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Packing for a trip can feel like a daunting task, especially when it comes to the carry-on. It’s tempting to throw in everything but the kitchen sink, after all, we’re only a few feet away from the overhead compartment or the dreaded checked-baggage carousel. But after years of jet-setting, I’ve learned the value of packing smart and light, ensuring I’ve got everything I need within arm’s reach. So, what’s in my carry-on? These are the travel essentials I never leave home without.

Whether I’m hopping on a quick flight to a neighboring city or embarking on a cross-country adventure, these items are my go-to lifesavers. If you’re tired of rummaging through your bag at 3 a.m. in the middle of an airport terminal, struggling to find that one thing you know you packed, keep reading. These travel essentials will make your life so much easier.

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The Bag Itself: My Travel Backpack

Before we even dive into the contents, let’s talk about the most important element: the carry-on bag. But this isn’t just any carry-on, it’s a travel backpack with organized compartments.

I used to be all about rolling suitcases and tote bags, but now, I swear by a good travel backpack. It’s essentially like a mini suitcase, with the added benefit of being ultra-functional and easy to carry. A well-designed travel backpack combines the convenience of a carry-on with the versatility of a backpack. Plus, I can sling it over my shoulders and be hands-free, which is perfect for navigating busy terminals or squeezing into overhead compartments.

Here’s why I love it:

• Organization: These backpacks come with multiple compartments for your tech, toiletries, clothes, and even a separate space for shoes or dirty laundry. I can keep everything organized and easily accessible.
• Durability: Unlike regular backpacks, these travel backpacks are made from tough materials that can handle the wear and tear of travel. They’re usually water-resistant, too.
• Comfort: With padded straps and breathable mesh, these backpacks are surprisingly comfortable to carry. I’ve learned the hard way that comfort matters when you’re walking through airports for hours, or when you’re navigating busy streets while sightseeing.

For me, the travel backpack is the best of both worlds. I can throw it on my back when I need to move quickly, but it still fits all the essentials I need without feeling bulky.

1. Travel-Size Toiletries (And Why You Need Them)

Ah, toiletries. Let’s face it: there’s nothing worse than being stuck in a cramped airplane seat, just wishing you could freshen up. That’s why travel-size toiletries are at the top of my list.

For years, I’ve been guilty of carrying full-size bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and face wash in my bag, until I learned the hard way that liquid restrictions at TSA checkpoints can really throw a wrench in your plans. So now, everything fits within the 3-1-1 rule: liquids, gels, creams, and aerosols in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, all packed into a single quart-sized bag. I love to use travel size bottles that I can refill with my essentials.

Here’s a breakdown of the essentials I always pack:

• Dry Shampoo: Whether it’s to freshen up after a long flight or on the go during a layover, this is a game-changer. Pro tip: invest in a good, travel-friendly dry shampoo that won’t leave a white residue.
• Face Wipes: These are a must for quick refreshers when you don’t have access to a bathroom, or if you just need to feel like you’ve hit the reset button.
• Moisturizer: Flights can leave your skin feeling dry and dull, so I always make sure to have a small, nourishing moisturizer with me.
• Lip Balm: Airplane air is notoriously dry, and cracked lips are the worst. A thick, hydrating lip balm is an absolute essential.

While you’re organizing your toiletries, here’s a trick I’ve learned over the years: use a hanging toiletry bag. It makes all the difference when you need easy access to your items while on the road. I once forgot a toothbrush at a hotel and it taught me a valuable lesson, keep your basics close and organized!

