What’s in my carry on?

It has come to my attention, that people don’t always know what they need on a plane, specifically for long flights. Well, I’ve been on only a few (Ha!) so I figured I’d share what I usually bring. 

9/10 the carry on or ‘personal item’ that I use on planes is my Longchamp. THIS bad boy is the ABSOLUTE perfect size, it fits literally everything and if I need it to, it folds up to be incredibly small. I’ve used these bags for like 8+ years and have had several colors, you just can’t go wrong!

Rarely do I use a backpack when I travel (usually only for mission style trips), but this BEIS one is a great option if you prefer backpacks!

Usually, I just try to organize my bag so that stuff is in the order I know I’ll need it. It makes it so much easier getting through security and getting settled on the plane!

Anywho, here are my non-negotiable carry on items no matter the length of the flight:

1. Flight documents. Passport/ID and boarding pass. 
2. Laptop (and its charger). I like to work on planes so I always have it with me. Plus, I’d rather have it with me than in checked luggage.
3. Phone (and its charger). I mean, pretty self-explanatory, right?
4. Wallet. Again, pretty self-explanatory.
5. Kindle. If you haven’t gotten one of these yet, you haven’t LIVED. This is my favorite thing ever, I even keep it in my day-to-day purse for any chance I get to read.
6. Small notebook. I always keep these small notebooks with me for any ideas, thoughts, reminders, or vent sessions that I need to get out. THIS one is tiny and perfect for travel.
7. Headphones. I pretty much always have my airpods with me, but a friendly reminder that if you want to watch anything on the plane screens (shoutout Delta), you need normal headphones too! I always carry both, just in case. 
8. Scarf. I ALWAYS have a scarf on flights. They are great to keep on during a flight and if it’s thicker, it doubles as a blanket! THIS is my favorite one ever, but if I’m going somewhere warm I’ll bring something lighter. 
9. Waterbottle. I always fill one up after security!
10. Snacks. For some reason, I always need a snack on a plane, no matter the length. Always come prepared with a few…my go-to are Cheez-its and pretzel M&Ms (I never said I was the picture of health here).
11. Gum. For all your ear-popping needs (and if you need minty fresh breath).
12. Hand sanitizer or wet wipes. Use it, use it often, then use it again. 
13. Make-up bag. Don’t generally use it, but just in case I’d rather have it with!
14. Hairbrush. Better safe than sorry.
15. Toiletries. I only bring what I know I’ll use which is deodorant, face wipes, and perfume. 

If I’m going on a longer flight, particularly a longer flight, I’ll throw this stuff in there too:

1. Eyemask. I’m really not picky with my eyemasks, I just use a cheap one. They fold up teeny tiny and they are great if you need it. 
2. Neck pillow. A LIFESAVER on overnight flights, but on just long flights are kind of a waste of space! For the record, this one is my favorite!
3. Socks. I always put on a thick pair of socks for comfort and just in case my feet smell when I take off my shoes (just being honest). 
4. Extra layer. Planes get c-o-l-d, COLD. I like having a cardigan or sweater because otherwise, I’ll freeze.
5. Extra outfit. It happens, you know lost luggage. Help yourself and just have an extra outfit with you just in case. 
6. Portable charger. Depending on your plane, you’ll probably have access to a charger, but I bring one for the airport or just in case the one on the plane doesn’t work. 
7. Medication. Me+meletonin = knocked out for a flight (if its an overnight flight). I’ll usually bring a small amount of Advil or cold medication if I have a cold, just for some discomfort help!

I’m sure you’re thinking, how in the world does this all fit? Sometimes I ask myself that too. But luckily, I haven’t had any problems yet! Hopefully, this helps if you need it!