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The Ultimate Carry-On Packing Guide
- Saulius Bertauskas
- Oct 6, 2014
- 8 min read
No matter where in the world I travel to, my carry-on packing routine is nearly always the same. I ensure I have all the essentials and whatever I need to stay comfortable.
Whether you’re taking a 1-hour commuter flight or a 10-hour transatlantic flight… don’t miss my ultimate carry-on packing guide for a smooth trip!
Carry
Depending on your trip, you may require a carry-on suitcase, or you may only need a large purse. Here are my recommendations for carry-on bags:
Backpack
Because I have a ton of camera equipment (and computer stuff), my go-to carry-on for every trip is a backpack that can fit all the gear. I used the Case Logic Camera & Laptop Backpack for a few years, and I love that it protected my laptop and camera—it’s a great budget option. Now, I’m obsessed with the ONA Big Sur Backpack because it comfortably fits my SLR camera, 3-4 lenses, cords, batteries, wallet and up to a 15-inch laptop, plus space for all of my other carry-on essentials. It’s an awesome investment for long-term or constant travelers.
Tote
Regardless of my carry-on bag, I always pack a tote bag that fits under my seat, so I can easily access my accessories, Kindle, and more. This convertible tote + backpack from Lo & Sons is made of recycled polyester — and it features stash pockets, a sleeve for your suitcase handle, and a removable insert with a dedicated compartment/pocket for a 13″ laptop.
I also love the Lo & Sons’ O.G. Bag! It’s lightweight, has normal purse style handles, plus a larger cross-body strap which is great if you’re lugging around a lot of stuff. Plus, it has a laptop sleeve.
Liquid’s Pouch
I use these clear pouches for liquids that I carry on. I also love the TRUFFLE clear clutches They’re beautiful and made from high-quality materials so they’ll last for years to come. Because of their clear design, they’re also TSA approved so you can pack your liquids and small items inside.
They just released new Jetset Cases perfect for storing smaller cosmetics, jewelry, or cables and chargers—adorable!
Sleep
Nowadays, some airlines no longer offer pillows and blankets to economy passengers. It’s always best to be prepared!
Travel Pillow
I’ve tried EVERY type of travel pillow, and this inflatable neck pillow is by far the best of the lot. It inflates in a couple of breaths, has an easy air release button so you can customize the firmness and comes with a small pouch for storage.
Eye Mask
The most important features in a good eye mask are that it blocks out all light and isn’t too tight around your head. This 3D Eye Mask is countered for comfort and creates a complete seal around your eyes to block out the light.
Ear Plugs
Never underestimate the joy of having a good set of earplugs. They will not only make your flight more enjoyable but could save your sanity along with your travels.
As a light sleeper and someone who lies awake at night if anyone is snoring, I recommend Hearos Xtreme earplugs. They’re soft, comfortable and offer the highest noise reduction available.
Wear
My flight outfits change depending on my destination, but I always make sure I have the essentials. These items will keep you comfy and looking your best:
Shoes
I have to say that my new favorite travel shoes are Allbirds’ Runners—they feel like giant socks and are easy to rock with any outfit. They’re comfortable and are easy to slip on and off—plus they have tons of neutral colors.
Sweater
Finding the perfect travel sweater is like finding the perfect partner. I’m not kidding. Once you find “the one” you’ll never leave home without it.
I’ve found that a long cardigan is perfect for flights. You can wear it as a sweater, lay it over you like a blanket, or bundle it up around your neck like a scarf.
Headwear
I don’t pack my hats in luggage, because they usually get squished. Plus, an easy way to look your best after a long flight is having a stylish piece of headwear on hand, whether it’s a baseball cap or even a beanie. Headscarves are perfect for tying into your hair, and I love a Janessa Leone packable hat. They’re both chic and perfect for any destination.
