travel carry on essentials list

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27 things you should always pack in your carry-on bag.

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What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag

Packing your carry-on bag for a flight is exciting – but it can also be overwhelming. With a little planning and a concise list of airport and in-flight essentials, you can maximize space and be prepared for your journey.

To help you decide what to pack in your carry-on bag, our team compiled this list of must-have items. Download the packing list here to use while you prep for your next trip, then read on to learn more about what to pack.

Carry-on packing list

Travel wallet, passport holder, toiletry bag, tsa-approved liquids bag and compliant containers, prescription medications, glasses case, travel pillow, packing cubes, tech organizer, luggage tracker, zippered pouches and reusable silicone bags, mini clip bag, hand sanitizer, bluetooth wireless adapter, wired earbuds or headphones, e-reader or a great book, travel adapter/converter, travel first-aid kit, reusable water bottle, activities or games, light jacket, change of clothing.

Protect your credit cards and cash with an RFID wallet like the Travelon RFID Blocking Single Zip Wallet , which prevents scammers from wirelessly stealing your personal information. This travel wallet is especially useful since it can also hold most smartphones.

If you're traveling internationally, an option like the TIGARI Passport Holder can protect your travel document and make it easy to locate in your carry-on bag. You'll need access to your passport at airport security, when you board the plane and when you're filling out entry forms, so keep the passport holder as well as a pen within reach. Once you arrive at your destination, put the passport wallet somewhere safe at your lodging or – if you feel inclined to keep it with you – stow it in your travel purse, belt bag or backpack to ensure it's safe while you explore.

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Pack your toiletry bag in your carry-on so you can easily freshen up and so that you'll have essentials like toothpaste and deodorant in the event your checked luggage is lost in transit. Also consider packing toiletries that are useful for travel (particularly the dry air on planes), even if they're not part of your daily routine at home.

U.S. News senior travel editor Marisa Méndez recommends including a facial moisturizer and a body lotion in your toiletry bag. "My skin always dries out on flights and it's nice to have something to soothe my skin," she says.

"I always love having facial spray to freshen up after the flight," says Elizabeth Von Tersch , also a senior travel editor at U.S. News. She always keeps one in her purse. " Mario Badescu and Evian are great." These facial sprays help to moisturize your skin after the drying environment on a plane or give you a little midday pick-me-up.

When packing your carry-on bag for a flight, you'll want to have a clear quart-sized bag that meets Transportation Security Administration guidelines for liquids and gels. Some Dopp kits or toiletry bags include a removable bag for travel-size liquids, or you can buy this reusable TSA-approved clear bag on Amazon . Put any liquids or gels you're traveling with in this bag, including shampoo, lotion, liquid makeup items and hand sanitizer.

Keep in mind that all liquids and gels must be in travel-size bottles or containers measuring 3.4 ounces or less. Remember: You'll need to remove this clear quart-sized bag from your carry-on bag at security, so consider packing it in an external pocket or an easy-to-find spot in your carry-on suitcase. To learn more about TSA regulations, consult our article about what is allowed in a carry-on .

Never stow prescription medications in checked baggage : If luggage is lost or delayed, replacing these medications while traveling can be extremely challenging or even impossible. If you take multiple medications, consider a travel pill sorter like the EZY Dose Pill Organizer , available for about $5 on Amazon.

Whether you wear glasses for vision correction or you're packing your favorite pair of sunglasses, keeping them protected while stowed in your carry-on is essential. If you're bringing multiple pairs, a case like the foldable Dagne Dover Remi Glasses Case can hold up to three pairs, or the Lug Eyeglass Holder & Mini Pill Case works well for eyeglasses and contacts.

Courtesy of Cabeau

Resting throughout your journey can help you feel refreshed when you reach your destination and make the time pass a little quicker. But nothing can (literally) cramp your style like a stiff neck from sleeping wrong. Choose a comfortable neck pillow for travel like the top-rated Cabeau Evolution S3 or the MLVOC Travel Pillow (less than $30 on Amazon). For a travel pillow that doubles as a packing cube, consider the Tube pillow , which holds up to three days' worth of clothing.

Packing cubes aren't just for organizing clothing and shoes. Maximize space in your carry-on bag with these handy travel compartments . While Eagle Creek's PACK-IT line features the top-rated compression packing cubes on the market, many travelers also swear by the Veken Packing Cubes , which are usually available for $20 or less on Amazon. To maximize space even more, consider Lug's compression packing cubes .

If you're planning to travel with jewelry, watches or items that would be difficult to replace, be sure to put these in your carry-on bag, as checked items run the risk of being misplaced. For jewelry, a compact case that is easy to spot like the Lug Mini Swizzle is ideal for rings, cufflinks or earrings.

It's easy to let your charging cords get lost at the bottom of your bag or get your headphones tangled somewhere in your tote. A handy tech organizer such as the CALPAK Tech Organizer or the BAGSMART Tech Organizer , with zippered compartments and sections for specific cords, can help reduce tangled messes (and the need for you to search for your essentials in a tight airplane cabin).

Even though you'll have your carry-on bag with you, it's still a good idea to have a luggage tracker like an Apple AirTag or a Tile Pro securely attached to your bag. In the event you and your bag get separated, you'll be able to track down where you parted ways (because when you're jet-lagged it's easy to be a bit absent-minded).

Smaller than packing cubes, zippered pouches and silicone bags like the Stasher Silicone Reusable Storage Bags are perfect for storing everything from snacks to scrunchies. If traveling with family, consider different colored pouches for each traveler's items so you can easily tell them apart without removing everything from the bag.

Get a handy little bag with a carabiner clip, such as the CALPAK Luka Key Pouch , to securely attach to the outside of your bag for quick-grab items like gum, hand sanitizer or individual travel wipes . Once you're at your destination, you can clip it on a belt loop or use the elastic band to slide it on your wrist for your room key, lip gloss and other small essentials.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Let's face it – traveling can introduce your body to a host of unwanted germs. Carrying a bottle of travel hand sanitizer will keep your hands clean on the go, even if there's not a bathroom nearby. To disinfect surfaces like airplane tray tables, arm rests or tables, consider having a pack of disinfecting wipes at your disposal as well.

During a flight, the low humidity and high altitude can have a drying effect on your skin and lips. To combat the dry air, consider packing a hydrating lip balm like this new stick option by Aquaphor . What's more, if you choose a balm over a liquid moisturizer, you won't need to store this product in your clear TSA-approved liquids bag.

In-flight entertainment can help your travel day go faster, but being tethered to the seatback with wired headphones can feel a bit constricting. Plus, you may have to unplug to let your seat mates in or out. Avoid those troubles and connect your wireless headphones to the in-flight system with Twelve South's AirFly ($35 or less on Amazon), which wirelessly transmits audio via Bluetooth.

If you'd prefer to connect directly to the in-flight entertainment to watch a movie (or maybe just tune out your seatmates), buy some inexpensive wired earbuds like this well-rated set by Jogteg . You can keep them in your carry-on so you're always ready, even on flights where they don't pass out complimentary headsets.

Having a book or magazine in your carry-on bag is always a good idea. Whether you encounter a delayed flight, a long layover or a plane with less than stellar in-flight entertainment, a good book will help pass the time.

On everything from red-eye flights to international jaunts, a good eye mask can block out light from overhead, the seatback screens and plane windows. The Nodpod Sleep Mask is especially relaxing since it's weighted.

"Even if you plan to grab a bite at the airport or on the plane (if that's an option), pack some snacks," says Amanda Norcross , content and SEO strategist for travel at U.S. News. "Flying is unpredictable and stressful for many travelers, and 'hanger' only makes things worse." Trail mix, granola bars, crackers, pretzels, dried fruit and popcorn are some good snack options you may want to throw in your carry-on. Also put chewing gum in your carry-on to freshen breath and help with ear popping.

It's not always easy to find a charging station at the airport, and there are restrictions when it comes to packing batteries in your carry-on baggage for any flight. One option that meets Federal Aviation Administration guidelines is the Anker 537 Power Bank (PowerCore 26K for Laptop) . This device can charge a laptop, smartphone or tablet quickly, to keep your devices running even on a long flight.

For international travel – since different countries use different plug shapes – packing a universal adapter or converter will enable you to charge your devices and other electronics. Before purchasing, consider what your needs will be, especially regarding the shape of the wall outlet plugs and the voltage of the countries you'll be visiting.

A travel adapter such as the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter on Amazon makes plugs from the U.S. fit into electrical outlets around the world, whereas a travel converter like the ALLWEI International Travel Adapter converts the electricity voltage. If you're traveling overseas from the U.S., you'll need both of these devices to use electronics like laptops, curling irons and hair straighteners (unless your device is dual voltage, like the BaBylissPRO Nano Mini Straightening Iron ).

For minor injuries like blisters from new shoes or unexpected cuts and scrapes, pack a first-aid kit with Band-Aids and triple antibiotic ointment like Neosporin in your bag.

Staying hydrated while traveling is a must. Pack a reusable water bottle like the Corkcicle Canteen Triple Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle to fill up at the airport before your flight and refill throughout your travels. Even better – an insulated bottle will stay cold for hours.

Whether it's a long flight or layover (or maybe you just need a good distraction), having some activities like a miniature coloring book and mini colored pencils or small packable games can be really useful.

"I took a small coloring book and a small set of pencils on a flight once and it was life-changing," Méndez says. U.S. News senior digital producer for travel Leilani Osmundson says she and her husband love to bring a deck of cards and portable two-player games to pass the time.

"I typically wear a lightweight jacket on the plane to free up space in my carry-on," says Norcross. "If the plane is too warm, I can easily stuff it under the seat in front of me with my backpack." If you're in need of a simple yet effective packable jacket , check out the Amazon Essentials Puffer Jacket .

Whether your coffee spills off your tray table or you lose your checked baggage, an extra outfit is handy to have. Pack a versatile outfit (including socks and underwear) into your carry-on bag so you have a backup option, or perhaps have your swimwear and flip-flops ready to head directly to the beach the moment you arrive. For tired or swollen feet, having a pair of compression socks and a change of walking shoes can make your travel day much more comfortable.

What not to pack in a carry-on bag

When packing a carry-on bag or suitcase, it's important to note that some items are prohibited on all flights, due to Federal Aviation Administration regulations. The prohibited list includes aerosol products (such as anti-static spray or pepper spray), lithium or lithium-ion batteries, firearms and ammunition, flammables, and explosives. For more details on what you can and can't pack in your carry-on, visit the TSA's What Can I Bring? and the FAA's Pack Safe websites.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves to see how much she can fit in her carry-on bag. She always brings a few snacks, a good read and little luxuries to make the journey comfortable. Hood used her personal travel experience, along with her retail background and research expertise, to curate this list.

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The Essential Carry-On Bag Packing List

Christine Sarkis

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

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Need a little help packing light? With SmarterTravel’s new carry-on bag packing list, you can stick to what’s essential for your trip, no matter where you’re headed.

Don’t need an umbrella since you’re headed to Palm Springs? Not bringing contact solution because your vision is 20/20? Customize the list by crossing off items you don’t need and adding any additional items in the “more items” boxes.

Don’t miss our downloadable, editable carry-on packing checklist below .

Shop Our Carry-on Essentials List

Clothes and Shoes

• Socks/stockings
• Undershirts
• Dress Shirt
• Casual Shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Leisure Shoes
• Hiking Shoes
• Athletic Shoes
• Dress Shoes
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Small Purse
• Collapsible Tote

While packing light is great, there are still a few essentials you need to make sure make it into your bag—think underwear , socks , pajamas , shirts , and pants . From there, you can get more specific based on your destination. Heading to the beach? Throw in a swimsuit . Vacationing somewhere colder? Gloves , hats , and scarves are a must. Keep in mind that clothing can take up a lot of space—if you’re planning on packing in only a carry-on, try wearing some of your bulkier items to free up precious room in your luggage.

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

10 Ultralight Rolling Carry-On Bags Under 6 Pounds

• Dental Floss
• Conditioner
• Hairstyling Appliances
• Facial Cleanser
• Face Lotion
• Moisturizer
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• Makeup Remover
• Period Products
• Birth Control
• Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• First-Aid Ointment
• Insect Repellent
• Medications
• Pain Relievers

Toiletries are another necessity of travel to keep you feeling fresh. You can find the standards— toothpaste , shampoo , conditioner , deodorant —all available in TSA-approved travel-sized containers. Liquids should be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces and fit into a clear, quart-size, zip-top plastic bag. To learn more about TSA rules, see  Airport Security Frequently Asked Questions .

Once you have the basics packed, think about your individual routine. Don’t forget things like contact solution , period products , and daily medications. Curating your carry-on toiletry bag down to only essentials will help save space. Your one-in-a-million, go-to cleanser you can’t live without? Definitely throw it in your bag. Your extensive collection of handmade shower melts ? Maybe save them for home.

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

What Do I Need in My Travel First Aid Kit?

Carry-on Essentials

• Passport / Visa
• Copies of Important Documents
• Identification
• Maps / Directions
• Boarding Pass / Tickets
• Medical Insurance Card
• Travel Insurance Cards
• Electronics Chargers
• Voltage Adapters
• List of Medications
• Memory Cards
• Credit / ATM Cards
• Credit Card Company Information
• Emergency Contacts

Whether or not you’re checking additional luggage, there are a few items you should always keep with you. Important travel documents like your passport , ID, boarding pass, insurance cards, credit cards , and copy of your COVID-19 vaccination card should always stay with you in your personal item. Pricey items like cameras , SD cards , and laptops as well as items you may want to have on-hand at your destination like umbrellas , a guidebook , and your itinerary should be stowed safely in your carry-on. 

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Don't Forget

• Chewing Gum
• Reading Materials
• Stain Remover
• Lint Roller

Finally, don’t forget to pack items to pass time on the plane. Items like headphones , books , and magazines will keep you entertained for however many hours you’re in the air. Make sure to load up your device with podcasts , music , and audiobooks pre-flight while you’re still connected to reliable wi-fi. Other essentials like ear plugs , sleep masks , and travel pillows make sure you’re able to arrive at your destination well-rested.

Download Our Editable Carry-On Packing List

Never be without your noise-cancelling headphones or a spare set of clothes again with our downloadable checklist .

Download Here

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2010. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Carol McPherson contributed to this story.

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30 Ultimate Must Have Carry-On Essentials (2024 Edition)

Wondering what to pack in your carry-on luggage?

With budget airlines constantly clamping down on carry-on weight and changing size limits, do you ever wonder what important things are a priority in your carry on travel bag, and what needs to be left out?

These days, budget travelers and backpackers alike have to make important decisions on what’s top priority in the valuable, real-estate of our tiny carry-on bag space – unless you’re paying extra for checked luggage, of course. 

And sure enough, your little overhead backpack / suitcase is bursting to the brim meeting these ridiculous airline requirements, and you’ve only just packed your toiletries and makeup so far, and a few other things.

Having traveled all over the world over the past decade, I’ve done a lot of trial and error with packing my carry-on. I’ve bought stuff that didn’t work or was unnecessary, and I’ve also bought stuff that has served me extremely well over the years, so I can attest to the products in the guide below.

So worry not – this is a complete carry-on essentials list guide for a comfortable plane journey. And if you’re fretting about space in your bag, check out the amazing hack on #11 that shows you how to bypass the cabin restrictions!

👉 And here’s another tip: instead of folding your clothes in your bag, roll them, for more space.

Planning your trip? Use my favorite resources!

🏨 Accommodation: I recommend Booking.com ✈️ Flights: for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner 🚗 Rental Car: I recommend Discover Cars 🛡️ Travel Insurance: for the best deals I rely on SafetyWing

So, what should I put in my carry on bag?

In this post, I’ve compiled the ultimate air travel carry-on essential checklist – including the must-have items for both short and long-haul flights, whilst keeping the packing as light and minimalist as possible.

Suitable for travelers of all types, this list has been fine-tuned through seven years of traveling to 40+ countries (many of them more than once), through trial and error – eliminating useless items whilst also being sustainable and eco-friendly where possible.

30 Ultimate Must Have Carry-On Essentials in 2024

A complete guide to all the important carry on essentials for long flights, travel essentials for men and women, my top travel tips, and more.

The Perfect Carry on Essentials Bag

First and foremost, you need a strong and reliable carry on essentials bag that will accommodate everything you need. You’ll want to make sure this bag can fit as much as possible – without compromising on protection, and just as importantly – it needs to be comfortable to carry around .

#1: Choosing the Best Carry-On Bags

The foundation of hassle-free carry-on travel is picking the right bag for your needs and style. Look for durable fabrics like nylon or polycarbonate that withstand getting crammed and tossed around. Trendy hard-shells suit occasional fliers while lightweight backpacks allow backpackers to hit budget airlines’ strict weight limits.

Savvy travelers choose carry-ons with TSA-compliant features like lockable zippers, removable shoulder/back straps, and dedicated laptop sleeves for going through security quicker. Rolling bags excel on concrete but frustrate on cobblestones. Test different portable styles loaded on inclines to determine your best fit.

My top carry on bag recommendations

For those trips where a backpack is more convenient than a suitcase – where it’s a month-long adventure or a day trip, or city-hopping even.

I used to travel with a top-loading backpack for years, and found them inconvenient due to fumbling around trying to get stuff out, without having to take everything out first.

These days, I always use a clamshell design backpack – which means I can lay the bag down and unzip it all the way open for complete access to everything packed inside – SO much more convenient!

The Osprey Farpoint 40L Travel & Trekking Rucksack is a favorite among backpackers worldwide and is considered one of the best rucksacks on the market. Coming in at £80 for the 40L, for a reputable brand this is excellent value for money, as it will last many years.

The Cabin Max Backpack Flight Approved Carry On Bag is an excellent choice for budget travelers, this was my first backpack before I upgraded to the Osprey Farpoint. It’s a super reliable backpack that’s served me well over the years.

The Bare Essentials

Here are the absolute must-have, must-pack items for any carry on essentials list.

#2. Passport, visas, ID and travel documents

The most important things on a carry-on bag essentials list. Take a photo of the photo page (2nd page) of your passport and save it on your camera roll. Get a photocopy made and bring it with you. Store this and all your important travel documents in one secure place, such as this travel wallet for women |   men  which will hold your passport and all your documents.

#3. Cash and bank / top-up travel cards

You can’t leave home without these either. I usually have my money split 50/50 between cash and in prepaid travel cards. Bring at least a couple of travel-friendly debit or credit cards so that you always have access to cash. I always bring 2 cards just to be safe, they are:

• Wise (formerly Transferwise)

The above come with super useful banking apps that are very user-friendly and easy to use, as well as packed with features, as well as being extremely secure.

#4. Travel Insurance 

For added security and peace of mind, don’t leave home without good travel insurance by SafetyWing . Take it from me – what’s the worst that could happen?

Well, on my first trip to Mexico I got electrocuted in a hostel (yes, seriously). I flicked a light switch in a dark bathroom and felt a sharp burn travel from my finger all the way up my arm, as if it caught fire (you can read about that in this post ).

Think I just had a freak accident? What happens if you’re out in Mexico and your appendix suddenly bursts? I cannot stress enough how important travel insurance is.

#5. Travel documents and itineraries

I used to print out all my travel documents and itineraries and store them in a plastic folder for backup incase I should ever need them. 

These days though, while some documents are required in printed form, the rest I simply store on my phone – I have email copies and I use the TripIt and Rome2Rio vacation organiser apps for my itineraries and I keep screenshots of my passport, ID, visas etc. in my camera roll for copies. And remember to bring your driver licence if you’re planning to rent a car abroad. It also doubles as a valid ID, so you can leave your passport at your hotel/Airbnb.

#6. Water-to-Go Filter Bottle

I invested in one of these due to my frustration at plastic waste, and those tiny airplane cups certainly add to this global issue.

The Water-to-Go filter water bottle is perfect for refilling and reusing while out on your travels, eliminating the need to buy small plastic water bottles – which saves you money on your trips whilst being very environmentally friendly. And not only that – you can go through security with the bottle empty, then fill up while you’re waiting for boarding. A win-win situation!

PS: Get 15% off your order at the checkout with code GIVEME15

#7. Hand Lotion (that doesn’t count as a liquid)

Sometimes it’s handy to have some lotion for when your skin dries and cracks in extreme climates.

The best lotions are the organic, natural ones with ZERO toxic chemicals in them. And Shea butter is one of the healthiest and best things you could put on your skin. That’s why I use Organic Raw Shea Butter by Dr. Shea .

This little tub is the perfect companion for either your toiletries or flight bag and since shea butter is a solid mass of butter (yes, even in a hot environment), it doesn’t count as a liquid at airport security. Bonus!

#8. Tissues & Hand Sanitizer

Tissues in case of runny noses and wiping up messes, and a decent 99.99% anti-bacterial Carex hand sanitizer to clean your hands regularly, of course.

It goes without saying the importance of carrying one of these in the post-pandemic era. And just as importantly, you’ll need to use them both when you board the plane and arrive at your seat, and I’ll tell you why:

The fold down table is one of the filthiest parts of a plane!

So yep – squirt your hand sanitizer all over the table, leave it a minute or so, and wipe it up with a Travel Tissue . (Make sure you have plenty of tissues and hand sanitizer for your trip). Buy Travel Size Hand Sanitizer on Amazon  

Be sure to get a pouch for your sanitizer too . For convenience, get a sanitizer pouch that clips onto the outside of your purse or day bag, so it’s within easy reach. Sanitizer Bottle Keychain Holder

#9. Sustainable Wet Wipes

The Biodegradable Baby Wipes are a really useful carry on addition, especially for long haul flights.

Many travelers including myself, have oily skin when sitting on a plane for several hours. A bit like waking up in the morning before a shower. So these baby wipes really help my face feel more fresh and clean. And what could be better than biodegradable wet wipes made from natural bamboo?

#10. Snacks and Water

Make sure you bring a snack or two, to avoid going hungry. Many short haul flights don’t provide food, and the snacks on long haul flights tend to be expensive.

And always bring water . Snacks that work well on flights include whole fruits and nuts     (but avoid salted nuts which will make you thirsty). Protein Bars also work well. Other suitable snacks are whole grain salads  and dark chocolate.

Important Travel Gadgets & Electronics

Below are the most important gadgets and tech that I always bring in my carry on essentials wherever I go.

#11. Your phone

I use an Apple iPhone 13 which not only keeps me connected to the internet while abroad, I also store my itineraries, payment cards (in Apple Wallet) and my travel documents and QR codes as screenshots on the camera roll, so they can be scanned, with no need to print them. 

👉 Tip: Prepare your phone before you go: download apps, music, movies, books, games, navigation, and any language translator apps you may need.

#12. A universal SIM Card

A relatively new concept, DrimSim is a  universal SIM card that allows you to connect to data almost anywhere in the world. What’s more, it isn’t attached to a singe operator, and you can choose either a regular SIM card or an e-SIM card.

👉 Travel tip: be sure to keep your original SIM card in a secure place such as the Passport Travel Wallet (it has a SIM card pocket designed specifically for this purpose).

#13. A Universal Travel Plug

The All-In-One Universal Travel Plug is super useful for visitors from anywhere in the world going to virtually any country. It features several USB ports to charge all your travel gadgets simultaneously.

#14. A Powerbank / Travel Charger

What’s worse than a dead phone battery when traveling?

The power bank/travel charger is a vital carry on essentials travel item. With newer iPhone models coming with ever shorter battery lifespans, I don’t need to explain its importance.

The Anker PowerCore 20100 – Ultra High Capacity Power Bank quite simply ticks all my most important boxes when it comes to choosing the best power bank. It has a huge (20,100mAh) capacity, which means you can charge everything a few times during one full charge.

