Whether you are a seasoned traveler or just starting out, flying can be a daunting experience. In an airport alone, there are plenty of things to juggle before boarding your flight.
To help you keep things as simple as possible, we’ve put together a list of 11 items that should be in your carry-on bag at all times!
Flying has become a part of our everyday lives. In fact, 84% of Americans now fly at least once a year, and in 2017 we spent an average of 14 hours waiting for our flight each time.
That’s a lot of time we could be spending working on something else if it wasn’t for the sheer logistics involved. That’s why it’s important to pack the right things in your carry-on bag!
Flying these days can be very stressful and expensive, cramming all your flying essentials into the carry-on bag – a task that feels like obtaining the world’s hardest jigsaw puzzle.
Whether you’re taking a longer flight or just going on vacation, there are a lot of items you need to keep in a carry-on bag without forgetting. Travel Exception lists 11 things necessary for travel and an article detailing what each item is best used for.
What to pack in carry on bag for flight?
To make traveling a little easier, you should pack some essentials in your carry-on bag. This will save you time when passing through security and boarding the plane.
The most important items to have are your laptop, a travel pillow, chargers for your electronics, food and water, toiletries, and a change of clothes.
It’s hard to pack for a flight in advance – you don’t know what the weather will be like, nothing is certain. So what should you include in your carry-on bag? Here are 11 things to pack and consider!
1. Adapter and Chargers
One of the most important items to pack in a carry-on bag is a charger. It’s really easy to forget your phone or laptop charger at home, but it’s not good to get stuck with a dead battery on an airplane. An adapter for any foreign plugs is also very important so that you can charge your electronics.
These days, you can never be too sure when your power will die. It’s best to have an adapter with you that works for the country where you’re going, as well as any other countries you’ll be traveling to.
Most airlines provide power outlets in their seats and on the plane, but those outlets are few and far between.
If you’re concerned about running out of battery while flying, consider investing in a portable charger so that you’ll be able to charge your phone or tablet while on the go.
Have an adapter for the country you are visiting. Check the plugs to make sure that it matches. Make sure to pack extra chargers for your phone and other electronics.
2. Headphones
Headphones are a great way to stay entertained on a plane. You can listen to music or movies without disturbing the people around you.
To avoid losing your headphones, pack them in your carry-on bag and make sure that you keep them close to your body. You should also attach them to your clothing for extra security.
If you’re sitting next to someone who isn’t the nicest person, chewing gum can provide a nice distraction. Other people will be less likely to annoy you if they can’t hear what you’re saying from chewing the gum loudly.
Headphones are a necessity for any airline. Without headphones, it becomes very distracting and uncomfortable to be seated next to someone who is talking and laughing loudly.
Headphones are an easy way to complete your trip without being distracted by the person sitting next to you.
Also, in case you ever have an emergency or need to get off the plane quickly, having headphones will make it easier since you’ll be able to hear announcements.
3. Passport and VISA
A passport is a document that identifies a person as a citizen of a country. A VISA allows a foreign person to enter and exit the country.
Important documents, such as a passport and VISA, should be kept in the carry-on bag. The luggage will likely be checked in at the airport, where it will be scanned for security purposes.
Whether it’s domestic or international, one of the most important items to pack in your carry-on bag is a valid passport and VISA.
If you are traveling internationally, you will need an additional document called an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) which many countries, including the United States, require before arrival. Establishing this before you schedule your departure date will expedite the process at the airport.
Make sure you have a valid passport and VISA before traveling in case your plane is diverted elsewhere.
4. Cash and Cards
Some people prefer to pack cash and cards in their carry-on bag for flight rather than using the cards that were provided by the airlines. For some, this is because they don’t trust airlines with their credit card information.
They might see it as a security measure or backup plan if something happens to the airline’s systems. It can also be good to have local currency on hand since many airports have various ATMs with different fees and may not have certain types of currency available.
It is always a good idea to have cash and cards in your carry-on bag. You never know when you might need them.
It’s also better to use cash than your debit or credit card because if something happens to the card, you can’t dispute it.
There are many different ways to access money while traveling. Cash and cards are just some of the items that travelers should pack in their carry-on bags for flights.
5. A Set of Clothing
If you’re traveling by plane, it’s always a good idea to have clothes in your carry-on bag. This will ensure that you still have clean clothes if your luggage is lost or delayed. Be sure to pack a set of clothes for each day of your trip and include a pair of shoes and some underwear.
A set of clothing is a crucial item to pack for a flight. Make sure that you have at least one outfit for all occasions, including formal, casual and athletic wear. You will also need underwear, socks or tights, pajamas, and shoes depending on the length of your trip.
Make sure to pack a set of clothing and footwear for the journey. This will save you the trouble of going through airport security again. Pack clothes in a separate bag from your electronics, including laptops and tablets.
6. Collapsible Water Bottle
A collapsible water bottle is an essential item to pack in your carry-on bag for a flight. There may be limited space in the cabin and throughout the airport, so it will make sense to bring something that can fold down for easy storage.
Collapsible water bottles are designed with a tight seal that keeps the water from spilling out when you bend them, which means they’re perfect for carrying on flights or camping trips where there’s little access to potable water.
If you’re looking to keep it light and pack in carry-on, a collapsible water bottle is a must. These bottles can be tucked into your bag without taking up too much space while still keeping you hydrated.
Bringing your own collapsible water bottle is a great way to save money on airport purchases. Plus, you can fill it up before and during the flight to stay hydrated and avoid paying for expensive water once you get to your destination.
7. Toiletries
There are many items that you should pack in your carry-on bag. Some of the most important items, especially for long flights, are toiletries. Pack one or two travel-sized bottles of lotion, shampoo, conditioner and toothpaste.
