8 Must-Haves in Your Carry-On
Before discovering the magic that is backpacking, therefore rendering all my belongings carry-on items, I too used to fall victim to checking my luggage. Only realizing after takeoff that a vital item didn’t make its way into the overhead compartment or underneath my seat.
Here’s my list of 10 carry-on must-haves you need to pack for the next time you plan on reaching new altitudes!
1. Food
Yes, yes I know you are the ultimate snack, I won’t debate that, but you can’t eat yourself so to avoid becoming a Snickers campaign mid-flight, ensure you pack some small meals or snacks. You are permitted to bringing food on your fight, so as long as it’s dry, the possibilities are endless. Prior to departure, I like to hit up a local bulk store for sweet treats, nuts, dried fruits, and whatever else I feel like munching on that’ll keep my energy levels high.
*PROTIP 1: if you don’t have time to hit up a notable bulk retailer prior to your trip, head to the airline’s website to see what your options are for meals and beverages.
*PROTIP 2: In-flight meal options can occasionally be unappealing or cost a pretty penny, pack a reusable container with tea bags, instant oat packets, or ramen and ask your flight attendant for hot water. Sometimes I go the extra mile and make my own cold meals.
2. Water Bottle
Although you are restricted from bringing water through security, there are fountains and hands-free water bottle filling stations just beyond your delightful frisk and metal detectors. More often than not, they’re located near the bathrooms and departure gates, so they’re easy to spot. I would recommend investing in a reusable water bottle like a Nalgene or Hydroflask. They’re a more sustainable option for the environment and your wallet. The pressurized air in plane cabins and prolonged sitting can limit oxygen absorption and blood circulation, so drink up to reduce its effects!
3.Toiletries
I’ve been on my fair share of looooong flights and there’s nothing I want more after sitting for an extended period of time than to get to my destination, unwind and hop in the shower. But, there are always hiccups when travelling. Keeping toiletries on your person allows you to be able to wash up when you see fit; brush your teeth, reapply your make up and do whatever else makes you feel so fresh and so clean, clean.
4. Extra Clothes
If you’re not about the backpacking, no checked bag life then it’s smart to take precautions in the off chance that your luggage gets lost in transit. Depending on your travel destination, pack a swimsuit, socks, a spare day outfit that can be easily rolled up (think Chiffon, Cotton and Polyester), a raincoat and extra underwear.
*PROTIP: Wear your running shoes on the plane and pack your flip flops or sandals in your carry-on. That way you automatically have two pairs of shoes and can give your feet some air immediately post-flight.
5. Electronics & Divertissements
If the in-flight entertainment isn’t up your alley or you have unfinished work to do, make sure you pack the essentials to get it done. On most flights, the armrests and TV screens have USB ports so if you didn’t get the opportunity to charge your devices at the airport, now’s your chance!
If you need a break from all the screens, consider bringing along a book or a journal. I never go anywhere without mine because photos aren’t the only way to immortalize a moment. I love collaging ticket stubs, wristbands, receipts and other mementoes, it’s a great way to keep busy and document all your adventures!
6. Pen
The simplest of items that the majority of us tend to forget. We’ve all been there, the moment you see the flight attendant heading towards your alley with the declaration card as you pat yourself down in search of a pen. If you’re not travelling with family or friends, the polite stranger sitting next to you may offer up theirs or you can always ask! You never know who you could be sitting beside, that small gesture could break the ice and possibly spark a conversation.
7. Neck Pillow
This is a heavily disputed item, but if you don’t want a stiff neck post-flight, I believe it’s essential. Before I invested in this sleeping accessory, I would just roll up my sweater, wrap it around like a scarf, and catch some zzz’s. Neck pillows come in a range of fabrics and comfort levels from velvet to microbead, but my personal favourite is inflatable. I love that you can change the firmness and they’re easily compactable!
8. Wipes & Hand Sanitizer
In 2017, it was estimated that roughly 6 million people fly daily. That’s a lot of bag handling and germs and if you ask me. There’s nothing worse than getting sick on a trip and spending the majority of your time bedridden, staring at the wall. Getting sick is evitable, but these can help reduce the effects!
Who says you need to be in first-class to have a comfortable travelling experience? (capitalism). With these essentials, you’re in for a relaxing journey. Hope to see you around the globe somewhere soon!