And don’t forget: bring at least two charger cables – a short (1m) cable for your carry-on, like this one (iPhone) or this one (Android), that’s more convenient for charging from your power bank on the plane, and an extra-long (3m) cable packed in checked luggage – like this one for iPhone , or this one for Android .

👉 Travel hack: You can charge your electronics through a hotel room TV – there’s a USB port at the back of TVs in hotel rooms, so make use of these where possible.

#15. VPN (Virtual Private Network) 

A Virtual Private Network (aka VPN) is quickly becoming an important travel essential these days. What are they? VPNs allow you to establish a secure connection over a shared connection. So when you’re using free WiFi (eg. in a coffee shop), you’re connected to all the other people in that cafe, on that same network.

The problem with being on the same open network as others is that you’re exposed to potential hackers who have easy access to your information – such as your login credentials, bank card info, and other private things on the device you connect from – whether that’s your phone, tablet or laptop. Enter the NordVPN – it disguises your connection, so your precious information is invisible to anyone looking to hack an unsuspecting user’s device.

Comfort & Entertainment

Your ultimate carry on essentials comfort guide, plus entertainment to keep you preoccupied on those long flights.

#16. Hardside Wheel Luggage

Sometimes a four-wheeled suitcase is just more convenient than a backpack, depending on the trip.

For a city break or a business trip – if you’re leaving the suitcase in the hotel for the duration of the trip, then this is perfect.

I use my Amazon Basics Hardside Expandable Suitcase , which not only has a hard protective, scratch-resistance shell, but can also expand with up to 15% extra space, not bad.

🧳 Got Checked Luggage? Be sure to request the ‘Fragile’ sticker at the check in desk. This will ensure your luggage is among the first to appear on the carousel on arrival at your destination. (You can also tie a bright-colored ribbon to your bag to make it easy to spot too)

#17. A Super Comfy Travel Pillow

I always find I can never get any sleep on flights, especially on long haul ones.

At best, I can just about manage 20 minutes of uninterrupted sleep towards the end of a 9-hour flight, and even then, my neck is aching afterwards.

Enter the Scientifically proven Super Soft Trtl Neck Support Travel Pillow . If you’re buying a neck pillow for those long haul flights, be sure to get the Turtl – a unique and innovative pillow that’s so comfy it really lets you get a decent sleep on the plane!

#18. Multi-Purpose Infinity Scarf

Wherever I go abroad, I always bring a multi purpose scarf – even if I’m going on a summer vacation somewhere hot, the plane journey will still be cold.

Thats why I wear the unisex lightweight infinity scarf , and this one even has a concealed zipper compartment where you can store your valuables.

If I’m going somewhere cold, like my trips to north India, I opt for the bigger cashmere blanket that really keeps me warm.

#19. A reliable pair of Headphones or Earphones

A must-have for listening to your music, podcasts, audiobooks, and movies on those long flights.

From my experience of trying various types of earphones, I like to find a balance between high quality and affordability. Strong bass is important for me personally (due to my hearing loss), and wireless bluetooth is much less hassle than cable earphones.

My personal preference are the Beats Flex Wireless Earbuds  – packed with top quality sound, heavy bass, and very importantly they don’t leak any noise, which is perfect for me so I can turn the volume right up without annoying the passengers seated next to me.

Headphones:

Headphones look super fashionable to wear (both on your head and around your neck). If you’re looking to buy a really nice pair of high quality wireless headphones with superb sound, the Bose Quiet Comfort Headphones  is one of the best options out there.

#20. A decent Camera

My camera of choice is a high quality compact mirrorless camera that’s perfect for vacations.

I used to bring a bulky and heavy Canon DSLR on my trips in the past, but it was too much hassle for someone who wants to take quick and easy snaps without having to change lens.

Thats why I now use my Ricoh GRIII 24MP Compact Camera with 28mm F2.8 GR Lens – the ultimate camera for all types of photography – be it landscape scenery, portraits, action, street snaps, and even night photography. It’s perfect for those who want to take super high-quality, pro shots, but aren’t necessarily professional photographers.

#21. Bendy Tripod Phone Holder

No doubt you’ll be planning to take some fantastic photos on your travels, and this bendable tripod phone holder is the easiest way to capture stunning and insta-worthy snaps. It’s small and compact, lightweight enough to carry around all day, and fits into your daypack neatly with minimal space.

#22. iPad/Tablet and Protective Case

I rely on my iPad Pro for watching the occasional Netflix show, but mostly for working on my travel blog. Apple iPad Pro on Amazon

For peace of mind, I invest in a strong and durable protective iPad Pro case that I keep my iPad stored in at all times. I have the for my MacBook and the for my iPad.

Health, Beauty, Care & Medicines

Everything you need to pack when it comes to important meds, health and beauty products, and every day hygiene products.

#23. Lip Balm

If you get dry, chapped lips like I do, then you’ll know of all dry places, plane cabins are no different.

In trying to be more sustainable and eco-friendly, I use a natural, organic lip balm, that isn’t full of chemicals that are harmful to myself or to the environment when I chuck it out.

My favorite brand is Burt’s Bees, and I swear by their 100% Natural Moisturising Lip Balm with Shea Butter and Cocoa Butter .

#24. Roll-on Deodorant

Again, I prefer to use natural and organic products especially when it comes to roll-on deodorants.

I used to buy popular brands but became conscious of the carcinogenic chemicals being absorbed into my body.

That’s why I now use Bali Secrets Organic and Vegan Roll On for Men & Women . While I’m on my holiday, I tend to use organic coconut oil, which I pack in my checked luggage.

#25. Toothbrush & Toothpaste

Another essential item for long haul flights, I always bring my plastic-free, bamboo toothbrush along with organic natural toothpaste.

My preferred choice for eco-friendly toothpaste is the Georganics | Natural Mineral-Rich Whitening Toothpaste . Not only is it also vegan and fluoride-free, it comes in a glass jar with no plastic packaging whatsoever.

#26. Facial Oil Blotting Rice Paper 

Not only are these super useful in tropical climates, they are an essential item for long haul flights since your face will likely become oily on the plane. These sustainable Face Blotting Sheets with Natural Rice Powder are a quick and convenient way to dry sweat and oil, whilst making you feel instantly refreshed and looking shine-free.

#27. General Medications

You can easily get hold of medicine in most countries so don’t feel you have to pack the whole medicine cabinet. However its well worth bringing meds for headaches , cramps, allergies , as well as upset stomach meds like anti-diarrheal , Tums , and Pepto .

Organization & Security

For the utmost peace of mind – my top recommendations for safety and security.

#28. Fanny Pack/Bumbag or Flight Bag

I used to wear my Mini Travel Bag a few years ago and it’s quite fashionable. These days though, I prefer to wear a fanny pack/bumbag.

Mini Flight Bag or Fanny Pack/Bumbag?

If I’m going somewhere where I’ll be walking around the city or tourist traps, and there’s a high risk of theft, I wear my bumbag – because it’s virtually impossible to steal. Not even thieves on bikes can steal your bumbag, but there is a chance they can snatch your mini flight bag – and this does happen.

My favorite bumbag is the Eastpak Doggy Bag Money Belt – this one is simple, durable, looks good with anything, and has all the compartments needed to store all my valuables. There’s plenty of storage space, and it fits perfectly around your waist like a money belt as well as across your chest.

If you opt for the The Mini Flight Bag, I like to use my Eastpak The One Messenger Bag .

Another great thing about these mini bags/bumbelts is that they are allowed as an extra carry-on bag because they are on your person .

Not only does this free up much-needed space in my carry on luggage, it also allows me to keep my most valuable items and documents on my person, giving me security and peace of mind.

#29. A Hidden Money Belt

If you’re looking for something more discreet than the fanny pack/bumbag, the Hidden Money Belt lets you stash your money away in a secret compartment thats safely tucked within an innocent looking belt.

Ideal for those who want to avoid drawing attention in certain parts of the world, for travelers who are security conscious, or for those who just fancy traveling super light, the Zero Grid Travel Security Belt is the ultimate theft-proof travel wallet belt.

💧 Taking liquids in the cabin? Be sure to get yourself a decent TSA-compliant pouch bag to store your liquids in (and you can reuse this bag each time you travel, saving on plastic waste).

#30. An Organiser Tech Bag

If you’re like me, cables and small items get muddled up in your carry on bag and cause a fuss when you’re trying to separate them, and its just too much hassle fumbling around the bag looking for a battery or a cable.

Enter the BUBM Travel Accessories Carry Case – the solution to storing all your cables, tech gear and accessories neatly in one place!

It consists of two compartments and plenty of mesh pockets, zip compartments and elastic loops, can hold an iPad Mini and mirrorless cameras as well as various other gadgets, and stores all your cables, batteries, memory sticks and portables etc. neatly in place.

If you’re on a budget and looking for something that does the job just as well but at a more affordable price, the Amazon Basics Universal Travel Case is for you: it has a simple, no-nonsense design and is surprisingly spacious inside.

Carry-on bag over the weight limit? Worry not!

Enter the Bagket Multi Pocket Vest (the answer to airlines’ excess baggage charges and no hand-luggage policy!)

Sick of budget airlines constantly changing their carry on allowance policy every 5 minutes? Determined to bring all your stuff on your trip without being charged a hefty fee by those sly airlines?

As someone once said: Don’t get mad, get even.

This multi pocket vest was designed specifically to outsmart crafty budget airlines that are constantly trying to squeeze money out of unsuspecting budget travellers, forcing them to pay ridiculous non-budget prices on their fares.

Since airline policies don’t include weight and items on a customer’s body, this made me wonder how I could carry additional stuff on my person, if my carry on was over the limit.

I stumbled across the perfect jacket – equipped with huge pockets and components that you can stuff with iPads, laptops, cameras, heck even extra footwear – you name it, it will fit in this jacket that doubles as a bag!

How To Use The Bagket Vest:

• Fill up with 15kg of baggage, and carry over your shoulder
• Put the jacket through the scanner at security
• At the departure gate, wear the jacket to board the plane
• On board the plane, put the jacket under your seat.

Top Travel Tips: Advice for Short & Long Haul Flights

Below are some of my best travel tips for surviving long-haul flights and ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable journey:

✅ Stay hydrated

This is one of the most important pieces of advice for traveling on a plane, especially on long haul flights. Always bring your bottle of water on board.

✅ Important documents

Keep these on your person at all times , and that means while you’re seated too (don’t stash them in the overhead compartment.) If you can, keep your documents in a separate compartment from your money, gadgets, and other essentials. Consider the Travel Wallet and the Eastpak Bum Bag for ideal organization. 

✅ Keep your most important belongings on you at all times

Again, don’t stash things like your travel money, mobile, jewelry, camera, and other valuable items in the overhead compartment. Keep them in your flight bag if possible. If you have large expensive gear in the overhead – make sure you can directly keep an eye on it whenever someone opens the compartment.

✅ Keep yourself busy

Make use of entertainment options available. As well as your earphones for music, read books, play games or watch movies from your tablet. I tend to watch no more than 2 movies on long haul flights, and in between – I take naps, listen to music, take regular strolls down the aisle, and frequently stand up to stretch my legs and back.

✅ Bring a snack or two

Make sure you have snacks to avoid going hungry. Many short haul flights don’t provide food, and the snacks on long haul flights tend to be expensive.

Here are some snacks that work well on flights:

• Nuts – Especially almonds. Avoid salted nuts which will make you thirsty.
• Fruit – whole fruits (bananas, apples etc) or dried fruit with no added sugar work well and won’t cause a mess.
• Protein Bars  – Clif Bars work well as do fruit and nut bars. Just check the nutritional information because many bars are loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients.
• Whole Grain Salads  – d’Arabian recommends quinoa-based salads with olive oil. Unlike leafy green salads, they won’t wilt.
• Dark Chocolate – For enduring a 12-hour flight, you could do with a treat.

✅ Dress appropriately

As well as dressing appropriately when visiting certain countries that require you to cover up, make sure you bring a lightweight jacket or hoodie and always wear pants and socks on the plane as it gets chilly.

👉 Tip: bring a pair of slippers (or disposable slippers even) to wear on the plane when walking down the aisle or going to the restroom, as the floor will be quite dirty.

Carry on Essentials FAQs:

Here are some of the most commonly-asked questions about travel carry on essentials for international travel:

What are the essentials for carry-on?

Plan ahead with this list of must-have carry-on essentials for long flights: Valuables – Passport, ID, travel documents, cash and bank cards Travel wallet and passport holder Hand sanitiser and tissues Snacks and water Collapsible water bottle Power bank / phone charger and cables Sustainable wet wipes Noise-cancelling earphones A super comfy travel pillow iPad / tablet / Kindle for reading and watching movies Lip balm Toothbrush, toothpaste and facial wipes A bumbag or flight bag Organiser tech bag

What is not allowed in a carry-on?

The following is a list of items that are completely banned from aircraft and should not be brought to the airport: Explosive and incendiary materials Party poppers Acids Flammable liquids Tear gas devices or gas cylinders Non-safety matches Wet-cell car batteries Oxidisers and organic peroxides Poisons Instruments containing magnets Toy/replica guns Infectious materials Firelighters, lighter fuel, paints or thinners Corrosives

What items can I bring on my carry-on?

According to current TSA and international airport rules you are allowed to bring 1 quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, creams, gels and pastes, in travel containers that are 100ml (3.4 ounces) or less per item. Certain duty-free liquids are also allowed through security in your carry-on bag, provided they are packaged in a security tamper-evident bag.

What should I bring on a short flight?

Here’s a list of 10 must-have essential things to pack for travelling on short flights: Hand sanitiser and tissues Some snacks and water Travel wallet and passport holder Collapsible water bottle Sustainable wet wipes Lip balm Power bank / phone charger and cables Noise-cancelling earphones High quality compact camera iPad / tablet / Kindle for reading and watching movies

Can you bring hand sanitizer on a plane?

According to the TSA you may bring one liquid hand sanitizer container, up to 12 ounces per passenger, in carry-on bags until further notice. Since these containers exceed the standard allowance normally permitted through checkpoints, they must be screened separately.

Does toothpaste count as a liquid?

Yes, toothpaste is typically considered a liquid for travel purposes. According to TSA guidelines, toothpaste falls under the category of liquids, gels, creams, and pastes and must comply with the 3-1-1 rule, meaning it should be in a container of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and stored in a quart-sized, transparent bag.

Download your FREE 20-page Travel Planner Guide

And get access to all my best budget travel tips, checklists, additional freebies, and more.

And there you have it – the ultimate carry on essentials packing guide fit for every traveler.

Now that you know what to pack in carry-on for international flight – you can expect stress-free journeys, neatly organized trips and enjoy smooth travel experiences with pure convenience, all while being eco-friendly, healthy and happy!

• Going abroad soon? Check out my post: How To Plan For A Vacation (and download my FREE printable travel checklist)
• Read up on my Top 10 Ways To Save Money For Travel to learn how I saved over $1000 in one month

Did I miss anything out? I hope you find this post useful!

If you enjoyed this post, share it on Pinterest so your followers can enjoy it too!

Billy Read is the owner and author of BRB Gone Somewhere Epic, a travel blog that helps travelers discover unique destinations and travel experiences on a budget. With more than 10 years of global travel filled with accidents, Billy aims to help readers avoid making the same mistakes as he did, and make the most of their epic trips.

31 Carry-On Essentials Our Editors Swear By

By Madison Flager and Megan Spurrell

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

At 35,000 feet, the simplest of items can become essentials. Whether it's a favorite protein bar that breaks up the salted peanut humdrum, or a MacGyvered combination of accessories that ensure sleep, these items are what make sitting in an aluminum tube hurtling through the sky seem, well, bearable. Below, Traveler editors share their best tips for what to pack in a carry-on , from skin-saving beauty hacks to gadgets that keep boredom at bay, plus more practical items, like a case to store travel documents and credit cards and pouches for all of our toiletries. These are the items that have firmly earned a spot in our carry-on luggage and personal items, making travel days smoother, no matter where we're headed.

Tech essentials

Organizational hacks, creature comforts, beauty and wellness must-haves, packable snacks, hydration essentials.

• More in-flight items we love

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

I’ve been sold on these Technics earbuds from the moment I got them, and I refuse to fly without them now. The most underrated feature is the ambient sound mode. It cancels out all surrounding noise but you will still be able to catch announcements coming from the cockpit as if the pilot is talking directly to you. —Paris Wilson, commerce producer

The iPad Air has become my favorite carry-on tech item. Between e-book apps and downloaded TV shows from Netflix and Hulu, I can fit hours and hours worth of entertainment onto the slim tablet. And if I’m trying to get work done but don’t want to bring my laptop, I use the Smart Keyboard case, which is surprisingly lightweight for a keyboard that feels stable and is almost full-size. Plus, the battery life is great, so I don’t have to worry about running out of power, even if I’m using it for the majority of the flight. —Stephanie Wu, former Traveler editor

Once I was on a 16-hour flight, seated in front of the chattiest passenger. (He was going to Cape Town , then Australia , Singapore , and Hawaii , if you were wondering. He also loves 90 Day Fiancé .) Luckily, all I had to do was pop on my Sony noise-canceling headphones and I was in my own oasis of silence. These Bluetooth headphones are pricey but they're worth it. They block out nearly all noise, are pressure optimized for comfortable listening on flights, and come with a two-prong jack (especially useful for passengers in business class , where the seat-back usually requires one). Best of all, they have a built-in microphone which can pipe in outside noise—all you have to do is hold your hand over the right ear—so you won't have to take them off to hear flight attendant announcements. They're a lifesaver. —Meredith Carey, former Traveler editor

Once in flight, I become absolutely glued to my Kindle. Lately, I've been churning through the Neapolitan novels by Elena Ferrante from wheels up to wheels down. This version of the Kindle has adjustable lighting which is perfect for reading on planes with dim cabins (and helps you avoid being “that person” who uses the overhead reading light during a nighttime flight). I like to load my Kindle up with a couple new books before I leave for a trip, so I can continuously read no matter what my on-board Wi-Fi situation might be. —Jessica Puckett, travel news and transportation senior editor

I've recently become an AirPod convert—I just got the noise-canceling set and there's no turning back—but if there's one place an old school pair of headphones with a cord and a headphone jack reigns, it's in-flight. Most in-flight entertainment systems require a 3.5mm headphone jack, like the classic Apple headphones, and there's truly nothing worse than finding yourself unable to plug in when you want to (or relying on the headphones they sell onboard). I have an iPhone 10, so it's also essential I pack a lightning adapter so I have the freedom to switch to music on my phone when I'd like. I'd argue every frequent traveler should have a spare set of these headphones tucked inside their carry-on —even if you have another set of headphones you use more regularly, these guys are a lifesaver whenever you inevitably forget your bigger, better pair on a long-haul flight. —Megan Spurrell, senior editor

Longer trips mean I'm packing more gear, and I like keeping this pouch pre-packed with my endless array of cords, headphones, back-up battery back, adaptor, and plug-ins ready to go. The organizational structure of this pouch, with its many internal dividers and sections, means I can find everything easily and never worry about messy cord management. —Corina Quinn, former Traveler editor

I was given a set of travel pouches as a gift and they've been absolutely invaluable. I didn't think I'd be able to use all three, but on a recent trip, I used the small one for my vitamins, the medium one for electronic cords and adapters, and the large one as a catch-all for all the stuff that typically just floats around at the bottom of my bag. It made it way easier to reach into my carry-on to grab things mid-flight, when I'm usually juggling a million objects and stuff is spilling everywhere on my lap, tray table, and the floor. —S.W.

There should be a word for the level of frustration induced by tangled cords in your carry-on—especially when you're desperately trying to retrieve a charger for your iPad, which is currently at one percent and you have three more episodes of The Crown to get through. This Is Ground's Cord Tacos solve it all with a super simple taco-shaped design that keeps cords nicely organized. They also come in a bunch of colors, making them easy to find at the bottom of your bag. —Lale Arikoglu, articles director

Mark & Graham's commute clutch gives me one spot to keep all the small but essential things I always take with me. It's so organized, and I love how easy it is to pack and find what I need, fast—whether that's my wireless earbuds, pens, lip moisturizer , in-flight sheets masks , passport, or money. —C.Q.

Like packing cubes , small pouches are essential when traveling—you can never have too many. This small one from Cuyana is made of a pretty pebbled leather, and is the perfect size for storing AirPods, corded headphones (to use for in-flight movies), and a lip balm. —Madison Flager, senior commerce editor

If I’m traveling with checked baggage, I like to keep my toiletries and medicine on me in my carry-on bag or personal item, just in case I have to deal with lost luggage. I’ll make sure all my travel essentials are in there: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner, contact solution, plus any valuables like jewelry. For extra-long flights and red eyes, I’ll bring a change of clothes, too. —M.F.

This is my new must-have on flights where I'm trying to sleep. It's surprisingly easy to blow up (I'm talking three or four breaths, max), and is easy to adjust depending on which way you want to lean and how firm or soft you prefer a pillow to be. Even better, it rolls up tightly, taking up way less space in a backpack or tote than a traditional neck pillow. —M.F.  

I would like to consider myself a compression sock evangelist. For pretty much every flight more than 4 hours I pop on knee-high compression socks , which eliminate any pins and needles feeling from sitting for so long and give me more energy on arrival. I love this Comrad pair, mostly because you can pull them off as regular socks before and after you board and no one will be the wiser. —M.C.

These ear plugs are also at the tippy top of my carry-on packing list—they block out any noises on board. Once you roll them between your fingers, they expand to fit comfortably in any ear and offer complete silence no matter what chatty flier is sitting next to you or how many flight attendant call buttons go off. I buy these in bulk and bring several pairs with me on every flight I take. —J.P.

After resisting an eye mask for many years, a work-week red eye finally made me a convert. I find that compression-style masks are best for helping me actually fall asleep in the air…and if it has a cooling insert, even better. This weighted IMAK version was made to fight headaches and will block out any sunlight, so you don't have to worry about nudging your neighbor to close the shade. Even better: It's less than $15 on Amazon. —M.F.

Disinfecting wipes always come in handy. I wipe down my plane seat and tray table when I first board and use them to clean my hands before and after enjoying my in-flight snack. I’ve also reached for these when first arriving at an Airbnb or hotel room, at an amusement park, and after a subway ride. —Meaghan Kenny, associate commerce editor

When hand sanitizer was in short supply in 2020, I was extremely happy to have a few bottles of Everyone for Every Body's hand sanitizer spray squirreled away. A few years later, it's still a go-to, mainly for the great smell—a mix of that sunscreen-coconut and fresh lemon. Without fail, whenever I use it, someone asks what it is and where to get it. Plus, it doesn't dry out my hands. —M.F.

This hand sanitizer from Aesop was already my go-to before the pandemic, and has continued to serve me well ever since. It doesn't dry your hands out, smells of mandarin rind and rosemary leaf, and comes in a sleek little bottle—a luxurious upgrade to the other hand sanitizers that now permanently rattle around in my tote bag. —L.A.

For as long as I can remember, my mom has been using Clinique's Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion, applying it with near-religious zeal after a shower, before bed, and post-beach. It's one of the many good habits she's passed on to me—albeit one of a small number I've been smart enough to practice regularly. I have super-sensitive dry skin to begin with, and I find that this lotion, which I take in a TSA-friendly tube when I'm traveling, moisturizes it just enough, leaving my skin soft, dewy, and replenished, even after a multi-hour plane ride. It's liquid gold. —Betsy Blumenthal, features and franchises editor

My skincare routine is simple, and works for me year-round, but I don't like to disrupt it when I travel. Thankfully, Kiehl's makes miniature travel-size versions of my products, like their Cucumber Herbal Conditioning Cleanser, which are close to me on every flight, and crucial for the tired state my skin is always in after. —Louis Cheslaw, former Traveler editor  

[Editor's note: The carry-on size version is no longer produced, so we recommend transferring product into a Cadence Capsule when you're carrying on.]

