Today’s questions comes from Hayley, who just can’t seem to believe that I can pack minimally. Believe me, it comes with practice, and there are trips where it’s a real challenge. Here’s Hayley’s question:
Q. I can’t believe you can pack so light. What do you take in your carry on?
A. This varies based on whether I’m traveling for work or pleasure. If it’s work, there are some additional things that I have to carry, and when I’m in uniform, I’m exempt from the no liquids rule. Since most of you will need to be in compliance with the no liquid rule, here’s a run down of what’s in my carry on if I’m flying away for a getaway weekend.
- Netbook – I downsized to this for my trip to Europe this year, and boy did it free up space and weight!
- iPod
- Camera and FlipCam
- Gadget accessories – chargers, mouse, extra cards
- Notepad and pens/pencils, envelopes, file folder with trip info in it, miscellaneous stuff to collect additional information while on trip
- Make up and toiletries
- Bag of liquids – deodorant, toothpaste, perfume, cleanser, moisturizer, mascara, lipstick and gloss,and small-sized hair products
- Change of clothes – usually just another t-shirt or blouse, underwear, socks, and a swimsuit (if I’m going somewhere warm)
- Sleepwear
- Snacks – I’m a big fan of packing something healthy to eat on the road
- Jewelry
- Kindle
And that’s it! Everything else goes in one roller bag that I check.
My carry on contains the essentials that I’ll need so I’m not bored during the flight, keeps my valuables with me, and with a change of clothes can get me through an overnight if my bag is delayed. Really — I CHECK MY BAG! I made a few modifications for a three week trip, but the basic framework for my packing is always the same. And if I’m on a ticket (rather than flying on a pass), I always check my bag.
What do you pack in your carry on?
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