It’s usually fairly easy to pack your checked luggage. Just jam in as much as you can and hope that you haven’t exceeded your weight limit! However, when it comes to packing your in-flight bag, things get a bit more confusing. What exactly should you put in carry-on luggage? Here are some expert tips to make sure that you get it right every time.
Keep Liquids In Small Containers
If you try to take liquids on board the aircraft you’ll find that they’ll be confiscated when you go through security. The latest regulations stipulate that liquids have to be under 100ml or 3.4oz if they’re to be taken in the cabin. That means you should only take essentials with you and pack the remainder of your liquids in your checked luggage.
Money And Identification
You’re definitely going to need to pack your money and ID in your cabin baggage. You certainly don’t want them to be stolen or lost, so you should keep them either on your person or zipped into one of your carry-on bag’s secure pockets. You should do the same for any expensive items that you’re taking like jewelry or credit cards.
Medications
If you’re taking either non-prescription or prescription medications frequently, put those in your cabin baggage too. You don’t want to find that you can’t access your medication in the event of a delay or if your luggage gets lost en route. Take all the medication you’ll need during your whole trip and if it requires a needle or comes in a liquid format, you’ll need a doctor’s note to explain why you require it so you won’t have any troubles going through security.
Electronics
It’s fair to say that baggage handlers can be quite rough with luggage. You don’t want fragile electronic items to get damaged in your checked bags so put them into your cabin bag to ensure they won’t get accidentally broken.
Entertainment
You don’t want to get bored on a long flight, or in the event of a delay, so make sure to take something to entertain you while you travel. Books, sketch pads and electronic games are all good ideas for keeping you busy.
Underwear
Lots of people don’t think about packing some spare underwear in their carry-on, but if you end up being delayed you could find that it’ll come in very handy.
Gum And Snacks
Airline food can be hit and miss, and airport food is expensive so bringing some snacks with you could be a good idea. Also, if you’re on a long flight you might find that some chewing gum will refresh your breath before you arrive at your destination.
If you take these key items with you in your cabin bag you’ll find your trip will be a smooth, trouble-free one. Always remember to check out the regulations from your airline though to find out what you’re permitted to take on the aircraft just to make sure you don’t fall foul of the rules. Enjoy your trip!
Sleepwear
I pack a change of clothes… pants, shirts, underwear, socks, plus an extra pair of underwear. If I’m traveling for a specific event that I need an outfit for, I’ll pack that too. It would be awful to have you baggage lost and not have a change of clothes or not have that expensive dress and shoes you just bought for that concert.
Toothbrush and travel size toothpaste.