You think a spritz is a spritz until you use this one. Lumene is a Finnish brand and the company uses all Nordic ingredients in their products, down to the water which comes from a pure Arctic spring. Spray the Lähde Hydrating Mist a couple of times after a long flight and the water, which is infused with nourishing birch sap and releases the most wonderfully subtle fragrance, will wake your skin right up. —Erin Florio, executive editor

The Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask is such an essential carry-on item for me. I keep a tube of it in a special pocket of my bag so I can find it quickly without fumbling. It's so moisturizing on my lips, which tend to flake in dry aircraft cabins, and even adds a hint of shimmer. It also spreads easily and is thicker than something like Aquaphor without being too sticky. There are five different colors available—I love the light pink Champagne color and the sheer red Smashed—and the tubes last forever. —J.P.

My hands get really dry when I travel, and I love Supergoop!'s moisturizer because it never feels greasy and keeps my hands smooth. As a bonus, it's completely odorless and provides great SPF coverage. —C.Q.

I almost always have a tin of Rosebud Salve on me, but especially when I fly. It's thicker than most other lip balms I've tried, and keeps my lips from getting dry in flight. Plus, it doubles as a balm over dry patches on my hands, and each small tin lasts for months, even with frequent use. —M.F.

A lot of plane food is trash, so I always pack nuts when I travel. I’m obsessed with the ‘Bold’ line from Blue Diamond because the almonds come in tongue-lashing flavors like Salt & Vinegar, Spicy Dill Pickle, and Wasabi & Soy Sauce. They’re completely addictive—and at 30,000 feet, you need aggressive flavors to punch through the dulling of your palate. —A.H.

Under most circumstances, if I’m eating a bar of any kind, it means that something has gone terribly wrong with my eating plans for the day. However, when it comes to plane snacks, Perfect Bars are worthy of their name. They taste significantly better than other high protein bars—really, they eat like crumbly cookies—and they have the ability to keep you full for two or three hours in the air. —N.K.

I love RXBars because they taste good but feel quite healthy—and when I travel, I know I'll be eating and drinking everything possible when I reach my destination, so swapping the Reese's pieces at Hudson News for something made of fruits and nuts feels like a kindness to my body. On most flights, I have to have my own snacks, too, because there's nothing worse than realizing you're hungry mid-flight and having nothing to turn to beside Biscoff cookies (sorry, Biscoff hive). —M.S.

I’ve started carrying a reusable water bottle whenever I travel, whether I'm getting on a long flight or a short car ride. I love the way the BKR looks, with its sturdy glass material, carry-handle, and the wide variety of color options. For something more lightweight, Nalgene is the way to go. —S.W.

I take in-flight hydration seriously. Actually I take hydration seriously all the time, and I don't let a flight derail me. I love Nuun electrolyte tablets because you can drop them in your water and get a fizzy little drink, and they have less sugar than other brands like Liquid IV. I swear I land feeling fresher for it—and I like to think my effort saves my skin from reaching that wretched bone-dry airplane state, though I'm not clear on the science of the whole hydrating-from-the-inside-out thing. —M.S.

Early morning flights are tough, but sometimes, they're unavoidable. When I'm leaving my house before the sun rises, I like to bring an Athletic Greens travel pack with me to drink on the way to the airport or before boarding my flight. It gives me a boost of energy, without having to stand in the inevitably long line for coffee at the airport. And between the hydration, vitamins, and minerals, I feel like I'm starting my day off on the right foot. My only qualm—I wish the travel packs were narrower, so no powder would spill out when I'm pouring a pack into my water bottle. —M.F.  

More in-flight items we like to pack

No matter how many gadgets I have on me, I always pack a small notebook and keep it close on every trip. Sometimes my neighbor turns out to be from wherever I'm headed and I want to jot down their tips; other times, I know my phone is going to die before we land and I need to scribble out the address of my Airbnb to show a cab driver. There's something romantic about having a physical notebook at the ready, and with a tiny one like the Moleskine Volant, I never have to ask if I really need it when deciding what to pack (or cut) in a carry-on. —M.S.

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Carry-on Travel Essentials for Short and Long Flights (His & Hers)

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

188 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 26 U.S. States Visited: 28

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

32 Published Articles 3106 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Carry-on Travel Essentials for Him

Final Thoughts

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At Upgraded Points, we believe a well-packed carry-on bag is key to flying in (relative) comfort. Whether you’re on a quick 45-minute hop or a daunting 9-hour long haul, your essentials are what keep you covered.

That’s why we’ve compiled a “His & Hers” list of some great products we simply can’t do without. From personal comfort items to snacks and hydration, read on to find out what tops our lists!

P.S. If you want a complete travel packing checklist for your trip, or you’re interested in tips and tricks for packing your suitcase, we’ve published a post on that too!

1. Alex can’t go anywhere without his Sleep Master Sleep Mask . Silky smooth, cool, and DARK with velcro closure … just sit back, relax, and you’ll be snoozing before you know it.

2. Engine noise? Crying babies? Obnoxious neighbor? These Bose QuietComfort 45 Noise Canceling Headphones won’t let you down. The rest of the world literally just fades away so you can enjoy your movie or music in peace.

3. The Sfee Insulated Water Bottle  is double-walled, stainless steel, leak-proof, and sleek as heck. We all know it’s important to stay hydrated while flying, and this bottle will keep your drink cold for hours.

4. Why pay for onboard snacks when you can bring your own? Oberto Turkey Jerky has your back! The flavor is great, there are no artificial ingredients, and it packs a punch at 11g of protein per serving.

5. Of course, no carry-on list would be complete without a Kindle . Don’t forget to pre-load it with your favorite books before you fly!

6.  Shout Wipes are a must. No one wants to travel with a great big stain down the front of their shirt! (We won’t mention which UP staff member wins the award for most spills …)

7. The Evolution Neck Pillow  might just be the best out there. It’s made of plush memory foam, has a snap in front with drawstrings to provide just the right support, holds your phone, and rolls up into a small handheld pouch to save space. Of all the travel pillows Alex has tried, he’s had the best sleep with this one. We both really love this thing!

8. Tired of looking tired when you hop off a flight? This GinZing Eye Cream from Origins combines coffee beans, ginseng, and magnolia extract to reduce dark circles, banish bags, and curb puffiness. It’s seriously refreshing – we’re amazed every time.

9. It’s easy to get dehydrated on a flight. Keep your lips from getting chapped with this soothing Lip Balm from Jack Black . It’s the more subtle stick form of Jack Black’s minty gloss, so you don’t have to worry about it adding a shine.

10. Speaking of minty, these Colgate Wisp mini brushes will freshen your mouth right up after those onboard peanuts.

11. A mess of cords at the bottom of your bag is so unhelpful. This cord/travel organizer by BUMB  will help you keep everything tidy and in good working order.

12. An extra pair of socks is never a bad idea, especially when they’re these Merino Wool Bombas . With a honeycomb support system, stay-up technology, warm/cool temp variation, and an invisible toe seam, these are the best! Plus, you can feel good about buying them: Bombas donates one pair of socks for every pair sold.

13. There’s nothing we hate more than waiting behind someone who can’t get their mobile ticket to scan at security/the gate, so we travel old-school: we always print our boarding passes. That’s where this Royce Leather Ticket & Passport Holder comes in. Plus, it’s made of top-grain genuine leather … so, there’s that.

14. The second snack we can’t do without is a  Power Crunch protein bar . Most protein bars are like a brick: thick and tough to chew. But this light, crunchy treat is pretty much the healthy, protein-filled equivalent of a Little Debbie Nutty Bar. They’re just so good!

Carry-on Travel Essentials for Her

1. How sassy is this Sleepy Cottage Eye Mask ? You certainly don’t have to sacrifice style to grab some much-needed shut-eye on your next flight. If you’d rather snooze a bit more low-key, try the Sleep Master Sleep Mask . It’s silky smooth, cool, and keeps things dark.

2. The Evolution Neck Pillow  is a definite must-have. Its plush outer covering surrounds a memory-foam core, and the snap closure at the front (with drawstrings) allows for adjustable support. Plus, there’s also a side pocket to hold your phone. What you can’t see here is that the pillow rolls up and fits in a small travel pouch to save space (a total win!). Like Alex, this has been my favorite pillow for getting some sleep during long flights.

3. We all know staying hydrated is a must on flights. Good thing S’well makes a line of  swoon-worthy water bottles with all sorts of great qualities. Think triple-walled, eco-friendly, and stainless steel. Not only do they come in an array of great colors and patterns, but they’re built to keep your drink cold for 24 hours (or hot for 12).

4. When you’re pressed for space, e-books come in so very handy. That’s why the Amazon Kindle makes it onto almost every travel blogger’s packing list. Just don’t forget to load your books before you fly!

5. Flying can leave your face feeling so “blah.” We love these Simple Face Wipes because there are no harsh chemicals, no artificial perfumes or dyes, and they’re enriched with lots of good vitamins to keep your skin hydrated. Plus, they even make a 7-count pack just for traveling.

6. Speaking of hydration, lip balm is a MUST for our carry-on bags. We’re loving this EOS balm in Sweet Mint with shea butter and jojoba oil. It’s 100% natural, 95% organic, and packed with tons of vitamins to keep your lips quenched for the long haul.

7. Need to freshen up after a long overnight flight? Use these Colgate Wisp mini brushes when gum or mints just won’t do. The freshening bead dissolves in your mouth, so there’s technically no water or rinsing needed.

8. We love having a separate wallet for travel since we’re often carrying different cards or other items during our trips. MochiThings’ Pop Clutch is a great little travel wallet to keep your ID, passport, tickets, and funds all in one place. Snaps allow for a pop-open functionality and it comes in a number of nice colors.

9. Let’s face it, lots of noisy things can make a flight especially awful … or maybe you just can’t hear your movie over the engine. No matter the reason you need some peace, these Bose QuietComfort Acoustic Earbuds will do the trick with their noise-canceling capability. Plus, they’re low profile vs. larger headphones, which helps save space in your bag.

10. When flying, it’s always smart to bring an extra layer in case things get chilly. This gorgeous wool and cashmere pashmina from Norstrom is a fantastic choice for a number of reasons. It can be worn as a scarf or shawl, or (at 75 x 29 inches) can even masquerade as a small blanket. Alternatively, its tissue-weight design makes it easy to fold right up and place in your carry-on like it’s nothing.

11. Every traveler needs a good journal on hand to document their worldly adventures!  We suggest the gorgeous line from Rifle Paper Co . With their soft linen covers and Smyth-sewn binding for durability, the quality is just right (and the size fits nicely too!).

12. No carry-on list is complete without a cozy pair of socks.   Your new favorite? Bombas. Made from extra-long staple cotton with a honeycomb support system, stay-up technology, and an invisible toe seam, these socks are super soft and perfect for your next flight. Plus, Bombas donates one pair of socks for every pair sold – we think that’s pretty great.

13. Flights don’t just leave you feeling tired, they can leave you looking tired too. Well, not anymore! Origins GinZing Eye Cream  is made with coffee beans, ginseng, magnolia extract, and natural brighteners to perk up those peepers. Whether it’s dark circles, puffiness, or bags – this eye cream is up for the battle and you’re coming out on top.

14. Why pay for overpriced food on your flight when you can bring your own? Power Crunch protein bars are our #1 must-have snack. Forget heavy, chewy bars and opt for this light, flakey, triple chocolate goodness instead. At 13g protein, 10g carbs, and 4g of sugar, you really can’t beat it!

Why suffer through your flight chilly, hungry, thirsty, bored, etc. when your carry-on could pack solutions? Picking a few favorite products that you consistently travel with can definitely upgrade your flight experience – they’ve certainly made ours more tolerable!

Do you have a favorite travel essential we missed out on? Let us know in the comments below.

Have you checked out our piece on the best gifts for travelers ? If not, head on over and let us know what you think!

Lastly, if you’re looking to add more “best of the best” travel products to your inventory, we’ve got some great recommendations for you: All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place .

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must have carry-on essentials.

We recommend a great neck pillow and eye shade, a pair of noise-canceling headphones, a great water bottle, compression socks, and a kindle!

What should you not forget in a carry-on?

If you’re flying overnight, you’ll definitely want to remember your eye shade and noise-cancelling headphones or ear plugs to get a good night’s sleep. If you’re traveling through the day, you’ll want to prioritize snacks and entertainment.

How do I carry essentials on a plane?

Most airlines allow you to bring at least 1 personal item into the cabin, with some allowing a separate carry-on. You can pack essentials such as electronics, ear plugs, an eye shade, neck pillow, and toiletries in your personal item or carry-on. Just make sure any liquids are less than 3.4 ounces and fit into single, 1-quart clear plastic bag.

What are 5 carry-on essentials for travelers who love to pack light?

Our 5 carry-on essentials would be noise-canceling headphones, a snack, a tooth brush, an eye mask, and a Kindle.

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About Erin Miller

An experienced points hacker, Erin is Alex’s partner-in-crime and contributes to Upgraded Points with in-depth guides and relationship management. Erin’s work has been cited in multiple major publications.

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Your essential carry-on packing list to do it like a pro

Maximize your travel with our essential carry-on packing list. Learn to pack light, choose versatile clothes, and essentials to do it like a pro.

Worldpackers Worldpackers

Aug 23, 2023

Smart packing is more than just stuffing items into your rolling suitcase or carry-on backpack. It's about understanding what you truly need for your journey and finding ways to pack light to avoid unnecessary baggage fees.

The ultimate goal is to have everything necessary without overpacking – this way, there’s room left in case you pick up souvenirs along the way! So let's dive into the carry-on packing list...

Recommended reading:  Travel items list: Essential packing tips for every trip  and  The perfect minimalist packing list .

The ultimate carry-on packing list

Choosing your clothes and shoes

The art of packing light for a trip lies in selecting versatile clothing . Choosing items of apparel that can be worn for multiple purposes, as well as being suitable for different events and climates, is the key to packing light when going on a trip.

This approach reduces the amount of luggage you carry while ensuring you're prepared for any situation during your travels.

A staple strategy among experienced travelers involves building their wardrobe around basic pieces like t-shirts, jeans or simple dresses. These essentials offer countless outfit combinations without consuming much space in your carry-on.

Consider fewer garments capable of working together harmoniously . Accessories such as scarves or statement necklaces can easily dress up plain shirts whereas hats/belts add flair towards simpler looks thus enhancing versatility further.

Your choice of shoes plays a significant role when trying maximize space on carry-on-friendly sizes, as they tend to occupy quite a lot of room. An ideal strategy here would involve selecting a couple of footwear according to the kind of trip you'll be doing and the destination. For instance, if traveling to a tropical place, a pair of walking shoes and one of sandals will do. Always wear the heaviest one and pack the lighter on your carry-on. 

Always check how the weather is like in your destination and during the season that you will be traveling to pack accordingly.

As a traveler, the art of packing toiletries is all about striking that balance between necessity and convenience. And this becomes even more crucial when you're restricted to carry-on luggage only.

We often feel tempted to pack every single item from our home skincare routine; however consider whether each product is truly essential during your trip's duration. Maybe that weekly exfoliating mask or serum with ingredients isn't needed daily.

The world of travel-sized products can be your best ally in saving space while adhering to TSA regulations on liquids.

First aid kit

Your first aid kit should include essential items that are capable of handling minor injuries and ailments . The most basic items such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes or cream, tweezers, medical tape and gauze pads will assist with cuts, scrapes or blisters which are common while traveling.

In addition to these basics consider including over-the-counter medications like pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen), anti-diarrhea medication and any personal prescription medicines needed during your trip. Always keep them in their original packaging along with the doctor's prescription if possible.

A well-maintained first aid kit is just as important as having one initially. Regularly check expiration dates on all medications replacing anything expired.

Electronics

In the age of tech-savvy nomads and work from anywhere , electronics have become a necessary part of our traveling necessities. 

The first step is identifying which electronic gadgets are crucial for your trip. A smartphone surely tops this list as it serves multiple purposes: communication device, navigation tool with GPS capabilities and camera for photos, among others.

Besides main gadgets like smartphones or laptops don't forget about necessary tech accessories, such as international plug adaptors .

You might also consider bringing portable power banks (to charge on-the-go) and USB drives for extra storage.

• Note about voltage differences

Before plugging in any electronic device abroad make sure checking voltage requirements since they vary country-to-country. This information should be clearly stated on gadget's charger label, so read carefully prior use otherwise may cause serious damage to the equipment.

Check these travel apps for the techy traveler .

Documents and money

Last on the list, but first in importance, your passport is the most important item to pack while traveling abroad. Make sure it is in date and won’t expire.

Also, be sure to research visa requirements before you leave for your trip. Most visas are electronic these days, but sometimes you’ll have to apply in person at an embassy or consulate.

Also make electronic and hard copies of all important documents , just in case.

Pack your credit or debit cards for withdrawing foreign cash from ATMs, but also bear in mind that some countries have a cash based economy, so do your research before leaving home. Consider getting a card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees so you can save money while travelling .

Miscellaneous

Other items worth considering on your carry-on packing list, are:

• Day bag: a small backpack or large purse is handy for exploring during the day.
• Reusable water bottle: to save money and eliminate plastic waste while traveling , pack a good-quality, reusable water bottle. 
• Electronic book: it’s always nice to have a good book while traveling . However, they can be quite heavy and bulky in your carry-on, so consider investing in a ebook like Kindle.
• Raincoat: umbrellas are too bulky and inconvenient for traveling, so better carry a good raincoat with you.

Recommended reading:  The ultimate international travel checklist .

Carry-on bag packing tips

Maximize your carry-on space considering these packing suggestions:

Use packing cubes

Packing cubes help travelers keep their items organized and make more room within luggage. These handy tools come in various sizes suitable for clothes, shoes or accessories. By compressing items into these nifty containers, one can save considerable bag space.

Tech organizer is a "must-have"

If you're juggling remote work commitments during travel or simply need gadgets for entertainment purposes along the way, having a tech organizer becomes indispensable.

This neat tool helps avoid cables tangling up with other stuff inside your bag; nothing gets lost amidst the chaos.

Solid toiletries over liquid ones

To dodge spills and adhere to airlines' liquid allowances without compromising personal hygiene needs - solid toiletries like shampoo bars or toothpaste tablets could be an ideal solution.

They often outlast traditional liquids too which makes them perfect companions on long flights where convenience matters most.

Wear your bulkiest clothes

Rather than cramming bulky clothing such as heavy boots or thick jackets into limited suitcase corners - wear them instead during transit days.

An all-time favorite travel hack is to carry some heavy items in your jacket - like technology - to free space and weight from your carry-on. 

Consider microfiber towels

We all love fluffy bath towels, but the microfiber material dries quickly and rolls up to be much smaller than a normal towel, making them perfect for traveling with limited space.

Important to consider when traveling with carry-on

Air travel rules and regulations can be tricky, particularly when it comes to packing your carry-on luggage. Let's demystify this process by discussing TSA-approved liquids bag and containers, managing prescription medications during travels, as well as understanding prohibited items.

TSA-Approved liquids bag and containers

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has set up specific rules for bringing fluids on airplanes.

The 3-1-1 rule states that each container should not exceed 3.4 ounces (100 ml) , all the containers must fit into one quart-sized transparent zip lock bag, and only a single such pouch is allowed per passenger. 

If you need larger quantities of certain products like shampoo or lotion that exceed these limits, consider checking them in instead of trying to squeeze them into your hand baggage.

Prohibited items

Liquids over 100ml, sharp objects like knives or scissors longer than 4 inches, flammable items, and weapons are prohibited from being packed in a carry-on.

Some prohibited items may vary depending on airline and country of destination, so double-check this list to avoid surprises when boarding the plane.

Prescription medications

Maintaining a regular medication schedule is crucial if you take prescribed drugs regularly - which means they must accompany you while traveling. However, there are special precautions necessary when packing medicines for air travel.

All medications should remain in their original packaging with clearly marked labels . The TSA provides further guidance on traveling with medication.

Note: Packing correctly not only ensures smoother transitions through airport security checks but also prevents potential confiscation of personal belongings. This knowledge will make sure every journey begins without unnecessary hiccups.

More travel tips at Worldpackers Academy

Want to learn many tips and hacks from experienced travelers? Worldpackers Academy is an online courses platform that provides ton of material made by travelers for travelers, where you will develop new skills to travel the world.

Worldpackers Academy also offers courses that focus on travel entrepreneurship , teaching you how to turn your passion into a profitable business. 

These lessons could potentially lead towards full-time remote work opportunities, allowing for worldwide travel as part of a digital nomad lifestyle.

Video making for travelers .

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Volunteering around the world

You've got your gear, you're ready to hit the road. But have you considered how to make this trip truly unforgettable?

The answer is volunteering through Worldpackers .

This innovative work exchange platform takes traveling to a whole new level. Say farewell to the usual touristy jaunts and welcome a chance to dive into different cultures and build long-term relationships with people from all over the globe.

By offering a few hours of work per day in return for accommodation and meals , travelers can not only save money while traveling , but also gain invaluable insights into their host country's culture and make friends and travel partners .

Volunteering opportunities are available in more than 140 countries, ranging from NGOs and schools to hostels and holistic centers . You only need to suscribe to the Worldpackers community for free and start saving your favorite volunteer positions until you are ready to get verified .

Learn more about how it works: Traveling with Worldpackers: your top questions answered .

Our complete carry-on packing list serves as an excellent starting point whether it's overhead bin storage or under-the-seat stowage strategy. Packing tips shared here aim at ensuring smoother journeys regardless of how far off-beat tracks take us!

If you like these tips, follow Worldpackers social media to keep up with the news: we are on Instagram and Tiktok .

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Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

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What’s Inside My Carry-on (As a Travel Writer)

This year, I’ve taken 11 flights and passed through seven airports. This means that — as well as spending too much money in duty free — I’ve got my carry-on packing list down to a fine art. There are a few things you should know: I often travel solo, so I try to do everything in my power to make sure that I don’t succumb to jet lag (as there will be no one else there to force me up and out of bed). I also hate arriving somewhere feeling sluggish and losing valuable time trying to revive myself — in the words of Carrie Bradshaw, I want to arrive “ stunning and impossibly fresh-looking. ” So when I pack, I’m not just thinking about the clothes and shoes I might need for my actual trip; I’m thinking about how to make the plane ride there as comfortable and relaxing as possible. With that in mind, here are the eight essentials that you’ll find me boarding a flight with, whether it’s a two-hour dash from London to Paris or an overnight long haul to Korea .

This is the carry-on you’ll find me traveling with (and it’s also the Strategist favorite, based on the recommendations of half a dozen travel experts ). It has everything that you’d expect from a good suitcase: a sturdy handle, built-in lock, 360-degree spinner wheels, plenty of space for all the essentials on this list, and a whole lot more. As I’m based in Europe, where the airline allowances are more strict, I have the smaller version of the case, but Away also carries a bigger size (which counts as a carry-on if you’re in the U.S. and traveling domestically).

After your third sleepless night flight , you realize two things: Firstly, there are only so many times you can rewatch Crazy Rich Asians mid-flight. And secondly, a travel pillow is an essential. If you’ve never had any luck with the standard type of travel pillow — the squishy ones that resemble a sliced doughnut — then you’re not alone: It’s a complaint I’ve heard from several frequent fliers when I reported our story on the best travel pillows . That led me to this Trtl pillow. It’s basically a scarf that wraps around your neck with one side having a firm, plastic support, meaning you can slope or lean to one side to rest without getting a crick. The built-in support means that it works no matter where you’re sitting on the plane. You can even get a proper night of sleep in the dreaded middle seat. I won’t board a flight or train without it.

