The Essential Carry-On Packing List
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What you pack in your carry on will set the tone for your travel as your begin you trip. What you bring with you will make your flights a breeze and we have compiled the essential carry-on packing list for you.
Duffel Bag
A duffel bag is the perfect carry on bag because it flexible so it can stow in the overhead storage of the airplane very easily. We love this duffel bag because it also has backpack straps for easy carry at the airport and while you are traveling.
Passport Holder
A passport holder or wallet is great for when you are traveling. They contain all of your important documents in one place. It will make for quick, easy travel when you have all of your documents grouped together in one location.
Notebook
A notebook is necessary for any flight. Write down ideas, plan your trip, etc. It’s a great chance to clear your head and you don’t have to use up your phone or computer battery to entertain yourself!
Chapstick
Chapstick is needed on a flight or while on vacation because the plane’s environment can be very dry. Chapstick is an easy way to keep your lips dry and happy!
Water Bottle
A good water bottle is crucial to any travel. Pack this reusable water bottle and fill up before boarding the plane. It will also be a great addition to your trip so you can carry water with you at all times.
Face Towelettes
Traveling for a long time can leave you feeling gross and dirty. Give yourself a quick face cleaning with these towelettes. You can clean your face before a night’s rest on the plane without packing face wash.
Sleep Mask
Sleep masks are great for when you want to sleep on the plane but it may be too bright to do so. Don’t let your neighbor’s lighting keep you from getting your sleep! We also like to pack them for traveling in case your hotel is bright or you need to catch up on sleep during the day to combat jet lag.
Wireless Head Phones
Headphones are definitely needed on the plane. We like these wireless headphones because then you don’t have to deal with tangled cords to having neighbors have to climb over your cord.
Dopp Kit
A dopp kit is a great idea for packing all of your travel toiletries on the plane. Pack your toothpaste, toothbrush, face wipes, makeup, etc. and have it ready in one spot to grab quickly.
Tablet
A tablet is a great thing to pack on a trip instead of your computer. You can play games, listen to music, stream movies, surf the internet, and much more without taking up too much space in your bag!
Blanket
A blanket is a great addition to your carry on bag! Planes can be very cold so it’s nice to be prepared with a blanket of your own. They are also great to have on a trip to use for picnics or if your hotel is cold at night.
Inflatable Pillow
An inflatable pillow is very necessary when traveling. This one doesn’t have to take up tons of space when you are not using it. Just store it away and the pull it out to inflate if you need it. No more stiff necks as a result of sleeping on the plane!
Snacks
We always like to bring snack on the plane when we travel. Travel days can turn into long adventures so it’s good to be prepared with food and water. Airport food is also expensive so save on costs by bringing your own food!
Ear Plugs
Ear plugs are great for sleeping on the plane! With your sleeping mask, pillow, and these you should have no problem sleeping!
Hand Sanitizer
We like to pack hand sanitizer for planes because you are coming in contact with lots of germs. It is not always easy to get up and wash your hands but using hand sanitizer is quick and easy.
Eye Drops
Eye drops are great for when you have dry eyes from the plane. These tiny drops are the perfect travel size. Keep them in your pocket and keep those eyes from feeling dry!
Portable Charger
We like to pack this portable, solar charger on all of our trips. Not all planes will have chargers on them so we pack these as a backup. We fully charge them before taking them on the plane so that we can charge our electronics with it if we need to. This charger is also great because it also has a flashlight.
Gum
Gum is great for keeping your ears from popping while traveling. It will also help you feel fresh after a long day of traveling!
Book
A good book is always a great idea when flying. Save the battery of your electronics and enjoying reading instead!
Sanitizing Wipes
Sanitizing wipes are a great addition to your carry on if you want to wipe off the surfaces in the plane. Prevent yourself from getting sick by wiping the area around you.
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is essential to a carry on bag in case you develop a headache, have sore muscles, etc. You will want to have access to medications, so back them in the carry on vs. in a checked bag.
Sleep Aid
Sleep aid can be used to help you sleep on the plane. They can relax you and aid in allowing you to get good rest while flying.
Tissues
Tissues are important to pack for cleaning up messes, wiping hands, blowing noses, etc. They are great to have in case of emergency. You never know when you will need one and this package is small and easy to pack.