Often when we’re traveling, it’s not a question of if something will go wrong, but when something will go wrong. From missed flight connections to mysteriously disappearing hotel reservations, the chances are good that when you take a trip there will be at least one thing that is definitely not on your itinerary.
Lost luggage tops the list of things that can destroy a holiday in seconds, so check this list to find out exactly what you should be taking with you on the plane and what you shouldn’t. Of course, carry-on rules do vary by airline and country, but with this comprehensive list you can rest assured that you’ll at least have the things you need when travel throws a wrench into your best-laid plans.
Identification and Travel Documents
At the top of every list are always your travel documents. Not only do you need these to check in for your flight, but if you’re traveling internationally you’ll sometimes pass through immigration before you even get to baggage claim, so you’ll need your passport and any visas. Even better is to carry your passport on your person to further avoid any hassles.
Medications
If you take prescription medications then these should always be in your carry-on bag. Not only might you need your medication during the flight, but medications also have a suspicious way of going missing when they’re packed in checked luggage. If you travel with any controlled medications it’s also wise to have a copy of your doctor’s prescription.
A Change of Clothes
If the lost luggage debacle ever happens to you, you’ll be eternally grateful if you have a change of clothes in your carry-on. Even if it’s just a simple top and yoga pants, having the ability to shower and change clothes after a long flight will work wonders to improve your lost-luggage mood.
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes can work wonders in any type of luggage and save a great deal of space. Consider using a small one for your carry-on and you’ll find yourself able to fit a great deal more. However, since these types of compression cubes can add weight, be sure that your carry-on meets your airline’s regulations.
Makeup and Toiletries
Be sure that you have at least your basic makeup and toiletry items in your carry-on, especially if you have an important event soon after your arrival. However, most airlines won’t allow any liquids or creams over three ounces in volume so be sure to check before you pack.
Electronics
Not only do you need your electronics while you’re killing time until your flight, the last thing you need is a laptop that’s been damaged or stolen from your checked bag. If your airline also allows a personal item in addition to your carry on, be sure to take your camera bag on board with you as well.
Smoking Supplies
If you’re a fan of e cigarettes you’ll need to be sure that you pack your supplies in your carry-on luggage. Some airlines can be iffy about this so be sure to check with your carrier, and be sure that your liquid is always under three ounces. When you get off a long flight, a satisfying puff can make you feel a whole lot better.
Contact Information
In this age of phone app everything, it can seem redundant to print out paper copies, but they could save your sanity. Carry with you all of your flight and hotel information, including maps and phone numbers. If you arrive in Istanbul in the wee hours of the morning, simply showing a taxi driver a map can prevent a lot of headaches.
Valuable Items
Jewelry and other valuable or sentimental items should never be in checked luggage. If you’re not wearing the items, then they should be in your carry-on bag, or, even better, on your person. Airlines tell you not to pack these items in checked luggage for a reason.
Cash
If you’re the type that exchanges currency before you travel, then by all means take that on the plane with you. Not only can it go missing from checked luggage, but you may need the cash for unexpected fees at your arrival airport, especially for immigration related expenses.
Travel will always be unpredictable, but at the very least you can control what you bring onto the plane with you. Consider some of these tips for your next trip and enjoy your adventure just a little bit more.
3 comments
This is great…. Bookmarking for later
I think makeup and toiletries are essential, too. However, there’s no way the amount of makeup liquid could be within range so I always avoid carrying them on board, just to be safe.
I travel a fair bit (for work as well as play) and having a change of clothes, imho, is essential. Even if you don’t lose your luggage, it is so nice to have the option of nipping into the airport bathrooms to freshen up while you wait for your luggage to arrive.