I’d argue that a foot sling is just as important as a pillow if you want to get some rest. This one is simple to use; you just unfold your tray table and rest the sling over the top. Once it’s looped over, I rest my feet over it and wriggle around until I’m comfortable. Even if you’re not planning on actually sleeping, a sling makes even shorter flights far more comfortable as you can actually lean back and relax, as opposed to sitting practically upright for hours on end. And while the exact sling that I’ve been traveling with for years is no longer available, this one is the top pick in our “ Travel 100 ” (a list of the best travel items we’ve written about).

I’ll always pack a universal adapter inside my carry-on (in fact, this one lives inside my carry-on case full time). That way, I won’t have a panic upon landing once I remember that I haven’t brought my C-plug adapter to France or my A-plug adapter to the U.S. It’s also useful if you’re having a layover between two flights and you spot a usable empty socket in the airport: No matter the shape of the outlet, you’ll be covered. I bought this one in particular as it’s both an adapter and a USB charger , which means I need only the one adapter to charge my phone and use my hair dryer (sometimes simultaneously).

My toothbrush case is really large and bulky, and it’s hardly an essential. That being said, nobody wants the brush that they clean their mouth with to get dirty (or, I dread to think, to get bits of hair or makeup stuck to the bristles). This clip-on case is a good compromise: It’s small, so it just clips on to the bristly end of your toothbrush. And they come in packs of two, if you’re traveling with a partner and feeling generous.

I hate the wired headphones that airlines provide. Not only are they really uncomfortable, but when you’re trying to unfold your tray table for a meal, or scooting to let somebody head to the bathroom, they get tangled into a mess. With this plug-in Bluetooth device , you can connect your own headphones to the screen and eliminate the need for those wired headphones entirely. I thought it seemed like a silly luxury initially, but after it made one flight so much smoother, I realized there was no going back.

I started using packing cubes as a teenager while attending festivals, when I discovered I could prepack all my outfits and not have to destroy my tent trying to locate a certain top or bracelet. The habit has stuck. I was sent this set by Calpak to try this past spring, and as well as cubes that I use to organize the clothes in my carry-on, it has a waterproof envelope I use for my toiletries and skin care . I also put any makeup that counts as a liquid inside — foundations, mascaras — so when I reach security, I don’t have to fish them out of a separate makeup bag . If there is a problem, or I just want to reach something quickly, the envelope has a nice wide opening that I can peel open to easily see everything inside.

Stuffing all my toiletries inside the flimsy plastic bag in the airport is by far my least-favorite part of security. And while I swear by miniatures — a teeny micellar water and deodorant are nonnegotiable — my full-size SPF is something that I won’t give up. I picked up this SPF in a Don Quijote a few years ago, and since it didn’t exacerbate my acne, I’ve stuck to it. It has a nice light consistency that doesn’t pill — even by the end of the day, once I’ve diligently applied a fresh layer every few hours.

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The Ultimate Carry-On Packing List

Carry-on travel is the ultimate way to travel. It makes everything so much easier. You don't need to worry about lost luggage  because you'll have all of your possessions with you at all times. You don't need to worry about back pain, because the carry-on backpack you'll be carrying will be much lighter than other backpackers'. In fact, the only thing you need to worry about is ​ carrying liquids through security at airports, and that's surprisingly easy to deal with.

Here is the ultimate packing list for carry-on travelers.

When it comes to clothing, you need to plan out your outfits in advance to maximize the different looks you can create while traveling. It's also far easier to pack clothing if you're going to be traveling during one season only. Heading to Southeast Asia in the dry season will obviously require far fewer (and bulkier) clothes than Finland in the middle of winter. 

The key here is to pack neutral colors so that everything goes with everything else. We recommend taking five T-shirts, a pair of shorts, one pair of pants (or jeans), a lightweight jacket, and enough underwear and socks to last you five days on the road. If you'll be heading to colder climates, look for clothing that's made of merino wool, as that will keep you warm while still remaining lightweight in your bag. 

When it comes to shoes, the fewer you pack the better. If you're more of an adventure traveler, you'll want to bring sturdy walking shoes with you. Try to get a multi-purpose shoe that covers walking, trekking, and hiking, so that you only need to bring just one pair. Here's a carry-on clothing breakdown: 

• 2 strap tops
• 2 vest tops
• 1 long-sleeved top
• 1 pair of shorts
• 1 pair of jeans
• 2 swimsuits
• 1 pair of flip-flops
• 1 pair of running shoes (to be worn on travel days)
• 3 pairs of socks
• 7 underwear

Toiletries are the trickiest to deal with when it comes to traveling carry-on only. You'll no longer be able to buy bottles of shampoo and shower gel to lug around the world with you. Instead, you'll have to get creative.

If you're more of a mid-range/luxury traveler, you may be able to rely on supplies from the hotels you stay in. And if you're not sure if your future hotels provide toiletries, you can take some with you when you leave.

If you stay in Airbnb apartments, you'll also be able to tell in the listing if toiletries are included in the bathroom, so if you want to avoid the hassle of finding smaller sizes or solid versions of toiletries, this could be another good option.

If none of those apply to you, it's time to start looking for solid items. Practically every toiletry product you can think of has a solid counterpart, whether it's shampoo , conditioner , shower gel , or sunscreen .

Finally, you could pick up those small travel-sized toiletry items you see at airports and drugstores, but unless you're heading out on a trip lasting less than a week, it's best to avoid these. They're not great value for money, not easily replaced while you're traveling, and run out within a few days of opening them. The following is a carry-on travel toiletries breakdown:

• Small toiletries bag
• Solid shampoo and conditioner bar
• A small bar of soap
• Solid sunscreen 
• Solid deodorant
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Nail scissors
• Contact lenses

Travel Technology

What you decide to travel with depends totally on your travel style. If you're aiming to do any kind of blogging or writing on the road, it's best to travel with a light laptop, such as the MacBook Air to make typing much easier. For anyone else, you really just need a tablet and a phone.

When it comes to reading, pack a  Kindle Paperwhite in your bag, because it will save a huge amount of space and weight as you travel—much better than traveling with a book.

When it comes to photography, if you're not super into it, you can easily get by using your phone—many phones on the market today have cameras that are just as great as what you'll find in a point-and-shoot.

You'll need a travel adapter to use in every country you visit, so make sure you get one that looks robust. Look for an adapter that converts to all countries in one, rather than many adapters to save on space.

Instead of using an external hard drive, sign up for an online service to upload your photos to keep them safe. Or if you're using a phone as your main camera, you could use the cloud storage you have access to on your device. 

Everything else that hasn't been mentioned will be chargers and cables. Here's an example of a carry-on technology list: 

• 13" MacBook Pro
• Kindle Paperwhite
• Sony A7ii camera with a kit lens with SD cards
• iPhone 5SE with earphones
• Various charging cables 
• Power adapter

When it comes to travel, the vast majority of medications you can buy at home, you'll be able to get while you're abroad. In your travel first aid kit, then, you should look to fill it with any prescription medication you won't be able to get while you're traveling. Include a packet of painkillers and some Imodium in case of emergencies. If your doctor will prescribe you a course of antibiotics just in case of emergencies, then that's something you'll want to include as well. 

If you'll be traveling to regions where malaria is prevalent, you'll want to carry your full supply of anti-malarial tablets with you. In this case, buy a pill bottle, push through the pills in the blister pack, and store them in the bottle. It'll take up much less space in your bag. 

Other than that, there's nothing else vitally important that you need to include. The travel first aid kit contains: 

• 1 box of paracetamol
• 1 box of ibuprofen
• 1 box of Imodium
• 1 course of antibiotics (usually Amoxicillin or Cipro)
• Birth control pills or other prescriptions

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous items totally depend on what kind of traveler you are, what things you treat as absolute essentials, and how much space you have left in your backpack. 

Some of my miscellaneous items include a quick-dry travel towel (these are essential for carry-on travelers—they're so light and small and dry very quickly), a sarong, some makeup, sunglasses, and a dry bag (good if you plan on taking any ferries or boats on your travels). 

What Shouldn't You Pack 

We could just say anything that isn't mentioned in this article, but the truth is, everyone's different and what we deem as essentials, you won't want to pack; and what we advise skipping out on, you won't feel comfortable traveling without. Having said that, if you're interested in finding out which items we don't deem necessary to travel with, keep on reading. 

• Silk sleeping liner:  This is a mainstay on most packing lists on travel blogs, but we wonder how many of them actually use it. Hostels aren't disgusting places, they aren't full of bed bugs, and you really don't need to travel with a silk sleeping liner. It's a waste of space in your backpack. 
• Sewing kit: Okay, this is a tiny item, so it doesn't really matter if you pack it or not, but it's usually faster and easier to just buy a new one of whatever you've torn instead. 
• Thick, warm clothes:  To free up space in your bag, avoid carrying thick, winter clothing with you on your trip. Instead, pack many thin layers made of merino wool  to keep you warm. 

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What to Pack in a Carry On Bag: The Ultimate Carry On Bag Essentials List

I have a list of carry on essentials that I always pack in my carry on bag.  When I check luggage (which I rarely do), these are the items that go in my carry on bag rather than my checked bag.  Even when traveling with carry on luggage only, these in flight essentials are usually in my small personal item that is under the seat rather than my larger checked bag in the overhead.

My carry on bag essentials list includes all items I would need to be comfortable on a long international or overnight flight.  (For shorter flights, I skip some of these items as I do not need them.)  Also included on my list of what to pack in my carry on bag, are valuable and hard to replace belongings as well as those items which I can’t live without in the event my checked luggage is lost or delayed.

Carry On Essentials List

Not sure what to pack in your carry on bag? Here is a comprehensive packing list of carry on essentials:

Passport/other ID

These are essential documents for boarding your next flight and should always be in your carry on luggage.

Many airlines (including all U.S. airlines) require passengers to wear face masks when boarding and on the plane. The airlines might have extra masks for passengers but better to bring your own mask to be on the safe side.

Cash, credit cards, ATM cards

Cash, credit cards or ATM cards should never be put in checked luggage in the event your checked luggage is delayed, lost or stolen.

Printed itinerary/ hotel and flight confirmations

I like to print my hotel and flight e-mail confirmations.  I don’t want to rely on having wi-fi or my data plan working.

Glasses/ Contacts/Sunglasses

These items are hard to replace while traveling and should always be in your carry on bags. I also like to pack my sunglasses with me.

Essential medication and prescriptions

You don’t want to worry about not having any medication you need if your checked luggage is delayed.

Electronics (cell phone, camera, computer, adaptors), jewelry and other valuables

Don’t put anything in your checked luggage that you cannot afford to lose.  This includes electronics, jewelry and other expensive or sentimental belongings. If you plan to use your electronics in flight, you might want to bring an  external battery  so you can charge your electronics.

Change of clothing (including underwear)

It is a good idea to have a spare change of clothes and underwear in case your luggage is delayed. You do not want to have to live in the clothes you traveled with.  Yes, you can buy new clothes but stores are not open 24-7. I also bring a pair of flip flops  that double as my shower shoes.

Reading material/entertainment

Long flights (especially in economy) can be awful unless you have something to entertain you like a book, movie etc. Make sure to pick a good movie or book that you can get absorbed in so that time flies.  While long flights have movies as in flight entertainment, sometimes the movie selection is not a movie that I would enjoy. Personally I find books more relaxing than movies. If you would rather not bring actual books, consider bringing a Kindle .

Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss

On a long flight you might want to brush your teeth.  I find it easier to sleep after I brush.

Lip balm, lotion and other toiletries

The air in the flight is very dry.  Lip balm and lotion are at the top of my in flight essentials list . Also bring any toiletries you would need on a flight including face wipes, contact lens solution and makeup.

Antibacterial wipes or sanitizing lotion

Airplane surfaces can be very dirty.  I use antibacterial wipes to wipe down my tray table, arm rests etc. These wipes are my favorite because they are individually wrapped.

Eye mask, ear plugs or noise cancelling headphones, sleeping pill or melatonin

If you have trouble sleeping with lights on bring an eye mask. Ear plugs or noise cancelling headphones are also useful to block out noise and help you sleep. Melatonin has been proven to help with sleep.

I’ve heard that the blankets are not washed between flights.  You might want to bring your own blanket.

You might find it more comfortable to travel with a neck travel pillow or your own pillow.

Compression socks

If you are traveling on a long economy flight, you might want to wear compression socks to prevent DVT . While everyone is at risk for blood clots on long cramped flights, compression socks are a must if you are pregnant, older or have a history of blog clots. I like these socks  that can be worn by both men and women and come in variety of colors and patterns.

Scarf and extra sweater or fleece

Planes can be chilly.  A scarf can be handy for keeping you warm.  In the event you do not have an eye mask, you can also use your scarf to cover your face.  Even if traveling in the summer, you might want to bring an extra layer (like a sweater or fleece) in your carry on.

In case you don’t like airplane food or would like healthier choices, snacks are a good idea.  Nuts and granola bars are good options.

Bottle of water

Because the air is so dry on flight, dehydration happens quicker when flying than it would at home.  I bring a bottle of water with me on the flight.  While the flight attendants do bring water it is good to bring extra water for times when they are seated such as takeoff and landing.

Bring at least one pen for filling out customs forms when traveling internationally, taking notes, doing crossword puzzles etc.

Click to download a pdf of my  Carry On Bag Essentials List .

Here are some tips to survive a long flight in economy .

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savvyglobetrotter

19 comments.

• Pingback: 9 Tips for Surviving Holiday Travel - The Savvy Globetrotter

Great suggestions. I agree with the blanket and neck rest or pillow. On my last trip I took the airline pillow out of the plastic bag and there was hair on the pillow. That was it for me!

I always pack only carryon baggage and wondered how other travelers approach this tactic. Fun stuff.

This is a great list! Neck pillows seem to be the one item that a lot of folks regretting not packing.

Indeed, keeping your glasses and contacts in your carry on luggage is a good idea. This way you are able to use them whenever you need them. And, if your other bags get lost then you can still be able to see.

Agree! I am always worried about my bag getting lost that is why I make sure I have everything essential in my carry on.

I always like reading about what others pack – always great to hear another perspective. Great tips!

These are great. I usually bring a shawl or pashmina scarf with me to double as a blanket.

my eye mask is my most essential carry on piece of luggage!

Great list! I never think about the change of clothes but it is a great idea. A lost or delayed suitcase can happen. It happened to family members on our last trip to Lisbon and they didn’t have anything so we had to buy some stuff.

Compression socks for the long trips…. Can’t live without them! Of course, I have finally had to admit, though only in the privacy of our own home, that I must be getting older.

• Pingback: The Ultimate Guide on How to Survive a Long Flight in Economy

Great list! I also try to remember to bring a hair tie or something like that to keep my hair out of my face.

This is a very useful compilation. You never know the importance any even the most insignificant item on this list until your find yourself in the middle of nowhere without something you really need. I have had a messed up camp experience when I forgot my lip balm at the hotel.

Good stuff!

Yes, a bag of mixed nuts and a granola bar are always must-haves in my carry on. It’s saved me on more than on occasion when there’s been a delay on the tarmac and my tummy was growling.

Lots of good suggestions here! I usually just use a carry-on for my entire trip so in addition to all of these plane essentials, I have all of my clothing, toiletries, etc. I also like to print out my hotel and plane confirmations. And it’s super handy to have a copy of your passport as well in case it gets lost.

wow! Great list! I never think about the change of clothes but it is a great idea. A lost or delayed suitcase can happen. It happened to family members on our last trip to Lisbon and they didn’t have anything so we had to buy some stuff.

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I Haven’t Checked a Bag in 10 Years — Here, My 14 Sure-fire Travel Essentials to Get Everything in a Carry-on

These frequent flier-approved picks cover all of your travel bases, and they start at $10.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure

I travel twice a month covering destinations that inspire readers and those planning vacations. In order to efficiently move through airports, take Ubers, and lug everything on my own, I’ve had to master the art of packing light . But as a chronic overpacker in my former days, this didn’t come easy. However, once I started embracing the carry-on-only lifestyle, I would never go back. It’s been over 10 years since I’ve checked a bag — regardless of where I’m going or how long the trip is. 

In addition to quality luggage pieces (I swear by my Gregory Quadro 22-Inch Hardcase Carry-On and always bring Calpak’s Luka Duffel as my personal carry-on tote to fit extra clothes and accessories), successful carry-on-only traveling involves strategic packing. When planning which clothes to bring, I think in terms of outfits and try to incorporate versatile capsule wardrobe items that match with several things (layers are also key). Lastly, compression packing cubes work wonders — as do my 14 travel essentials that always make my packing list so I never have to check a bag.

These go-to items include packing aids, versatile clothing and accessories, and more to help me maximize every inch of suitcase space without going over the limit. Even better, they start at $10 at Amazon. 

Cambond Compression Packing Cubes

Compression organizers are game-changers. Not only do they flatten your items so you can pack more in your suitcase, but they also aid in organizing your outfits; you can pack your clothes according to style, color, or category. Cambond’s sturdy nylon packing cubes have a double zipper for easy access and hassle-free compressing. They’re also water-resistant, which means that they'll protect your items from any potential leaks or spills. I also like that they’re lightweight; the last thing you want to do is add weight to your carry-on. 

They’re sold in sets with various sizing options, and are available in 45 colors. This item is a favorite among shoppers because of how effective the compression is for packing. And, according to one Amazon reviewer , they helped them travel to Europe for "a week with only a backpack and a carry-on." 

Anrabess Romper With Pockets

I always pack a romper because it saves space and maximizes your outfit potential. This super cute one from Amazon-loved brand Anrabess is made with a comfy polyester-rayon-spandex blend to ensure comfort and stretch. You can play with the neckline and wear it several ways — crewneck style, off-the-shoulder, or Bardot-style. The tie-front drawstring at the waist accentuates your silhouette, offering a flattering fit. 

The fabric is thick so it’s not see-through. It makes the perfect loungewear item and is versatile enough to wear to the beach, picnics, by the pool, and even out running errands. Pair it with a nice pair of sandals or heels and it’s the perfect outfit for dinner. I’m a huge fan of pockets, and the romper has two side pockets for holding lightweight (but essential) items such as lipstick or cash.

M.M. LaFleur Moreland Jacket

M.M.Lafleur 

A seasonless suit is a no-brainer when I head out for work trips. Even if you’re traveling for pleasure, sporting a blazer and a pair of trousers creates an instantly sophisticated look. M.M. LaFleur’s Origami Tech collection is specifically designed to be your ultimate travel companion; the Moreland Jacket and matching Colby pants are wrinkle-resistant and machine-washable. 

The set can be worn together or separately; the jacket matches well with a good, old pair of jeans on sightseeing days or leggings when you’re catching a flight. You can also wear it over a dress or blouse-skirt combo for polished lunch or dinner looks. To get the same workwear-inspired travel outfit for less, you can grab Amazon’s best-selling blazer for $58. 

Amazhiyu Button-Down Midi Dress With Pockets and Belt 

Pack a dress that does everything, one that you can wear during the day and do double duty at night. While I’m obsessed with the celeb-favorite Jenni Kayne Day Dress , at a whopping $395, a girl’s got to budget. That’s why, when I found this linen button down dress at Amazon, I couldn’t wait to try it on. It features a sleeveless, collar design with side slits and a removable self-tie belt to give it shape; it’s very flattering and accommodates all shapes and sizes. Sometimes, I use my favorite woven belt (I'll go into more detail about it later) instead, which instantly creates a different vacation look without requiring additional clothing items. 

It’s a great travel piece for spring because it’s made of 100 percent linen, which is known for being a breathable and moisture-wicking fabric. There are two side pockets for stashing essentials, a feature that reviewers praised. One shopper wrote , "I absolutely love this dress. The pockets are really big, which is great. Everything about this dress is quality, and I stayed cool in the summer heat." Another noted that the pockets "are flat and don't stick out" when they have stuff in them. 

Lightbird Foldable Summer Straw Bucket Beach Hat

This packable straw hat is the best travel hack. There have been many times where I’ve wanted to bring a stylish hat, but ended up not doing so because it takes up too much real estate in my luggage. That's no longer a worry with this stylish bucket hat that folds down for easy packing. It also easily adjusts to fit almost everyone with a cinch drawstring lining on the inside. 

It’s a hot travel accessory because not only does it keep you safe from the sun’s rays, it also keeps you cool and looking stylish. Plus, you can use it to spice up your vacation outfits, giving the already-worn looks a fresh feel. 

Vermouth Beauty In The Nude Flight of Five Crayons

When traveling, I always bring these cleverly packaged Vermouth lip crayons, which are sustainably sourced and free of plastics and chemicals. Each "flight" features a color palette of five crayons in various hues, giving you multiple lipstick options without taking up precious toiletry bag space. 

What's more, these long-lasting and hydrating crayons can be worn dabbed on your cheeks like blush or swiped across your eyelids in place of eyeshadow, further helping you cut down on beauty products and freeing up room for other trip essentials in your toiletry bag and carry-on. 

Fjallraven Women's Kanken Hip Pack

I’m a huge fan of Fjallraven travel bags because of their timeless designs and practicality. Made with 100 percent vinylon fabric, this hip pack is durable and water-resistant, and is the only bag that you need to pack. It works whether you’re hitting the streets for a day of window shopping, the trails for hiking, or the strip for dinner. It’s just small enough that it also works as a wallet within a bigger bag or purse, if that's more your vibe (and you need the extra carry-on space). I like wearing it as a crossbody, though some fans wear it as a fanny pack. 

Versatility aside, this bag really shines because of its roominess. One shopper wrote , "I was worried at first because it looks very small, but it has three compartments [and a] lot of room." 

Everlane Day Ballet Flats

Everlane's Day Ballet Flats are easy to pack and don’t take up a lot of space. They can be worn with a casual outfit or dressed up for a nice dinner. Because of their adaptability, you’ll always find them on my packing list. While I own several pairs of the brand’s flats, these are my favorite because they’re chic and comfortable. I especially like the sweet little bow on top. 

The soft, buttery leather molds to your feet, so they get more comfortable with wear. They’re great travel shoes because they’re stylish when paired with denim, leggings, dresses, pants, and even shorts. What's more, the outsoles are made of rubber, which keeps you from slipping on smooth or wet surfaces.

SeptCity Woven Rattan Wide-Stretch Straw Belt

It's time to give my favorite belt its flowers. A belt changes everything, and I love getting creative and refreshing an outfit with this trendy belt. It converts one outfit into another one, requiring you to pack less — a.k.a. why it's a must on my packing list. Its rattan fabric adds an elegant touch to my favorite outfits, and I love to wear it with skirts, dresses, over cardigans, and even tunics (one of my favorite looks is pairing it with this Trovata shift or PrettyGarden’s floral frock ).

It has a sturdy wooden buckle and measures 41.3 inches in length and 1.8 inches wide, but still offers you a little wiggle room with its stretchy design. The belt is also available in beige and cream, which are both neutral colors that work with most outfit palettes.  

Acelitt Short-Sleeve V-Neck Button-Front Belted Jumpsuit

Similar to rompers, jumpsuits streamline the amount of clothes that you need to pack, offering you extra room so you don’t have to overpack and check your bags. This elegant version from Amazon-favorite brand Acelitt is ready for any situation; just add a sweater, blazer, or jacket on top to change it up. It’s comfortable, trendy, and super flattering, and the fabric is soft and stretchy so you can sport it on the plane, around town, and out to dinner without needing an outfit change. 

