Your carry-on bag should contain both the necessities for a pleasant flight and an emergency kit to survive a few days if there’s an issue with your luggage once you’ve landed. It’s therefore important to plan its contents carefully and know the rules so you don’t inadvertently pack objects that are prohibited on the aircraft.
Here are 13 items specially designed to make life easier for travellers.
(Video in French only)
1) A toiletry kit
Look for a travel kit made from durable fabric with several convenient compartments for storing toiletries. You can fill it with everything you need to freshen up during the flight.
2) A silicone bottle pouch
To carry gels and liquids on the plane, look for bottles with a capacity of no more than the authorized 100 ml. Storing them in a transparent pouch will also facilitate your passage through security at customs.
3) A change of clothes
Be sure to bring some underwear and extra clothes on the plane with you. They’ll come in handy if your checked luggage is misplaced by the airline.
4) A swimsuit and sandals
Flying to a sun destination? Be sure to include a swimsuit and a pair of sandals in your carry-on. This way, you’ll still be able to fully enjoy the beach if your suitcase arrives at your destination a few days late.
5) A passport holder
A carefully selected holder will store all family passports in one place. Several models also protect against identity theft by blocking the reading of RFID chips.
6) A travel guide
Take advantage of your time in the air to learn more about the country you’re about to visit. A detailed travel guide will help you gather information on the history, customs and tourist attractions that await you.
7) A travel log
A travel log is perfect for keeping the details about your itinerary, writing down your impressions along the way and gathering your favourite photos. Some also include checklists and a section for recording expenses. (In French only)
8) A travel pillow
Don’t skimp on the neck pillow you take with you on a trip. It’ll greatly contribute to your well-being and make your plane, train and car trips more comfortable.
9) A travel blanket
Avoid additional airline fees by bringing along your own travel blanket, which will prove useful throughout your journey.
10) A sleep mask
Do ambient noise and light keep you awake? Invest in an adjustable sleep mask. Nothing beats it to arrive well-rested and ready to go!
11) A reusable bottle
Water is sold at a premium once you’ve gone through security, so it’s best to plan ahead by packing a squeezable silicone bottle in your carry-on suitcase. You can fill it up and save a few precious dollars.
12) Earplugs
Earplugs are specially designed to reduce pressure during the altitude changes that occur on an aircraft. They fit perfectly in your ear to effectively reduce ambient noise.
13) Jet lag tablets
Crossing multiple time zones, breathing dry, recycled cabin air, and sitting for too long can leave many passengers feeling pretty tired and uncomfortable. Be sure to bring any medications you need to ease your symptoms.
If you put careful thought into packing your carry-on luggage, you may be able to avoid checking any bags and waiting in long lines at check-in and baggage claim. Make sure to choose a carry-on bag that’s regulation-sized and whose shape will allow you to effectively pack your travel essentials. Remember that travelling will be much easier if you only have one suitcase to lug around.
