Travel essentials from top left: scarf (this doubles as blanket on a plane) / compact travel iron / sturdy backpack (stays on when running to connecting flights!) / suitcase lock (keep your stuff safe!) / neck pillow (must have for sleeping on the plane) / water bottle (fill up after you go through TSA) / suitcase set (great price!) / luggage tags (bright tags are easy to see in baggage claim)

Wondering what to pack in your carry-on bag for an upcoming flight? If you are like me, you will want to bring a backpack to store under the seat in front of you, and a small, TSA approved suitcase for the overhead bin. In the suitcase, you are likely to have your handbags, anything expensive or of value, and TSA approved sized toiletries.

When it comes to the bag you stow underneath the seat in front of you, chances are, you will want items which make your flight more comfortable; especially if it is a long flight or a red eye! I have found, I only need a few items to make my flight comfortable, especially since I tend to take red eye flights when I go back east.

I like to attempt sleep when I fly, therefore, a scarf which doubles as a blanket, and a neck pillow, are must-haves. I have tried several neck pillows, and most of them slip off or don’t provide any comfort for my neck. The one pictured above, actually does! It has Velcro to secure the ends together and it can spin around on your neck so you are able to find the ideal thickness for your nap. It also folds into a little bag which can hang from the zipper on your backpack; just in case your backpack is stuffed to capacity.

When it comes to packing, sometimes I like to stuff as much as I can into my carry-on suitcase, this little travel iron saves the day from the inevitable wrinkles which occur from an overstuffed suitcase. It fits nicely into a carry-on bag. I don’t trust hotel irons, so this one is a life-saver. Love it!

A lot of travelers seem to like large tote bags to stuff under the seat in front of them, if you feel secure and comfortable with a tote, you do you, that being said, I find backpacks more comfortable and practical. A sturdy backpack will keep your items secure, and if you have a tight layover, a backpack is easy to put on and not worry about while running to a connecting flight. I will not fly with a tote, only a backpack. It is a must-have for me. The backpack I use isn’t made anymore, but the one pictured above is the same as my daughters and it is fabulous. She uses it to carry a heavy laptop at school and for flying. She loves it, so I highly recommend it!

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In addition to what is pictured above, I always have a TSA approved hand cream in my backpack because my hands always get dry on the plane; plus the soap in airport bathrooms is always drying.

What are your carry-on travel essentials?

Happy travels!

XOXO
Cathy