2. Electronic Essentials

I’ve learned this one the hard way: there’s no such thing as too many charging cables. While we live in an age where outlets are abundant, it’s better to be safe than sorry, right? Here’s my electronic checklist:

• Portable Charger: If you only take one tech item on your carry-on, let it be a portable charger. You never know when your phone will be close to dying, or when you’ll find yourself wandering through a large airport with no available plugs. Trust me, I’ve been there.
• Noise-Canceling Headphones: Sure, you could get by with regular earbuds, but nothing beats the quiet solitude of Bose QC35 or Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones. They make a world of difference when you’re in a noisy, crowded terminal or on a long-haul flight.
• Laptop or Tablet: If you’re like me and you can’t get through a flight without binge-watching something, a tablet is essential. But I never leave home without my MacBook it’s lightweight, and it’s helped me complete countless work projects during downtime.

3. Travel-Size Snacks

Traveling often means unpredictable meal schedules. Whether it’s a delayed flight or a tight connection, you might find yourself with little time to grab a meal. That’s where snacks come in. Here are my top picks for travel-friendly nibbles:

• Granola Bars: I love a good healthy granola bar, they’re filling, packed with nutrients, and easy to pack.
• Nuts: Almonds or cashews in small, resealable bags work great. They’re easy to snack on, and the protein keeps me full longer.
• Fruit: Fresh fruit is always an option, but I prefer dried fruit for travel. It’s compact, lightweight, and still offers the sweetness I crave during flights.

The key is to keep your snacks non-perishable and easy to eat on the go. I learned the hard way during one airport delay that a full meal is never guaranteed, but a granola bar in your bag can be a lifesaver.

4. Medications and Health Items

As someone who likes to be prepared for any situation, I never travel without my medicine kit. I keep this simple, but the essentials include:

• Pain Relievers: A small bottle of Ibuprofen or Tylenol. Airports, flights, and busy days of sightseeing can sometimes result in a headache or muscle pain, and this has saved me more times than I can count.
• Anti-Nausea Medication: For anyone who suffers from motion sickness, I recommend Dramamine or Ginger Chews. They take up hardly any space but can make a huge difference in comfort.
• Hand Sanitizer and Wipes: The last thing you want is to get sick while traveling, and airport surfaces are notorious for germs. I keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer within reach and often wipe down my seat and tray table on planes.

Once, during a long layover, I started feeling a bit of a cold coming on and was grateful to have cold medicine and tissues on hand.

5. A Good Book (Or E-Reader)

This is something I absolutely cannot do without. Whether it’s a page-turning thriller or a non-fiction book that helps me unwind, reading is one of my favorite ways to pass the time during flights. If you’re a fellow book lover, you’ll appreciate the importance of a solid book or e-reader.

I’m a die-hard Kindle user because it’s so easy to download books and carry multiple novels in one compact device. But if you’re not an e-reader fan, a physical book is always a great option.

I’ve also found that travel time is the perfect opportunity to catch up on work-related podcasts or audiobooks that I’ve been meaning to listen to. Sometimes, the right story can transform a lengthy flight from dull to delightful.

6. Comfort Items

Finally, let’s talk about comfort. Airplanes and airports can feel sterile and uncomfortable, but packing a few simple comfort items can make all the difference:

• Neck Pillow: A small, inflatable neck pillow is my secret weapon for avoiding neck cramps on long flights. It’s lightweight and packs down nicely.
• Eye Mask and Earplugs: I’ve learned the value of eye masks for sleep, especially when the cabin lights stay on during a late-night flight. Throw in some earplugs for extra peace and quiet.
• Blanket or Travel Scarf: It’s easy to get cold in the air, and a Travel scarf doubles as a blanket when I need to curl up and rest.

Why Packing Smart Makes Travel So Much Better

Packing for a trip doesn’t have to be stressful, but it does require some forethought. Over the years, I’ve figured out what works best for me, and these essentials have made travel so much easier and more enjoyable. By focusing on convenience, comfort, and practicality, I know I’m always prepared for whatever comes my way, whether it’s a delay, an unexpected layover, or just needing to freshen up after a long flight.

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So next time you’re packing for a trip, remember these travel essentials. Trust me, you’ll be so glad you did.

With love,

Bri & Cat

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