Carry-On Essentials for the Frequent Traveler

This year I promised I’d turn in my wings. Last year I was traveling practically more than I was home, and while a lot of it was fun, it was also very exhausting. That said, visiting mom is still a must, so here I am typing from sunny Florida. When you’re traveling so often, you get good at packing. Today, I thought I’d share the carry-on essentials I always have with me in the air.

Claire’s Carry-On Essentials

 

All the Cables

I really do mean all of them. I keep two 6’ cords – one for my Kindle and another for my iPhone – with a dual-charger wall plug. This is so that in case I’m not able to grab a spot right next to an outlet, I have a longer reach.

I also keep a portable charger that is no joke for when I’m on the flight or if I can’t get a spot anywhere near an outlet at the gate. With that, I have a cable that has multiple connection types.

When I travel, I’m so reliant on technology – both for work to check emails and jump on conference calls when necessary, and for fun – hello Tetris and text messaging on the flight. It’s important to me that I never risk running out of power.

Plus, I have a cute little zip-pouch that keeps it all together.

Headphones

If you know me, you know I’m rarely walking anywhere and without my headphones in. Music, podcasts, phone calls, you name it, I have to have headphones with me at all times.

Healthy-ish Snack

I always keep a Kind bar or something similar on me in case the airport has a deficiency of healthy options or if I’m running low on time and don’t have a chance to stop. Much to my pilot dad’s dismay, I’m not a huge fan of peanuts and pretzels, and while Delta seems to be expanding snack options, I like to be prepared.

Hydration and Moisturizers

Flying has a way of drying you out and it’s tough to stay hydrated on the move. I keep an empty water bottle in my bag that I fill up past the security checkpoint. No one wants to spend $6 on a bottle of water in the airport. I also always have lip balm and lotion with me when I fly.

Toiletries

Mini pack of Kleenex, hair tie, breath mints. Because, duh.

Kindle

I’m a very fast reader and get indecisive about what to read next, so having one small Kindle vs two or three paper backs is a must. I have an old model that’s been going strong since 2012!

 

There are of course other things – my wallet, keys, and my laptop – boring stuff. What’s in your carry on?