Just as planning a trip on an airliner takes time, so does organizing a carry-on bag. The more time spent in preparing a carry-on bag, the smoother the flight will be. Because flying can be stressful, it’s important to make a flight experience as pleasant and relaxing as possible. You will find tips below on what to pack in a carry-on bag.
What to pack in a carry-on bag
One way to have a more relaxing flight is to have an organized carry on bag. For example, a few dollar bills for tips should be in easy reach, along with identification items such as a passport or photo ID so you don’t have to search to the bottom of your bag when these items are needed.
The Functional Carry-on Bag
- Consider size: Although some carry-on bags have wheels and are easy to pull through an airport, they usually don’t fit underneath a passenger seat, as required upon takeoff and landing. Larger bags can be placed in an overhead bin; however, it’s much easier to pull out items from a bag underneath a seat than to stand up to pull out a bag to only to put it back when the plane is ready to land.
- Sturdy shoulder bag: bags are ideal carry-on; however, don’t select one that will place too much strain on your arm or shoulder.
- Bag lining: Select a carry-on bag with a light-coloured lining so it’s easier to see what’s inside while on the plane.
What Not to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
Check the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) or the TSA in the US to be sure not to have any items in your carry-on bag that aren’t allowed. Also, don’t pack newspapers and magazines you probably won’t even read. Just one newspaper or magazine can be heavy and take up too much room in a carry-on bag. Therefore, it’s a good idea to cut out only those articles you plan to read on the plane.
Taking Medicines and Toiletries in a Carry-on Bag
Often people who fly experience sinus headaches or nausea, so it’s wise to pack medications. When on an overnight flight, don’t forget basic items you use upon awakening. For example, pack a small travel tube of toothpaste and toothbrush. Baby wipes are good for refreshing your skin. Women can include a small Ziplock bag of makeup.
Packing Food for a Flight
Because most domestic airlines don’t serve meals, it’s a good idea to carry some food items in your carry-on on a flight. Protein bars are excellent choices, as they’re small yet provide energy. Also, carry an empty water bottle; although passengers aren’t allowed liquids at the security screening, they can bring an empty water bottle to fill with water after passing through security.
Clothes to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
Because planes are usually cold, include a pair of wool socks that are easy to slip on while in flight. Changing into a lightweight shirt or blouse helps refresh passengers on overnight flights. Also, sometimes extra tops are essential in the rare occasions when getting sick from eating too late at night. How to pack all your clothes in a carry-on? Roll your clothes in your carry-on as this will actually help to pack more clothes and with not having wrinkled clothes.
Taking Crafts on a Flight
Crafts such as needlework and knitting are pastimes for calming down nerves, but thought should go into how to pack them. For example, take smaller knitting projects such as a small ball of yarn and pattern for knitting socks. Coloured pencil artists can draw on board a plane, but need a colouring book or a piece of paper and a pencil bag for the pencils which will take more room in your carry-on suitcase.
How to pack a carry-on bag
Finally, don’t wait until the day before the trip to pack your carry-on bag. It usually takes a few trial runs and making lists before knowing just what needs to be packed and left behind, as well as how items should be packed in a bag. The more organized you make your carry-on bag, the more enjoyable your flight will be.
These tips on what to pack in a carry-on bag should definitely be useful when travelling on your next trip!