If you have contact lens solution, then it should also be included in your carry-on. You should also have hand sanitizer to avoid getting sick while on your trip. If you wear glasses or contacts, then make sure you include a backup pair as well as extra contact lenses and solution.
Make sure to pack toiletries in carry-on bags when traveling. These items should include shampoo, soap, conditioner, toothbrush and toothpaste, face wash, hairbrush/comb, moisturizer or body lotion, mouthwash and nail clippers.
8. Neck Pillow
Neck pillows are a must when flying. They help you sleep comfortably and block out light from the window or near-by passengers. When I’m not traveling, I use my neck pillow for reading, lounging on the couch, or watching TV in bed.
You can find one anywhere, but my favorite is from Bed Bath & Beyond because it has a snap strap to keep it from sliding off in flight and a soft microfleece cover to make it comfortable against your skin.
When traveling, it is important to be as comfortable as possible. Airplanes can be particularly uncomfortable due to all the pressure changes.
A neck pillow can help with both of these things. It will provide support for your neck and make sure that you are able to sleep comfortably, even when the plane is changing altitude.
One downside is that they take up a lot of space in your bag, so pack one only if you think that you’ll need it.
9. Eye Mask
It is crucial to have an eye mask when traveling. This will help you sleep on the plane and will also block out any light that might wake you up while sleeping. It is important to get a mask with straps so it won’t fall off your head during the flight.
When you’re traveling on a plane, it might seem like the flight never ends. But since you’re not going to sleep, a good eye mask is key to help you rest. There are many benefits of using an eye mask during flights.
One benefit is that it blocks out the light so your eyes can adjust to the darkness. Another is that it prevents people from looking at you and causing any discomfort. The last benefit is that it helps to decrease dryness in your eyes and even helps with allergies.
If you want to sleep on a flight, an eye mask is essential. The cockpit lights can be bothersome in the morning or late at night. The best option is to use a sleep mask that blocks out the light and allows you to get some shut-eye during the flight.
10. Disinfecting Wipes
When packing for a flight, it’s important to keep the things you need with you. One item that is very good to have on hand is disinfecting wipes.
This can be useful at the airport and on the plane. Any time there is someone who has been sick or a spill, these are helpful in cleaning up. These wipes can also be used to wipe down the tray table and arm rests before you eat.
Along with your clothes and other personal items, you’ll need a variety of items to make your flight more enjoyable. One item that you can’t forget is disinfecting wipes. You’re sitting on a germ-filled seat for hours every day, so you have to make sure that the surface of your skin is clean.
Disinfecting wipes are a must-bring item when traveling. They’re useful for wiping down airplane trays and armrests, the handles of car doors, and hotel room door handles. It’s a good idea to keep them on hand in your purse or pocket if you plan on using public transport as well.
Disinfecting wipes are important in case you need to wash your hands before eating or touching other objects. They can also be used to wipe down tables, arm rests, and seats on the plane if necessary.
11. Essential Medicines
You should pack medicines that you need for allergies, infections, and pain in your carry-on luggage. You might also want to pack medicines for diarrhea and upset stomach if you are traveling to a tropical or developing country. Make sure to check with your doctor about the most appropriate medications for your needs before packing any items.
Even though you will be on your flight for just a few hours, it’s important to have medicine with you. For example, the cabin pressure can cause ear pain and sinus problems.
It can also lead to anxiety and lack of sleep. Take over-the-counter medicines like Advil, Excedrin, or Tylenol to help relieve your pain. If you need prescription medicine, talk to your doctor about getting an air sickness patch before your flight.
It is always a good idea to pack some necessary medicines in your carry-on bag for flight. These must be in their original containers, with labels and prescriptions or physician’s instructions.
You also need to have a signed letter from your doctor stating that these essential medicines are needed by you during the flight and when you arrive at your destination.
How to pack a carry on bag?
There are many things to consider when packing your carry on bag. You should try to balance the weight of your bag and fill the space as best you can.
The first thing you will want to do is lay all of your clothing out on the bed and decide what to wear in which order then pack that clothing in a smaller suitcase. Larger suitcases often have wheels so this may be a good place for bulky items like shoes or winter clothing in addition to clothes for your destination.
Next, pack belongings that you will use during flight like books, electronics, chargers, cosmetics, etc. In order to save space, try using vacuum sealed bags from home if possible. Here are some other helpful packing tips:
1. Purse – Keep your purse in carry-on bag, so when you go through security, you don’t have to take it off and put it back on again
2. Snacks – Pack snacks and drinks to save money
3. ID – Never forget your ID!
4. Money – Keep some cash, credit cards, and a credit card reader with you at all times
5. Power cord – Bring a power cord with you so you can charge your phone while waiting for the flight
6. Laptop or tablet – You never know when you might need it
7. Headphones or earbuds – These are great for drowning out the noise of the plane
8. Entertainment – Bring games or movies on a disc to entertain yourself during the flight
9. Comfortable clothing
10. Extra underwear, socks, jeans, sweater – In case something spills on your clothes
11. Blanket or pillow
Summary of 11 things to pack in carry-on bag for flight
No one likes being caught unprepared on a flight, so make sure you have everything you need in your carry-on bag before you board.
In addition to the basics like your passport and boarding pass, don’t forget to pack snacks, a change of clothes, medications, and anything else you might need during your trip. With a little planning ahead, you can ensure that your flight is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
With these items in your carry-on bag, you’ll be prepared for anything that comes up on your flight. From comfortable clothes to keep you cozy during the trip to snacks and entertainment for when you need a break from looking out the window, make sure you’ve got everything covered. And don’t forget your passport and boarding pass!
