Is it just me, or is shopping, prepping, and packing for a trip almost as fun as actually heading to your destination?
I love to try new travel products to make flying easier and getting through the airport a breeze. After many flights both international and domestic, I’ve finally pared down what I bring to what works for me without anything taking up space unnecessarily.
On a standard domestic flight, you will be allowed a checked suitcase, carry on suitcase, and a carry on bag. I’m a big fan of planning out my packing to avoid overpacking (usually I wouldn’t be bringing a checked suitcase for a 10-day trip), so my carry on bag essentials serve multiple functions.
Here is the ultimate carry on packing guide to use for your next trip!
[Luggage & Packing]
My Backpack
I have tried many personal items (usually a small bag that you are allowed to bring on flights along with your carry on luggage), and the most convent bag is a backpack.
Stay hands-free around the terminal and keep your stuff secure when you place your bag under the seat in front of you!
I use a black backpack that matches all luggage and hides dirt.
RFID Blocking Passport Holder
Not only is this passport holder pretty, but functional as well. RFID-blocking passport holders protect your information from being electronically stolen by RFID skimmers. That’s right – someone can scan you and pick up all your information. That’s why I keeping my credit cards, ID, and passport together to protect them.
[Entertainment]
Make the time fly by (pun intended) with these tools to beating boredom on a flight – especially if you don’t have WiFi.
AirFly
The AirFly is a small, rechargeable Bluetooth transmitter that you plug into the plane’s seat back tv and can connect to your wireless headphones. If you have ever wanted to watch the in-flight entertainment using your Airpods or comfy headphones instead of the airline’s free headphones, this is a must-have! Just remember to charge it before your first use.
iPad & Kindle
Have you ever sat down in your seat on the plane, ready to put on your headphones and check out the shows only to discover there’s no seat back TV? I’ll never head to the airport without a fully charged iPad with shows downloaded and a Kindle loaded with books!
Charger & Cable Organizer
This one has been a game changer for me! Previously I would tuck my chargers wherever they would fit in my bag – in shoes, pockets, deep dark corners…it was a mess. I decided to try keeping everything together and it makes charging on the go a breeze. It’s easy to place at the top of your carry on so you can easily access to charge at the airport, and keeping everything together means there’s less of a chance you’ll forget an important charger in an outlet somewhere.
I like this case from Amazon because there are compartments and areas for all of your chargers from your laptop charger to a small cable!
Shop my favorite Charger & Cord Organizer Case
[The Perfect In-Air Sleep Kit]
When I lived in Los Angeles, I became an expert on the red-eye flight. Being able to fall asleep and stay asleep on a plane takes some planning, and through trial and error I’ve put together what I consider to be the perfect setup.
Sleep Mask
Even though most overnight flights dim their lights, you’ll need an eye mask to block out light right away and avoid being startled awake when your seat mate turns on their seat back screen.
I use this blackout mask with a space around the eyes to avoid pressure and smearing your eye products.
Plane Pillow
The classic u-shaped beck pillow isn’t going to cut it anymore! I’d recommend investing in a positionable or inflatable pillow to keep your head supported without taking up valuable space in your carry on.
Pro Tip: I clip my pillow to the handle of my carry on suitcase to avoid taking up space inside.
Around-Ear Headphones
I love to wear a noise-cancelling pair of around-ear headphones when I’m trying to sleep on a plane. This way you can block out the noise and have something to rest your head against.
If you are dead set on sleeping with Airpods or wireless earbuds, try wearing a headband over your ears to avoid losing them.
Looking for something even more comfortable? I love to use this headband with headphones built-in! It’s hard to lose, comfortable, and can double as an eye mask if you pull the front down.
[Post-Flight Prep]
Sunnies
Even if your flight leaves at night, you’ll probably be stepping out of the airport into daylight. I always toss my sunglasses into my personal item so I can use them right away and avoid them getting crushed in my suitcase.
Day Bag
I love a hands-free moment, especially when it comes to travel. Whatever bag you’ll be using when you arrive at your destination should be stored in your carry on so you can grab and go. I’ll toss my passport/credit card holder in here, throw it on, and head out to explore!
Makeup & Skincare
You’ll want to keep your essentials with you to feel refreshed and hydrated. I like to keep my skincare and everyday makeup in a clear case like this one.
Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and hand sanitizer!
The perfectly crafted carry on bag definitely takes time and tweaking based on what works for you as a traveler. It may sound silly, but test out these products at home to see how you like them (and make sure they work correctly) before heading to the airport.
Ready to take to the air? Here are twenty trips to take in your twenties!
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links and I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you choose to purchase. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
