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Whether you're flying off to a dreamy destination, going on a scenic train ride or even driving on an epic road trip, packing smartly can make ALL the difference. In this blog post, I'll be sharing my top recommendations for must-have items to keep in your carry-on bag! 

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why carry-on travel essentials matter

🧳 Forget about the stress of cramming everything into a bulky check-in suitcase. With carefully selected carry-on essentials, you'll optimize your luggage space while staying within those annoying weight limits at the check-in counter.

🧳 Who wants to wait forever at baggage claim or worry about lost items? Traveling light with a carry-on bag grants you the freedom to breeze through airports and start your adventure right away.

🧳 Why do I limit myself to carry-ons only? Because let's face it, traveling can be chaotic, and simplicity is key! By going for carry-ons, you skip baggage claims, skip the anxiety of losing items, and walk out of the airport quickly like a travel pro.

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essential items for a smooth journey

NOISE-CANCELING HEADPHONES

When it comes to travel, I go for noise-canceling headphones. The reason is simple: prolonged use of earphones can be harsh on your eardrums. So, investing in a quality pair of noise-canceling headphones is a game-changer. Not only do they allow you to enjoy your favorite music without the hassle of subpar airplane headphones, but they also help you doze off peacefully without worrying about turning up the volume too high.

NECK PILLOW

Don't underestimate the power of a neck pillow, especially if you're a frequent traveler going on 8+ hour flights. Unless you're flying first or business class with lie-flat seats, chances are your seat won't offer the best comfort. That's when a trusty neck pillow comes to the rescue! With a neck pillow, you can say goodbye to those awkward neck angles and finally get some much-needed rest on the plane.

HAND SANITIZER & WIPES

Airplanes might claim to be clean, but the truth is, some are just not as spotless as they appear. After each flight, the cleaning crew rushes to tidy up the planes before the next set of passengers boards. To ensure your peace of mind (especially if you're a germaphobe like me) always carry hand sanitizers and travel cleansing wipes in your carry-on bag! These little lifesavers will come in handy when you want to sanitize the screens, windows, and even the touch screen TV’s (wipe that down too!) and tray table before settling into your seat.

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

Staying hydrated while traveling is crucial, no matter the size of your bladder (trust me, I get it!). Instead of spending a ton of money for a plastic water bottle at the airport, here's a savvy tip: bring your own reusable water bottle! Most airports offer clean and refreshing tap water, making it easy for you to refill your bottle and quench your thirst throughout your journey. Not only will you save money, but you'll also contribute to a greener planet by reducing single-use plastic waste.

TRAVEL JOURNAL + ERASABLE PEN

Calling all creative souls and idea enthusiasts! If you're someone like me who loves to let your imagination roam freely, consider packing a travel journal and an erasable pen in your carry-on bag. This dynamic duo allows you to capture every spark of inspiration, sketch captivating scenes, and jot down unforgettable moments during your journey. What's even better? The erasable pen comes to the rescue whenever you need a clean slate to continue your artistic adventure.

TRAVEL POUCH FOR YOUR PASSPORT & BOARDING TICKET

Here's a game-changing travel hack that will keep you organized and stress-free at the airport! Say hello to the mighty travel holder — a pouch that holds your passport(s) and all essential travel documents in one neat place. No more fumbling through your bag or panicking in long lines! With this lifesaver, checking in, getting your tickets, and breezing through TSA becomes a breeze.

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tips for efficient packing

📍 Keep It Together: Once you've assembled all your essential travel items in your toiletries bag or mini bags, store them in one designated area.

📍 Ready to Go: After your trip, simply place your travel toiletries and mini bags inside your carry-on luggage and store it away! This way, they'll be all set and ready for your next adventure. No more last-minute scrambling to gather your essentials!

📍 Streamlined Packing: When you're ready to travel again, you'll only need to focus on packing your clothes, accessories, and socks. With your travel-sized toiletries already organized and packed, you'll save time and eliminate the worry of forgetting something important.

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carry-on travel tips & regulations

📍 Complying with airline carry-on regulations: Before you travel, familiarize yourself with the specific carry-on size and weight limits set by the airline you'll be flying with. This will help you avoid any surprises or additional fees at the airport.

📍 Navigating security checkpoints: To breeze through security, wear slip-on shoes and pack your liquids in a bag. Have your passport or ID readily accessible (inside the travel zipped pouch 😉) and use TSA-approved lock for your carry-on.

📍 Liquid restrictions & packing for a hassle-free security screening: Remember to abide by the 3-1-1 rule for liquids - 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per container, all fitting into a single quart-sized bag, and one bag per traveler. Pack your toiletries strategically for quick and efficient screening.

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Last Updated: 10.15.2024