One traveler wrote , "I love this jumpsuit so much that I have it in blue and black, [and I'm] ordering the olive green next. It's super easy to dress up or down [and] fits true to size. I always get compliments on it. It's great to travel with as well." 

Mammut Runbold Light Pants

Mammut’s Runbold Light Pants are multi-functional for me. I wear them while running, hiking, and lounging, and they're lightweight and breathable material makes them perfect for spring’s transitional temperatures (you can even wear them well into the summer). The elastic waistband offers comfort for all activities, and you can convert to three-quarter-length pants to change up their look when your itinerary calls for it.  

The two slit side pockets have zippers, which are ideal for hiking and traveling. They’re super easy to pack and water-repellent, so if the forecast warns of a slight drizzle, you’ll be okay. 

Everlane’s Cotton Modern Trench Coat

A classic trench coat is a wardrobe staple, and I especially like to pack one for spring travel because it is well-suited for the variable weather. If you’re like me and have been fan-crushing on Jennifer Aniston’s wardrobe on "The Morning Show," then you’re going to fall for Everlane’s Cotton Trench Coat, which is half the price of other brand names and has a classic silhouette, with a belt to cinch at the waistline — and is fully-lined and water-resistant. 

But, if $268 is too much for your travel wardrobe budget, I also spotted various, under-$100 versions at Amazon. Give the Farktop Double-Breasted Oversized Long Trench Coat (on sale for $80) or the Tanming Notch Lapel Double- Breasted Pea Coat-style Trench (which is on sale for $60) a look.

M.M. LaFleur Merritt Jardigan

M.M. LaFleur

The Merritt Jardigan is an investment that I’m glad I made. A cross between a tailored jacket and a cardigan, with a tie-front belt that accentuates your figure, it works wonders for elevating your ensemble, and can be worn from your desk to the airport to dinner. Wrinkle-resistant, stretchy, and long enough to cover your assets, I’ve worn it on the way to Pilates class, at the airport, and for numerous dinners. Plus, the fabric is season-less, which makes it great for any time of the year. 

You can achieve the same elegant, quiet luxury wardrobe vibes with the Anrabess Open Front Cardigan Jacket , which is an Amazon-favorite outerwear piece that's just $50. 

Feisedy Polarized Vintage Sunglasses Jackie O Cat-Eye Sunglasses

I stopped shelling out hundreds of dollars for brand-name glasses because they can easily get damaged or lost, especially when traveling. These elegant sunglasses give off a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” look at a compelling price, and they're incredibly versatile with their classic black, cat-eye silhouette that can be worn with any outfit for any occasion. 

Not only are they light and comfortable, they’re polarized and offer 100 percent UV protection from the sun. The lenses are scratch-resistant, which enhance their durability. Singing the sunnies' praises, one shopper said , "They're better than my expensive, name-brand sunglasses. I can see better while traveling. I will take them with me on any of my trips without being afraid to lose them… not [a] scratch yet." 

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• 2 Compression Socks
• 3 Sunglasses
• 4 Passport Holder
• 6 Water Bottle
• 8 Cheek and Lip Stain
• 9 Mini Purse
• 10 Neck Pillow
• 11 Under-Eye Mask
• 12 Headphones
• 13 Portable Phone Charger
• 14 Makeup Removing Wipes
• 15 Hand Sanitizer
• 16 Travel Wrap
• 17 Dry Shampoo
• 18 Jet Lag Remedy
• 19 E-reader

19 Items to Pack in Your Carry-On for Every Flight

From cute passport holders to iPhone power banks to no-mess makeup remover, we've rounded up a packing list of 19 must-have essentials to stow in your personal item carry-on—no matter what destination you're bound for next. Don't get on the plane without them!

Style + Travel Editor | Instagram @jackiehoman | jackiehoman.com

See recent posts by Jackie Homan & Siobhan Reid

First thing’s first: the personal item-sized bag that will fit the essentials below. We’re all for maxing out our carry-on allowance, and that’s where a spacious, durable backpack proves invaluable. Our go-to: this simple, streamlined pick from STATE Bags . It’s roomy enough to fit everything you’ll need by your side on the plane, and it comes with three pockets and a 17″ laptop sleeve.

Compression Socks

If you’ve ever walked barefoot through airport security, you know the importance of having a backup pair of socks in your carry-on. On long flights, experts recommend compression socks , which boost circulation and help prevent swelling and blood clots—plus keep your toes nice and toasty in chilly airplane cabins.

Sometimes, a great concealer and cooling eye gel just won’t hide the effects of a long-haul flight. In those cases, we like to hide behind a pair of dark, oversized sunglasses like these ones from Warby Parker.

RELATED: 18 Essentials You Should NEVER Forget to Pack for a Trip

Passport Holder

There’s no hard evidence to suggest that a bright, colorful passport holder will reduce your chances of leaving behind your passport on a plane. But given just how fetching this flamingo print is, we’re willing to hedge our bets.

We might travel constantly, but falling soundly asleep on a plane remains a talent that has somehow eluded us. Still, an eye mask can go a long way by canceling out harsh light and other distractions. This adorable option from Slip is made from 100% silk and provides complete eye coverage without pinching behind the ears.

Water Bottle

One easy way to invest in your health and the environment when you travel: use a stainless steel water bottle. There are plenty of great options out there, but our personal fave is this Aurora-inspired pick from S’well. It’ll keep your beverage cold for 24 hours and hot for 12, and it’s non-toxic and non-leaching.

RELATED: What to Pack for a Beach Vacation

Of course there’s always Instagram, but when it comes to documenting a trip in all of its small, wondrous details, nothing compares to an old-fashioned notebook. This design from Promptly Journals includes meaningful prompts to guide you along the way.

Cheek and Lip Stain

The cold, recycled air of airplanes is a major complexion-killer. Get your glow back by reaching for a multitasking stain like the Aura from Vapour. Its blendable, pigmented formula adds a pop of color to your lips and cheeks, making you look instantly refreshed on the go.

Don’t be the person holding everyone else up as you search for your boarding pass in the bottomless pit of your purse. Instead, sling a small, chic number across your shoulders so that you’ll have all the necessities—passport, wallet, ID—ready at a moment’s notice. We’re crushing on this mini crossbody from Italian brand Furla—it comes in tons of fun colors.

RELATED: The 15 Best Designer Beach Bags to Buy Now

Neck Pillow

The revolutionary Trtl travel pillow keeps your head in an upright position while you snooze against its hidden internal support system. Half the size of an ordinary U-shaped pillow, it’ll fit right into your under-seat carry-on bag.

RELATED: The Travel Pillow You Need for Your Next Flight

Under-Eye Mask

We’ve all seen those pics of celebrities donning sheet masks while traveling. But the reality is, economy class and a sopping wet face mask don’t exactly mix. We like to reap the benefits of the in-flight beauty phenomenon by opting for a foolproof under-eye mask instead. Our tried-and-trusted favorite is Tatcha’s Luminous Deep Hydration Revitalizing Eye Mask . It contains Okinawa red algae, honeysuckle, and peony extracts to combat puffiness and dark circles.

Between engine noise and crying babies, there’s no question that a powerful pair of headphones is a travel must. This chic beige Pampas pair from Urbanears blends style and sound like nothing we’ve ever seen (or heard!) before. The over-ear model was designed for comfort during extra-long listening sessions, and the battery life is set to match—you can listen wirelessly for over 30 hours on a single charge.

RELATED: You Won’t Believe These Noise-Canceling Headphones Are Under $100

Portable Phone Charger

The deficit of electrical outlets in airports is a major problem, one that is not likely to be solved in the immediate future. For the time being, make do with this lipstick-sized portable charger from Anker . The design is compact as can be, and the power bank has a 3350 mAh battery to provide one full charge for most iPhones.

Makeup Removing Wipes

If sleeping in your makeup is the ultimate beauty no-no, sleeping in your makeup on an airplane is practically sinful. Not only can it cause acne, plugged follicles, and a lackluster complexion, it can also lead to eye infections and premature aging. To avoid these unwanted side effects, cleanse your skin before your flight with these travel-friendly wipes from Skinfood , available at Soko Glam . They’re packed with nourishing rice bran water that brightens and refreshes skin.

Hand Sanitizer

To put in mildly, planes are icky. Keep the germs at bay with Elyptol , a hand sanitizer gel that uses natural ingredients—eucalyptus oil and naturally-sourced pure ethanol—to kill up to 99.99% of bacteria and fungi.

RELATED: 20 Things You’re Going to Want to Buy on Amazon This Month

Travel Wrap

Even in summer months (or on warm-weather destination routes), planes can feel freezing—and there’s nothing worse than shivering for 10 hours on a long-haul trip. Pack one of White + Warren’s cult-favorite travel wraps in your carry-on so that it’s by your side in case the temps drop.

Dry Shampoo

For an instant refresher once you land, spritz on some of Amika’s Perk Up dry shampoo . It absorbs oil with zero chalky residue and leaves strands shiny, soft, and ready to take on the day.

Jet Lag Remedy

Call it placebo effect if you want, but over 1,000 Amazon reviewers say that these homeopathic jet lag prevention tablets really work. Made with just five all-natural ingredients, the supplement is designed to combat fatigue, disorientation, dehydration, lack of concentration, and other side effects of long-haul travel.

RELATED: 5 Super Affordable Jet Lag Remedies on Amazon

We love hardcover books as much as the next guy, but when it comes to travel, an e-reader just makes more sense. Lightweight and waterproof, the new Kindle Paperwhite keeps you ready to read wherever you are. Need a book rec? Right now, we’re loving  Educated by Tara Westover and Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens.

Outfits to Pack for Your Next Trip

Women’s leggings and cardigan outfit, shop the look.

Crewneck Tee

Chuck Taylor® All Star®

Men’s spring pants outfit for a vacation.

Want more? 

• The BEST Travel Neck Pillows of 2020
• 11 Amazon-Approved Items That’ll Make Packing SO Much Easier
• 26 Wardrobe Essentials Every Woman Needs in 2020

Here at Jetsetter, our editors curate everything you need to travel—and live—smartly, fashionably, and consciously. All of our market picks are independently selected. If you buy something we link to on our site, Jetsetter may earn  commission .

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Jetsetter may earn an affiliate commission.

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Carry On Packing List That Makes Sense: The Travel Essentials

July 25, 2023 by Janice Waugh

As a solo traveler, it is important to pack light. To help you do so, I have the ultimate carry on packing list. One bag for your travel essentials.

Why should you pack light? Because it puts you in control.

• Be more mobile so that walking a few blocks is not a problem and you don't have to look for an elevator rather than use stairs or an escalator.
• Face fewer lineups at airports, both at check-in and when you get off the plane. Smile and walk by all those people watching the bags go round in circles on the carousel.
• Save money by taking buses and trains rather than taxis.
• Be the least interesting target for a thief. Someone who has a large suitcase or multiple bags must have a lot of great stuff to steal.
• Avoid losing luggage in transit and the wasted time shopping and completing forms.
• Face no extra charges for bags on budget flights.
• Avoid paying extra for a porter to bring all your bags to your room.

For the last 15 years, I've only owned carry-on sized luggage. I have a roller bag and a backpack. That's it. They both work for trips of a week or a month. It doesn't matter. All my travel essentials are there.

Table of Contents

Carry on Packing Lists for Men and Women

To me, packing light just makes sense, but it seems that it is a challenge for many. As I travel to conferences, other delegates wonder at my ability to put it all in one carry-on suitcase and a day pack and yet still have all the travel essentials for work and play.

One year I went to Los Angeles for four days (it was hot), then to London for four days (it was cool and damp), on to Wales for a lot of walking, then north to Liverpool and Edinburgh. I traveled for 19 days in total and for the first eight I was at conferences. Needless to say, the weather and activities between LA and Edinburgh were very different, but I had everything I needed in one carry-on and a day pack.

Packing light, in just a carry-on suitcase, can take a bit of effort – but it can be done with a well-thought-out packing list.

How to Pack Light – Travel Essentials for Everyone

This is a checklist that every traveler needs to go through before going out the door. Be sure that you have:

• Hotel confirmations. According to Frommers 2023 list, “ Booking.com smokes the competition when it comes to the number of city-center lodgings it can find, especially for under $200.” Given the significance of the cost of accommodation, this is a quality I look for in a booking site.
• Flight information.
• Passport and visas as necessary.
• Travel insurance . I'm proof that travel insurance is essential. Read A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers .
• Cash . It's always good to have some cash with you. The US dollar is the most commonly accepted currency worldwide.
• No foreign transaction fee credit card. If you're outside your home country this will save you 2-4% on everything you put on your card compared to the typical credit card. When I travel outside Canada I prefer to use a card with no foreign transaction fees. The only no fee, no foreign transaction fee, Canadian card I know of is the Home Trust Visa card . In the US, Chase is known for their no foreign transaction fee cards, but check with your own financial institution.
• Backup card with no annual fee.  I have a basic free Visa card that is a backup to my backup. And yes, I have had to use it.
• Roadside assistance. If you have AAA or CAA, you'll be fine in North America. If you don’t, it may be worth considering or, if you're renting a car, you could purchase from the rental agency. However, watch the price. It could be more than an annual place from AAA and CAA.
• VPN . I have a VPN on my phone, tablet, and computer so I can safely use public Wi-Fi. I would never travel without it. For more details, read Best VPN for Travel: What, Why, How & New Recommendations .
• Global plugin adapter with USB ports
• E-reader Kindle , iPad (whatever you use)
• Journal and pen
• Phone and charger
• Camera and charger (to be honest, as of my last trip, I'm cutting this from my personal list). Phone images are getting so good that I hardly ever pull out my DSLR.
• Computer and ac adapter, if you're so inclined
• Prescription medication, vitamins, supplements, water bottle (whether you check luggage or not, these need to be on your carry on packing list.)
• Small first aid kit
• Your bathroom essentials: conditioner, hair product, face cream, makeup, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, brush, razor, shave soap
• Hand sanitizer
• A few feet of duct tape
• A couple of resealable plastic bags

One Bag Packing List for Women

Here's how to think about clothes if you want to pack light. This strategy allows you to have all the travel essentials and a bit of fashion too.

• To be pack-worthy, everything must go with many things. Nothing can have a one-time, one-purpose use.
• To have clothes for a range of activities that work together, choose one color palette. Working with a base color like black or brown, along with a contrasting color such as gray or beige, plus an accent color makes sure that everything you're carrying works together.
• Shoes make the outfit but they can also break a trip. Take shoes that have proven to be comfortable.

The carry on packing list:

• Shoes – 2 pairs total. One pair of street shoes and one pair of dressier shoes plus a pair of light flip-flops if you're staying in a hostel. I take low-cut boots for most seasons but sandals if it's summer. If you need hiking boots, wear them on the plane. You can tie them onto your carry-on or backpack and wear your street shoes at your destination.
• Pants – 3 pairs total or two pairs and one dress or skirt (wear your most comfortable on the plane).
• Tops – 4 tops, 1 light sweater, and 1 camisole (that works as an under layer for hiking and under a jacket for a dressier look).
• Cardigan or light jacket – something that you can dress up or down depending on jeans/pants and accessories.
• Accessories – belt, inexpensive jewelry, one scarf to dress up casual clothes.
• Pashmina scarf   – It has so many uses from head cover to beach cover-up to protection in a wind storm.
• Jacket – I have my second Marmot Women’s Precip Jacket . It took me over 12 years to wear out my first one.
• Basics – umbrella, scarf, gloves, rain pants, hat, vest, pair of sunglasses (depending on the weather of your destinations, you may not need all of these).
• Bathing suit , if needed.
• Fundamentals – pajamas, 5 pairs of underwear, 2 bras, 3 pairs of socks.

It sounds like a lot but it’s not. Rinse clothes out when necessary. Take note of what you didn’t use when you get back and don’t pack it again.

Carry On Packing List for Men

A men's packing list is not a lot different from a women's except that it's easier. There is not as much nuance in a man's wardrobe. Throw a blazer onto a guy wearing jeans and a t-shirt, and he looks great. So, here's the men's packing list – all the travel essentials to cover just about any trip.

• Shoes – 2 pairs total. One pair street shoes (or sandals) and one pair of dressier shoes. If you need hiking boots, wear them on the plane and only bring shoes that have proven to be comfortable.
• Pants/shorts – 3 pairs total. You know your style but one pair of pants should be long and not denim.
• T-shirts – 4 (make sure at least one of them is white to wear under a dress shirt). If you're going someplace tropical or humid, make sure that they are very light and pack more of them.
• Collared shirt – 1 golf shirt or or other casual shirt with a collar.
• Dress shirt – 1 for dressier occasions.
• Blazer – This is optional, of course, but really useful. Choose a light fabric.
• Belt and tie (if you're into that look)
• Basics – umbrella, scarf, gloves, rain pants, hat, vest, pair of sunglasses (again, depending on the weather of your destinations, you may not need all of these).
• Fundamentals – pajamas, 5 pairs of underwear, 4 pairs of socks

Rinse clothes out when necessary. Take note of what you didn’t use when you get back and don’t pack it again.

One Bag Packing Tips

• Don’t pack the bulky things on your packing list – wear them on the plane.
• Follow carry-on rules according to your airline. Be really careful about the weight. Just because you can fit it into a carry-on suitcase does not mean they will let you on the plane with it.
• Watch the restrictions on the size of bottle liquids and other items you are allowed to carry on board.
• Be considerate of other passengers and don't hog the overhead space.

Are you getting ready to go? You may find these useful :

• Solo Travel Planning Guide with Trends, a Checklist, and Insider Tips
• How to Plan Your Solo Travel Budget (On Any Budget) – includes a free downloadable budget spreadsheet
• Going Alone? Travel Insurance Is a Must

Reviews of Three Travel Essentials

Luggage trackers – review by king.

Luggage tracker has become a travel essential. AirTags  are the most widely known tracker that people use for their luggage, but they only work with iPhones. Android users have many alternatives, and in this article, I will review the  Tile Mate  which is compatible with both Android and iPhone.

No doubt you have heard about the chaos at the airports and the horror stories of lost luggage. Many travelers have turned to technology to help take some of the anxiety out of checking luggage. While I recommend only using carry-on, those who cannot avoid checking bags can use a tile luggage tracker and other electronic tracking devices.

King's review is detailed, explains how luggage trackers work, and includes his and his and Tracey's personal experiences using them while traveling solo. Read the full luggage trackers review here.

Messenger-style Bag from Travelon – Review by Tracey

I don't like to buy many products that are only for travel. I prefer to invest in things that I can use all the time that are also useful when I'm on the road. When looking for a new bag I settled on a messenger-style bag from Travelon , for a number of reasons, including the fact that I can (and now do) use it as much at home as away. It is an essential part of my carry on packing list strategy.

Travelon bags have a 5-Point Anti-Theft Security System which includes:

• Lockdown Straps which help prevent grab-and-go thieves from dashing off with your bag. You can secure your bag to a stationary object or chair when seated.
• Locking Compartments help prevent pickpockets from getting into your bag. Locking zippered pulls secure your bag contents. (These are really cool.)
• Slash-resistant Body helps prevent slash-and-grab theft in busy areas with a slash-resistant mesh barrier in all 4 sides and bag bottom panel.
• Slash-resistant Straps help prevent slash-and-run theft with a stainless steel wire inside the strap.
• RFID Blocking Pockets help prevent against electronic identity theft with RFID blocking card slots and passport pockets.

I don't know how valuable the RFID technology actually is, but the pocket and slots for cards was a bit of a game-changer for me. Transferring my cards and passport to slots inside this bag, which I wore across my body meant that my hands were always free and there was no chance of me leaving my wallet behind.

The water-resistant material kept everything inside dry as I wandered around Ireland in off-and-on rain and drizzle. The messenger bag is very compact, which was really good for me and meant that I never became loaded down with extra stuff that I “might” need.

I found the quality of the materials and the utility of the organizational components to be excellent. I would not hesitate to recommend Travelon products. They offer many different styles of bags for everyone, in addition to things like packing cubes , backpacks , and a tech organizer ( I just ordered this one in lime green so it will be easy to find in the sea of black that is my suitcase).

Noise Canceling Earbuds for Travel – review by King

If you don't have them already, you have probably considered noise canceling headphones or earbuds at some point. You may be wondering if they are worth the extra money. This is understandable as they can be double the price of regular ones, but I’m here to tell you they are worth every penny. For me, they are now a travel essential. These devices do an amazing job of completely eliminating engine noise and can reduce the sound of crying babies to barely a whisper.

After much thought and research, I chose a pair of the Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise Canceling Earbuds. There's a newer model now–without the pesky cords to deal with–called Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II . These wireless, bluetooth earbuds intelligently personalize the noise cancellation and sound performance to your ears and are going on my Christmas list.

Sony also gets high praise in the marketplace for their noise cancelation headphones, and Apple’s Airpod Pro (not the entry-level model) gets the job done well if you’d like something more stylish and are willing to pay a premium for that style.

One additional benefit, if you turn on the noise cancelation feature without any music, you’ll create your own cone of silence that will muffle the voices of annoying co-workers or that person seated next to you on the plane who can’t quite understand that you don’t want to hear about how much they made on cryptocurrencies.

Sharing is caring!

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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Travel Essentials List: 30 MUST-HAVE Items to Carry-On

Are you planning a trip and wondering what travel essentials to bring? Check out this travel essentials list of 30 items you should pack in your carry-on backpack! A printable travel essentials list is included below.

No matter your travel destination, there are certain travel necessities you should always pack in your carry-on backpack. A pen. Tissues.Lip Balm.

I can’t leave home without these must-have travel items. They help me survive long flights.

As I get older, not having certain travel essentials makes for an uncomfortable flight, especially if traveling abroad.

Compression socks are now at the top of our travel essentials list for our next international flight. The last time I left them, my feet were swollen throughout our two weeks in Italy. No fun.

This travel essentials list includes 30 items to make your travels more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. It should be part of your vacation packing list.

So what should you pack in your carry-on bag?

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

This article provides a comprehensive travel essentials list of everything you need to pack in your carry-on backpack. This travel essentials list is perfect for first-time travelers and experienced globetrotters, as we always look for the best things to carry on.

To make packing your carry-on bag easier, we’ve included a printable travel packing checklist at the end of this article. Print out the travel checklist as a packing guide for your next trip.

Table of Contents

What carry-on backpack or bag should you take?

First, let’s chat about the carry-on bag… or backpack…

There are a few different carry-on options. You can travel with a:

• Rolling carry-on

The type of travel backpack or bag you take is completely up to you and your travel style.

We prefer carrying a backpack as a personal item and then a rolling carry-on suitcase when not checking luggage in.

It’s easier to walk around airports and cities with a backpack. Of course, the backpack must have a sleeve so we can slip it over the luggage handle.

Recently, we purchased the Brevitē camera bag – The Jumper . We chose this backpack because we can customize it to fit my DSLR. It also has a lovely feature where I can easily slip the camera in and out of the backpack. Our MacBook Pro also fits in a separate sleeve inside the backpack.

What we love most about this camera bag is that it transforms into a regular backpack when we are not bringing the DSLR. Since we will mostly use it to travel, the DSLR will come with us. It’s one of the main reasons we purchased it.

We needed a camera bag/backpack that made sense to us. In the future, perhaps we will find something else that will be better suited for our travel needs.

Travel Essentials List for Your Carry-on Backpack

What are the things you should pack in your backpack? You should always carry your passport, wallet, and other travel documents.

