TEN ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR CARRY ON

6/7/2022

Are you preparing for an upcoming trip? Are you a notorious over or under packer? We know that traveling by airplane can be both exciting and a means to an end to get to that idyllic destination. We've done our fair share of accumulating sky miles and wanted to share some of our must-haves for our carry-on luggage. We hope they save you some headaches, and if you think we should add anything, share with us your best tips and essentials in the comments below.

1. Travel documents, passports and copies

While you’ll obviously need boarding passes and passports to make it through security for those international destinations, we suggest copies of your passports and travel documents as well. This is helpful not only as you travel to your destination, but can be very useful when you arrive. We suggest leaving your physical copies behind in the hotel safe (unless you'll need a legal copy for your outing) and taking your copies with you.

2. noise cancelling headphones

Noise cancelling headphones are a must have on flights as you have so many other noises competing for your ears--babies, a snoring neighbor, or even the jet engines. If they are wireless, we suggest making sure they are fully charged before take-off.

3. a change of clothes

This comes in handy in so many ways! Of course we hope that travel will be easy and care-free, but we've been in situations where you spill something on yourself, or your luggage gets delayed and you don't have a change of clothes. We suggest a simple change of clothes in your carry-on in the unfortunate moments that we bump into.

4. jewelry and valuables

Speaking of delayed (or even lost) luggage, we suggest packing valuables in your carry-on, like jewelry and expensive accessories. Having your carry-on with you at all times can help you feel more assured that your valuables are also being kept safe and sound.

5. medicine

With the possibility of unexpected delays, cancellations or luggage mishaps, we want to make sure you are staying healthy with any required medications. Additionally, if you have space, we like to pack a quick, mini first-aid like assortment of medicine like ibuprofen/tylenol, benedryl or allergy medicine, and even some eye drops if your eyes tend to dry out on long flights.

6. Hygeine essentials

In addition to some of the mini-first aid medicine, some quick and accessible hygiene products can be very helpful. We tend to pack things like deodorant, chapstick, feminine products (as needed), and facial tissues. A small bag with these amenities can help you feel refreshed as you travel or arrive at your final destination.

7. tablet/e-reader or reading material

Tablets and e-readers can be a great, space-saving way to bring along shows, movies or reading material. And it's not just for the younger travelers! We can all get a bit bored on the longer flights and having a show or movie to occupy your mind can be very useful. An added bonus--many streaming sites now allow you to pre-download those shows and movies so you don't have to buy the in-flight Wifi. Don't have a tablet? A paper copy of a book can be a great way to pass the time on a flight and doesn't take up that much space.

8. external battery and charging cords

While flights are starting to come equipped with charging ports and electrical outlets on board, it's not always a guarantee. And while you could race to the charging stations with all of your fellow passengers, you can beat the crowds by bringing along your own external battery and charging cords. Then, you can charge your electronics from the convenience of anywhere in the airport or even on the plane.

9. disinfectant wipes

As we have all been living through this pandemic, we know that hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes can be very helpful, especially in high traffic areas. While the airline staff clean the plane between flights, having an extra wipe for disinfecting your own areas can bring you some peace of mind.

10. Neck or body pillow

We couldn't conclude a list of carry-on essentials without including a neck or body pillow. These can help create a bit of comfort as you share tight space with the people around you. There are so many different varieties out there, so find one that suits you! If you can still find it, the 1st Class Sleeper Pillow is a favorite of our team.

These are just some of the things we have decided are perfect for our carry-on luggage. Is there anything else you would add?
When you're ready to pack your carry-on for your next adventure, allow us the privilege of putting together the perfect trip to create those memorable moments with the people you love!