Whether you’re a “carry-on only” hero or (like me) a chronic overpacker who wants to be better but also needs options… there are a few no-brainer items that absolutely belong in your carry-on.
I fully admire the people who can travel the world with nothing but a perfectly packed little roller bag. Meanwhile, I’m mentally preparing to survive three weeks in Europe next year and already apologizing to my luggage. But regardless of your packing style, having the right things in your carry-on can make your flight so much smoother — and a lot more comfortable.
Here’s my list of must-haves… and if I missed something, tell me! I love adding new essentials (and enabling future overpacking).
Carry-On Essentials (Alphabetized but Still Full of Chaos Energy)
• AirTag / Luggage Tracker – Because trust issues. I put these in every bag.
• AT LEAST one change of clothes – If your checked bag goes on its own vacation, at least you have PJs and a fresh outfit.
• Blanket – Yes, the plane might give you one. No, I don’t trust it. BONUS if it doubles as a pillow when not in use.
• Chapstick / Lip Balm – The cabin air will dry you out faster than a reality TV villain arc.
• Compression Socks (for long-haul flights) – Your legs will thank you when you land and can still walk.
• Earplugs – For when the baby cries, the engine hums, or the guy behind you decides he’s a travel vlogger.
• Eye Mask – I cannot sleep without one when I’m away from home, so it basically lives in my carry-on. If I am sleeping, I am SLEEPING — full darkness, do not disturb, thank you. (Pairs well with blanket, pillow, and melatonin!)
• First Aid Kit + Preventative Meds – Bandaids, alcohol wipes, aspirin, hangover meds, good vibes… basically everything you need to survive life at 35,000 feet.
• Glasses (if applicable) – Contacts are great until they’re not.
• Hand Sanitizer/Wipes – Let’s be real… planes are DIRTY. The flight attendants try their best, but that seatback pocket? That’s a lawless zone. I’m convinced it has its own ecosystem. I bring hand sanitizer and wipes to scrub my hands before and after eating, and I give my entire seat a full “mini makeover” before I even think about getting comfy.
• Headphone Adapter – So your wireless headphones can actually work with the seatback screen instead of mocking you.
• Jacket or Sweatshirt – Planes are either Antarctica or the surface of the sun. There is no in-between. I always bring one to survive whatever climate I’m walking into — and then I ALWAYS wash it afterward because… plane air. Enough said.
• Lotion – Again with the dryness — why are planes like this?
• Melatonin – For long-haul flights when your brain says “party” but your body says “we should be unconscious.” Also helps you adjust to the new time zone on long-haul flights.
• Passport / ID – Preferably not left at home. Keep a photo copy in your checked bag.
• Phone Charging Cable + Power Bank – A dead phone at the airport is a horror story.
• Prescription Medications – These NEVER go in a checked bag. We do not play those games. If you’re traveling abroad, keep them in their original containers with your name and the prescription label — because nothing says “vacation vibes” like trying to explain loose mystery pills to airport security.
• Reusable Water Bottle – Just remember to empty it before TSA unless you enjoy chaos. If yours has a straw make sure the straw is OPEN during takeoff and landing so it does not pull an Old Faithful (learn from my mistakes).
• Snacks – Plane snacks are cute… until they’re not enough.
• Tablet / E-Reader – For movies, books, and pretending you’re ignoring the person next to you.
• Toiletry Bag – Keep it TSA-friendly unless you enjoy unpacking your life in front of strangers.
• Travel Pillow – Still haven’t found “the one,” but it stays in the lineup.
• Wired AND Wireless Headphones – Wireless noise-canceling headphones are a MUST for me, but I always bring a wired pair as backup because technology hates me… and airline headphones feel like wearing two angry coasters on your ears.
Looking for a full packing list? Check out the Ultimate Packing List so you can sleep soundly the night before takeoff!