Compression Socks
On a more serious note, you should always, always travel with compression socks. Long flights can wreak havoc on leg health. Travel-related deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition dubbed “economy-class syndrome” which causes blog clots following long-haul air travel in cramped conditions.
Studies have concluded that airline passengers who wear compression stockings during flights of four hours or more can significantly reduce their risk of DVT as well as leg swelling.
I always pack a pair of open toe compression socks to stay safe and comfortable on long flights.
Eat
Most airlines serve up a couple of options for meals on board. I like to think of them as cardboard and indigestion. Always pack some snacks, especially on long-haul flights.
Snacks
I’ll typically bring a piece of fruit and some raw almonds to snack on during the flight. I also love Perfect Bars. They’re organic, filling and packed with delicious & healthy ingredients so you’ll feel good about what you’re eating! Here are more TSA-Approved Snacks to Pack for Your Next Flight!
If you’re traveling to a destination where food or water contamination is common (like Central America, South America, or Asia), there are a few simple things that you can do to reduce your risk of getting the dreaded travelers’ tummy, like taking an OTC, like Travelan, to prevent any setbacks on your trip. Start taking it before your first meal and avoid spending your trip in the restroom.
Hydrate
Commercial airplanes have very low humidity, so keeping your skin and body hydrated is important.
Water Bottle
I highly recommend getting a reusable and collapsible water bottle for your travels. It rolls up small enough to fit in your pocket when empty, and it is leakproof. Most airports have water bottle filling stations, and the flight attendants will always fill up your bottle if you ask.
While it may mean extra trips to the lavatory, drinking lots of water before and during your flight can help with jet lag and fatigue.
Eye Cream
For me, one of the worst effects of travel is tired eyes. I’m obsessed with Musely’s Bye Bye Eye Bags—they don’t slide around, and I can even sleep with them during long-haul flights! If you’re more of an eye cream person, I recommend applying Pure Biology’s Eye Cream under your eyes before and during a flight to help with dark circles and puffiness.
Lip Balm
My favorite travel lip product is Bite Beauty’s travel-friendly Agave Lip Balm. They also have a lip scrub, perfect for pre-flight application! Another all-natural option is Dr. Brenner’s Organic Lip Balm.
Tinted Moisturizer
A good tinted moisturizer has the coverage benefits of a foundation and the moisturizing qualities of face lotion. My favorite, affordable option is the MyChelle Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 50!
Coconut Oil
I always pack a small container with coconut oil—it solidifies in cooler temperatures and liquefies when it’s heated. It serves a variety of uses but is great to use as a hand moisturizer on flights.
The fragrance is also nice should you need refuge from any unsavory smells onboard.
Want more travel beauty tips?
Cleanse
Long travel days can leave you feeling unclean and uncomfortable. These items will keep you feeling fresh:
Hand Sanitizer
It’s not new news that airplanes are blanketed in bacteria. Do your best to keep clear of germs and do your part not to spread them. I love this plant-based sanitizer spray and these disinfectant hand wipes for keeping bacteria at bay.
Wipes
I love traveling biodegradable body wipes to freshen up, as they’re perfect for an array of uses while traveling. I typically pack the oil-free facial cleansing wipes and organic feminine hygiene wipes on every flight.
I recently became obsessed with these essential oil towelettes for a little pick-me-up too!
Read More: Tips for Traveling with ‘Aunt Flo’
It may sound like a whole lotta wipe, but you’ll thank me on that 24-hour travel day with no shower!
Brighten
With limited carry-on space and limitations on liquids, it’s best to bring less makeup onboard. Here are my fav products to bring that moneymaker back to life!
Mascara
A little mascara can go a long way and can help brighten your eyes after a flight. I’ve never found a better travel-sized mascara than they’re real! by Benefit.
Under Eye Concealer
A good under-eye concealer should be hydrating and shouldn’t dry out and crease. I love this bareMinerals tinted hydrating gel cream because it helps hide some imperfections, it hydrates, and it has SPF—all in one!
