First, decide what type of travel Carry-on-you want to use! The style of your travel bag is purely personal preference but there are tips that will help you find the travel bag that works best for you! Consider the length of your flight and what travel items you will pack. You can choose from duffle bags, small roller suitcases, or Backpacks.
What to Look for When Buying a Carry-on Travel Bag
- Weight. Choose a lightweight travel bag so you’re not feeling dragged down walking through the airport.
- Straps. Padded shoulder or crossbody straps make carrying so much easier!
- Roller wheels. Yes, more and more travel bags have wheels! Wheels can make your travel through the airport a breeze.
- Compartments. Look for compartments and pockets inside and on the outside of the bag so that you can easily find what you’re looking for without a ton of effort.
- Size. Check with the airline regarding size and weight restrictions for carry-ons. Generally, your travel bag should be able to fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment of the airplane.
What to Pack in Your Travel Carry-on Bag
Get Organized
You don’t want to be frazzled trying to find items in your travel bag. Keeping your documents and valuables organized and safe is important.
- Travel Wallet – This is a MUST HAVE item! There’s nothing scarier than getting to the check-in counter and not being able to find your travel documents. Have a designated travel wallet for all of your documentation such as your passport, driver’s license, travel documents, travel credit card. I also have an extra pen and some cash. If you don’t have a passport make sure to update your driver’s license for travel. I keep my passport in the Travel Wallet and keep a copy of my passport in the purse I carry around while on vacation.
- Purse within your Carry-on/Backpack. Similar to our suitcase, it’s smart to separate items in your carry-on. My husband usually keeps the travel wallet in his carry-on. I keep a small purse that I will use daily once I arrive at our destination. This purse would hold my money, credit cards, a small jewelry case, and my iPhone. Anything I need access to while on the plane is separated into separate zipped compartments within my carry-on.
- Electronics Organizer – Don’t forget your chargers, cords, and a jack splitter! A cord and charger organizer keeps everything in one place and easier to find.
- Foldable Slip-on Shoes. Do NOT go to the bathroom without something on your feet. I don’t think I need to explain this one. Foldable shoes take up less space!
Get Your ZZZZZ’s
I rarely fall asleep on a plane. I think it’s my paranoia of falling asleep and resting my head on a stranger’s shoulder. I guess that’s where a neck pillow comes in! 🙂 All kidding aside, if you have a long flight you will want to get some sleep so you’re refreshed upon arrival at your destination. A cozy cardigan, an eye mask, maybe a sleeping aid, cozy socks, and earplugs make the top of my list.
- Eye Mask – Sometimes an eye mask is just what you need to keep out the light and allow yourself to doze off.
- Travel Neck Pillow – Microbead travel neck pillow. Don’t realize you need to buy these things at the airport and pay extra. Snap closure so you can strap to anything for easier carrying.
- Headphones -The Noise-canceling Bose headphones have a great sound but keep the noise out.
- Ear Plugs – an inexpensive option to block unwanted noise.
- Sleep Aid – If you use a sleep aid to help you doze off, keep it organized with your other medications.
- Socks – Sometimes flights can be cool so having a cozy pair of Barefoot Dream socks will keep you comfortable during your flight.
Yummm
Don’t rely on airplane food to keep your tummy satisfied. Many airlines aren’t food service is VERY limited because of the pandemic. Pack healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, trail mix, protein bars, dark chocolate, and plenty of water. The dry air on the plane dehydrates you so drink plenty of water. Yes, a celebratory beverage on the flight is okay but alcohol is dehydrating so water is important.
- Snacks – Since the pandemic, airline regulations have changed. You may not have food service during your flight so make sure to pack something to keep your stomach from growling. I always bring Quest Power Bars with me when I travel.
- Water Bottle– Once you’re through security you can purchase water or fill your water bottle. Hydrating is important! With current flight restrictions, flight attendants may not come through the cabin as often to bring water to you.
- Chewing Gum – Etiquette probably says to nix the gum but I always like to have it when I’m flying. As the cabin pressure changes with take-off and landing, your ears may be sensitive. Chewing a stick of gum or sucking on a mint or candy can help. Trying to yawn can also alleviate ear pressure.
- Medications – Carry any medications you need in your carry-on. Never pack your prescription medications in your checked-in luggage!
Freshen Up
Feeling fresh will make a long flight bearable. Find travel sizes in everything from toothpaste, deodorant. and hair products. I’ve listed 7 of the top travel items you may want to consider to bring on the plane.
- Sanitizing wipes – I was the person that everyone thought was a bit weird years ago because I always sanitized my seat area and tray table on the plane. Now everyone does it and you should too! You can also use mini bottles of Purell and add sanitizer to Abozy travel size clear bottles with holder keychain. so that you can attach it to your purse or carry so it’s always easy to find!
- Hand Creme – If you sanitize your hands a lot and your traveling on a plane Hand creams like JR Watkins and Neutrogena are especially good!
- Facial Mist – You can use facial mists from Clinique to keep your skin fresh and moisturized. Plus, it’s easy to apply; just give yourself a spritz!
- lip gloss /balm – You will want a lip gloss or lip balm that seals in moisture. Air on an airplane is super dry and moisturizing your lips and hands is a good thing! You’ll be glad you have it!
- Mouthwash – Crest Pro health travel size is my favorite.
- Toothbrush – Toothbrushes and toothpaste are available in travel sizes too!
- Urban Decay All-Nighter make-up setting spray – I use this every day; it really does keep your makeup in place no matter what kind of day you’ve had
What to Wear on the Airplane – Fashion on the Fly
Comfort is key when traveling so joggers and leggings are a perfect option. Do you get cold easily? I’m always freezing on an airplane so I suggest layering your pieces.
- Compression socks or Compression leggings – Using compression gear may help leg swelling and discomfort.
- Cardigan, Scarf, or Shawl – Stay warm with an extra layer. A kimono style cardigan is a stylish option. Layer a tank or a cute top under a cardigan and you’re set.
- Extra Outfit – Black leggings are always a good choice as you can make several outfits just by changing your top. An extra outfit may not be necessary but you’ll appreciate it if your luggage is temporarily lost.
- Sunglasses – If you’re driving after your flight, you will want these in your carry-on.
- Hat – If you don’t want to worry about your hair go with a top knot or wear a hat!
- Joggers – Sweat pants aren’t what they used to be. Go for two-piece sets (airplane restrooms are small; make it easy). Joggers and lounge sets are an easy casual way to fly.
Are We There Yet?
Boredom can ruin a flight. Be prepared and pack phone, camera, ebooks, laptop, downloaded with books, movies, and music to keep you entertained. Don’t forget this is a great way to pass the time and take care of tasks you haven’t gotten to. Writing letters, completing work tasks, and planning your goals for the new year both in business and personally can help the time pass by.
- Book – Books are a good option for entertainment during your flight. I’m currently reading “Think Like a Monk” by Jay Shetty
- Kindle – I do like the feel of a real book but when you’re traveling a kindle is a lighter and smaller option.
- Journal – There’s nothing better than reading a vacation journal weeks after your trip has ended. Start writing your epic travel tale on the plane! Family and Children’s journals are also available!
Here’s to finding your style,™ – Kim
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