Below is our travel essentials list of 30 items you should always have in your carry-on backpack. They’ll make everything from easy travel days to long-haul flights more comfortable.

1. Pack Your Passport & Official Government ID

This travel essential is a no-brainer. You need your passport to travel internationally and some form of government-issued ID when traveling domestically. Keep these items in an easily accessible but safe place in your carry-on bag.

Consider your passport your golden ticket.

Also, make sure it’s not expired. If it’s a year from expiring, we suggest renewing it ASAP. Do not wait to renew it. We recently waited three months for passport renewal. It is taking quite a bit of time these days, so it is best not to wait.

Read More: Common Travel Mistakes To Avoid

2. Have All Tavel Documents Printed

In our digital age, it seems old-school and wasteful to have to print out all your documents, but it’s a must. Do not leave home without a copy of your travel arrangements.

You never know when you have to pull them out. And you can’t always rely on technology. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

• Hotel Reservations
• Cruise documents
• Car Rental Reservations
• Tour Confirmations
• Travel Insurance
• Copy of your vaccine card

Save now to come back to read later !

3. CDC Vaccination Card

Proof of vaccination is being required less and less. Some destinations still require you to submit or show your vaccination card upon entry. Do not leave home without your vaccination card. Put this at the top of your travel essentials list and keep it with your passport.

You can purchase a passport holder and vaccine holder , or you can keep your vaccination card should keep it safe in a clear slip .

This is one travel essential people forget about, but a pen is handy for travel documents and filling out forms.

You might not think you need it because most things are digital these days, but you never know when you’ll need to jot something down or fill out a form that doesn’t have the option to do it digitally.

Besides, with all the germs going around, best to carry your own.

Beach Packing List

Get beach-ready with this packing list! Whether you’re heading on a day trip to the beach or taking a beach vacation, this beach packing list comes in handy every time. Don’t miss packing any of these items. Printable included!

How many times have you heard the story of someone leaving their wallet at home?

Many times! The horror. You could miss your flight this way.

Your wallet probably holds your driver’s license, credit card, money, and other essential items you need when traveling.

It’s easy to forget to transfer it to a carry-on bag. So this is why we are here to remind you not to forget your wallet.

6. Money | Foreign Currency

Don’t leave your home without some cash. Depending on where you travel to, not everyone takes credit cards. Believe me, we love paying for everything with a credit card because we get to rack up those travel points. That cash is important for gratuities and anyone who doesn’t take a credit card.

And if you’re traveling abroad, try to order foreign currency with your bank before you leave the country. The exchange rates at international airports are a scam. Save yourself some time and money.

If you forget to get cash, you can always withdraw from an ATM at a reputable bank. Look for large banks with ATMs inside the bank. You will get the best exchange rate this way, too.

– Don’t Miss: How to Save Money to Travel –

Toiletries, Health & Medications

7. extra masks.

Bring extra masks with you for the plane and during your travels. Some destinations are more relaxed with masks than others, but it’s up to you and how comfortable you feel wearing one.

And t here are international flights that are still requiring them.

8. Bring Disinfectant Wipes & Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes are a must , especially during these times. You will want to wipe down your tray table or armrest on the plane or at the airport.

And let’s not forget about those nasty airplane bathrooms. Yuck. Hand sanitizer is also key when soap and water aren’t available.

Top Travel Resources to Help You Book Your Next Trip

Looking for help planning your next trip? Check out our top travel resources! These tools help you find and organize airfare, cruises, hotels, and more. So start planning the best vacation.

9. Medication | Vitamins

If you take any medications or vitamins daily, pack them in your carry-on and keep them close to you. Having some travel essential meds on hand is also great, like Advil, Tylenol, Immodium, and Zyrtec.

We always recommend taking some extra vitamin C or some Airborne. It never hurts to keep your immune system high.

10. Lip balm

We can’t forget the lip balm! You’ll want to moisturize your lips because the air in the plane dries you out.

11. Hand lotion

We don’t know about you, but our hands get incredibly dry when we travel. The recycled air on the plane dries us out and makes our hands feel rough and stiff.

So always travel with a small tube of hand lotion to keep your hands feeling smooth and moisturized. But remember, it has to be 3oz or less.

12. Disposable Travel Toothbrush or Listerine Strips

The small disposable travel toothbrushes and Listerine strips are great for quick freshening up after long flights where we’ve been eating and sleeping. It’s nice to give your mouth a quick brush or pop in one of these strips to freshen up that breath and taste.

13. Eyeglass Cleaning Cloth

This is for anyone that wears glasses! You know that cleaning cloth for our glasses is essential everyday. We can easily forget to pack it, so it’s a must on this travel essentials list.

Nobody likes to look through smudged and dirty glasses. And we can never carry enough of these because we lose them. Make sure to carry a couple.

14. Tissues

Never know when you need a tissue. The carry-on packs in your local pharmacy’s travel section are perfect.

Sometimes, we’ll take a wad of tissues from our tissue box at home and put them inside a zip-lock bag.

Travel & Airplane Comforts

15. travel pillow.

Let’s chat about travel pillows. We’d say this is an essential travel item if your flight is any more than 3 hours or you’re flying on a redeye.

There are many options, and it will probably take a few different tries to figure out exactly which pillow is right for you.

• Neck Travel Pillows (the most used)
• Turtle Pillow
• Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow
• Small rectangle travel pillow

Because I can’t sleep on planes, I can’t exactly offer the best sound advice here. However, hubby uses his regular travel pillow and sleeps like a baby. I use a small rectangle pillow because I’m not too fond of the neck pillow, but it is a pain to pack.

Cruise Essentials to Pack

A cruise vacation is a perfect way to relax and escape from the everyday grind. But before you set sail, be sure to pack these essentials that will help make your cruise even more enjoyable. These items include everything from sun protection essentials to must-have medications. So don’t forget to add them to your cruise packing list.

16. Shawl, Scarf, or Travel Blanket

A shawl or a travel blanket is on our travel essentials list for a long flight. Unless you’re flight premium economy or first class, expect not to get a travel blanket or pillow. Some airlines will still provide them on international flights. It’s still best to be ready with your own.

You can bring a travel blanket, or you can also bring one of your favorite shawls that you reuse throughout your travels. You can easily roll it up and stuff it into your carry-on backpack.

A travel scarf and shawl, also known as a pashmina, has many purposes. You can roll it up and use it as a pillow. You can use it around your neck. You can cover your head with it. You can use it as a blanket.

17. Eye Mask

An eye mask is key for getting some sleep on long flights. These eye masks block out the light in the cabin and are comfortable so that it doesn’t put any pressure on your eyes.

You want an eye mask that is adjustable so you can get the perfect fit. We purchased the ones above in a two-pack, which have been used multiple times.

It has been a game-changer for us, especially since one of us recently took many red-eye flights to New York .

18. Airplane Foot Rest

Sitting in economy class? This airplane footrest is an easy hack to help elevate your feet and give you a better reclining position. It hangs over your tray table, and you insert your feet into the hammock.

Supposedly it helps with swelling and soreness and also helps you sleep. We have purchased it for our upcoming travels to Ita l y and will report back.

This also works best for people shorter in height.

19. Compression Socks

Compression socks are so important! You should consider wearing compression socks regardless of age or length of the flight.

Compression socks help keep the blood flowing in your legs and feet from swelling and help prevent blood clots.

20. Collapsible Watter Bottle

It’s essential to stay hydrated, especially when you’re traveling. Since they don’t allow you to bring water bottles through security, having a collapsible water bottle ready is great. Most international airports have water stations you can fill the water bottles.

The collapsible water bottle is also easy to store and great to have during your travels.

21. Easy Snacks

Always pack snacks. With the post-chaos after 2020, you have no idea what’s open at airports and if you’ll be fed on the plane.

Bring packaged and sealed items like protein bars, nuts, and freeze-dried fruits.

22. Bring a Book to read

Bring a book and/or make sure you have books downloaded to your Kindle or Kindle App.

If you use a Kindle, download your book selection before losing Wi-Fi . Also, charge the device before leaving your house.

Audiobooks are also a great alternative!

23. Mobile Phone

Speaking of the digital age we are living in, we can’t leave home without our mobile phones. Without one, we shouldn’t travel to another city, state, or country. Your mobile phone is one of the top travel essentials.

You’ll need your mobile phone throughout the entire vacation. Assuming you have a fancy smartphone, it probably is your go-to camera. You probably use the internet for travel research, google maps, and more. These days, a mobile phone is a mini-laptop.

24. Get a data plan!

While we are on the subject of phones… This is not exactly a carry-on, but it’s part of your phone, and in my humble opinion, it’s a travel essential. Make sure you have a data plan that covers you wherever you travel.

Don’t rely on unreliable free Wi-Fi or free map apps that work when it feels like it. I understand we want to save money by not paying for data plans – that used to be us- but there are options. You don’t want to regret it later.

Especially when the gate agent asks you to fill out a form online from your phone, in the present times that we are living in, the chances of this happening are high.

There are options now for data:

• Get a temporary international data plan with your cellphone provider. .. ask them what they have available. We are with T-Mobile, and our monthly international plan includes unlimited data in over 200 countries.
• You can purchase a local SIM card with unlimited data when you arrive in the country you’re visiting.
• Set up an e-Sim option before you fly and arrive at your destination. Note: Your phone must have the capability to use e-Sims.
• You can also invest in a Wifi hot spot .

Now, if you’re looking to disconnect while you travel, good for you completely!

While we are at it, we suggest signing up for a VPN to keep your data safe and ensure that certain sites aren’t blocked when visiting another country. We use Surfshark VPN: click here for more info.

25. Bring a Set of Headphones

You’ll want to bring your own to use on the plane, whether they are noise-canceling headphones or your favorite earbuds. For short flights, you may get away without needing them, but for long-haul flights, they are necessary. The ones they hand out on the plane are not great or comfortable.

Most planes have a regular audio jack and do not have Bluetooth capability. So if you’re headphones are wireless, they will not work with the flight’s entertainment system. We do have a solution for this.

You can either bring a pair of headphones with an old audio jack plugin or bring along a wireless transmitter . The wireless transmitter can be plugged into the audio jack, allowing you to use your Bluetooth headphones.

26. Necessary Chargers and Adapters

Do not forget to pack the necessary chargers and adapters for your electronics . Also, any international adapters you may need. This is one travel essential often forgotten, and we spend money buying new ones. That money does add up quickly.

You will probably need to pack the following:

• mobile phone USB charger and adapter
• laptop plug
• camera charger
• backup battery charger and USB plug
• international adapter / plug
• additional power outlet , just in case

We pack all of these chargers and cables in a travel case . It makes slipping into a backpack or carry-on luggage easier and more compact.

27. Backup charger

A backup charger is one of the best things on this travel essentials list. You should carry a backup charger during all your travels. You never know when you’ll need it.

It can be small enough to fit in your purse or a small backpack.

28. Laptop or Tablet

A tablet may be all you need to travel, which is awesome. It’s lighter and easier to carry. But sometimes, you may need to work on a laptop or have it to transfer your photos to an external hard drive.

Either way, you should always pack your electronics in a carry-on bag . Do not check in valuable items like this.

29. External Hardrive

As you take photos and videos with your camera, you may want to transfer them to an external drive. You should always keep the external hard drive safe in your carry-on. For us, this is a travel essential.

It’s also great to back up those photos to a cloud photo storage like SmugMug .

Some of us travel just with our smartphones, the camera we always have available. If you plan to bring any other cameras, you want to pack those in your carry-on. These are items you do not want to check in with your luggage.

We travel with our Sony A7iii full-frame mirrorless camera and a  GoPro .

We hope this list helps you pack your carry-on for traveling. As always, we welcome any additional travel tips or suggestions from our readers.

What are some of the travel essentials that you can’t live without? Let us know in the comments below!

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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• Ultimate Carry On Packing List Guide: The Top Travel Essentials You Need on Your Luggage Checklist

by Aileen Adalid Packing Guides 32 comments

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I’m planning an RTW (round-the-world) trip next year and I will have some check-in and carry-on luggage… but I’m having a hard time packing my stuff! I really don’t want to miss any essentials. I’ve been following you and it seems like you always manage to pack light for your travels. As an experienced traveler, I would love to know your top carry on packing list! . – Nana from France

I know how nerve-wracking it can be to pack for a trip: we gotta bring the essentials without letting our luggage get too bulky — no one wants travel around like a mule!

Besides, the last thing that we want to happen is to face the dire situation of forgetting a vital item, only to end up going through various hassles of replacing it while in a foreign country.

And so, as with any travel journey, there are two things that we typically pack for: a check-in baggage and a carry on bag . The items that you should pack for your check-in bag is a discussion that I’ll tackle later; but for today, in order to answer Nana’s question, we’ll focus first on the essentials in order to come up with a good carry on packing list for your luggage and/or backpack.

The way I see it, a carry on should:

• Contain things that can assist you no matter if it’s a short or long haul flight
• Contain things that can serve as a ‘safety net’ in case your check-in baggage gets lost during transit (which is often inevitable) .

Personally, after traveling around the world for several years now, I can say with confidence that I’ve already perfected my carry on checklist and it has been non-changing no matter the destination I fly to. To help save you time and effort, I will be sharing this list with you through this post!

So no matter how long your trip may be and no matter where you’re going below is a list of my typical carry on essentials and gear that can keep you “properly equipped” during all of your travels!

Table of Contents

Ultimate Carry On Packing List

» the carry on ‘carrier’.

Most airlines allow one (1) carry on cabin luggage that is under their respective weight limit (typically around 5 to 10kgs only).

Fortunately, there are also some airlines that allow two (2) items: one (1) carry on and one (1) personal item ( a handbag, a backpack, a laptop bag, an umbrella, a briefcase, etc. that can be stowed under the seat before you. ) Given this fact, there have actually been times that I do NOT have any check-in baggage at all: I only bring one carry on backpack and one small rolling luggage that contains my clothes — a set-up that is VERY helpful for avoiding long check-in lines.

Oftentimes, however, I am faced with preparing just 1 carry on bag, while the rest is stored in my main luggage. Nevertheless, as dependent upon your trip and the airline that you’ll be flying with, it always helps to have bags ready that are generally within the standard limits for cabin luggage.

Here are my recommendations for the types of bags and containers that you’ll need to prepare: .

••• Backpack

For years, I have been on the hunt for the PERFECT backpack that can properly organize and protect my carry on packing list items — cameras included. After all, most backpacks are thin and “top-loading” (where you simply shove items into their depths and wish that you’ll find them easily later on). I rather wanted a versatile bag that can keep my tech gadgets secure whilst also being able to segregate my other carry on items for better ease and access.

Thankfully, my search ended last year when I discovered Bagsmart’s Camera Bag ! This has easily become my ultimate carry-on backpack. The bottom section is ‘front-loading’ (like a suitcase) and can be sectioned into compartments with the help of its adjustable velcro dividers which is as you see in the image above. You can even take off all these velcros and convert them into one big space — so yes, its layout can be changed in order to fit your needs.

The upper compartment is sectioned off too. Rest assured, you can take these velcro dividers off and open them up towards the bottom section if in case you want to convert the camera bag into the typical full top-loading backpack. Additionally, the interior is well-padded and there’s even a zippered section at the back that can fit 15″-sized laptops. The material is also superb as it is ever-lasting, stain-repellant, and anti-scratch. It even comes along with a water-resistant cover in case it rains!

Slim (11.8″ x 7.5″ x 15.7″), comfortable, with lots of pockets and extra features — I’m sure it will be your new favorite too. For instance, it comes with buckles on the sides where you can strap on a tripod , and it even has removable buckles to balance and transfer the weight that you carry. .

••• Handbag or Small Rolling Luggage

For fast and easy access, I highly suggest a travel handbag. But if you want something that can store your bulkier camera gear, I highly suggest checking out this camera tote bag.

As for luggage, as I’ve already mentioned, the dimension limit for a carry-on varies across all airlines. I’ve done my research, and so far, in order for you to be on the safe side of such limits, you need a suitcase that is within or around this standard size: 22″ high, 14″ wide, and 9″ deep. I personally use a Samsonite Luggage Winfield 20 because I love how lightweight and strong it is. I’ve been using it for a while now and it has truly withstood the wear and tear from all of my travels. .

••• Liquid Pouch (Optional)

In case you plan to pack some liquids in your carry on bag, you will need a TSA-Approved clear liquid pouch to place it in.

IMPORTANT NOTE : All the items that are listed below can fit inside my Bagsmart Camera Bag alone. In fact, after everything is packed in, I always have ample space left for some extras. Yep. It’s that amazing!

» Gadgets & Tech

••• Smartphone

Its benefits are a no-brainer, one of which is the fact that a smartphone can hold tons of helpful travel apps to help you on your trip. If you’re curious, I own an iPhone which has superb camera specs. Do you want a cheaper alternative? I recommend a Huawei phone because its camera also has fantastic features. .

••• eReader or Tablet (Optional)

I’m a bookworm and I LOVE the feel of a good ol’ book as I flip through its pages with my fingertips. However, the truth of the matter is: books can be very bulky and this is why I own an eReader. In fact, my Kindle Paperwhite has been my travel companion ever since! (For entertainment during long flights, long bus/train rides, chill afternoons, etc.)

I can store TONS of books in it and its battery life is also mind-blowing. I’ve been on a week-long vacation before and I used my Kindle every single day. When it was time to go home, its battery life still had more than half! Later on, I learned that there’s no need for me to pack my Kindle charger because it can last a long time. (You can pack a tablet instead like an iPad Mini , but I fell in love with a Kindle when it comes to reading. Besides, an iPad Mini is basically like a bigger version of my smartphone.) .

••• Laptop (Optional)

Yet another no-brainer item to put up on my carry on packing list. As a digital nomad , I need to be online for work so my laptop is my lifeline. I never travel without it. I work with a Macbook Pro 13″ for years now, and I know it’s not as light nor thin as a Macbook Air , but since I wanted a machine that has the capacity to handle my graphic and video processes while I’m on the road, I rather opted for the Macbook Pro. (The difference between the two in weight is not so huge. My Macbook Pro is still very slim and it’s also more compact than most laptops out there.) .

••• Earphones

Perfect for canceling out the noise and for slipping into my own music-filled world. Besides, I often question the cleanliness of the headphones offered during long flights, so I always make sure to pack my own.

Some people find headphones, like the noise-canceling ones (e.g. Panasonic’s ErgoFit In-Ear Earphones ) , as a better item to include in their carry on packing list. However, they can be quite huge and it often puts stress on my head and my ears. I find that as long as you purchase earphones that are powerful and well-fitted to your ears (such as the Airpods Pro ) they can offer almost the same features as headphones. .

••• Camera (Optional)

If you’re not trying to capture professional photos as I do, your smartphone is enough to pack along for your travels. But if you’re like me, I often travel with different cameras in stow. My typical photography arsenal includes the following:

• For vlogging: Canon Powershot G7 X
• For all-around photography: Canon 80D DSLR (I have a prime lens of 50mm and an all-around lens)
• For action, sports, and underwater: GoPro

If you’re not particular with photography and you just want a great point-and-shoot camera for your travels, I recommend Canon’s Powershot G7 X. There’s no need to bring along a massive DSLR. .

••• Plugs, Adapters, Chargers, etc.

For organizing my chargers and to avoid them from tangling altogether, I place them in one velcro section of my CamPro bag and twist them around with some wire ties (or you can get an electronics or cable organizer ). Of course, never forget to pack a universal adapter . .

••• Power Bank

This is very helpful for emergencies or for simply prolonging your gadgets’ lives — especially when you’re doing a layover and there aren’t any outlets available at the airport or in the surrounding establishments. You will also need this when you travel (power banks are not allowed to be stowed inside your check-in luggage so you’ll need to put this in your carry on). Truth be told, I once got lost with my phone dead, and thanks to my Anker power bank , I got myself out of that mess in a jiffy. All in all: it’s better to be safe and prepared than sorry! .

••• Internet Connection

I used to consider this an optional feature, but in today’s fast-paced world, it’s a necessity. When it comes to staying connected while traveling, you have three primary options: using your physical SIM card with a roaming plan, relying on a pocket WiFi device, or embracing the versatility of an eSIM. Each choice has its advantages and drawbacks. Physical SIM cards may be cheaper with the right service provider, while pocket WiFi is ideal for group travel. However, my personal preference is the eSIM, and here’s why: it offers unbeatable convenience. With an eSIM, you can avoid the hassle of swapping out physical SIM cards for different destinations or the need to constantly recharge an additional device, such as a pocket WiFi.

For this, the one platform I’ve grown to love for eSIM solutions is Airalo . This eSIM marketplace stands out not only for its affordability but, more importantly, for its unmatched convenience. Airalo allows you to effortlessly purchase eSIMs tailored to specific countries, regions, or even opt for a global eSIM.

What also makes it truly exceptional is the ability to centralize all your past and present eSIMs in one place, simplifying the process of reloading or reactivating. The best part? Airalo’s service is highly reliable, and their customer support is top-notch. Say goodbye to connectivity concerns and hello to seamless eSIM solutions with Airalo!

••• Data Storage (Optional)

Some people (like me, who work online) bring along hard drives and it’s not a good idea to stow those away in the check-in luggage. But one thing that you need to consider is bringing along an extra memory card in case you need more space for your photos or even for emergencies too. .

» Small Items

••• For Comfort: Earplugs, Eyemask & Neck Pillow

I initially ignored the benefits that earplugs could bring. But when I finally gave it a try, it helped a lot in muting out the noise of the plane, some crying babies, snoring seatmates, and more. If you’re planning on buying these, I would recommend Hearos Xtreme . Neck pillows and eye masks are also heaven-sent items for making a flight a lot more comfortable and they are essentials on my carry on packing list, especially for long-haul trips.

When it comes to eye masks though, I typically buy these Japanese steam eye masks because they help a LOT in relaxing tired eyes as well as help prevent swelling after an ‘uncomfortable’ sleep inside a plane. I highly suggest that you give it a try! Together with this, I also pack a face mask (to keep germs and allergies in check) and a sheet mask (to keep moisture on my face — a flight can be very dehydrating on your skin!) . .

••• Snacks, Mints & Water Bottle

Surely there are airlines that offer free snacks and meals during flights, but there are also some who don’t (especially if it’s less than 3 hours) — you either have to pay for it or procure them yourself. So why not just bring some small snacks along like nuts, trail mix, biscuits, bars, fruits, etc.? In this way, you get to choose healthier options too! Plane food is usually unhealthy and bland anyway.

While you’re at it, pack along some mints as well for that tinge of refreshment and fresh breath during your journey. You can also pack chewing gum instead to help make your ears ‘pop’ (but sucking on mints or candy as well as drinking can already help you accomplish this). I would also suggest a collapsible water bottle since it won’t be too bulky on your bag. After all, water is very expensive in the airport and there is an abundance of water stations to refill your water bottle with. Otherwise, once you’re on the plane, flight attendants can just simply serve you water as you need it. .

A vital item, given that most places abroad warrant travel and customs forms to be filled. You certainly wouldn’t want to wait until the person before you finish using the free pen at the immigration (and then watch in horror as she decides to claim it as her own — yep, happened to me). So save yourself the trouble and pack this because you’ll definitely need them. .

••• Eyeglass / Sunglasses (Optional)

Apart from a good pair of sunglasses , I also pack along with my graded glasses and its case (I am near-sighted). I also wear contact lenses but I stow these away along with the cleaning solution in my check-in luggage because I customarily don’t wear contacts during flights (it could dry up my eyes quickly, more so during long flights) . But of course, if you choose to wear your contact lenses during your flight, don’t forget to pack them and their solution in your carry-on. If your eyes dry up fast, consider packing some eye drops. .

