We’ve all been on a trip where we end up wishing we had packed one more thing. Whether it’s a hat, or a pair of earrings, or even just your favorite toothpaste, there are always things that seem like they would have come in handy but didn’t make the cut.
But what do you actually need to make your bag a super-functional travel companion? Here are some essentials that will keep you organized, safe, and happy during your next trip.
You’re ready to travel!
But before you start packing up your bags, make sure you have these essential items in your carry-on bag:
A Portable Charger
You never know when your phone might run out of battery or how long that flight from New York City to San Francisco will last. Make sure you have a way to charge your phone before it’s too late!
Earplugs
Planes are loud, especially if they’re full of screaming children or people talking loudly on their phones over the engines. Bring earplugs so that you can catch up on sleep even if someone nearby doesn’t seem interested in respecting other people’s space!
A Good Book
Remember how fun it was to read when you were younger? It’s still fun as an adult!
A Bathing Suit And Flip Flops
A bathing suit and flip flops (for when you get off the plane). You never know when you’re going to want to go for a swim! (Or maybe just jump in a pool.)
Snacks
The best way to avoid paying exorbitant prices for food at the airport is to bring your own! Nothing fancy—just some granola bars or something like that will do the trick!
A Water Bottle
A water bottle you can refill it at any restaurant or water fountain, so no need to worry about having enough liquid on hand throughout your trip!
Sunglasses
Even if it’s cloudy outside or raining heavily, it’s still important to protect your eyes from UV rays and bright lights at all times—particularly when you’re traveling where there might not be as much eye protection available as there is at home (like beaches or pools).
Earphones
Whether you’re listening to music or watching a movie, earphones are a must! They help block out distractions and make things easier for everyone else around us too (like our neighbors who are trying to sleep).
Eye Mask
If you’re traveling overnight or just want to catch some shut-eye during your flight, an eye mask can help block out any light that might be coming from the window or overhead lights.
Facial Wipes
These come in handy when you don’t have time for a proper wash. They’re also great for wiping off makeup after a long day of travel so that you look fresh when you land.
Travel Wallet/Purse
A wallet or purse with zipper pockets will keep your passport, ID and other important documents safe and secure. Just don’t forget it at security! A travel wallet is a great item to have if you’re traveling internationally because it allows for easy access to your passport and other important documents like visas and vaccination records.some cash into your travel wallet so that you don’t have to worry about carrying around large amounts of cash while abroad.
Tissues
You never know when someone will sneeze on the plane or if one of those kids behind you won’t stop crying (again). Bring tissues along just in case!
Small Toiletry Bag
Pack all of your toiletries into a small plastic bag so they don’t take up too much room in your carry-on luggage. This also makes it easier to access them if need be during
Sanitizing Wipes
These handy packets can be used on everything from your phone to your laptop to your water bottle — anything that might come in contact with food or drink. If you have kids or pets, they can also be a lifesaver when it comes to preventing illness on long flights.
Earring Holder
Dangling earrings can be dangerous when traveling, especially if there’s turbulence or an emergency situation. These earring holders clip onto the strap of most bags and allow you to store delicate jewelry safely until you’re ready to wear them again.
Lip Balm with Sunscreen
Sunscreen is something we all should be wearing every day, but it’s especially important when traveling in the summer months. Pack lip balm with SPF protection so that your lips stay moisturized and protected from the sun’s harmful rays.
Deodorant And Perfume / Cologne
You don’t have to smell like a rose all day, but you should smell fresh. Pack a travel size bottle of each so that you can freshen up on long flights or before meetings. If you’re going through security or have an early morning meeting, these items may need to be removed from your carry-on bag for inspection. If this happens, make sure you put them back in after security check so that they are still accessible during your flight or meeting!
In conclusion, our carry-on bag packing list should come in handy the next time you hit the road. Though some of these items are specific to shorter trips, they’re all essential items to have on hand—and that’s a good thing!
Packing for a trip is always a challenging task. You want to make sure you have everything, but you also don’t want to over pack. With so much weighing on your shoulders, it’s easy to miss an item or two… or ten. The items above will help get you through your next trip smoothly and safely. Happily, you’ll never have to face the emptiness of an otherwise packed bag again!
