A carry on has limited space and travelers want to be sure that they have all they might need for the flight and anything that they can’t be without if a checked bag is lost. Which, of course leads to the question of, “What to pack in a carry on?”

It’s easy to solve this question and have a list of essential carry on items to ensure that you never need to worry again if the right things are packed.

The great thing about the items in this list is that they can all fit in your small personal item bag that fits under the seat in front of you. That means you can travel carry on only and avoid traveling with a checked bag because clothes and everything else will fit in your larger carry on.

You’ll find this list contains not only important documentation but also comfort items that are suitable for even long international flights. Also in this list are valuable or difficult to replace items that you[‘d be worried about in a checked bag or if a bag is lost.

To the list!

Carry On Essentials

Not sure what you should pack in your carry on bag? Continue reading for a list of carry on essentials.

Passport/Other ID

These are essential documents for boarding your next flight or passing through customs. These should always be in your carry on luggage.

Cash, Credit Cards & ATM Cards

Cash, credit cards, and ATM cards should never be in your checked luggage. Checked luggage can be lost or even stolen and you don’t want to be penniless upon arrival.

Printed Itinerary/Hotel & Flight Confirmations

Having your itinerary or booking confirmations on your phone is convenient and the preferred way to show them if needed. However, printed confirmations are excellent backups in case your phone doesn’t have a data connection or isn’t able to connect to wifi.

Essential Medications & Prescriptions

You don’t want to worry about medication that you might need if checked bags are lost or delayed.

Pen

Bring at least one functioning pen for filling out customs forms for international travel, or even just for taking notes and doing crossword puzzles, sudoku, or other games to pass the time.

Electronics (Cell Phone, Tablet, Camera, Computer, Adaptors) & Other Valuables

Don’t put anything in your checked luggage that you can’t afford to lose. This means any electronics, jewelry, or other expensive and sentimental belongings. If you plan to use your electronic in flight, you might want to consider bringing an external battery to keep them charged.

Glasses, Contacts, Sunglasses

Glasses and contacts can be hard to replace when traveling. Sunglasses are easier, but save yourself the hassle and wear them while traveling or pack them in your carry on bag.

Change of Clothing (Underwear Too!)

It’s a good idea to have a change of clothes with you in case your luggage is lost or delayed. Yes, you can buy new clothes at your destination, but stores aren’t open 24-7, and you don’t want to live in the clothes you wore traveling. You might also want to bring a pair of flip-flops for shower shoes.

Entertainment

Long flights, especially in economy, can be awful. Make things less awful by packing a good book, movie, or something else to entertain yourself. The more immersed you are in your entertainment, the faster the flight will feel. Long flights generally have movies or other in flight entertainment, sometimes the selection can be disappointing. if you don’t want to bring a physical book, consider an ebook own your tablet or reader.

Eye Mask, Ear plugs/Noise Canceling Headphones.Sleeping Pills/Melatonin

If you have trouble sleeping with lights on, bring an eye mask to wear. Noise canceling headphones can be great because you block out the sound and you can entertain yourself with music. Alternatively, bring ear plugs to help mute the sound so you can sleep. Melatonin has proven to help with sleep, but if something stronger is needed, sleeping pills are an option.

Toothbrush, Toothpaste & Floss

On a long flight you might want to brush your teeth.

Antibacterial Wipes or Sanitizing Lotion

Airplane surfaces can be dirty. For some peace of mind, bring some antibacterial wipes to wipe down the tray and seat armrests.

Lotion, Lip Balm & Other Toiletries

If you’ve traveled by air, you likely already know that the air is dry up there. Lip balm and lotion are great for keeping yourself from getting dry skin or chapped lips. Also, bring any other toiletries you might need such as contact lens solution, makeup, or face wipes.

Scarf, Extra Sweater Or Fleece

It can get chilly on a plane. A scarf can help keep your warm or also serve as an eye mask. Even if traveling in the summer, you might want to bring a sweatshirt or fleece in case the plane gets too cold for your comfort.

Blanket

It’s said that blankets aren’t washed between flights, so you might want to bring your own.

Pillow

You might find it more comfortable to use a neck travel pillow or your own pillow. This is particularly advisable if you’re worried about falling asleep on your neighbor’s shoulder.

Compression Socks

If traveling on a long international flight, you might want to consider compression socks to prevent DVT. Anyone on a long cramped flight is at risk of forming blood clots. However, compression socks are an absolute must for those who are pregnant, older, or have a history of blood clots.

Face Mask

Some airlines do require that passengers when boarding and on the plane. Airlines might have extra masks for passengers, but it’s better to be not he safe side and bring your own mask.

Snacks

If you don’t like airplane food. or want some healthier options. Nuts or granola bars are good choices.

Bottle of Water

The air is dry on a flight and you can become dehydrated more quickly. Yes, the flight attendants do bring water, but it’s good to have an extra bottle with you for when the flight attendants are seated.

Now that you know the essential items of what to pack in a carry on, learn how to survive a long flight or travel without any checked luggage.