What to Pack in Your Carry-On Bag and WHY
If you love traveling, you’d know that packing your things is one of the most challenging decisions to make before your travel. There are plenty of things to consider, as well as remember, to make the most out of an upcoming trip. This includes figuring out what to bring, especially when you don’t have enough space and baggage allowance to carry everything! Since I am currently preparing for one, I figured I’d round up some tips on what you should bring and WHY.
1. Basic toiletries.
This is by far is the most important thing to pack and bring on your travel. Basic toiletries that should be on your priority list are a toothbrush, toothpaste, alcohol, soap, and shampoo. Because hygiene is essential and it is better to be ready than to regret it afterward.
2. Laptop and mobile phone.
If you are working on the go, a laptop and mobile phone is a must. This is best if you are bringing luggage with you. You may not be expecting it, but there are chances that you need to extend your travel. If you have your laptop with you, it is possible to keep up with work even on the go. Simply download apps and games to keep you entertained while traveling. Also, don’t forget to prepare a prepaid card or extra data coverage on your phone so you can use it in case of emergency.
3. Extra Lightweight Underwear.
Bringing extra undies is absolutely essential. Staying fresh while keeping up with tasks and duties in life can be achieved as long as we prepare ahead of time. As a new mom, it can get challenging to stay fresh because I barely have enough time to do things just like before. Then traveling can also mean getting delayed flights, extended layover or visit, and everything else in between.
I personally love the light and comfy EverLight underwear by Fruit of the Loom. I swear you’ll forget that you’re wearing them!!! I can’t believe it leaves no panty lines which is a MAJOR PLUS for me. Let’s not forget that it is made with 100% cotton liner. It is one of my everyday staples for all-day-long comfort.
Check it out here: https://www.fruit.com/everlight/
4. Wallet for Essentials.
Having different wallets for different things during travel is a hassle. It is better to choose a bigger wallet where you can put your essentials like money, cards, tickets, and IDs in one place.
5. Medicines.
Buy small containers for your medicines. Bringing pain relievers and allergy medicines is a smart move. In case of emergency; you can do first aid solution.
6. Headphones or Earphones.
Long trips can get quite boring. Bring headphones and or earphones so you can watch a movie or play music to pass up some time. Most travelers don’t want to be bothered or disturbed with loud music. Trust me, you wouldn’t want to be THAT person.
7. An extra layer of clothes.
If you are not familiar with the place you are traveling, it is better to have extra layers of clothes. There might be unexpected circumstances when you’ll get cold, for example in cinemas or airports.
8. Valuables.
If not necessary, do not bring expensive pieces of jewelry with you. As much as possible, carry only the essential ones (those you really need) because pick-pockets and thieves are everywhere and you honestly don’t want to wind up losing any valuables.
9. Water bottle.
Bring an empty water bottle and fill it up whenever you need to save money. Water is expensive in some establishments (especially inside the airport), so bringing your own water will save you from extra charges.
10. Snacks.
Travel might take long, and no one enjoys waiting for their ride while hungry. Having a travel snack like biscuits or chips is necessary. Stopover food stalls usually have expensive food so having your own food to munch on is a good idea.
Traveling is fun, but a lot of things unaccounted for can happen. It is best to be prepared than sorry. Having these essentials will save you so pack wisely and have an excellent travel because you deserve it!
Jenni
May 21, 2018This is perfectly timed as we have a few weekends away planned and a week to France x
Joan Cajic
May 21, 2018I always forget water and get dehydrated every time I am travelling anywhere.
Cassie
May 21, 2018Thank you for the great suggestions. I always love tips for packing.
Louise
May 21, 2018I’ve never thought about packing extra light underwear (or for that matter, any spare underwear!) – that’s a good tip as you never know if you will be delayed!
WANDER WITH OLA
May 21, 2018What a great list! I always bring an extra layer of clothes myself. Water bottle is a must too!
Amber Myers
May 21, 2018Yup, I do pack a lot of these in my carry on bag! Snacks are a must because I do get hangry.
