I won’t say that I’m an expert packer, but when it comes to my carryon, I’ve curated a list of essentials that I always have on hand while traveling. Especially if I’m traveling international. Yes it adds some weight to my bag, but it makes sitting in economy on a 10 hour international flight…in a window seat a little less painful.
Face Mask
Most airlines no longer allow fabric face masks and require either KN95, N95 or a surgical mask. I also prefer to wear them when I’m in more crowded areas. Amazon has a ton of KN95’s to choose from. If you’re looking for something a little more stylish, Maskc makes KN95 is a variety of flattering colors. Evolve Together makes KN95’s with six layers including an activated charcoal layer to help reduce odors. They also come in 100% recyclable and biodegradable packaging which I prefer over some of the bulk masks that I’ve gotten off Amazon. With the amount of trash and plastic being generated from PPE, every little bit counts.
Hand Sanitizer and Sanitizing Wipes
A no brainer in the time of Corona and a necessity {IMO} if you are traveling. I have several travel bottles that I will refill over and over again. For hand sanitizer, my favorites are Dr. Shultz Clean Hands, Everyone’s Hand Sanitizer, and Dieux Awakening Hand Sanitizer. For sanitizing wipes, I try to steer clear of Clorox wipes and go for something less offensive that is just alcohol and essential oils {all you need is between 60-80% isopropyl alcohol to sanitize}, especially if I’m using it exclusive to sanitize surfaces.
Hand Lotion
This is one of those things that you don’t think you need, but is a total game changer. The airplane soap is super drying so I like to travel with something that is rich and creamy like Weleda’s Skin Food.
Deep Face Moisturizer
If I’m traveling international I usually do a full skin cleanse and moisturize before or when I board. At minimum, I apply a deep moisturizer to keep my skin hydrated while flying. {I was reminded of this when my husband pointed out my dry skin when we landed in San Francisco this morning….}.
My personal favorites are Aurelia’s Face Cream {day or night}, Idie Lee’s Squalane Face Cream, Summer Friday’s Jet Lag Mask {literally saved me on our flights to Bali}, and True Botanicals Overnight Mask.
Face Mist
Love giving myself a quick mist during the flight and when I land. It instantly makes me feel refreshed and less grungy. I love Marie Veronique’s Probiotic Mist, Tata Harper’s Hyaluronic Face Mist, Elique Organics Pampered pH and Living Libations Rose Glow Mist. Simple rose water {much cheaper} works too!
Neck Pillow
I got a rave recommendation for this neck pillow and bought it for our trip to Europe in 2019. It’s been my go-to ever since.
Noise Cancelling Headphones
WORTH. EVERY. PENNY. Seriously though, anything that gives you a little oasis of peace and quiet is so necessary while flying {even if it’s just ear plugs!}. I have Bose QuietComfort Wireless Headphones as well as the AirPod Pro love them both. Most of the time I’m wearing them, I’m not even listening to them.
Sleep Mask
Unless I’m exhausted, I’m one of those people that needs complete darkness to sleep. I recently tried BluBlox new sleep mask and slept like a baby. I also have the Silk eye mask which is a little easier to travel with as well as gentle on the eye skin.
Snacks
When I have kids, I’m totally going to be the snack Mom. I always have them. Below are the items that I always keep in a Stasher in my carryon.
- nut butter packets {Nuttzo or Wild Friends}
- oatmeal cups {Purely Elizabeth or Bob’s Red Mill}
- granola bars {Evo Hemp, Thunderbird, or Sakara}
- fresh fruit and/or veggie {depending on the flight}
- a homemade meal*
*If my flight is more than 3 hours and I’m flying in the morning, I usually pack an oatmeal cup {I like Purely Elizabeth because it comes with granola}, a nut butter packet and some fresh fruit and make yourself an oatmeal bowl in flight. {All you need is hot water!}. If I’m flying in the afternoon, I usually do a veggie bowl with quinoa and avocado.
Something To Read
For when you need a break from watching movies. I do my best to read physical books as I spent most of my days on a screen. The hard part is deciding which ones are worthy of taking space away from my precious suitcase space. Below are a few that are on my radar.
- Unraveled: The Life and Death of a Garment by Maxine Bedat
- Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney
- In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
- A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose by Eckhart Tolle
- The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
XO
~S
P.S. Always pack a toothbrush! You never know when you’ll need it or want to freshen up on the go.
