BEST CARRY-ON TRAVEL GUIDE
Let’s Pack For This Trip…
Regardless of the size of your carry-on, you are allowed one personal item meaning a smaller backpack or a tote that will fit under the seat in front of you. This is where you will want your readily available goods throughout the flight. I’ve compiled a list of essential things to pack for traveling that might make that long haul flight more comfortable.
1.Phone/iPad/Laptop Charger – Don’t forget to bring your phone charger! Chargers are a carry-on essential! It’s relatively easy to find replacement chargers on your travels, but who wants to spend precious time doing that? Plus you’ll need it on that long flight if you plan on using your phone to look at/edit photos, watch movies, etc. Here is a compact budget
2.Antihistamine tablets – If you suffer from any kind of pollen allergy or have a generally sensitive nose, I highly recommend you take antihistamines or at least have them handy. I’ve found popping an antihistamine at the beginning of a flight stops sneeziness and general miserable allergy symptoms brought on by breathing dry, stale air. They are very cheap and take up no room at all.
3.Tissues – a few packs of travel tissues easily accessible in your carry-on bag (and in your back pocket) is definitely a carry-on essential.
4.Wet Wipes or Makeup Remover Wipes – These can be used at the beginning of your flight as you settle in to wipe down your tray in the seat back and also give your hands a refreshing cleanse after you’ve just been through security and check-in counters. These will play a role towards the end of your flight when you want to freshen up before landing. I like the smaller packs such as these Hypoallergenic Facial Wipes.
5.Moisturizer – keeping some moisturizer handy for your face on long flights (and actually, just general day to day while traveling) can do wonders for making you feel better at the end of a long day.
6.Lip Balm – Airplanes are dry, dry, dry.
Remember the 3-1-1 rule… Toiletries and liquids must be under 3.4 oz each, in a 1 qt sized bag and you are allowed 1 bag per person. 3-1-1 rule is a must on any carry-on packing guide.
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8. Neck pillow – There are different types and it really comes down to personal preference. I personally wouldn’t attempt a long haul flight without one, whichever one you choose!
9. Pen – keep a pen in your carry-on luggage too to fill in immigration forms on the plane before you land – saves you time doing it when you get into the airport.
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11.Snacks – Whether you eat them or not, bring snacks! They can always become “Hotel” snacks if they don’t get eaten on the flight. Some airlines feed you often and well… but maybe you don’t want Hindu Curry again. Maybe you just want some healthy almonds or dried fruit snacks. Come prepared and you won’t be disappointed.
12.Valuable Items – Jewelry, photography equipment, sentimental items… keep them close.
13. Medications and Medical Documents – Remember to keep your medications in their respective containers, properly/clearly labeled. Remember to throw in your favorite headache remedy.
MOST IMPORTANTLY… TRIPLE CHECK THAT YOU HAVE YOUR PASSPORT, THAT IT IS, IN FACT, YOUR PASSPORT, AND IT IS UP TO DATE!
Let’s unpack this…
Your essential carry-on item list will almost always be the same whether you are taking a weekend trip or a 3-month long trip. The flight is the first thing we have to get through and each of these items will lend a hand in doing that. You might find that you get cold and want to add a scarf to cozy up in, or an eye mask to block out the light… you will tweak it along the way and find your personal items that help you endure what most of us dread… the LONG flight. For more packing tips check out this article. Packing Tips!
