As I am gearing up for another trip, it is time for the carry-on Tetris game to begin.
I’m excited to be heading to a warmer climate in the dead of an East Coast winter. I also know that my winter skin is not prepared for the sun!
Years ago, I developed this list as my no-fail, be-prepared-for-anything carry-on list.
Airplane travel can be stressful for many people, and we all look a little worse for wear upon arrival.
Who doesn’t love dry skin, chapped lips, and a winning odor combination of morning breath and day-old travel funk?
By packing most items that combat these maladies in a carry-on, you can head through immigration feeling a lot less bedraggled than those around you. Also, who knows who you’ll meet when you first arrive?
While this packing list includes more than a baker’s dozen of items, I am better able to remember everything by grouping similar items together.
For any trip, I pack as if some of my luggage will not make it to my destination at the same time as me.
(In case it doesn’t make it and for many other reasons, I purchase travel insurance and register with the STEP Program!)
There have been three occasions (and counting, I’m sure) where my luggage was delayed. However, because I had packed the items listed below, I was able to wait the four days until my luggage finally appeared. This list helped me roll with those bad days!
In any case, this list can be adapted to any season – just make sure that you are accounting for a casual outfit as well as an outfit you would be able to sleep in if your luggage goes home with someone else!
No-Fail Carry-On Checklist:
- 3 pairs undergarments
- 3 pairs socks
- Flip-flops / packable shoes
- Extra pair of pants
- Extra shirt
- Lightweight scarf, sarong, or towel
- Sunglasses
- Eye mask
- Empty water bottle
- Granola bar(s)
- Important Documents
- Tickets
- Passport and copy
- Travel itinerary
- Address of destination
- Insurance information
- Cash and credit cards
- Electronics
- Camera
- Phone
- Tablet / computer
- Universal adapter
- Headphones
- All necessary chargers (I pack mine in a sock that lost its mate).
- Hygiene Items (just make sure the hygiene items are in containers that are less than 3 ounces):
- Toothbrush, toothpaste
- Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, travel tissues
- Lip balm, lotion
- Deodorant
- Bandaids
- Feminine hygiene items (#beingagirl)
- Glasses and contacts, contact solution
- Medicine in original containers
What items do you always make sure to include in your carry-on? Share below in the comments!
Related:
4 Mistakes to Avoid While Traveling
How to Avoid Long Lines at U.S. Airports
What to Do If You Lose Your Passport
Checklist: Things to Do During Your First Week Abroad
Prioritize Travel Saving (+ Calculator)
