Spoiler alert: it’s not all silk scarves and perfectly packed cubes.
As a travel advisor and frequent traveler, you might expect my carry-on to be a masterclass in minimalist packing—and okay, sometimes it is. But truthfully? My bag is often a jumble of the practical, the personal, and the probably-not-necessary-but-I-love-it-anyway.
Let’s start with the non-negotiables:
- Passport tucked into an inside purse pocket. I always snap backup photos and keep them in a labeled album on my phone + copies left behind with my most organized kid
- A small clear zip bag kit with meds, eye drops, lip balm, earplugs, chewing gum
- Noise-canceling headphones for when I just don’t feel like chatting
- Cables to charge my phone or iPad. (I do carry my iPad to fit in a bit of work in the airport lounge or gatehouse) Don’t forget an adapter if you are traveling to a country other than your own.
- A cashmere wrap that doubles as a blanket, pillow, or impromptu shawl for cold rainy arrivals
- Refillable filtered water bottle (Mine is a Grayl) attached to my backpack with a carabiner that I use for everything.
- Snacks that don’t melt, smell too strong or crunch too loud—my go-to’s are almonds, dried mango, jerky and a protein bar I’ll probably forget is there until the flight home
Then there are the wildcards:
- Tiny notebook (because I swear I get my best ideas somewhere over Iceland)
- A pair of flats or trainers I only wear for traveling but can’t seem to part with
- And yes… a lavender-scented hand wipe that makes me feel like I’m in first class, if by chance, I am not
Over the years, my carry-on has evolved from “just in case” chaos to a curated survival kit that keeps me grounded—even at 35,000 feet.
What’s in your carry-on?
