These are all my favorite carry on essentials for everything from backpacking Europe, cruising the Caribbean or even a road trip to the mountains.
Every day is one step closer to summer and summer = vacation time! This is the time of year that I go on most of my adventures since the weather in Utah is pretty bipolar during every other season. I have a ton of friends going on trips and we are still trying to solidify our plans. I always forget to pack something so I put together a list of my carry on essentials. When you get to your destination, this will allow you to hit the ground running!
Chapstick/Lipstick
I’m not sure why, but my lips get incredibly chapped on planes! I always have a chapstick with SPF in my bag or a lipstick so I can apply before I land.
Cash
No matter where I’m going, I take cash out beforehand. Sometimes you can find yourself in a pinch. Also, some vendors only take cash depending on where you’re going. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Journal
I went on a study abroad to Europe three years ago. I made sure to buy a journal beforehand so I could document all about my travels. This is one of my most treasured possessions, because I can relive those moments and read about that part of my life. If you can, it is my #1 favorite carry on essentials.
Pen
I can’t document my journey without a good pen! In every bag, I have this same type of pen. It’s my absolute favorite and I never go anywhere without one.
Eye Mask
I don’t know about you, but I can sleep just about anywhere. Keep an eye mask handy to block out the light and get the rest you need before reaching your destination.
Scarf
Packing a scarf into a bag can help in case of any cold chills. I know I am freezing all the time on planes or on the beach at night. This can double as a blanket and as an accessory!
Set of Clothes
I never did this until Taz told me about it. In case our luggage gets lost, there’s nothing better than having a spare pair of underwear. It sounds funny, but you’ll thank me later!
Sunglasses
I always have a pair of sunglasses in my bag. On road trips, I wear them constantly or I take them out as soon as I hop off a plane because I’ve been in the dark for hours.
Passport
I recognize that I don’t necessarily need a passport for a road trip, but I guess it depends where you’re driving to. It can work as an additional form of ID so it never hurts to have on hand.
Headphones
I don’t have to tell you this, but these headphones are a lifesaver! Drown out sound, watch a movie or jam out. I usually have two sets just in case.
Battery Pack
This battery pack has changed my life for the better! It helps charge my phone in a pinch since outlets at airports are few and far between. AND cars usually don’t have a plug.
Kindle
This is definitely one of my go to carry on essentials. I love to read, but I hate lugging around a bunch of books since I read quickly. I’ve talked about this kindle before, but these are super lightweight and a great way to read no matter the time of day.
Gum/Snacks
I am a snacker! In my carry on, there’s a ton of snacks for the trip and if I’m ever in a pinch. I pack enough to share with Taz too.
Regular Glasses/Pair of Contacts
I forget these a lot since I don’t wear glasses all the time. If you need glasses or wear contacts, I pack my glasses and case or an extra set of contacts. I’m not a contact wearer myself, but if I was I know I would definitely need an extra set while on vacation.
Toiletries
These are a given. A stick of deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, and makeup wipes help me freshen up no matter where I am.
These are my 15 must-have carry on essentials! These are the things I grab no matter where I’m going. What are your favorite things to bring on vacation? I have my full packing list in this post. Leave your suggestions in the comments and I’ll add some to the list.
XOXO Kayla
