Carry-On Packing Guide

If its a short or long trip taking a carry on is the easiest way to pack and if you do it you may never have to check in a bag again.

• Backpack 

My go-to carry on item is always my backpack that can fit all my camera and computer gear, you never know when you’re gonna need to document your trip. I usually switch between two different backpacks depending on how much gear I will need. I love using the Evecase Large DSLR Camera/Laptop bag. It’s great for a photographer on a budget.

– If you want to spend a-bit more money, I suggest using the Pelican S130 Sport Elite Camera pack. It’s waterproof, has a crushproof laptop & camera case, with extra space for other items you may want to pack.

• Tote/Purse 

Having an extra bag on hand is always a must regardless of my carry-on-bag. I always use a larger bag to pack the extra necessities. I love using the ECOSUSI Large Travel Weekender Duffle Bag. It’s super stylish and versatile.

I also really love using Aloha Collection: Coco Palms Zipper Tote. I use it as my everyday bag but also love using it when I travel. It is made out of special material that protects your belongings from being damaged from splashes, spills and weather. It also has an outside pocket for the small items you may want to pack.

SLEEP 

When it comes to travel these days most airlines don’t offer pillows & blankets to passengers unless you travel international and in first class. Your average person travels in economy.  It is always best to be prepared!

• Travel Pillow 

I bought mine from TJ Maxx and fell in love with it. I don’t remember the brand but I know it got it for an inexpensive price. If you’re the person who doesn’t like going out to shop you can always try other options such as Amazon, they have lots to choose from as well.

• Ear Plugs 

Having ear plugs is a  MUST! TRUST ME, you never know if the baby sitting in the seat in front of you is going to cry or the person sitting next to you is going to snore. Having them will be a life savor.

I usually use my headphones as earplugs. As I  am a person that falls asleep to music. My Solo Beats by Dre are a life savor.

CLOTHING

What I wear on the airplane all depends on what the weather is going to be like once I hit my final destination. Literally just depends on where I am jet setting off to.

• Shoes 

I either wear my Rainbows or Vans. Something easy to put back on after going thru TSA and also to be comfortable during the flight.

Rainbows, are my favorite sandal to wear depending on the time of year and wear I am headed to.They are pricey but totally worth the buy. You can find them at Nordstrom or Macy’s (Thats where I usually buy mine).

I tend to wear Vans slip-ons a lot more when I travel during, the cooler and winter months. Just because they keep my feet warmer, plus wearing a pair of thick socks helps to.

• Sweater 

If your like me I am constantly cold, it doesn’t matter what time of the year it is. I always bring a sweater or wear a light long sleeve when I am traveling.

Like anyone you want to feel comfortable yet cute with the perfect travel sweater or long sleeve.It is basically your “you can’t leave home with out it” staple.

I find cute cardigans are a must  for long flights or car rides. You can wear it, drape it over you as a blanket.

• Headwear 

I personally only ever bring hats or beanies depending on where I am going. I am more of a sunglasses kind of girl. But out of habit I always bring my trusty baseball hat with me if I am being lazy and I don’t want to wear make up one day.

 Always bring a hat or a beanie its great for any destination and can make a cute staple piece for an outfit.

P.S Never pack them in check luggage they might get damaged or smashed.

SNACKS

Like anyone when he or she travel it’s always great to bring essentials items that will help curve a food craving.

 Whenever I travel, I AM ALWAYS SNACKING!!!

I find bringing healthy items such as nuts and dried fruits to help curve my hunger on a long plane or car ride.

STAY HYDRATED 

Remember whenever you’re on a commercial flight the recycled air and pressured cabins can do a lot to your body. 

• Reusable Water Bottle 

I highly recommend bringing a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Yes, this means extra runs to the restroom but TRUST ME , you will thank me.

Drinking lots of water while on an air plane can help with jet lag & fatigue after a long or short plane ride.

I recommend using the Pelican Water 32 Ounce bottle. The stainless steal provides amazing  insulation and will keep your water ice cold for days.

• Lip Balm & Lotion 

I always travel with some kind of lip balm because you never know when you’re gonna need it. My favorite is Burt’s Bees!

My favorite lotion to travel with is Hemp Lotion. You can buy the travel size at any Ulta Beauty, Sephora or Amazon.

ENTERTAINMENT 

Long-flights SUCK! Here are some ideas to cure boredom: 

• IPAD

Always make sure you have movies downloaded or lots of books on the kindle app downloaded already.

Make sure you have your device updated to the latest software before you board.

• Phone

If your traveling in the states you won’t have to worry about roaming fees or turning off your cellular data. Those for who travel out of the country, remember to turn off cellular data to avoid any extra fees.

Just remember smartphones work like tablets or iPads, they will keep you busy with apps for long journeys. Always remember to keep them fully charged.

• Headphones 

I am the type of person who always forgets headphones where ever I go. Usually I am always buying new ones or I get lucky and find a pair that I keep in my travel backpack.

For frequent travelers investing in a good pair of headphones is wise, you’ll stay comfortable the entire trip.

• Chargers & Adapters 

Always pack chargers and adapters in your carry on. They are high ticketed items that maybe stolen if they are in checked luggage.

Also depending on where you are traveling to in the world you may need to invest in a universal charger.

Things You Absolutely Need For Traveling 

The things I talked about above are things that can be replaced and can be purchased basically anywhere in the world. Don’t worry about the small things.

These are ABSOLUTELY the most important things to remember:

• Form of Identification or Passport
• Cash & Credit Cards ( bring both you never know if you’ll lose your cash)
• Other valuables

Another thing I have learned the hard way is, never pack expensive items in your checked baggage. You may never see them again. Always carry-on nice jewelry, camera, laptop etc.

• Travel Insurance 

When I travel, I usually don’t buy travel insurance because the my Citi Bank credit card I use already has it when you charge your trip to the card. Which is extremely helpful because if I had to cancel my trip last minute i’ll get all my money back as well.

For those who don’t like to charge trips or don’t have that specific credit card, I do recommend getting it. You never know when there is going to be an emergency or you need to cancel your trip.

• Copies of Important Documents 

Always Always Always bring copies of your travel documents and passport in case of an emergency or theft.

• Medications 

Always bring any medications you need. What I like to do is always pack it in my carry on back.

Quick Tip: Whenever you bring medications with you, always bring proof of prescription.

• Liquids 

Remember the 3-1-1 rule and that carry on liquids are only up to 3.4 ounces. If it’s over you’ll be required to throw it away.

All these items and things you see here on this list are things I use & love to travel with.