Hi travelistas! My name is Katie Lopus, and I’m the gal behind KLO on the go. I’m a D.C. based travel blogger with a passion for jet setting around the world and popping champagne. By the time I was 3, my parents had carried baby Klo around to 21 countries. It was no surprise that growing up, traveling was my obsession. From camping in the Sahara Desert to cliff diving in Santorini – the carry on items I’m going to share with you have kept me going.
Being an avid traveler, I’ve been on my fair share of flights around the world. From flying on one hour flights, to one of the world’s longest flights (from Dubai to Orlando, 18 hours – eeek!) I have named myself the Carry On Queen. What you bring with you can make or break your flying experience.
Today, I’m sharing some essential carry on items to make sure you’re fully equipped for your next flight. Whether your trip is a couple hours or 18 hours – have all the supplies you could need for the best flight you’ve ever had.
Luggage/Bags
Let’s start with the basics!
Longchamp Tote – This is my go-to carry on bag, it’s the perfect size to throw everything you need, yet can be folded up super small when you aren’t using it.
Four Wheeled Carry-On Luggage – It’s important to choose a light weight bag, which is easy to maneuver. Having four wheels on your bag makes a world of the difference. Check out this Samsonite bag – love the jewel tone options!
Hydrating Secrets
It’s critical to stay hydrated on flights, for your skin and body’s sake.
Reusable Water Bottle – I’m a loyal S’well fan, love this one!
Eye Drops
Evian Mist Spray
Rose Face Mask – Anything with rose in it is extremely moisturizing, this mask is my favorite go-to!
Moisturizer
Carry-On Cocktail Kit – Well, this one may not be so hydrating but a super cute kit to take your cocktail to another level. Tip: Buy mini alcohol bottles to do your own sky high DIY cocktail, while saving $$
Hygiene
Just to freshen up and not feel grimy during your flight!
Deodorant
Toothbrush + Toothpaste
Makeup Basics – To re-apply when you land
Hand Sanitizer + Clorox Wipes – I don’t want to get into the details of how dirty a plane can be, or how easy it is to get sick from someone else on a flight. Use the Clorox wipes to clean the seat and armrests before you get settled, to prevent any post-plane illness.
Comfort
Fluffy Socks – No better feeling than taking your shoes off and putting on comfortable socks during a flight. This way, you can roam the plane aisles with them on.
Comfy Sweater or Scarf – To use as a blanket
Eye Mask + Earplugs – For ultimate sleeping comfort
Entertainment
Headphones
Kindle or iPad
Audible + iBooks
Portable Charger
Food
Let’s not forget the most important items.
Snacks + Gum – Airport snack prices are outrageously high, so to save money – come prepared. My go-to snacks are KIND Bars and Gummy Bears. Especially if your ears pop, it’s good to have hard candy or gum to chew on.
Other
Valuables- Although theft isn’t common, you don’t want to risk losing your luggage and never seeing your valuables again.
Itinerary and Documents – Airlines have apps where you can download your boarding pass. Tip: I always transfer it to my Apple Wallet, just in case the app glitches as I need to present it.
Medications
Climate-appropriate outfit – When I want to wear a different outfit other than what I wore on the plane, I bring it in my carry on, or lay it on top of the clothes in my suitcase. This way, it’s accessible for arrival.
What you can’t carry on
Some of these may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised at the amount of these items TSA collects daily. They even feature objects they’ve taken away on their Instagram @tsa. If you have any doubts on if you can or can’t bring something on board, tweet your picture to @askTSA or send them a message on Facebook.
Tools exceeding seven inches in length
Liquids/Gels over 3.4 ounces
Sharp Objects
Sporting Goods
Self-Defense Items
Guns
What are your favorite carry on items? Follow me on Instagram @katielopus to follow my adventures!
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