So you’re going on VACAY!! I don’t know about you but whenever I travel somewhere I want to make sure I’m prepared. I always make a carefully planned out list on what I want to take, what outfits I’m going to wear, shoes. accessories, toiletries…
I always like to make sure my carry on tote has a few necessities so I can easily get to things I might need during my trip. Below is a list of 20 items that are perfect to pack in your tote. I’ve also linked most of the items to where you can purchase them.
GET THAT VACATION OFF TO A GREAT START!!
1. Headphones: The plane is a perfect time to listen to your new playlist, relax and watch a movie, listen to an audio-book, or simply avoid endless conversation from the chatty person sitting next to you. But, if you have the new iPhone, don’t forget to also pack the adapter for your headphones (something I did the last time I visited my daughter in Chicago…I wasn’t happy).
2. Gum: Not only does this help keep your breath fresh but it also helps your ears with the air pressure during take off and landings.
3, Hair Ties: I always have a few hair ties with me in case I need to get my hair out of the way.
4. Dramamine, Tylenol, Tums, or Medications: If you get motion sickness easily make sure you don’t forget your Dramamine. Also, the changing air pressure can sometimes cause headaches. I’m that person who would rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it. If you’re on medication that you take daily you might consider putting 2 or 3 days worth of your medication in your carry-on. You never know if your bags for some reason don’t make it to your destination. You want to make sure you have a backup just in case.
5. A snack or two: As you head out to do your last minute errands before you leave, put a snack on the list. Something that is easy to carry and not messy will be the easiest.
6. Colgate Wisps: I love these things!! They have a little dot of toothpaste on the bristles and a pointed end to get out any pesky foods that might get caught between your teeth.
7. Small pad of paper and a pen: Make sure you have one that writes lol, I’ve made that mistake so many times You never know when you need to write something down–a gate number, address, phone number to the hotel or resort etc.
8. Sunglasses: I once traveled at just the right time of day when the sun was beginning to set and the sun was blinding me from the window in the row ahead of me. Of course, I didn’t feel comfortable asking them to close the window cover but I was so glad I had my sunglasses with me. Not only that, you want to be ready for some fun in the sun when you land!!
9. A light-weight cardigan: Even if you’re going somewhere that’s going to be hot, often times planes can be cold. I always like to have a light-weight cardigan or jacket just in case. I HATE being cold.
10.Reading Material: I usually use my IPad most of the time on the plane but I like to have a magazine or book in case I get tired of using my IPad, or if the battery starts to get low.
11. Comfy Shoes: I usually wear flip flops or some type of slip-on shoes to the airport so I can easily slip them on and off going through security but I also like packing some comfy shoes–which is usually my Chuck Taylors when I get on the plan. I just find them more comfortable and easier to walk in, especially if I have a layover and need to quickly walk to another gate to catch my next plane.
12. Tablet: Even if you have a nonstop flight you never know if your plane is going to be delayed for one reason or the other. Oh, and the charger for that device as well if you choose to bring something that requires a charge.
13. Small Makeup Bag with a few makeup essentials: You never know if your luggage will be lost or you get stuck somewhere. I have a small make-up bag that I carry a few things in like lip balm, Colgate Wisp toothbrushes (love these! They have a drop of toothpaste already on them!) comb, contact holder with solution in it etc.
14. Water Bottle: Packing a water bottle is something I just like to have on hand. There are collapsible ones just like the one I have pictured to make it easier pack and takes up less space.
15. Phone, Phone Charger/Portable Charger: Most of us are in the habit of grabbing our phone before we walk out the door but why not go ahead and put it on the list so it’s not forgotten in the usual rush of getting last minute things together. Don’t forget to put your charger in your carry on tote instead of putting it in your checked bag. I’m always surprised at how much I use my phone while traveling and how fast my power runs out. Even if my phone isn’t in desperate need of being charged, I usually try to sit somewhere in the gate area that’s close to a power outlet so I can charge my phone while I’m using it.
16. Lysol wipes: After each flight, flight attendants walk through and make sure trash and anything left behind is picked up but most of the time they don’t have time to wipe down every seat especially if the plane has back to back flights. I like to carry on some Lysol wipes to wipe down the armrests and the headrest of the seat. I know that may seem silly but I’d rather have a wonderful time on the trip instead of getting sick over something I’ve picked up on the plane.
17. Hand Sanitizer: Hand sanitizer…pretty self-explanatory. You can also get a pack of 5 for an even better deal!
18. Tissues: I don’t usually get the sniffles on planes and I don’t have allergies but I’ve used them plenty of times for napkins or to wipe something up. Not to mention, there always seems to be someone who is asking for a tissue.
19. Travel Pillow: I always carry a small travel pillow with me just in case I want to get a little snooze in.
20. Wallet: I always travel with a bitter wallet when I go anywhere. It allows me to stay more organized with my ID/Passport, Money, Boarding Pass/Itinerary, Reservations…etc.
What are your must-haves in your carry-on? Anything I need to be sure and add to the list. I hope you have an AAAAAMMAAAAZZZZIING time on your trip!!! Let me know where you go and if this list was helpful with your packing. Don’t forget to check-out the free printable checklist I made for your checked bag. As always, if you have any great ideas for a blog post that you want me to write about or have any comments please leave them below.
**Be sure to click on the link to download a free packing list!
