Did you know there are 12 essential items that should be in your carry-on?
The carry-on bag has long been considered that extra luggage piece that you throw those last-minute items into before getting on your flight. We have all seen the pictures of tourists with matching vinyl bags blazon with tour company or airline logos. The purpose of the carry-on bag was to provide place for essential items like an extra sweater, a toothbrush, a book, or tourist brochures.
But in the 21st century, the carry-on bag has become much more. It has become an extension of the complete luggage set. The carry-on bag is no longer just an extra bag for last minute items but rather a keeper of essentials that you might need either during the flight or at the destination. Many carry-on bags are now considered small suitcases with their sizes growing over the last few years. As such, they have on occasion been relegated to checked baggage at the gate so be sure to have a proper luggage tag just in case.
In a post-pandemic world with staff shortages across the globe, many people have chosen to exclusively travel with carry-on only. Fears of lost luggage have driven up the desire to arrive at a destination with everything you need rather than waiting at the luggage carrousel in the hopes that your bag will be there.
However, this too can create delays at the gate if you are not aware of the rules regarding what should be in a carry-on. Be sure to double-check your packing list and quantity sizes if you plan on carrying anything other than the following essential items in your carry-on.
*Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will earn a small commission. This occurs at no added cost to you.*
Check the size of your carry-on
Many airlines have introduced size limits for these carry-on bags. Some travelers are now using carry-on bags as their sole piece of luggage and avoiding checking bags all together. Whether you choose to use a carry-on as luggage or not, there are some essential items that should be included.
Just as you make a packing list for your clothes, so should you make a list for your carry-on. You need to remember to pack the most important travel accessories as well as a few items of clothing. After all, it is important to consider all the situations that might arise.
So, what essentials do you put in your carry-on?
The 12 essential items that should be in your carry-on are:
Travel wallet
How many times have you gone searching through your purse or carry-on for those important travel documents? A multi-purpose travel wallet is the way to go. There are pockets for your passport, card cards, air tickets, and travel insurance.
There is also a zippered pocket for some cash and depending on the size of your smartphone, even space for that.
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is an important part of airplane hygiene. Before you grab a snack or prepare for a meal during a long flight, you must clean your hands. Even grab bars and railings could carry germs so the more you sanitize, the safer you will be. Not everyone is vaccinated for all diseases.
Hand sanitizer usually comes in small bottles but remember that it also counts in your liquids allowance. This definitely should be part of thee 12 essential items!
Travel pillow
Trying to fall asleep on the plane can be challenging. But with an airline travel pillow your travel experience will be more comfortable. Whether you are taking a trip in a car, train, or plane, this neck travel pillow makes for comfortable sleep no matter where you are. It is easy to take with you, thanks to its’ carrying bag.
This pillow is made from 100 percent memory foam and uses your body heat to mold to your neck and shoulders. It minimizes stiff necks and discomfort associated with sleeping in uncomfortable seats. Unlike other travel pillows for airplanes, our pillow includes a pocket that will secure your cell phone while you sleep.
Folding water bottle
When travelling by plane, the air in the cabin is much drier than it is on the ground. You need to carry a lot more water than you would on the ground. This should be one of the 12 essential items in your carry-on
The best way to do this is by having your own water bottle rather than buying new plastic ones all the time.
A foldable silicone water bottle is a perfect choice for several reasons. You can fold it and pack it empty to go through security and fill on the other side. When you exit the plane, instead of leaving the plastic bottle for the trash you can fold it and put it away. Being made of silicone, it is stain resistant so there won’t be any smell or taste.
Tablet, iPad or kobo
Entertainment is the key to passing travel time more effectively. You could spend many hours waiting around on the airport pre-flight as well as during layovers. If you fly regularly, you will find that the airline provided in-flight entertainment may not be to your liking or simply, not available.
So having your own entertainment can be an easy way to pass the time.
Electronic organizing case
If you are like me, anytime you go anywhere these days, you are carrying several electronic devices. Each one has its own cord, and many are not interchangeable. Different cords for phone, laptop, tablet, earbuds etc.
This travel electronics organizer is just the right product for keeping everything in order and should be included as an essential item in your carry-on. No more wasting time trying to find the right cord for the right device.
This case is made of durable and water repellent nylon molded case, so it protects your items from scratches, dust, and accidental dropping. Its compact, portable, and space-saving size easily fits into any backpack or handbags.
Toiletry bag
A hanging toiletry bag is easy to organize and store large toiletries, hair products, and cosmetics. This one fits multiple full-sized tubes and bottles so no need to transfer into travel bottles. The compartments are double lined with PVC to contain spills.
There is a small detachable cosmetic bag to use as a separate makeup bag or toiletry pouch in flight. It complies with TSA’s 3-1-1 rule on bags to hold hand carry liquids.
Portable charger
Since smartphones and other devices are travel essentials for a plane, we need to make sure they always have enough power. When they run out of power it can be a problem. Some airports have charging stations available but not even close for everyone to use to charge their devices. This should definitely be included in the 12 essential items in your carry-on.
So, if you want to avoid issue with a low battery, portable charger may be the best travel accessory to keep you entertained and up to date with crucial flight information.
Change of clothes and underwear
For those that have travelled more frequently, you know how important it is to carry a change of clothing in your carry-on. It could be as simple as a pair of shorts and flip flops so you will be ready at your beach destination or it could include a compete change.
There are occasions where your luggage decides to go on a different journey, and you may be stuck without it for a few days.
By carrying a complete change, you will be prepared for this unfortunate incident. A definite must in your carry-on.
Deodorant
Deodorant may be an odd item to see on a list of travel accessories but just think about it for a moment. You have just spent several hours waiting for a flight, then on the flight itself. The air in the cabin tends to be very dry and sometimes quite warm.
As part of your pre-arrival routine, putting on some fresh deodorant can make you feel amazing.
Planning a trip is made easy with this Trip Planning Checklist Bundle. It has everything you need to keep you well organized. From Pre-planning to Budget Planning, Day Trip Planning, and a variety of Checklists, you will have the tools to plan and enjoy your vacation.
Pen
You should always carry a pen for multiple reasons. If your devices run out of battery and your portable charger is of no help, you can use a pen to write some important notes to yourself.
Sometimes you will need to fill out certain forms when you travel. For example, you may need to deal with customs documents or temporary visas. Instead of turning around asking for a pen, and worrying about germs, you can just take out your own when you need it. This must be included as part of the 12 essential items in your carry-on.
Copies of documents
You should always carry a copy of your travel documents with you on vacation. This should include a copy of your passport as well as any travel documents like tickets, and visas. Once at your destination, these can be stored in the hotel safe. If you lose your passport, having a copy can speed up the process for replacement.
Conclusion
So, whether you are going on a short flight or a long one, these carry-on essentials should be considered when creating your packing list.
It is better to be prepared for everything and not need it than to need something you do not have.
BTW, if you are still in the planning stages of your trip, make sure to take advantage of these useful, money-saving links:
Money Saving References:
Research and book your flight with Cheap-O-Air. I have found them to have really great deals.
Car rentals can be done through Rental Cars.com with flexible pickup and drop-off options.
Book your accommodation with Booking.com. I find they have a wide selection and a nice, user-friendly, transparent website.
As always, travel insurance should be reviewed so that your or your trip are protected from unfortunate incidents or situations that may arise.
For general tours to any destination or attraction, book with Viator. Check them out.
I have personally used many of these suppliers listed here and elsewhere on my blog. By booking through these sites, the small commission I earn – at no cost to you – helps me maintain this site so I can continue to offer the readers valuable travel tips and advice.
Like this post? Pin for later!
