Not sure what you need to pack in a carry on bag? Here are my carry on essentials that I bring with me on every flight -whether a short flight or a long haul international flight.

My carry on bag packing list includes all the essentials I need to be comfortable and entertained on the plane plus items that are too valuable or hard to replace in the event my checked luggage is lost or delayed.

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Carry On Essentials

These flight essentials are always packed in my carry on bag.

Sanitizer

Airplanes can be very dirty so I always bring antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizer with me when I fly.  I use sanitizing wipes to wipe down my tray table, arm rests, seat belt buckle etc as soon as I take my seat.

I use hand sanitizer to clean my hands before I eat and after using the bathroom. If you want fewer liquids, I like these wipes which are individually wrapped.

Lip Balm and Moisturizing Lotion

The air in the flight is very dry so I always bring lip balm and lotion to keep my lips and skin moisturized.

Electronics

Make sure to pack your electronics (and chargers) in your carry on bag. Not only are they probably too expensive too lose but you can also use them to keep yourself entertained on your flight by watching movies, shows and videos or listening to podcasts. Make sure to download podcasts, movies or videos on your device before you leave.

External Battery

I always pack an external battery to charge my phone and electronics because most planes don’t have enough power outlets in economy class.

Noise Cancelling Headphones

Noise cancelling headphones or ear plugs are useful for blocking out noise which will help you sleep.  If you plan to watch movies or listen to podcasts on your electronic devices, headphones are a must.

I recommend these Bose headphones.

Reading Material

Other than sleeping, the best way for me to pass the time on a long flight is to get lost in a good book. A Kindle or E-reader is a space saver for avid readers.

Eye Mask

If you will be flying during daytime and want to sleep on the plane bring an eye mask to block out the sun from passengers leaving the window shades up.

Compression Socks

If you are traveling on a long haul economy flight, consider wearing compression socks to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) especially if you are pregnant, older or have a history of blog clots.  these socks can be worth by both men and women and come in variety of colors and patterns.

Scarf

I also never fly without a scarf since I am always cold on planes. You can also use a scarf to block out light in case you did not bring an eye mask.

Layers

Airplane cabins are frequently kept very cold so I never fly without an extra layer such as a cardigan or hoodie even in the summer.  Even in the winter, it is important to wear layers because the plane can be very hot before the air conditioning is turned on. Dress in layers so that you be comfortable whether the cabin is warm or cold.

Change of Clothes

I always pack a spare change of clothes (including underwear) in my carry on bag in case my checked bag is lost or delayed.

Pillow

Personally, I don’t need a neck pillow but many people that can’t get comfortable or sleep well without a neck travel pillow. This Trtl Pillow and the J Pillow both get really good reviews.

Face Mask

While mask mandates have been lifted in many countries and airlines, some international airlines and airports require face masks. These reusable face masks.are really cute.

Snacks

For those that want a healthier alternative or are picky eaters bring some snacks on the plane. I always bring a few energy or granola bars just in case I get hungry between meal service or I don’t like the food.

If you are flying with toddlers or young children, snacks are a must to avoid the hangries.

Reusable Water Bottle

I always bring a reusable water bottle full of water when I board a plane which is handy if I get thirsty before drink service begins.  For those that want to be eco-friendly, you can ask the flight attendants to fill up your bottle instead of using a disposable plastic cup.

Carry On Bag Packing List

These essentials might be obvious to most people but don’t forgot to pack them in your carry bag bag.

Passport/Identification

Don’t forget to bring your passport for international flights or other identification for domestic flights.

Credit/debit cards and Cash

Credit cards, debit cards and cash should never be packed in your checked luggage.

Expensive Jewelry and other Valuable Items

Don’t pack anything in your checked bags that is too valuable to lose including expensive jewelry and other valuables.

Prescription Glasses/ Contacts

Prescription glasses and contacts can be hard to replace while traveling and should always be in your carry on bags. Don’t forget your contact lens solution.

Essential Medication

You don’t want to worry about not having medication you need if your checked bag is delayed or lost.

Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss

If you have a long flight you might want to brush your teeth on the plane.  Personally I find it easier to sleep after I brush my teeth, so I always pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss in my carry on bag.

Pen

Bring your own pen for filling out customs forms (when traveling internationally) or doing crossword puzzles.

What essential items are always packed in your carry on bag?