Brit Strawbridge
May 21, 2018Yes! An extra pair of underwear is a great idea! & everything else is definitely essential! Snacks a MUST! Great list!
Ashley
May 21, 2018I actually pack everything in my carry-on because I hate checking bags lol
Candy
May 21, 2018Always interesting to see what other people carry in their carry on. Gives me suggestions for what I might need
Heather @ Kraus House Mom
May 21, 2018I carry all of these things in my carry on. I also put a change of clothes in case my checked bags don’t make it on time.
Janet
May 21, 2018So glad that you mentioned the lightweight underwear and I’m going to check those out. Just got back from a trip and always pack extra!
Agata
May 21, 2018Your pics are so good! Envious!
valmg @ Mom Knows It All
May 21, 2018Whenever going on a short trip I now pack all of my clothes into my carryon. Anything else goes into my oversized shoulder bag.
Nichola - Globalmouse
May 21, 2018Great tips. I always try to bring an empty water bottle, it’s shocking how much bottle water can cost when you’re airside!
Karen Morse
May 21, 2018That’s so accurate. It’s good to have all your essentials in your carry on. I make sure to have my laptop and my wallet with me at all times.
Sarah Bailey
May 21, 2018These sound like some great tips of things to pack in your carry on I have to admit I wouldn’t really know the best things to pop in over than something to do and some way to freshen up.
robin rue
May 21, 2018Well, I am a mom so my carry on is much different. It’s filled with things for the kids and snacks these days 🙂
MELANIE EDJOURIAN
May 21, 2018I THINK YOU’VE JUST ABOUT COVERED EVERYTHING. ALTHOUGH, IF I WAS TO ADD TO THE LIST I WOULD ALSO PUT DISINFECTANT HAND WASH AS THAT IS ALWAYS USEFUL.
TasHeena
May 21, 2018I really enjoy reading this post. These are really helpful packing tips. I always try to have my undergarments in my carry-on bag because you really never know what could happen with your checked luggage.
Felicita Moncada
May 21, 2018I needed this list! I’ll be traveling soon just with a carry on and need to fit all the essentials. Thank you for the list it’ll make things easier for me.
Reesa Lewandowski
May 21, 2018I always bring a change of underwear LOL! I need to find these to give them a try!
Laura Dove
May 21, 2018Great advice! I haven’t been on an aeroplane for nearly 6 years now and would have no idea what to take in my carry on luggage these days! This was super useful thank you!
What Corinne Did
May 21, 2018I am flying to Copenhagen on Thursday so this is a blog post I need and that comes in with a great timing! Thanks for the tips!
kim
May 21, 2018great reminder for traveling! love it
Kristina Maggiora
May 21, 2018This guide comes in handy as I’m travelling to Venice and can only pack a carry-on!
Eliz
May 21, 2018Really great tips. I especially agree packing an extra pair of knickers to keep fresh, especially during long haul flights it’s a must-have in your carry-on.
rika
May 21, 2018You look absolutely stunning 🙂 The basic underwear look so comfy and the material would be perfect for summer months!
Amy (amysatlas)
May 21, 2018Loved this post!
Totally agree with the extra layer! I’m always freezing on long haul flights!
After years of practice, I’ve actually become so good at packing that I can take a 3 week backpacking trip with just a carry on backpack
Nicole Wilder
May 21, 2018These are really great ideas, will definitely take this into consideration next time I travel
Lindsay
May 21, 2018Great advice! I just traveled on a long haul flight (17 hrs) and agree with your packing recommendations. It is always good to be over prepared with extra clothing, layers, water and food.
rhian westbury
May 22, 2018I have so many of those things in my hand luggage when I go away, and I love the hat in your images x
Ricci
May 22, 2018YES to extra undies! That’s one of my biggest fears, my luggage not making it to my destination. But I know if I pack extras then at least the most important parts of me will be clean, LOL!
