As exciting as traveling is, packing is the not-so-glamorous part of the process. People who travel often understand the importance of packing smart and light. Ideally, all clothes should fit into a piece of luggage, with an extra bag for anything you may need to access during the flight. To ensure a smooth and comfortable flying experience, make sure to pack some additional items that are carefully chosen for their size and versatility.
Whether you’re a first-time or seasoned traveler, a few travel tips can never hurt. Let’s take a look at some travel essentials that you need to have in your carry-on.
Inflatable Travel Pillow
Getting on a long-haul flight without a good pillow could be a nightmare. What’s even more troublesome is having to lug a pillow around for the entirety of your trip, even when you may not need it. An inflatable pillow gives you an acceptable compromise. These pillows take only 10 seconds to inflate, and you can adjust yours to any level of softness you want. And when you’re done using it, you can simply deflate and pack them flat in your carry-on!
Portable Charger
Having a portable charger or power bank is crucial when traveling. It provides a safety net for making calls, accessing vital information, and so on when you can’t find a power source and your battery is running out. Plus, it can be a lifesaver when you want to kill time by browsing the internet, especially if your flight is delayed. Make sure to pack a charger that is lightweight and small. If you’re traveling with family, opt for one with at least two charging ports.
Comfortable Scarf Or Shawl
Carrying a large scarf or a comfortable shawl when traveling serves many purposes—it can be used as a blanket, a fashion accessory, a sweater, a window cover, extra padding or pillow, or a head cover. The thickness or print of the scarf can be changed depending on the season, but a neutral shade would complement most outfits.
Noise-Canceling Headphones
There are endless noises on an airplane- from rattling food trolleys and crying babies to cabin dings and whatnot, and getting rest amidst all the hullabaloo can be challenging. Noise-canceling headphones come in handy when you just want some peace and quiet. While most airlines provide earphones or earplugs for long-haul flights, they are typically less effective than noise-canceling headphones. Consider investing in good quality noise-canceling headphones to enjoy silence on your journey. (Bonus tip: a sleeping mask can be a great aid too!)
A Water Bottle
Did you know your body loses about eight ounces of water an hour during a flight? This is why bringing a water bottle with you is crucial. Plus, everyone knows that airplane water is stored in yucky tanks, so it’s best to avoid asking for some unless absolutely necessary! Instead, invest in a good-quality reusable water bottle you can take everywhere.
An Extra Purse
It’s best to pack an additional small bag or purse inside the carry-on containing items you may need to quickly access without burrowing inside a bulky suitcase. The smaller purse can have essential medicines like Tylenol, Advil, or antacids for stomach issues so you can deal with any discomfort during long flights. A separate purse must hold your passport, travel documents, wallet, and phone.
Lip Balm
The recirculated air on an airplane can be extremely dehydrating, with a humidity of 10-20%, compared to 40-60% on land. To put it into context, even the Sahara Desert has a humidity of 25%!
A good lip balm in your hand luggage can help protect your lips from drying out due to moisture loss. Many lip balms are multi-use and can also be used on your hands and face if you’re short on space.
Hand Sanitiser
Hand sanitizers and gels were indispensable during the pandemic, and they are still very common in public places like airports. Protecting yourself from viruses, especially when traveling, is crucial, so make sure you have some on hand. Hand sanitizer will keep your hands clean, even on the go, if you can’t find a washroom nearby. If you’re very concerned about germs on surfaces like armrests or tables, you can pack some disinfecting wipes, too.
Luggage Tracker
Lost luggage situations seem to be on the rise lately, and nothing will ruin your travel more than losing all your personal belongings! Accordingly, a luggage tracker is a wise and essential investment that can help you keep track of your bags at all times.
This clever accessory is convenient to have on a flight that involves a stopover or if you happen to travel with bulky items like a car seat that usually takes longer to get through baggage handling. However, you have to make sure that your tag is well secured to your check-in luggage and that you download the relevant app to be able to track where your bag is at all times.
A Change Of Clothes
You never know what sudden emergency could arise during your journey. Even if you do not plan on changing outfits during the flight – drinks can spill, unexpected delays happen – having a change of clothes can be a lifesaver!
Conclusion
Even a seasoned traveler can find it challenging to figure out what to pack in your hand luggage. However, with a bit of planning and a short list of in-flight essentials you need, you can easily maximize space and minimize hassle. To round it up, prioritize the following points:
- Be minimal in your packing – the more items, the more stress.
- Take protein-rich snacks such as granola bars, dried fruit, and crackers in case the food offered on the flight is unsuitable. Chewing gum will also help freshen your breath and prevent ear popping during take-off and landing.
- Pack sleep essentials.
- Pre-pack toiletries in clear bags.
- Have a storage system for important documents.
- Bring a pen and paper.
- Prepare for changing temperatures with extra layers of clothing or space to pack your sweater once you land.
- Have a green journey by cutting down on plastic use whenever possible.
If you have been amazed at those who appear to breeze through airport check-ins with zero fuss, don’t fret – you can also be this person with some clever planning!
The secret to transitioning from a hectic tourist to a savvy traveler lies in equipping yourself with the right items packed into your carry-on. So jet off into your next adventure as a calm, hydrated, and composed wayfarer ready to take on the world!
