Here's What Every Traveler Needs To Pack In Their Carry-On

When embarking on a trip, luggage is precious real estate, and there’s much to debate about what is the “right” way to pack. Here’s some guidance on packing a fool-proof carry-on. You’ll find all the most important items below to help you have the most comfortable flight possible.

(​MORE: The Ultimate Weather-Wise Packing List)

A Reusable Water Bottle

We all know the rules about bringing fluids on airplanes (no more than 3.4 fluid ounces). But here’s the trick: bring your empty reusable water bottle through security check-in. On the other side of security, you’ll be able to fill up your water bottle using one of the water fountains. You won’t have to spend an arm and a leg on purchasing a water bottle at one of the convenience stores near your gate, and filling up your water bottle post security check is totally OK with TSA, so don’t worry about getting into trouble.

A Change of Comfortable Clothes

Think of your carry-on contents as your “just in case” items. That means you’ll want an extra set of clothing in case you encounter any flight delays, luggage mishaps with the airline or unexpected events like a spilled drink. Think comfortable: leggings, sweats, t-shirt or sweater, since you may want to catch some z’s on your flight.

A Light Jacket

It’s great to have a light jacket in a place that’s easy to access, like your carry-on. You may encounter unexpected weather upon arrival, and who wants to go rummaging through their luggage just outside the airport doors?

Pro tip: Look for a jacket that’s waterproof in case of rain. Rain ponchos are also great for travel, since they pack down small.

Lip Moisturizer

A plane’s recirculated air has much less humidity than air on land (think 20% or lower to the normal 40 to 60% humidity on land.) That’s why it’s common to experience chapped lips during or after a long flight. Pack a lip moisturizer to combat dry lips. You may even be able to find a multi-use moisturizer that can be used on your face and hands as well as lips, just be sure the product is 3.4 fluid ounces or less.

Your Toothbrush

Chewing Gum

If the pressure difference upon takeoff and landing bothers your ears, a stick of chewing gum should do the trick. According to the Ear, Nose and Throat Institute, chewing gum opens up the Eustachian tubes, which allows the air in your middle ear to equalize. Chewing gum may also help if you experience nausea during flights, since it has been found to aid patients suffering from nausea after surgeries.

Hand Sanitizer

Many of us refuse to travel anywhere without hand sanitizer in recent years, and this item may be especially helpful at an airport and on a flight where you’re touching a lot of common surfaces. Look for something travel size, and you may even be able to find options that are more gentle on your skin than the common gels.

A Portable Phone Charger

This is something you’ll want for your trip as well as the flight. A portable phone charger can be a lifesaver if your flight is delayed or you run into any other emergencies with a dwindling phone battery. Look for a small, lightweight option, ideally with two or more charging ports that can be used for other electronics such as a tablet, or can be used by a traveling buddy. Be sure to charge the charger before you head out the door.

A Neck Pillow

Many avid travelers won’t go anywhere without their neck pillow. While longer flights will typically provide a small pillow, they don’t offer much neck support, and aren’t usually available for shorter flights. You’ll be happy you didn’t forget this travel companion when the plane takes off.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

It’s tough to imagine a flight without noise-canceling headphones these days. You’ll be able to listen to your favorite podcasts or tunes, or indulge in your choice of tv shows or movies if your flight provides in-flight entertainment (or, of course, travelers can download their favorites onto their phone or tablet). You won’t miss hearing your neighbor snore or the wailing baby a few rows back.

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