Geraline Batarra
May 22, 2018Those are really great tips that a women must have on their bag during our travel or trip. Me? I personally bring all the things that you mentioned because you will never know the things that might happen during your trip.
Danielle
May 22, 2018Lots of great tips here. Our carry on now is filled with toddler toys and snacks.
kumamonjeng
May 22, 2018Great tips for traveler to pack for their hand carry bag to board together on plane. Great to learn to bring an extra set of undies just in case. I have never thought of that.
Chubskulit Rose
May 22, 2018I always pack a light sweater and a light blanket for my kids. When you travel with kiddos, they are always the ones you think of in terms of packing.
Melanie
May 22, 2018Some top tips here. Extra light underware always a must x
Czjai Reyes-Ocampo
May 22, 2018Check on all items! Medicines are usually the first things I pack in my carry-on. Can’t live without my inhaler!
Kelly
May 22, 2018Lots of great tips, like bringing your own snacks and empty water bottle (yeah, go plastic-free!) Happy travels!
DANA GUTKOWSKI
May 22, 2018Great suggestions! Couldn’t agree more about the undies! I always overpack those 🙂
Cat
May 22, 2018Packing my bags and headed out to NV pretty soon. Thanks for the packing reminders! xo
Megan
May 22, 2018Extra undies are definitely an underrated thing to pack and definitely one of the more important things when traveling! Always be prepared!
Conscious Health Writer
May 22, 2018Great list! Thank you for sharing!
Elizabeth O
May 22, 2018Such a great post of ideas for the perfectly packed carry on, the lightweight underwear looks really great indeed.
Mama
May 22, 2018Yes, agreed, these are all absolutely important to have in your carry on bags!
Mama } MamaWritesReviews.com
Kate Andrews
May 22, 2018I try to pack things into a carry on but if I can’t, the things you mentioned are a good guideline. Makes me antsy to plan my next trip!
Holly
May 22, 2018This is a great list. I love the items you picked. I’m going to have to try some of these for sure.
Dana Peller
May 22, 2018Loving the tips on what to include in a carry-on. You’re right. It’s better to be prepared.
Michelle Goth
May 22, 2018This is such a necessary list to have handy. Having things right there for you on the plane helps a ton!
Gladys Parker
May 22, 2018Great list, I’d forget my medicines and they are the most important. It seems like Fruit of the Loom are well known. I love them because they make full size also and that is what I need. My adult daughter on the other hand will be glad to hear about these lighter Fruit of the Loom!
Alison Rost
May 22, 2018I usually try to fit everything in my carry on but before everything else, I make sure my essentials are there. It’s really important that I have things like my laptop and my toiletries with me.
Kristy Bullard
May 22, 2018This is a great list! I hate when I forget something important for a long flight and have to do without it the whole time. It’s important to have a checklist when you pack the carry-on!
Carol Cassara
May 22, 2018I’ve been traveling very often lately and I still haven’t mastered the art of packing light. I think these are all important to have in your carry on though.
Evelyn, PathofPresence
May 22, 2018This is a great list for a carry-on bag! I especially love number three carrying extra light weight underwear so we can stay fresh anytime. I am enlightened Thanks.
Explore The 6
May 22, 2018Packing tips are always welcomed. LOL …. Especially packing light tips, and yes ALWAYS pack spare underwear because you never know if a delay will turn into an overnight stay. Thanks for sharing.
Sela
May 22, 2018I like packing light. I like your suggestions for what to pack in your carry on, your tips are great.
Kita Bryant
May 22, 2018This list is perfect. Snacks and water really go the distance on this one.
Sara Welch
May 22, 2018I have had long flights without a carry on bag. This is 100% a must have list.
Ashlee
May 22, 2018Huh, I’ve never actually thought to pack extra undies in a carry-on, but it’s definitely a good idea! Love the idea of these light-weight ones!
Sam
May 23, 2018These are some great tips! I pretty much pack all of this when I go, except for water. I buy that at the airport since you can’t take it through security
Blair Villanueva
May 23, 2018What a lovely post! We need to practice not to over pack. Sometimes I buy this disposable underwear at 7/11 when I visit Hong Kong (they are made of cotton and super comfy).