••• Toothbrush & Toothpaste (Optional)

At times, however, long-haul flights provide this as a free set. But to be sure, pack your own. I store smaller versions of these items in my carry-on to save space. An example is this mini toothbrush pack from Colgate — or just save some of the toiletries they give away in hotels and use it for your next flight. .

••• Medications

I still remember the hassle that I went through when I found out that I forgot my pills during a road trip in Europe; and unlike in Asia, there are some pills that they just don’t give away without a prescription. With that said, apart from the medication that you personally need, I find it imperative to include the basics for your carry on packing list: medication for headaches, diarrhea, nausea, and fever . (This is separate from a travel-sized first aid kit which I put away in my main luggage). .

Those marked with an * below mean that it’s something that boys can pack and use too.

• Hand sanitizer *
• Deodorant *
• Perfume * ( do you know those small vials that you get as samples for perfumes in department stores? I keep those and pack them when I travel. It’s better than packing a whole bottle of my perfume)
• Wipes ( wet wipes, feminine wipes, facial oil-absorbing sheets)
• Basic make-up kit items: for me, that’s my lipstick , liquid eyeliner , and eyebrow kit (just pack away your bigger cosmetic stuff in your check-in luggage).
• Pantyliners, napkins, or tampons (consider wearing a menstrual cup )

IMPORTANT NOTE : Make sure that ALL liquids are NOT larger than 100ml (3.4oz) and they should be stowed away in a 20cm x 20cm resealable see-through liquid bag . Typically, only one is allowed per passenger.

» Carry On Packing List Essentials and For Emergencies

••• Passport, IDs, etc.

••• cash, debit / credit cards, ••• paper copies.

In case of loss, theft, and other emergency situations, I always make sure to bring photocopies of my passport, identification cards, visa, and other travel documents ( accommodation booking, emergency contacts, etc.) as a part of my carry on packing list. .

••• Travel Insurance

“ Do I need travel insurance?” YES, yes you do .

You absolutely NEED travel insurance as a part of your carry on packing list because you never know what can happen while you’re overseas. I personally love and use World Nomads Travel Insurance because it encompasses a LOT of countries worldwide, insures your baggage, belongings, and flights, covers medical emergencies, is affordable, and can be extended while you’re on the road (no need to go back home to apply for one) . If you want to cross-check this with another trusted provider, I recommend looking into SafetyWing especially since they have amazing plans catered for frequent travelers or digital nomads .

How to choose the best travel insurance?

Read this guide to know what to look for in an insurance and where to buy it!

••• Spare Clothing

In case you lose your luggage, it helps to stow at least one outfit ( I pack an extra light dress) and a pair of undies in your carry-on. Sure, you can always buy them abroad or at the airport in case of emergencies, but it’s best that you save yourself from those costs and hassles. Be always prepared like a girl/boy scout! .

••• Other Valuables

Examples are jewelry and keys as well as some other expensive items that you wouldn’t want to put in your check-in luggage.

In case you’re curious about what I frequently wear during flights, my clothing highly depends on the weather situation of my travel destination; however, as a standard, the following items already keep me comfortable during my journey from point A to point B:

••• Footwear

I typically wear sneakers (or sandals/slippers, depending on the destination) since they’re the most comfortable. At times, for me, if my trip necessitates heels or boots and I’m running out of space in my check-in bag, I would opt to wear my heaviest or bulkiest during the flight. It’s not going to be comfortable, especially on a long flight, but I can always take them off during transit. .

••• Compression Socks

I first found out about this amazing thing through my traveler friends and since then, I have never left home without packing my compression socks! Basically, these make long flights a lot more comfortable since it helps reduce the risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis), blood clots, and leg swelling. In some way, these socks “squeeze” your legs gently to move blood up and studies have concluded that passengers who wear compression socks are always better off than those who don’t. Ever since I’ve learned of this fact, I made it a point to always wear these compression socks . .

••• Sweater or Scarf

I have low tolerance for the cold, especially inside airplanes, so I always pack a sweater. If I’m heading to a hot place, a light long-sleeved cardigan or a huge scarf already works best for me.

Looking for Other Packing Guides?

Browse through all of my  packing guides  by season, by type of adventure, and even by destination!

I hope this helped save you the time to sort out the things that you need on your carry on packing list.

If you decide to add more items to what’s listed above, just make sure that they’re things that you really need for your trip! Otherwise, you’ll just be packing extra baggage or clutter.

Rest assured, the items I listed above are the basic travel essentials that have served me well all throughout the years of my traveling lifestyle, and it is now my hope that it gives you peace of mind that you’re going to be adequately and properly equipped for your trip!

Have you seen my latest vlog?

Hey there! I am Aileen Adalid. At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful  digital nomad  (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

My mission?  To show you how it is absolutely possible to  create a life of travel no matter the odds — and I will help you achieve that through my detailed travel hacks, guides, resources, tips, and MORE!

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How to start a successful blog, 32 comments.

Very helpful guide , thanks a lot for sharing this :)

Instead of carrying a laptop, would it be possible to post on a cellphone or tablet Instead? We may backpack in Europe for a month or two and we need our loads to be as light as possible. I am thinking of starting a blog so friends and family can follow our travels. Your article is full of what seems to be useful information. Thank you for it.

Hey Susan! No problems, it’s possible to do it on a cellphone or tablet too, for sure :) Your adventure sounds exciting by the way. Let me know how it goes (and thanks!)

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Must Have Travel Essentials: Carry-On Packing List

It’s been quite a while since I’ve shared on this blog and during a recent international trip I took to India, I found myself thinking about all the planning and prepping that go into traveling so I thought I would jump back in and share my travel essentials carry-on packing list… particularly for international long-haul flights. Throughout the years, I’ve found so many helpful tips from other travel bloggers that have really enhanced my trips with recommendations on must have travel essentials, prepping ideas, places to go and see, hot spot restaurants to dine at, etiquette tips and so much more. As you get closer to your trip, if you’re new to flying on long airplane flights or traveling abroad, you might ask yourself “What do I need in my carry-on luggage?” or “What travel essentials should I take with me on an international trip?”

Even as a seasoned international traveler, I still have to gut check each time and make sure my packing list includes all the must have travel essentials I like to have on hand.  As I unpacked my carry-on essentials during the first 8-hour leg of my flight home from India, I jotted down this packing list and tips that will hopefully make it easier for taking those long international flights for you.

My carry-on packing list recommendations are broken into three lists below:

Must Have Carry-On Travel Essentials Nice-to-Have Carry-On Travel Additions Airline Amenities (often provided with premium tickets)

I highly recommend packing everything in the second list of ‘Airline Amenities’ on your own if you are flying basic/economy class which tend to not provide you with much of anything from this list.  All the airlines are different so just check with them directly before your flight to find out what’s typically included for your trip.

Carry-on Travel  Essentials

1.  Passport

It’s nice to keep it clean in a pretty passport holder, but plan to take it out of the case when going through immigration… it will save time rather than the customs agent having to do so as it gets in their way.

I highly recommend getting an electronic visa if that’s an option for the country you are going to. When entering India, there were separate lines for traditional vs e-visas.  I noticed that of the folks in line for the traditional visa, less than 1/5 of that size were in line for the electronic visa customs line. Our visa for India was for business, so there are limitations on getting electronic tourist visas for tourists… but take advantage if it’s available for your trip. We breezed through very very quickly!

3 .  Printed Boarding Pass

Printing is old school yes, but just in case your phone dies or you haven’t downloaded all connecting airline apps to get your digital copy for connecting flights in other countries, it’s safe to have a printed copy as backup.

4.  Filtered Water Bottle

I take my Strawlife filtered bottle on international trips so I have a little extra precaution with the water I’m drinking.  Be prepared if you refill the bottle before takeoff, the pressure builds up and will push through the top of the mouthpiece – so just be careful for extra water to be present when you open the cap to a pressure sealed container.

5.  Compression S ocks

Sitting for long flights isn’t great for our body’s circulation so wearing compression socks to apply a little pressure to your feet, ankles and legs help increase blood flow to your heart and decrease swelling.  I don’t love to wear compression socks so I typically wait until I’m in my seat to slip these on. Sometimes I’ll add an extra cozy pair of socks on top to keep my extra warm while I’m in seat, and slip the cozy pair off when I need to slide my shoes on for a restroom break or a quick walk around the aisle of the plane.

6.  Hand Lotion 

Along with staying hydrated (see #4 water bottle in this list), your skin will typically get pretty dry on airplanes because of the pressurized cabin air that lakes humidity.  Folks with dry skin or eczema can have it even worse. Regardless a good moisturizer that’s easy to access is key.

Travel Tip:  Apply moisturizer to your skin ahead of any long flights and then reapply moisturizer every time you wash your hands.  Even consider carrying a travel sized spray bottle of water to spritz your face and hands periodically and then apply lotion to lock in the moisture.

7.  Chewing Gum

Gum is great to have on hand for several reasons. I like mint-flavored gum particularly to help with some tummy relief, get fresher breath when brushing your teeth isn’t an option or you just need something to wake you up from sleeping on the plane, and when your ears are popping on take-off and landing.

8.  Phone charger

I’ve never been on a plane that didn’t have an outlet available at your seat and some even have USB outlets.  Personally, I prefer to bring a small charging block to use instead of relying on those USB outlets because I’ve heard horror stories of hackers using them to get in your phones – particularly at the terminal while you are waiting and may want to charge up before a flight.  I take a small charging block with folding prongs when traveling to help decrease size and for a little extra safety.

9.  Noise Canceling Headphones

Noise canceling headphones with a sound jack cord and fully charged are crucial for a great trip.  Some older model planes still only have two prong jacks for their in-seat audio connections, so I would also recommend bringing a two prong jack adapter.  You can still use the single jack audio cord that comes with most headphones (like I had to do) but the sound will only come out one ear if you plug a single into a double.  Noise cancelling headphones help with drowning out crying babies, sleeping without all the background noise, better audio experiences than airpods or other regular headphones, etc on the plane.  Bonus are having them on hand when you’re trying to wind down at the hotel… these ended up being very useful when we heard wedding beats thumping through our hotel room walls until midnight three nights in a row and I needed some quiet time!

10.  Critical Medicine / Medical Device

It’s important to bring any prescription medicine with you in your carry-on so you don’t risk it being lost with checked luggage.  Just make sure you have the medicine in their original bottle with the prescription details.  You never know when your bag may be checked at security and you’ll want to show exactly what medicine or medical devices you have prescribed with YOUR NAME listed on it.

I carry prescription migraine medicine with me anywhere I go to avoid the severe side effects I get. I can’t imagine how much more awful I would feel dealing with my migraine symptoms like nausea & vomiting, intense light & noise sensitivity, head pressure & pain, chills, numbness, etc. on a trip… especially on an airplane!

 I personally consider this whole page a list of my personal favorite carry-on packing essentials because I end up using a lot of these products while actually in country on my trips, but I broke them down since some folks might not want everything on my nice-to-have list below.

Nice-to-Have  Additions:

11.  Eye Drops

Remember that tip I mentioned above about staying hydrated in dry pressurized airline cabins?  Eye drops are a great addition to your carry-on, especially if you’re prone to getting dry eyes.

12.  Basic Medicine: Advil, Tylenol, GasX

I don’t think I’ve ever taken a trip that I haven’t needed or wished I had some basic medicine like Advil or Tylenol with me after standing in long lines at the airport, dealing with any aches or pains from a long flight, or even just a headache so I like to make sure I keep this on hand as well.  I also include GasX or some sort of tummy medicine in my carry-on packing list because I just don’t want to be that person with stomach issues in a small enclosed airplane environment!

13. Warm Thick Socks

I know my two lists above of carry-on essentials and airline amenities include compression socks and thin socks respectively, but I will do whatever I can to avoid cold toes!  I also pack a pair of thick fuzzy socks to layer on top of my compression socks and put on just before I know I’ll be curling up for a long sleep. I tend to wait until I know I won’t need to get up out of my seat for a while during a long flight so I don’t have to fuss with putting layers on and off to throw on my shoes or disposable slippers to use the restroom.

14. Cozy Wrap / Scarf

Some airlines keep their cabins on the cooler side and I appreciate that over it being too hot or stuffy, but I always travel with a large scarf or cozy wrap to layer up and keep me warm.  One of my must-haves is that I carry a wide scarf in my handbag almost everywhere I go at home or abroad when traveling. I change the thickness or print depending on the season but gravitate towards something neutral that will complement most of the outfits I pack for a trip.

15. iPad / Laptop with Charger

Pretty self-explanatory… You never know when your flight may be delayed and if that happens when you’re already on the plane, it’s so much better to have your iPad or Laptop with a charging cord and block on hand to help pass the time.  Even if you don’t plan on using it during the flight, I like to put these and any expensive electronics like my cameras in my carry-on bag to avoid risking it getting lost or delayed in checked luggage on a trip.

16. Travel Adapter

You might not need this as much ON the flight itself, but a travel adapter is awesome to keep in your carry-on to use when you’re at the airport waiting for your flight or during long layovers.  This is my go-to travel adapter that gives me plenty of options when I’m trying to charge multiple electronics. Layovers or overnight delays in other countries may not have a matching outlet for your plugs so having a travel adapter on hand makes sure you stay charged up.

17. Magazine / Book

Whatever you like to read, it’s great to have something non-electronic to peruse and relax with instead of having your face stuck in a screen the whole time.

18. Hydrating Face Mask

Including a hydrating face mask for your carry-on packing list is not essential, but this is nice to have on hand to combat the dry air in flight. I typically put a single face cleansing wipe in a ziplock bag to take any makeup off and clean my face while in my seat just before I want to wear the mask.  A lot of masks I’ve seen have you leave it on for around 20 minutes (then it starts to dry) and when you peel it off you are left with super moisturized skin.  You will look strange and it’s hard to eat with a mask on so I recommend not doing this until after you have your in-flight meal or any snacks on the front end.  There are plenty of types to choose from but a good aloe or rice-based mask is great for that extra moisturizing component!

19. Jet Lag Homeopathic Pills

I’m still up in the air on whether these actually helped, but I’ve included these homeopathic jet lag pills because I thought they were a cool find and always prefer homeopathic options to healthcare when I can find something that works. I’ve only used it on one long flight so far and I did have a good experience landing and getting acclimated, but I don’t know that I can pinpoint this as the reason just yet.

I always pack snacks that I know I will love so I can avoid purchasing overpriced airport snacks and know I have something to fall back on just in case I don’t love the inflight food options.

21. Disposable Heating Pad

Packing disposable heating pads is a great option if you’re naturally cold since airlines do tend to keep it cooler in flight, but it’s also fantastic if you’re on your cycle or have achy body parts anywhere. If you’re heading someplace extra cold and you don’t use these on the flight, it’s great to wear them under your gear as you adventure out into the cold on your travels too.

22. Extra Outfit with Undies

This one is always great to include if you have space. You never know if your checked luggage will get lost or arrive on time so having a clean backup outfit packed in your carry-on is awesome.  If you’re a parent, it’s nice because you never know what you might get on your clothes from your kids (spit up, vomit, food, etc.), and having a clean backup helps you feel better too.  I always pack undergarments with whatever is the lowest profile yet cute and comfortable outfit I have.  For the ladies, a dress is a great option since it cuts down on keeping up with multiple clothing.

Everything above is a packing list of carry-on essentials that you’ll need when traveling abroad, but there are a few other things that do make the cut, and depending on what type of ticket you purchased for your flight, the airline may provide them to you.  If you’re in first/business/premium classes you may get a little ‘goodie-bag’ of other travel essentials… it depends on the airline and your seat class so do a little extra research on the upfront to see what’s provided.

Just reiterating, not all airlines are the same and that goes for their amenities provided too!

Example  of  Airline  Amenities:

Recycled Carry Bag

Sleep mask (all have had atleast this)

Toothpaste/toothbrush (most have had)

Earplugs (most have these, but you will also want some for your hotel so it’s not a bad idea to ensure you have extras)

 Lip moisturizer / lip balm

Pen (for filling customs forms on plane)

Small Pillow

Small Thin Throw Blanket

In addition to making sure your carry-on is packed with all your travel essentials, you’ll want to make sure you have a cute travel outfit.  I found a super comfy matching long-sleeve and pants outfit that looked a bit more put together than just wearing sweats but was just as comfy in my opinion!

The carry-on travel essentials packing list above includes everything that I think you need to pack if you’re being a minimalist but still want to be comfy while taking long airplane flights.  I’ll be sharing my list of the extra nice-to-haves for you to pack in a separate list soon but hopefully, this list will make sure you’re covered with the basics!

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You're Packing Your Carry-On Luggage Wrong. How to Get the Most Out of Your Travel Bag

Your step-by-step guide to packing your carry-on to get you swiftly through TSA.

• Macy has been working for CNET for coming on 2 years. Prior to CNET, Macy received a North Carolina College Media Association award in sports writing.

Make the most of that overhead bin space by finding the right carry-on suitcase, and learning the best way to pack it.

A carry-on bag is most people's security blanket, best friend and lifeline when traveling. Your carry-on often has essentials for the airplane - for me, that means mostly snacks but a carry-on may also include valuables such as passports, medicine, toiletries and cash. If you choose the  right carry-on bag  and pack it strategically, you can fit more and be hassled less as you move through the airport and TSA.

Following Transportation Security Administration guidelines for each major US airline is a must, and doing a little research on the latest rules and regulations can help you ace the experience without getting held up. (For more travel tips, explore the 12 travel essentials you need for every vacation and take a look at  this travel checklist .)

What TSA officials do isn't in your control, but what you pack and how how you pack it for your next trip is. Here's how to pack your carry-on bag efficiently for your next business or pleasure travel.

The best carry-on travel bags

Before you start packing, you'll have to find the right carry-on bag. Here are a few important things to keep in mind.

What size carry-on should you get?

The first and most important aspect to think about is size. Federal Aviation Administration regulations say carry-on items can't exceed dimensions of 22 by 14 by 9 inches, though you might find an inch or two of difference depending on the airline. The general rule is that it must fit under your seat or in the overhead enclosed storage compartment on the plane. 

Here's a quick reference for size limits for the most popular US airlines.

Carry-on items by airline

Carry-ons should have an easy access tech compartment.

If you decide to bring electronics like a laptop , iPad , Kindle or other tablet on board, your carry-on should ideally have a separate, padded compartment for secure packing. Be sure these compartments are easily accessible, since at security checkpoints, the TSA will require you to remove your electronic devices and place them in the plastic X-ray tray.

Make sure you're carry-on is comfortable on your back or shoulder

Remember, you'll need to lug your carry-on bag or suitcase across the airport and down long corridors, and you might even need to run with it so you don't miss your connection. Consider whether you need padded handles or cushioned straps or a backpack or a rolling suitcase for ease.

The general rule is that all carry-ons must fit under your seat or in the overhead enclosed storage compartment on the plane. 

How to pack your carry-on the right way

Though what to pack in your carry-on ultimately depends on your preferences, there are a few guidelines for the best way to pack your luggage:

• Pack items in layers (shoes one layer, clothes one layer, electronics one layer, etc.).
• Pack the things you'll use the least at the bottom of the bag.
• Keep most of your valuables in your carry-on luggage, and store them in side compartments or safely padded around other items.
• Place valuables at the bottom of your bag, away from the opening.
• Keep your wallet, credit cards and cash in an inner pocket so they'll be harder to steal.
• Pack a small, separate bag for toiletries. (Liquids, gels and aerosols packed in carry-on must follow the  3-1-1 liquids rule : 3.4 ounces or less per container; all liquids must fit in one quart size, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; one bag per passenger.)
• Roll your clothes tightly to save space in your luggage. 

Sometimes you lose your luggage. It happens. Though it's frustrating, it's important to pack a spare set of clothes (including socks and underwear!) in your carry-on to hold you over until your bags are found and returned. Pack clothing that can easily be rolled up and put in the bottom of your bag.

Rolled clothing can save space in your tight bag or suitcase. 

Essential items for your carry-on bag

There's some items that are just better in your carry-on luggage. If you do decide to check a bag, be sure to keep these items with you on the flight. Most of these carry-on essentials are items that would be hard to replace or purchase when you get to your destination. 

• Prescriptions and medications
• Contact lenses or glasses
• Valuables like jewelry, wallets, passports, IDs and boarding passes
• Cameras and smartphones
• Entertainment like tablets, books and laptops
• Headphones to watch TV or movies if a longer flight
• Chargers for electronics
• Printed itinerary, or hotel and flight confirmations

Explore this complete guide for essential travel items you may forget to pack. 

Place your larger electronics in secure yet easily accessible compartments, since you'll need to pull them out at TSA security checkpoints. 

What you should never pack in your carry-on bag

The TSA has specific guidelines covering which items are banned from flights, and the agency takes those rules very seriously. In 2022 alone, the TSA screened nearly 761 million passengers and crew members nationwide, and it confiscated a record number of firearms (6,301) and many other items. TSA policy says that individuals carrying weapons, especially loaded firearms, can face fines or criminal penalties. 

These are some of the most commonly confiscated items:

• Box cutters, utility knives and razors
• Bats, clubs and blades
• Swiss Army knives
• Sharp 

If in doubt, always refer to the  TSA's guidelines on packing for flights, to ensure you have safe and easy travels. 

If you're planning a vacation soon and are stressed about packing or preparing, CNET has plenty of resources to help. Get ready for your next trip with these hacks and tips:

• I've Traveled All Over the World. Here Are 7 Things I Always Pack
• 6 Smart Ways to Save Money on Travel
• Is Travel Insurance Worth It? What to Know Before Your Next Trip
• 8 Google Travel Features to Make Trip Planning Easier
• Out of PTO? Here's How to Travel Without Using Vacation Days

The Best Carry-On Luggage and Weekender Bags for Spring Travel: Away, Samsonite, Calpak and More

The right luggage or carry-on bag for spring break travel can help make any trip as smooth as possible.

If you're gearing up for your spring travel plans, you may be searching for the perfect luggage to accompany you on your upcoming getaway.  Carry-on luggage  — including weekender bags and spinners — is probably the best way to travel if you want to beat the lines at busy airports, especially if you're traveling on a Friday.

No matter where your travel destinations are, one thing's for sure: the right luggage will make all the difference. We've found the best luggage to shop for all of your travels, from spacious duffle bags and practical backpacks to large and luxurious carry-ons  for your next flight.

Need a new tote bag to toss everything in for an upcoming Memorial Day weekend getaway or a bigger carry-on for a tropical vacation? The Beis Weekender Bag will fit all your essentials and help you travel in style. Need a new go-to suitcase for every travel situation? Away’s  standard carry on traveler bag has plenty of packing space while still fitting in the overhead bin. Trying to avoid the checked baggage fees and long bag drop line? The Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Luggage helps you save money and time by going straight to TSA.

Below, we've rounded up the best carry-on luggage and weekender bags this year to take along on your next trip.

The Best Carry-On Suitcases for 2024

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Not only is the Samsonite Hardside Spinner perfectly sized and extremely durable, it's also incredible lightweight so you won't have to strain putting it in the overhead airplane compartment. With all kinds of pockets, you can easily organize all your belongings confidently. 

$200   $150

Away The Carry-On

This Away bag boasts flashy features such as a durable polycarbonate hard shell, spinner wheels and a TSA-approved, ejectable USB charger. The classic rolling hardside luggage with a retractable handle is designed to fit in most major airlines' overhead compartments, making it a great go-to Carry-On bag for travel, regardless of your destination.

Take OFF Luggage Personal Item Suitcase 2.0

The perfect-sized luggage that doubles as a personal item — just pop off the wheels and slide it under your seat. 

