The Curated Carry-On
WORDS: CHYKA KEEBAUGH
IMAGES: MARCEL AUCAR
Want to know what’s in my bag?
We all get flustered when travelling. From worrying about flight cancellations to delays, from travel anxiety to sleep deprivation, our destinations must be worth it for all the stress we go through to get there! Over the years, my stress levels decreased when I knew my carry-on luggage was well organised and almost as a little backup plan should any travel problems pop up. So what’s in my bag?
Travel documents: This includes your passport, ID, boarding pass, visa documents (if applicable), travel itinerary, and any other important documents you may need for your trip.
Wallet and money: Carry your wallet with cash, credit/debit cards, and any necessary currency for your destination. It's also a good idea to have a backup card or emergency cash in case of any issues.
Medications: Keep your prescription and any over-the-counter medications you may need during the journey or upon arrival. Ensure they are correctly labelled and easily accessible.
Electronics: Important electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, e-readers, or cameras should be kept in your carry-on to prevent damage or theft. Remember to pack their chargers or power banks as well.
Personal care items: Include a small toiletry bag with travel-sized items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, facial wipes, hand sanitiser, moisturiser, lip balm, and any other personal care items you may need during the journey. Remember to follow the TSA guidelines regarding liquids and gels.
Extra clothing: Pack a change of clothes, including underwear and socks, in case of delays or unexpected situations. This can come in handy if your checked luggage is lost or delayed.
Entertainment: Bring books, magazines, e-readers, and headphones for listening to music or watching movies during the flight or train ride.
Important valuables: Keep valuable items like jewellery, important documents (such as marriage certificates or business contracts), or sentimental items in your carry-on to ensure their safety.
An organised carry-on bag ensures easy access to essential items during your journey. By organizing your belongings effectively, you can grab things like travel documents, electronics, medications, or a change of clothes without rummaging through a disorganized bag.
With a well-packed carry-on, you can save time at the airport by bypassing the check-in and baggage claim processes. Many airlines charge additional fees for checked baggage, which can add up quickly, especially if you're travelling frequently. By packing efficiently and fitting everything you need into a well-organized carry-on bag, you can avoid these extra costs and allocate your travel budget to other expenses.
Packaging essential items in your carry-on make you better prepared for unexpected situations. If your checked luggage gets lost or delayed, you'll still have necessary things like a change of clothes, toiletries, and any essential medications. It's always a good idea to include a spare set of clothes and valuable items, such as electronics or jewellery, in your carry-on to ensure they remain safe and accessible.
