The Ultimate Carry-On Bag

Everything in My Carry-on Bag for a Long-Haul Flight

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Someone recently asked me (ok, it was my sister) what I pack in my personal carry-on bag for an international or long-haul flight. Immediately, I went over to my tote, dumped it out, and started making a list.

Just so we’re clear, my personal carry-on is the bag that I shove under the seat in front of me on a flight. It isn’t a rollerboard stored in the overhead bin or a checked suitcase. It is just the stuff that I want to be able to access to during my flight.

I ended up with a surprisingly long list, but everything can be lumped into one of seven categories: wallet, snacks, meds, toiletries, electronics, entertainment, and comfort. In this post, I’ll share the items I find most useful to have in a carry-on bag for any long-haul flight to help get your mind jogging about what you might want to have in yours!

But, first, the carry on bag itself! My favorite travel tote is a quilted nylon weekender. It zippers on top so your stuff doesn’t spill out, has lots of pockets for organization, is easy to clean and maintain, and is super roomy. These are available in several different colors (I have it in Black, but also crushing on the Oatmeal).

Travel Documents and Wallet

My travel wallet has built-in RFID material, can accommodate my passport, and has a zippered compartment for coins. I leave behind my loyalty cards and extra payment cards that I don’t need (just in case I loose it, it minimizes the risk). My wallet contains: passport, drivers license, credit card, debit card, health insurance card, auto insurance, covid vaccination card, and cash. I also keep a hard copy of any essential travel confirmation numbers I may need at the airport, such as flight confirmations, rental car info, baggage claim stub, etc.

Electronics

Your various electronic devices and accessories will probably differ a little from mine. I avoid bringing my computer unless I’m traveling for work. Obviously, I pack my phone, charging cables, and an extra power bank. Additionally, I like to pack my AirPods. Noise cancelling headphones are also really nice to have, but since I am usually carrying my bulky camera equipment, I typically don’t bring any other large electronics with me. Occasionally, I’ll also bring my iPad if I think I’ll have time to read at my destination.

Toiletries

It is nice to have a few things to keep you feeling fresh and presentable. Stall Mates Wipes are easy to pocket for a quick trip to the lavatory. There is a difference between hand sanitizing wipes for your skin vs. disinfecting wipes for surfaces. I definitely recommend both. Other little niceties include tissues, a mini hair brush, lip balm, hand cream, ponytail holders, a nail file, dental floss, eye drops, and a compact mirror. If you are meeting people at your destination, a travel-sized tube of toothpaste and toothbrush would be nice for a quick freshen-up after landing. Otherwise, Altoids can hold ya over until you get in to your hotel room. A clear TSA-approved toiletry bag or small cosmetic bag to store everything will help it all stay organized in your carry-on tote.

Medications

Obviously, if you have any prescription medications, it is important to keep these with you at all times. I also like to travel with Advil and melatonin to help me nod off for a bit. I have prescription Scopalamine patches, which I highly recommend asking your physician about if you are prone to motion sickness. If you are traveling to a high altitude destination and want to take preventive meds for altitude sickness, it might be a good idea to have these in your carry-on, as well.

Entertainment

While I try to sleep for as much of a long-haul flight as possible, there is usually some time at the airport or on the plane when a book or movie can help pass the time. I always download the airline entertainment apps and any e-books prior to leaving for the airport. Of course, that also means I need to have my reading glasses and Peeps with me so I can see stuff in focus (lol). I also carry a small travel notebook and pencil pouch for making notes, writing lists, etc.

Snacks

Always have snacks. I chuck a few different things in my bag such as liquid hydration single-serve packs, granola bars and hard candy. A re-usable water bottle is nice to have (and to continue to use when you reach your destination). Crazy as this sounds, I also always have a few packettes of sugar and salt in my bag because I cannot eat bland food or unsweet coffee. Just pick-up a couple extra next time you eat out to save for your trip:)

Comfort

Finally, and most importantly, are all the things to help make you as comfortable as possible during your flight. A travel neck pillow is a must. Some people also really like to pack a sleep mask. I always have a cashmere scarf and/or a sweater with me because I freeze on planes. Not something you would pack in your carry-on bag, but I also recommend wearing compression socks during long-haul flights. And, finally, a protective face mask is always nice to have with you. Even though most places are past any requirements to wear a face mask, these are still nice to slip on if you are seated next to somebody who is gross and sniffly.

Most of these things are available online at Amazon, but many items can be found at the grocery store or a local retailer. In case you forget anything truly essential, most airports will have what you need (albeit, at a huge markup). Just don’t leave home without your passport and wallet!

So, where ya headed?