something i have always struggled with is what i should put in my carry on. it always feels like i over pack or don’t pack enough. however, i have finally found what works for me and to provide exactly what i need during those long flights.
first, the bag i put all of it in is a black bag that has gortex zippers and a separate compartment on the bottom for my camera and an extra lens. In the top compartment, is a padded space for an ipad or computer. there is a side zipper for passports, headphones, etc. on top of the bag is a phone pocket for spare change, chapstick, and a phone. the different compartments for my camera gear is the best part because i can easily access everything when going through the security line. i bought it on amazon two years ago, but can’t seem to find it specifically on their website anymore.
electronics
first of all i have my 11 inch mac book air. this is the best computer if you are a frequent traveller because it is so lightweight. i use pure gear bluetooth headphones, they come with different ear pieces to fit your ears, they charge in less than 10 minutes, and their battery life is exceptional. I also have a standard pair of headphones, so when i board the plane, i don’t have to use the headphones the airline provides. to charge the headphones i use this micro-usb cord that is very long and the package comes with at least four extra cords. i always have at least two iphone charging cables, because, let’s be honest, they never work when you need them to. these cables are longer than the normal ones, which is very helpful. staying with the charging theme, i carry a portable charger, just in case you’re out on the curb waiting for your uber and your phone decides to take a nap. depending on what country you are going to, you’ll want to carry the specific converter outlet. i always keep several different ones, just in case. these include a british, europe, and a multi-usb american one.
makeup/beauty
this is the most essential part of my carry-on, because when i feel better about how i look, i feel better about my cancelled flight or 13-hour layover. it’s also important to have these items in your carry-on in case your luggage gets lost or mishandled, this way you have basic stuff to keep you going until your luggage arrives. having contacts is far from convenient, but even more so while flying. even if you don’t have contacts, your eyes get extremely dry, so make sure to pick up some eye drops or saline solution. my chosen brand is biotrue because it is actually made to replicate your eye juices (is that a term??) I also carry two extra contacts, and a case. make sure all liquid things you have are under 3.4 oz otherwise you’ll have to throw them away before going through security. nothing feels better than brushing your teeth after traveling for so long, grab a small tooth brush and paste to stick in your bag. concealer is definitely a life saver when you’re trying to combat dark circles after a long flight. my go to concealer is by the nars brand, it blends perfectly with my skin and doesn’t cake on either, i use this with a standard brush or sponge. i also bring along mac mascara, and a compact mirror/powder from maybelline. if you’re on an overnight flight, it is essential to have makeup remover/refreshing wipes from NO7, combine this with no7’s daily scrub and you’ll have glowing skin. i use tom’s deodorant because it doesn’t have aluminum or harsh chemicals in it, snag a few sample perfume bottles of your favorite fragrance and you’re set in the smell department. throw in some of these hair-ties because it is practically impossible for your hair to get tangled with them. and finally, as a woman, it’s always important to carry a couple tampons and summer’s eve cleansing cloths (for when you can’t get a shower in!)
odds & ends
i always have some sort of travel journal with me, i typically use moleskin journals, unruled. but depending on what you prefer here is the ruled books, and a couple fountain pens for all the writing you will do. If there is one thing i’ve always been thankful for in my travels, it’s that i wrote about what was happening so i can remember the small details..an amazing meal, what the hotel smelled like, the great art museum you found accidentally. you will always need your passport, some exrra cash for coffee or a cab, your wallet that includes: insurance cards, social security number, an extra passport photo, credit cards, and your driver’s license. i wear a giant sweater because airplanes are cold, and i stuff an extra pair of underwear and socks to change when i land. while at airports, you encounter lots of germs and airplane food is sketchy. I bring along travel ibuprofen, pepto bismol tablets, and some vitamin c.