Melanie
May 23, 2018I try to pack as light as I can in my carry-on, normally because I end up carrying the kids’ stuff too. But you need to be prepared for your journey and the what if’s. These are great tips for what to include.
Anjali W
May 23, 2018Thanks for the awesome checklist! I am not good at packing stuff & always forget something. This is really very helpful! Bookmarking it!
Bella and dawn at Dear Mummy Blog
May 23, 2018Great water bottle tip and water can be expensive to buy in shops, much better to fill up empty bottles for the environment too!
The LonDon Mum
May 23, 2018Great tips! Thos undies look so comfortable as well.. I love comfy knickers!
Esme Sy
May 23, 2018I agree with everything listed here. Thought I’d add my own pocket notebook filled with emergency stuff like phone numbers and stuff that are safe to be written but can somehow lead to me. Looking great Angela!
Emily Leary
May 23, 2018A great list. I usually remember to pack all of these things in my carry on. Packing a few activities for the kids if they’re travelling with us is also a must!
Sulav Sapkota
May 23, 2018Thank you for sharing such useful tips. A beautiful blog, by a beautiful lady, what more to ask.
Preet
May 23, 2018What a great tips. This is so perfect since I am planning my trip nextweek.
Lauretta at Home and Horizon
May 23, 2018All the right stuff to have on your carry on bag. Your list has all the exact basic things needed for traveling.
Garf
May 23, 2018This post came out just perfect for the road trip season. I am looking forward to our trip but the date is yet to be determined.
Rachel
May 23, 2018Great tips! I always forget to pack space underwear. A toothbrush and paste is a must though, especially long haul.
Louise
May 23, 2018I’m hoping to go away for a few days over the summer so this has come in really handy. Thank you 🙂
Louise x
betty
May 23, 2018I never thought of carry lightweight underwear as I frequent change pantiliner to ensure it clean and hygiene. I usually carry simple toiletries, wallet, phones and tissue with me in my bag.
JD Obedoza
May 24, 2018I often bring less clothes when I travel. I usually just buy them on site.
Farrah Less
May 24, 2018This tips is very helpful especially we love to travel. Packing your personal stuff can be so tedious. I’ve learned so much that I can apply on our next trip.
Anonymous
May 24, 2018That is an extensive list. Extra clothes always come in handy! 🙂
Kara
May 24, 2018Some great tips. I always forget i need travel size items and normally get at least one thing confiscated
Karlyn cruz
May 24, 2018Very thorough list for sure! The carry on is so important eespecially since you never know when your luggage will get stuck somewhere! And yes to the extra clothes for sure!
Mayuri Saxena
May 24, 2018This is an amazing checklist! I have never kept an extra pair of underwear in my carry on bag but now I think I should add it to my list too. Great post!
Nisha
May 24, 2018I agree with the list of things you mentioned in your blog. Thank you for sharing these great tips and suggestions. Snacks essential haha
Amber Brault
May 26, 2018I always remember to bring my water bottle but with all the hustle I never fail to forget to fill it before getting on the plane -lol
Jess
May 28, 2018Good and comfy is definitely a must. I’ve never thought about packing it in my carry on though!
Terri Beavers
May 29, 2018I’ve been getting my carry on bag ready for our upcoming trip. I haven’t even thought about packing an extra outfit and water bottle in it. These are great tips for anyone traveling.
Ziaul Hasan
May 29, 2018A great write up with a lot of beautiful images…thank you for the post
Ally
June 19, 2018What a great list! I never know what to put in my carry on back – I will absolutely refer to this the next time I travel!
live
June 29, 2018Helpful post, I just did something similar when I returned from vacation in April. I’m a huge fan of refillable water bottles with a filter! You can fill them anywhere and it reduces the use of plastic bottles! 🙂
Danny
July 26, 2018This is an awesome list! I never go anywhere abroad without my headphones for the journey!