Real talk: There are very few times I’m not thinking about my next vacation. Even when I’m on a vacation, I’m thinking about the next one. I just love to travel! If you’re like me, you want to be prepared at all moments while traveling, so I’ve put together a list of my 10 MUST HAVES for any sort of carry-on bag for any trip you might be taking.
10 Carry-On Bag Essentials You Can’t Live Without
First things first – let’s talk about what kind of bag you’re going to take. I like to be able to use my carry on bag when I get to my final destination, so it’s typically of the beachy variety. I don’t have room in my suitcase to be lugging around extra bags! My favorites are here, here and here. Alright, now that you’ve got your bag picked out, let’s take a peek inside..
Extra® Gum 35-stick packages – This pack doesn’t mess around! If you’re traveling with me or have traveled with me in the past, you know that gum is my go-to. This new Extra® 35-stick pack is perfect for a trip, whether you’re sharing or treating yourself, and features durable, recycled packaging, so don’t hesitate to just toss it in your bag. No spilling, no mess – more sharing, more enjoyment!
Headphones – I cannot even tell you how many times I have boarded a loud train car or stuffy airplane, looked in my bag and realized I had forgotten my headphones. It’s such a kick in the pants, because 9 times out of 10, I want to be listening to my favorite music or latest book — not the guy snoring next to me! Now, I keep a pair in my purse at all times that never leaves the interior pocket!
Chargers – Pack ALL THE CHARGERS! I’m serious. Having a charger in an easy-to-reach location is critical for flight delays in particular. I have been stranded at airports (sometimes overnight) and have been saved by the fact that I had my computer charger and phone charger stowed in my carry-on. You never know what traveling situation you might be put in, so it’s always best to be prepared!
Cash – If you’re like me, you put everything on your debit or credit card and that’s fine — until you travel. Sometimes places (especially abroad) aren’t equipped to accept plastic and that is precisely when you’ll need to dive into your spare arsenal of Benjamins! Plus, having a set amount of cash means you can’t splurge on overpriced airport magazines and food.
Snacks – And speaking of food, bring snacks! This is especially true if you know you’ll be traveling over an extended period of time. Airplanes and rest stops aren’t what they used to be, especially if you are like me and have any sort of food allergy. You’ll need to be prepared with your own nutritious (and delicious) snacks to survive! To go with my snacks, I also always carry my HydroFlask with me to fill up with ice cold water 🙂 I did a full post on Must Have Travel Snacks so be sure to check it out 🙂
Magazines/Books – I always travel with something to physically hold in my hand and read. While many turn to e-readers or podcasts, there is something about traveling and reading that goes hand-in-hand in my mind. Plus, it’s the only time I let myself indulge in trashy celebrity gossip magazines at Target before my trip!
I.D. x 3 – I know you’re going to think I’m insane here, but if you are even thinking about traveling abroad, you need to have your identification ducks in order. I’ll never forget booking a train ticket in Paris and being asked for my passport, driver’s license and additional form of identification. I freaked, because I wasn’t carrying anything! At the very least, make copies of your I.D.’s and be sure to at least have one credit card with your full name and identification on it. This will save you a headache in the long run!
Socks – Is it me or are planes and trains freezing cold? I’m hoping I’m not alone here when I tell you that I always travel with a pair of socks in my bag. I get many a weird look from TSA, but I am convinced they have seen stranger things. Once I feel my toes freezing off, I simply grab my socks from my bag and throw them on! There is nothing worse than cold feet, am I right?
Scarf – This might be a new one for some of you, but I am convinced that regardless of where you’re going, you will need a scarf. Keeping yourself warm after too much sun during the day? Check. Wrapping around your head to keep your hair-do in place for a convertible ride? Double check. Using it as a pillow to rest your noggin on an uncomfortable car/airplane/train window? Triple check. Really, I cannot stress the important of a quality scarf or pashmina enough!
What are your carry-on musts when traveling?
You Might Also Like:
How To Spend 2 Days In Salem, Massachusetts
How To Take Better Photos When You Travel
How To Choose Your Next Vacation Destination