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

This Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage makes traveling easier by being extremely lightweight. While protecting your items, the wheels rotate 360 degrees for a smooth and seamless stride in the airport. Although it is compact, this carry-on luggage has the ability to hold everything you need for a short vacation.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Expandable Spinner

Travelpro is a pilot-founded brand that you've likely seen used by flight crews. Travel stress-free with the Travelpro hardside carry-on luggage that effortlessly fits in the overhead bins of major domestic airlines, thanks to rigorous sizer bin testing and enhanced packing capacity. The PrecisionGlide System delivers impeccable control and a seamless rolling experience, so you can get through the airport with ease.

$370   $314

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB Port

Compact and convenient, this soft-sided luggage can slide smoothly under the seat in front of you or be tucked away in an overhead bin. The bag's main compartment can fit several outfits and a spare pair of shoes. Interior pockets lining the compartment will keep your toiletries organized. The telescoping handle and rolling wheels make this bag easy to navigate around a crowded airport, making it a great choice for the frequent flyer looking to pack light.

$145   $100

Monos Carry-On

Traveling is a breeze with the minimalist Monos carry-on, designed to fit in the overheard bin of almost any flight.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

This Travelpro Maxlite softside luggage has spinner wheels and is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver airport terminals and your flight's overhead storage bins. 

$170   $144

The Best Travel Backpacks and Totes for 2024 

Samsonite detour travel backpack.

Built to protect your belongings from the elements, the Detour Travel Backpack has enough capacity for your business, overnight or weekend trips.

$150   $105

Béis Travel Tote

The Beis Travel Tote, from Shay Mitchell's baggage line, can conveniently slot into place atop a suitcase with its trolley sleeve, but can also be carried on its own with a detachable shoulder strap, and top handles designed to rest comfortably on your shoulder. This bag boasts a bottom zip shoe compartment, padded tech sleeve and multiple exterior and interior pockets. 

Calpak Luka Backpack

With multiple storage compartments including a separate laptop sleeve and a space to store your shoes that has its own exterior access, this lightweight Luka backpack will help you stay organized on the go.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

This travel backpack comes with a weight-distributing, low-profile harness system and a 35L capacity, making it suitable for carry-on use. It is designed with a full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment, along with large and subdivided zippered mesh compartments on the sides, providing convenient packing options. Additionally, its attractive design ensures you can easily identify your bag wherever you go.

Troubadour Featherweight Tote

A modern classic and easy-access bag. This Featherweight Tote features a light and waterproof fabric with vegan leather handles, and is perfect for gym trips or a day out!

Dagne Dover Jemi Puff Tote

Whether you're traveling to work or a weekend getaway, this lightweight tote is perfect with pockets for days to keep all your belongings organized. 

The Best Weekender Bags for 2024 

Lululemon go getter bag 2.0.

This sleek, modern bag looks like a tote and duffel rolled into one. There's also a little strap in the back that you can attach to your luggage. 

Away The Everywhere Bag

Away Travel's The Everywhere Bag lives up to its name: you can take it everywhere from work to the gym to a weekend away. It also pairs nicely with The Carry-On and The Bigger Carry-On.

Calpak Stevyn Duffel

Enjoy the benefits of a large bottom compartment, ideal for stowing shoes or enhancing the organization of your items.The roomy main compartment comes with interior pockets, ensuring you have plenty of space to store your belongings in a well-arranged manner.

SwissGear Apex Travel Duffle Bag

This duffle bag will come in handy during your next vacation. You can wear it multiple ways and it has reinforced sides to keep your belonging secure.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

For weekends away, this extra-large duffle includes a laptop sleeve, shoe bag and plenty of space for all your essentials.

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Cruise Packing List: 56 Essentials Chosen by Experts

P acking for any trip takes some planning, but cruise vacations present a unique challenge – particularly due to limited stateroom storage space and sparse (or overpriced) options for purchasing accidentally forgotten items.

To help you decide what to pack for a cruise, we've curated a list of essentials recommended by cruise experts who regularly sail the high seas. Download the U.S. News Cruise Packing List pictured above to reference while you pack, and read on to learn more about the recommended items and where you can purchase them if needed.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - Cruise Packing List

Raw HTML : GTS form Travel

Carry-on bag

Regardless of whether you bring checked luggage, you'll need some type of carry-on bag . Since checked bags need to go through security as they do at airports – and because you may need to wait for your stateroom to be ready, just like at a hotel – you'll want to be able to access any necessities pre-cruise. These might include a swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for the pools; medications; a bottle of water; and your smartphone, of course. You'll also want to keep your credit card, passport, and any other important documentation or valuables close by. A carry-on backpack works especially well since it can double as a day bag for shore excursions.

Checked bag

While you'll likely want to bring a checked bag, consider sharing one with your ship mate(s) to maximize stateroom storage space. Or, consider bringing medium-sized luggage, such as the The Medium by Away , for checking in.

Read: The Best Checked Luggage Options

Garment bag

While many cruises are less formal these days, a garment bag can still be handy for keeping select garments wrinkle-free (since clothing irons are prohibited on cruise ships). Top-rated options include the The Garment Duffel by Halfday and the Briggs and Riley Baseline 22" Carry-On 2-Wheel Garment Bag , both of which double as traditional luggage. If you pack your luggage right, you can make this your only suitcase, in addition to a carry-on bag.

Packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags

Packing cubes are one of the best ways to organize your belongings for travel – especially in a tight cruise ship cabin. Top-rated options include the Veken packing cubes on Amazon (usually priced around $20) and all of the Pack-It Sets by Eagle Creek. The Pack-It Starter Set is especially ideal for cruising since it includes a garment folder designed to minimize wrinkles in clothing. Some cruisers also swear by vacuum-sealed bags , even though they can be a bit more tedious to pack.

Carry-on caddy

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer at The Points Guy, recommends a carry-on caddy , particularly if you're flying to your embarkation point. "I have a fabric sleeve that slides down over the telescoping handle on my carry-on to provide pockets for my passport, phone, coffee – all the things I used to have to juggle during check-in."

Digital luggage scale

The compact Etekcity scale – approximately $10 on Amazon – can weigh bags up to 110 pounds and help you avoid overweight baggage fees.

Read: Carry-on Luggage Size and Weight Limits by Airline

Bungee cord

"Especially for travelling with the family, I use a bright-green bungee cord to strap multiple pieces of luggage together," says Aaron Saunders, senior editor at Cruise Critic. "It's a lifesaver when boarding trains or disembarking ships, particularly when you ' re maneuvering a stroller and a little one around, too."

Luggage tracker

A luggage tracker isn't just useful for air travel. Attach one to your checked cruise luggage to see when it has arrived in your stateroom (or if it's stalled at security). Chris Gray Faust, executive editor at Cruise Critic, doesn't go anywhere without her Apple AirTag after her luggage got stuck in Vancouver for over a week last June. "My AirTag use has expanded beyond my checked luggage, too. I also have AirTags in my handbag, my carry-on, my keychain and my wallet."

Cruise insurance

Due to the unpredictable nature of travel, cruise insurance can be a wise purchase ahead of your voyage. Travel policies can cover unforeseen expenses such as trip interruptions and medical emergencies.

While a passport is often required for cruising, rules can vary depending where you're traveling. Determine whether you need a passport for your upcoming cruise ; if you do, triple-check that you have it packed the day of departure.

Credit cards and local currency

When cruising internationally, consider getting small amounts of each country's currency to have on hand in port. Depending where you go, some local markets may only accept their own country's currency, not U.S. dollars or credit cards. It's also nice to leave cash gratuities for cab drivers, tour guides or servers; in the European Union, 1- and 2-euro coins are convenient and appropriate tips. In ports with vendors that do accept credit cards, be sure to carry a Visa or Mastercard , as some shops and restaurants do not take American Express .

RFID wallet

It's important to protect your travel documents with an RFID wallet like the TIGARI Passport Holder or the ZOPPEN RFID Travel Passport Wallet , the latter of which can hold multiple passports for a family. "Thieves and hackers can steal your credit card information just by using skimming devices," explains Jill Schildhouse, a cruise expert and U.S. News contributor who always travels with her RFID wallet. "And because your wallet wasn't even touched, you won't know it happened until you see your credit card statement."

Read: The Top Passport Holders and Wallets

Medications

Pack more than enough of your prescription medications as well as any over-the-counter medicines you'll need, just in case you encounter an itinerary change or travel delay. While some travelers find it easiest to bring personal medicines in their prescription bottles, others find travel pill boxes to be especially helpful for organization. The Sukuos Weekly Pill Organizer is a well-rated option, with detachable boxes for each day as well as compartments for morning and evening medications.

Sheet masks

Since flying can be so drying for the skin, Faust likes to use sheet masks. "My first step the night before I board (because you should always fly in a day early) is to hydrate with a sheet mask (usually from a Korean brand like Ballon Blanc or FaceTory )," she says. "If I'm meeting up with a friend, I bring an extra sheet mask so our trip starts out feeling a bit like a spa day!"

Magnetic hooks

A surprising fact: Cruise ship cabin walls are made of metal, which means you can optimize your storage space by hanging some of your belongings on magnetic wall hooks. The hooks are perfect for holding bulky coats or boots if you're traveling to a colder climate. You can also use them for wet gear on expedition ships and adventure cruises, or for drying out bathing suits after days at the beach or pool. Purchase a set of magnetic hooks for less than $10 on Amazon .

Like hotels, cruise ships can only provide so many hangers. Bring a few extras from home or pick up a pack from your local dollar store. You might also try packable hangers .

Wrinkle release spray

Whether or not you bring a garment bag, a travel-size bottle of wrinkle release spray, such as Downy Wrinkle Releaser spray , is useful to have on board. If you combine a spritz or two with the steam from your shower, you should be able to smooth out some of the wrinkles in your clothing.

Laundry detergent

"If you don't want to pay for laundry service or spend precious time in the self-service laundry room, bring a small bottle of laundry detergent like Woolite to wash key items in the sink: underwear, bras, quick-dry hiking shorts, bathing suits, etc.," recommends Schildhouse. "Every cruise ship shower has a retractable clothesline you can extend to drape the clothes over while they dry. This can also help cut down on the number of items you need to pack."

Over-the-door organizers

Over-the-door organizers with clear or mesh pockets allow you to find your feminine hygiene products, makeup, jewelry and other small items quickly – without having to hunt through multiple drawers or a tight stateroom closet. It's a good idea to purchase a two-pack like this option by Simple Houseware Store (available on Amazon), since you can also use one to store shoes and maximize floor space.

It goes without saying, but to say it anyway: A toilet spray like Poo-Pourri is a must for your cruise packing list. Any smell – pleasant or not – will travel quickly in small staterooms with small bathrooms. Buy a small bottle to keep in your cabin.

Shampoo and conditioner

Cruise experts agree it's best to bring your own shampoo and conditioner in travel-size bottles, as most cruise ships don't provide separate shampoo and conditioner anymore; instead, they offer all-in-one dispensers. Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, likes to pack her shampoo and conditioner in the popular Cadence Capsules , noting she also uses them for another essential: sunscreen. "These capsules are easy to fill, never leak and have clear labels, which you can customize," she says.

Wine or Champagne

Most major cruise lines allow each guest to bring one to two bottles of wine or Champagne on board, while some luxury cruise lines allow even more than that. Disney Cruise Line also gives guests the option to bring a six-pack of beer instead of wine or Champagne. Be sure to consult your cruise line's policies when packing for your trip.

Read: Cruise Line Drink Packages

If you plan to bring wine or Champagne, you'll likely need a corkscrew . While some cruise lines may prohibit corkscrews, others allow them onboard; check your cruise line's policy before sailing. Bringing wine with a twistable cap may be a good alternative.

Portable humidifier

Cruise ship cabins can feel dry – especially in the colder months. A portable humidifier like the GENIANI Erie (less than $25 on Amazon) can provide some relief. At about half a pound, this USB-powered device will fit neatly into your checked bag or carry-on luggage. The travel humidifier features two mist settings and has an automatic shut-off option, plus a night light to help you see around your cabin in the dark.

International travel adapter or converter

You'll likely need a travel adapter, since cruise lines homeported in international locales may have different electrical sockets and voltage strengths than you're used to in the U.S.

McDaniel recommends the OneWorld65 Travel Adapter . "I've used a lot of different travel adapters over the years, but this is my favorite. It charges up to six devices at once, has USB and mini-USB options, and works in over 200 countries," she says. "While many cruise ships have U.S. outlets, most usually also have European outlets. This adapter lets me take advantage of that outlet I'd otherwise ignore." She also notes that while cruise lines are getting better about having more outlets on their ships, it never feels like enough to keep your phone, camera battery, tablet, watch, headphones/earbuds and laptop charged (times two or more if you're traveling with others).

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Sound machine

Cruise experts agree a sound machine can be helpful for blocking out the sound of late-night partiers returning to their staterooms (or your snoring spouse). Schildhouse likes the LectroFan Micro 2 for cruising. "It plays non-looping white noise and doubles as a speaker to play tunes while you get ready for dinner."

Tech organizer

A tech organizer like the BAGSMART electronics organizer case – available on Amazon for about $20 – can store all your cables, plugs, SD cards and earphones in one zippered, compact bag that will fit easily in your carry-on luggage. Despite its small size, it can also hold bulkier items like a small laptop charging cord.

First-aid kit

A first-aid kit is a good thing to have on hand no matter where you go. You can make your own using supplies you already have at home, or buy a premade first-aid kit on Amazon for about $20. While all cruise ships have medical facilities, it's useful to have these items with you on shore excursions, especially those involving active adventures.

Hand sanitizer

Regularly washing your hands and/or using hand sanitizer is essential to staying healthy while traveling, especially on a cruise ship. Stock up on a few travel-size bottles of hand sanitizer (less than $2 each at Walmart) ahead of your trip. If you're looking for something with less alcohol that's also less drying, check out Babyganics Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer .

If you're a parent, you know that your infant or toddler needs a very specific size – and in some cases brand – of diapers, which may very well be unavailable to you on your cruise ship or in the ports of call. Bring more than enough diapers to play it safe at sea.

Most cruise lines also require that non-toilet-trained infants and toddlers wear swim diapers in the children's water play areas. For the sake of sanitation, kids must be toilet-trained to use the pools on cruise ships.

Read:  The Best Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Many cruisers like to personalize their cabin with stateroom door decor. Not only is it a fun tradition, but decorating the door can make it easier to locate your room, too. You can find lots of fun decor ideas on Pinterest as well as Amazon .

" Duct tape is a life-saver in many situations," says Kosciolek. "I primarily use it to attach my printed luggage tags, but it's also great for mending clothing issues on the fly and fixing broken luggage until you can get it back home."

"As a parent, I like to bring lanyards with sleeves so my kids can wear their keycards and not lose them," says Erica Silverstein, senior cruise editor at The Points Guy. "We hang them on the magnetic hooks I put on the wall, so they don't get lost in the cabin either."

If you're prone to (or think you may be prone to) motion sickness on cruise ships, put a pair of Sea-Bands on your cruise packing list. These soft wristbands use acupressure to prevent and minimize nausea and vomiting on board, and they are a reusable, drug-free alternative to traditional anti-nausea medications. You can purchase Sea-Bands on Amazon or at most drugstores.

If you need something a bit stronger than Sea-Bands (or to use in conjunction with them), Dramamine remains a tried-and-true solution for both preventing and treating sea sickness. Choose the Less Drowsy formula to avoid getting sleepy, and consider the chewable tablets (dye-free) if traveling with kids who are prone to queasiness. Many travelers like Bonine as a remedy for sea sickness as well.

Mix-and-match clothing

Pack a variety of mix-and-match items, also known as a capsule wardrobe, for your cruise. To do this, choose a base color – black or navy blue – for your wardrobe. Next, pack plain, neutral-colored items, then add a few patterned items to the mix. Remember to include a variety of styles (T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, rompers and jumpsuits) and also consider reversible clothing and outfits that can easily transition from day to night.

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise: Daytime, Formal Nights & More

Sports jacket or blazer

Adam Coulter, executive editor of Cruise Critic UK & Australia, recommends packing a sports jacket or blazer. "While cruise lines are getting more casual, what happens if you get that last-minute invite to meet the captain, or there's a meet and mingle where you want to look put together? A jacket will always elevate your elegance (even if you're wearing a T-shirt underneath)," he says. If you're in need of a travel blazer, Bluffworks has some well-rated options; the Gramercy , in particular, gets great reviews.

Themed party attire

Some cruise lines host themed voyages or parties on select nights where passengers can dress up to participate in the fun. You'll want to review your cruise itinerary before you go so you're prepared for the festivities. Bring your buccaneer gear if you're sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line; ships host fun events like Pirate Nights, pirate-themed dinners and a "Pirates in the Caribbean" show. On "The Love Boat"-themed cruises offered by Princess Cruises , pack your platform boots, glittery dresses, bell-bottom pants and halter tops for the line's 1970s-inspired disco party on the deck. No matter the theme, you can't go wrong with a couple of captain hats .

Read:  The Top Party Cruises

Travel wrap

A travel wrap is a versatile accessory that's useful for any trip – even more so on a cruise ship where it can get chilly when the sea breeze picks up. Available in nearly 10 different colors, J.Crew's Oversized Cashmere Wrap is a timeless staple, albeit a bit of an investment; for something less expensive but well rated, try this off-brand pashmina shawl on Amazon .

Packable jacket

If you're cruising to a cold weather destination such as Alaska , you'll need something heavier than a travel wrap, but not so bulky that it requires additional luggage. Consider a packable jacket that folds easily and compactly; travel experts highly recommend the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket .

Read: Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items

Packable hat

If you're headed to the Caribbean or another warm weather destination, you'll want a beach hat to protect your scalp and face from the sun. This packable straw hat by FURTALK (available on Amazon for about $25) is a stylish women's option that features a broader brim and offers UPF 50 sun protection. For more recommendations, browse the best beach hats in a variety of styles.

Comfortable walking shoes

Even if you never step foot off the ship, there is still plenty of walking to do between bow and stern. Closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps are safer than flimsy flip flops when boarding a slippery tender into port (if your ship can't dock directly). Check out our recommendations for the most comfortable walking shoes , which include the popular Allbirds Wool Runners and the Birkenstock Mayari , a modern twist on the classic sandal.

Water shoes

Depending on your scheduled shore excursions, you might also need a pair of water shoes. For something that's both functional and fashionable, we like the Crocs LiteRide 360 Pacer . While not totally waterproof, the Native Jefferson is a water-friendly, versatile option.

Versatile heels

"Over the years, I've learned that the key to avoiding overpacking is to bring one neutral pair of low heels that match every single eveningwear outfit I've packed – from flowy pants to dresses," says Schildhouse, who loves her Rockport Tabitha 2-Strap Heeled Sandals . "They have a cushioned footbed and shock-absorbing heel so you can dance the night away in the club, and a 3-inch block heel with traction to keep you steady on your feet even if the ship's rocking a bit."

Reusable water bottle

A reusable water bottle is useful for filling up at water and beverage stations on your cruise ship; it's also a necessity for shore excursions.

Bathing suit

Pack a couple of swimsuits for the pools, hot tubs and any shore excursions.

Swim cover-up

Another must-have for your cruise packing list is a swimsuit cover-up or two. These are great for wearing over your bathing suit during days at sea, as well as on excursions – especially if you're going on a Caribbean cruise . Amazon sells a variety of stylish, affordable cover-ups, and you can never go wrong with a classic white button-down shirt .

Dry bags are useful for shore excursions where you're likely to get wet but don't want the same to be true for your phone, camera and other precious items. "I use the Outdoor Research Unisex Dry Isolation Pack  and have never had so much as a drop of moisture enter it, which is important for me – it keeps my cameras, documents and important items from getting wet," says Saunders, adding that it functions as a great everyday backpack when it's not raining.

If you need more than one dry bag, cruise expert Brittany Chrusciel recommends the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag Set . "Having these dry bags, in a variety of sizes, means I can bring all my gear along during a Zodiac cruise or snorkeling excursion without having to worry about it getting wet."

Waterproof phone case

A waterproof phone case is also essential, especially if you plan to take photos. The Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches (available in a two-pack) come with a lanyard so you can both protect your phone and wear it around your neck. They are compatible with most smartphones.

"I like to bring collapsible pails, small shovels , inflatable beach toys, a floppy Frisbee or other things to entertain the kids on the beach if we're going to a private island or beach destination," says Silverstein. "If you can inflate your own inner tube, you don't need to rent a floating mat."

Beach towel

"Although cruise lines provide guests with towels to take off the ship on excursions, they are often bulky and sometimes small," explains Chrusciel. "The Surfer Towel folds up to nearly nothing, so it takes up almost no room in your suitcase and is super convenient to pack in a day bag. What's more, its quick-drying technology means that the lightweight fabric won't be soaking wet when you need to pack up for the day and head back to the ship."

Towel clips

"Even though giant plastic towel clips shaped like a flamingo are a bit cringey, they make it easy to find your spot in a sea of sun loungers," says Chrusciel. "They also solve a common cruise problem: keeping your towel securely fixed to your chair while reading or sunbathing."

Reef-safe sunscreen

When choosing a sunscreen, look for something that's reef-safe; not only are these sunscreens safer for the environment, but they're also better for you . The active ingredients in reef-safe sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, are zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or a combination of both. Top-rated mineral sunscreen brands include Think , Badger and Raw Elements , all of which also sell lip balm with sunscreen (another essential at sea).

After-sun lotion

You'll want an extra dose of moisturizer if you've been basking in the sun. COOLA makes an after-sun body lotion that cools and hydrates the skin with aloe vera, agave and lavender oil. Previous buyers rave about this lotion, noting they appreciate that the scent isn't overpowering. If you prefer a spray, try this option by Pacifica .

A good book

Sea days are the perfect time to kick back and relax with a book you've been meaning to read. Find an oceanfront lounge chair in a shaded area on the pool deck, or grab a cup of tea and settle into a quiet nook indoors. There's no need to pack more than one book, however, as many cruise ships have libraries.

What not to pack for a cruise

Power strip.

Many cruise lines do not permit power strips as they present a fire hazard, while others allow them as long as they are non-surge-protected. Instead of a power strip, purchase a portable charger such as this highly rated one by Anker , which can power up multiple devices at once. This can be especially useful for shore excursions. When packing for your cruise, also think about your luggage: If it has an included charging port, you may not even need to purchase an additional charging block.

Weapons and restraints

Firearms, handcuffs and the like are not permitted on cruise ships. This rule also includes toy guns on most cruise lines.

While most major cruise lines allow guests to pack a limited amount of wine or Champagne per person, they do not permit hard liquor. Of course, those of age can purchase cocktails at any of the bars on board.

Household appliances

Irons and steamers are not permitted on cruise ships, which is why the aforementioned garment bags, wrinkle release spray and packing cubes are recommended for keeping clothing tidy and neat. Coffee makers and mug warmers are also prohibited.

While you can technically bring you own, it's not necessary as hairdryers are available in every bathroom on most ships.

CBD and marijuana

CBD that's derived from hemp and contains 0.3% THC or less is legal at a federal level. However, each state interprets and enforces this law differently; for example, many states require a prescription for it. Due to the ambiguity of the laws, most cruise lines continue to ban CBD in any form.

Marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, which means you cannot bring it on a cruise ship – even if you're legally able to purchase it in your home state for recreational or medical use.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

For the U.S. News Cruise Packing List, travel writers Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross tapped leading industry experts for their cruise essentials. They regularly update this checklist with new and useful items to pack.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Best Adults-Only Cruises
• The Best All-Inclusive Cruises

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