Summary: Bring these essential carry-ons on your next flight to ensure you have everything you need.
Flying can be stressful, whether you’re a seasoned flyer or it’s one of a handful of trips you’ve taken in your lifetime. However, there are certain things you can bring along with you in the airport that will make you considerably more comfortable both on your flight and while you are hanging out in the terminal. To make your next trip as smooth as possible, here are six essential items to keep in your carry-on.
- Reusable water bottle. Bring an empty water bottle and fill it up right after you get through security. Traveling is dehydrating and you’ll feel a lot better, and save a lot more money, if you have a full water bottle with you on your flight.
- Wi-Fi free source of entertainment. Many airports and planes provide Wi-Fi, but many require you to pay for it. If you’re not willing to dish out money to connect to the internet or don’t have the option, make sure to have pre-downloaded entertainment or a good old fashioned book to help pass the time.
- Snacks. We all know that airport food is incredibly overpriced, but sometimes you might be hurrying to your flight and not get a chance to pick up some food. Always keep a snack or two in your bag. You never know when you’re going to be stuck on the runway for a while, and it’s best to be prepared rather than hungry and upset.
- Travel-sized toiletries. Whether you get dry hands and are desperate for lotion or you’re going on a long-distance trip, having a few toiletries with you can make traveling considerably more comfortable and clean.
- An extra shirt and underwear. This may seem silly, but if you’ve ever had your luggage lost then you know exactly what I’m talking about. Even if you’re flying somewhere familiar, keep a few extra items of clothing in your bag just in case you’re left without your luggage for a day.
- Earplugs or headphones. If you’re on a longer flight and want to get some shut-eye, ear plugs or noise-cancelling headphones can make a huge difference in allowing you to sleep. Even when flying overnight, planes are inevitably noisy, so any way to cancel out noise can make the experience much more comfortable.