll want to make sure yours is comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Also keep a couple extra masks in your carry-on in case one breaks.
WATER: Whether you bring your own tumbler or buy a water at the airport, the goal is to stay hydrated. It is recommended to have at least 1 liter of water with you in addition to the water offered by the flight attendants on board.
SMALL BLANKET OR SCARF: Cozy up on a long flight with your very own blanket or scarf. You can use it as a wrap or blanket while in the air to stay warm.
LAPTOP: You should always keep your electronics close at hand. Even if you don’t use your laptop, having it in your carry on keeps it safe.
GUM OR MINTS: Taking off can make your ears pop. Chewing gum or sucking on a mint can help alleviate the pressure in your ears.
