I’m treating myself to a mini-vacation soon to get some much-needed sun and relaxation — with the focus on packing light. I prefer not to check a bag in general because I have a fear of losing my luggage and I hate waiting at baggage claim post-flight. Since this trip is under a week and I’m visiting my parents versus staying at a hotel, I don’t need much anyway. That being said, no matter how long I’m traveling for or where I’m going, there are a few things I always like to have on hand during the flight.
A backpack. I was eyeing this red Dagne Dover bag for a while before I finally caught it on sale and took the retail plunge. Backpacks are always easier at the airport and this one has a sleeve on the back so I can slide it right over the handle of my carry-on suitcase. There are also a bunch of pockets which is essential for any bag I buy. HIGHLY recommend.
A waterbottle. I am obsessed with my camo canteen for no reason other than that I dig its aesthetic. It keeps liquids cold-ish but I prefer them room temperature anyway so that’s not really a deal-breaker for me. Water is wildly expensive at the airport and it’s a rip-off. You can find a perfectly good water fountain near every gate so there’s no excuse not to bring your own water bottle not only to save money but also the environment. #nature
A book. I’m more of an electronics kind of girl on airplanes but sometimes you lose power and need something a little more basic. It’s always nice to have a backup form of entertainment and this is a book I’ve read over and over.
Snacks. Delays happen and having snacks on hand is always ideal. I admit I was influenced on both these products but I swear by Smart Sweets and Verb Energy Bars. This is not a sponsored post so I don’t need to go into details on either of those but check them out for yourself. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Socks. Feet get cold on airplanes and unless you have TSA pre-check, you’re probably taking your shoes off at some point. Both of those are enough reason to keep socks in your carry-on.
A scarf. Piggybacking off the socks, a scarf is key for a few reasons. You can use it as a blanket if you get cold, you can wear it around your neck so it’s not taking up space in your bag through the airport, and you can use it as a pillow or to cover your face if you tend to sleep with your mouth open on the plane. 🙋
Headphones. I have airpods but always bring headphones with a cord when I travel to plug into the TV and also in case my Bluetooth fails.
Hand sanitizer: Because germs.
Deodorant: If you have a long day of travel — or even if you don’t — you’re going to be in close quarters with strangers and planes can get hot and stuffy. Try your best not to make it worse by smelling, too.
Lotion. The air is incredibly dry on planes. I can immediately feel my skin drying out as soon as we hit cruising altitude. Pro tip: find one that is unscented because there’s nothing worse than smelling someone’s floral lotion on an airplane.
Chapstick: Similar to above but also because it’s an easy way to feel like you’ve freshened up after a long flight if it has a tint to it.
Face/cleansing wipes: I’m harping on the idea that planes make you feel gross but let’s be honest — they do. I usually have makeup wipes in my bag to feel a little less grime-y but they’re also helpful to wipe down your seat/area around it.