10 Must-Haves for Your Carry-on Bag

Whether you’re a first-time flyer or a frequent traveler, having your carry-on bag packed with the proper essentials will make your flight a much more enjoyable experience. Delayed flights, a noisy neighbor, or cold cabin temperatures are just some of the things you may encounter while flying, but our list of carry-on must-haves will help you arrive to your destination refreshed and ready to take on your next adventure!

1. Properly Sized Carry-On Luggage: Before you start packing, check that your carry-on luggage meets all size requirements set by your airline. Many airlines have size restrictions to ensure bags will fit in overhead compartments or under the seats. If you’re in need of new carry-on luggage be sure to check out Samsonite – AAA Members save 20%!

2. Passport/ID/Money/Travel Documents: You won’t get very far without your ID, plane ticket, and money. Double check (and triple check!) that you have these in an easily accessible place in your carry-on as you will be asked to show identification and your ticket at the airport.

3. Mobile Phone and Charger: Another obvious, but important, must-have carry-on item is your mobile phone and charger. If you know you’ll be using your phone frequently at the airport, consider also packing a mobile power bank in case you cannot find a free outlet to recharge.

4. Hand Sanitizer/Wipes: Airports and planes, like any public place, have a lot of germs. Keep your hands and tray table clean with sanitizing gel and wipes.

5. Travel Pillow: Bring your own comfortable, supportive travel pillow to ensure you get some restful sleep on the plane.

6. Noise-Cancelling Headphones/Ear Plugs: Having something to cancel out the surrounding noise will also help you relax and fall asleep during your flight.

7. In-Flight Entertainment: Keeping yourself entertained during a flight can help the time go by faster. Consider packing your tablet with pre-downloaded movies/TV shows, a book/magazine, or even some crossword puzzles to play.

8. Travel Water Bottle: The recycled air in a plane can dehydrate you – especially on longer flights – so be sure to pack your own empty water bottle to fill with water after the airport security check. This will also help save you money since you won’t need to purchase over-priced water bottles from the airport convenience stand.

9. Lip Balm/Hand Cream: The recycled air in a plane can also dry out your skin. Pack lip balm and hand cream in your carry-on to prevent chapped lips or knuckles.

10. Warm Layers: It can get pretty chilly on airplanes, especially if your neighbor has the cold air on full blast. Bring warmer layers in your carry-on like a light jacket or sweater. Or, you can even wear a large scarf that can be un-folded into a blanket to keep you warm on the plane.