Rejuvenating Eye Gels
As I mentioned before, puffy eyes are my biggest concern when traveling. I use energizing collagen eye gels near the end of a flight to give my under eyes a kick-start of clean collagen, vitamin C, rose oil, and hyaluronic acid. I love that they come individually wrapped so it’s not messy to use, plus they’re vegan, cruelty-free and paraben-free.
Read More: 10 Must Have Travel Beauty Products
Refresh
A little freshness is a life-saver on a travel day. These items will keep you feeling refreshed both on and off your flight:
Panty Liners
Long travel days usually means no shower. So, I always pack a few panty liners and change throughout my trip.
Mints
Try to avoid chewing gum while you’re flying. Swallowing the extra air can sometimes cause tummy aches. Instead, opt for something like YumEarth’s Organic Wild Peppermint Drops.
Deodorant
Do everyone a favor a reapply during your flight. I love a good natural deodorant but for carry-on regulations, an underarm deodorant wipe is an awesome option.
Eye Drops
Sometimes a couple of eye drops are all you need to feel refreshed after a long flight. Don’t forget to pack a bottle!
Toothbrush
I typically always pack my toothbrush on a flight, but I like Colgate single-use Wisps for a quick brush up. I leave them in my purse no matter where I go so I can keep my breath and smile fresh after a meal.
Spare Pair
It never hurts to pack a spare pair of undies and an extra top on long-travel days.
Entertain
A long-haul flight can seem daunting, so be prepared with plenty of things to entertain yourself. Here are some ideas to keep clear of boredom:
Tablet
I love the feel of a physical book more than anything, but they can be bulky, which is why I travel with a tablet or a Kindle E-Reader. A tablet keep all of your apps, music, games, and eBooks stored in one compact device.
Make sure your apps and software are updated and downloaded before you board. Look into the hundreds of travel apps before your flight to help you plan your trip and keep you busy on the flight.
Phone
If you are traveling out of the country, be sure to turn off your cellular data to avoid roaming fees. Smartphones also offer the same features of a tablet with plenty of games, books, and apps to make time go by faster. If you want to stay connected, check out the Skyroam wireless device.
Headphones
A good pair of headphones is a wise investment for frequent travelers. I find bulky noise-canceling headsets to be more of a fashion statement than practicality, so I sometimes opt for powerful, yet compact, wireless earbuds.
Electronic Chargers & Adapters
Don’t forget to pack any chargers for devices that you bring in your carry-on! Depending on where you’re traveling, you may need a universal adapter for your plugs.
Don’t Forget
Everything I’ve mentioned so far is replaceable and can be purchased in most places around the world. So, don’t sweat about forgetting the small stuff.
These are the most important things to remember:
Passport and/or Identification
Credit Cards and/or Cash
Valuables
Never pack expensive items in your checked baggage, or you may never see them again. I always carry-on my camera equipment and nice jewelry.
Travel Insurance
I always recommend travel insurance for every trip. I prefer World Nomads Travel Insurance because it’s completely affordable and gives me peace of mind. It covers not only my flights and baggage but also medical emergencies and trip cancellation. Read more here: Ten Reasons to Get Travel Insurance for your Next Trip
Copies of Important Documents
It’s always wise to bring physical copies of your passport and any other travel documents in the case of loss or theft.
Medications
Of course, you should always bring any medication you require in your carry-on. Keep in mind that you may be required to show proof of prescription for some medications.
I usually bring a small pill case for general ailments such as a headache, nausea, and allergies.
Liquid Allowances
Don’t forget the 3-1-1 rule when packing your liquids. Liquids must be under 3.4 ounces, fit in 1 quart-sized plastic bag and you are allowed 1 bag per passenger.
Rest assured, all of the liquids in this packing guide will fit inside a single quart-sized plastic bag.
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I would never recommend anything I don’t personally love, and the income goes to keeping this site updated and free for everyone!
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