When it comes to my carry-on items, I always make sure to pack light and bring only the travel essentials that will make my trip easier. I like to travel light to breeze through security without any hassle. It stresses me out to rummage through my bags when trying to find something!
Of course, if I were taking a long-haul flight, I might need to adjust this list a bit. But for the most part, these items are my must-haves for any trip!
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Recommended Bags:
Most (although not all) airlines allow one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger.
Carry-on roller Suitcase
A reliable and durable suitcase is a must-have! A good bag will help make your trip effortless. Investing in a quality suitcase that is sturdy and will not break easily is worth it.
On the other hand, a bag that is poorly made and is unraveling will not only slow you down but can ruin your entire trip.
To keep your luggage looking fresh and to extend its lifespan, protect your carry-on suitcase with a luggage cover. It will shield your bag from dirt, scratches, and wear, ensuring that it stays in top condition throughout your travels.
Another smart travel trip is using a screen protector for your watch! Watches are often exposed to bumps and scratches, especially when you’re traveling or packing them. A small investment in a screen protector can save you from costly repairs and give you peace of mind on the go.
Personal Item Bag
When I travel, I always bring a personal item in addition to my carry-on suitcase. On my recent trip to Lisbon, Portugal, I took along my trusty Brevite Backpack. It was not only my camera bag but also served as my day bag. The backpack has plenty of space for my camera gear, laptop, and other items. What’s great is that the removable dividers make it super easy to switch to using it as a regular backpack when I don’t need to carry any camera gear.
One of my favorite bags is the Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe bag. It’s the perfect weekender bag for traveling and road trips. The bag is very spacious and can fit a lot of items. I especially like that it has a separate compartment at the bottom for shoes!
Now, let’s dive into what’s in my carry-on!
Carry-on Travel Essentials:
- Headphones
For entertainment, I usually take my headphones to watch movies on the flight.
If you are someone that has trouble sleeping on flights (hello crying babies and loud airplane engines), I recommend investing in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones. I have these Bose headphones, and they are worth the splurge. Your sanity will thank you later!
- Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter/Receiver
To watch movies from the in-flight entertainment on the airplane using your wireless headphones, you’ll need this AirFly travel accessory!
- Wallet
ID, passport (if necessary), credit cards, and cash are the most important things to have with you.
- Chargers
Don’t forget to pack any chargers for devices that you bring in your carry-on. I also like to have a portable phone charger in case I don’t have access to charge my phone while I travel.
- Charger Case
This charger case is great for keeping all your chargers and cords organized. It fits a lot but won’t take up too much space in your carry-on.
- Universal Power Adapter
This Universal Power Adapter is perfect for trips abroad – it covers over 150 countries! It’s a little bulky but lightweight and can fit easily in your personal bag or carry-on luggage.
- Empty water bottle
Water at airports can be expensive so bring your own water bottle and refill at the airport. I love these that are collapsible and can fold small when they are empty.
- Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
These electrolyte powder packets will help keep you hydrated during your trip. I always feel more energized and more hydrated when I take these!
- Medicine
Bring any important medication with you in a pill case since they are travel essentials, but you just have to keep in mind that you may be required to show a prescription for some of the medicine.
- Small bag with lip balm, hand cream, and hand sanitizer/sanitizing wipes
I probably don’t need to tell you that airplanes are covered in germs! Having sanitizing wipes or hand sanitizers is essential to help kill bacteria. And when your skin feels dry on the flight, hand cream will help keep your skin hydrated!
- Sunglasses
Sunglasses are always travel essentials for me because they are great for protecting my eyes from the sun and also help disguise the bags under my eyes if I’m tired after traveling (which is most of the time). I love these sunglasses that are cute, very lightweight and can be used for most activities.
- Hair ties
I always take satin hair ties with me on trips. I have naturally curly and frizzy hair, so thee are always useful for keeping your hair in place, especially in humid climates.
- Snacks
If I’m being “extra” and want something other than airplane snacks (let’s be honest, food on airplanes is not the best), I will bring my own snacks on the plane.
- Clear case that follows TSA requirements.
I only bring the essentials in a clear toiletries case and then buy the rest on arrival if I need to.
Toothbrush + Toothpaste
Shampoo + Conditioner
Body wash
Skincare
- Leakproof Bottles
This travel bottle set is essential for carrying toiletries in your carry-on luggage.
*TIP: to maximize traveling with liquids in a TSA approved bag, I usually break out all of the beauty samples and freebies that I’ve collected, like the ones from Sephora, to use as my “travel size” toiletries.
- Feminine products
Remember to pack these in your carry-on for easy access.
- Sunscreen
To protect your skin, wear lots and lots of sunscreen. After I apply my daily moisturizer, I use DIME’s Tinted Wonderscreen SPF 30.
- Makeup
Due to limited space, bring only a few of your favorite makeup items in your carry-on. For light coverage, I love ROSE INC’s tinted serum foundation. A little mascara, blush, and a nude lipstick are enough for me to create a natural look without bringing too many products on board.
- Jewelry Organizer
It’s never a good idea to place your valuable items in your checked luggage, always keep them with you.
- Eye mask + Travel pillow
If you struggle with sleeping on planes, a good travel pillow might be essential for you.
Travel Clothing Essentials:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
My go-to walking shoes for travel are Allbirds sneakers as they are super comfortable and machine washable.
- Leggings/Biker shorts
Legging biker shorts are great for hikes, lounging around, or quick trips to and from the hotel.
- Long Cardigan or Jacket
I like to keep a long, cozy cardigan in my carry-on as I tend to get cold on flights. It can also be used as a blanket on the plane. Additionally, it’s practical to wear your bulkiest items like a jacket or coat on the plane when traveling with only a carry-on.
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