by Sunny
follow me on Twitter @Sunnylooksleaps
I am not a faithful “carry on only” traveler. I usually check a larger piece of luggage and then take a small carry on for the plane. When traveling stand by with my 5 year old, this is the best option for me. To make my life easier when it comes to packing and traveling, I have certain items that “live” in my carry on all of the time so that I don’t have to remember to pack them from trip to trip. Here is a quick peek into life in my carry on.
My most often forgotten items “live” in my carry on!
My Carry On – This carry on is my old trusty favorite. I received it before my daughter was born nearly six years ago, and I have yet to make a trip without it. It is actually a Vera Bradley diaper bag, but I have always used it for travel. I love that it is soft, has a zipper top, and has a variety of pockets inside and out. The pockets really help my items stay organized. It is also small enough to fit under the seat when traveling by plane, making all of my items easily accessible during the flight. The material is machine washable (or at least, that’s how I’ve always cleaned it!), and after 6 years there is very little sign of wear and tear. This bag has seen 19 states and traveled from NYC to LAX. Here’s what I put in it. I will go clockwise so you can follow along in the picture.
Scarf – Yes, a traveler’s favorite accessory! This white and silver scarf is basic enough to go with every outfit. It can be a fashion accessory or a wrap or blanket for keeping warm. And when my traveling companions accidentally spill their beverage or in-flight snack during turbulence, I have a stylish way of covering up the resulting stain on my shirt!
Snacks – This one has to be thought through and restocked from trip to trip. Obviously any perishables or anything that can melt is a no no. Think of hard candy like suckers and mints. Fruit chews are a good choice and will help with any ear discomfort in the same way gum will. These are also a smart idea for kids who are too young to chew gum. Just be sure to restock when you get back home!
Entertainment – If you travel with a child, they will expect to be entertained during travel. I always keep a set of magnetic dress up dolls in my carry on. And since they permanently reside in my bag, playing with them is a treat that MJ looks forward to. Any small toys that allow a child to use their imagination will usually keep them occupied for some time.
Sunglasses – I have mentioned this one before in the Keep Cute and Carry On post. Sunglasses top my “most forgotten item” list and my “I can’t live without it” list. Therefore, I keep an extra pair in my carry on for keeps.
Lip Balm – Another must have for travel, I always pack several lip balms. I keep this Eos one in my carry-on at all times to use during flights and to freshen up before landing.
Ponytail Holders – Even with a fresh blow-out, the dry air on a plane can do a number on a hairstyle. A couple of ponytail holders can be life saver. I always bring several to manage a variety of hairstyles or in case one breaks. They are also good for bundling items you may have collected during your travels such as a child’s crayons or markers.
Wet-Wipes -These are so handy for wiping down the tray table or a child’s sticky hands. Bonus if they are anti-bacterial! Tissues are also a must have.
Travel Document Pouch – I have a clear envelope-sized travel document pouch that I love. It fits all of our identification documents and our boarding passes. There are two pockets that keep all of my travel papers neat and organized.
What’s in your carry on? Any other items that should live in mine?