Are you gearing up for your next adventure but feeling overwhelmed by the thought of packing? Don’t fret! We’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to packing your carry-on bag essentials for both adults and kids, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience for the whole family.
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For the Adults
Travel documents (passport, boarding passes, travel insurance, etc.)
Having your travel documents organized and at the ready is paramount to anything else. Without these, you won’t be going anywhere! Keep everything organized and stylish in one of these RFID protective holders.
Reusable water bottle
If you haven’t traveled by air before or haven’t traveled in a while, life update…airport EVERYTHING is overpriced. Especially water. Not only that, but the plastic bottles become pressurized with the cabin, leak, explode…all the fun stuff. Pack a reusable water bottle that can be filled up at a water filling station or an airport restaurant.
Snacks
More carry-on bag essentials: Quick, easy, non-messy snacks are key to keeping hangry feelings at bay. Protein bars, jerky stick, nuts (I try not to eat these on the plane in case of passenger allergies), chips or pretzels, hard candy/mints, (GUM (for those popping ears!). Also, stock up on electrolyte packets!
Entertainment
Pack a tablet or e-reader with books, movies, or games (I particularly love puzzle books). Just remember to download anything digital in case you don’t have Wi-Fi on the flight (especially important for kids). And don’t forget the headphones!
Comfort
Wear comfortable clothes and layers, especially if you are traveling to another type of weather. If you have room and it’s a longer flight, pack a travel pillow and small blanket in case you get chilly. But for shorter flights you should be able to make it a couple hours with just the layers you have on.
Practical Items
I always pack an extra pair of contacts, small contact solution and my glasses. Hand sanitizer and wipes are an absolutely MUST. Also like to have a little fast mist to freshen up with and always a million extra hair ties! Toothpaste, toothbrush and floss. Be sure to always have any medications you might need handy as well. I always pack charcoal capsules, Benadryl and some pain reliver/fever reducer for adults and kids. And band aids…always band aids. If packing additional personal care items like shampoo, conditioner, bodywash, etc…I love these little magnetic containers (and they’re TSA compliant!)
For the Kids
Now, let’s turn our attention to the little travelers in the family. For kids, it’s all about keeping them entertained and comfortable throughout the journey. Pack a variety of snacks that are both healthy and appealing to their taste buds, along with their favorite toys, coloring books, or handheld games to keep them occupied during the trip. Don’t forget to include any comfort items they might need, such as a favorite stuffed animal or blanket.
Snacks
Do yourself and all the people on the flight a favor and don’t give your kids food that will make them feel unsettled. Avoid foods that will upset their stomach or food dyes/sugar that will trigger hyperactivity. Keep things healthy and simple but interesting. We like Z Bars, Annie’s small snack bags, pretzels, gum (again), gummies and lollipops from Yum Earth.
Reusable water bottle
Water bottles for everyone!
Entertainment
Being prepared to entertain kids while waiting to board, on layovers and on the actual flight is key! Pack drawing and coloring items (crayons, pencils, sketchpads and coloring books), puzzle and/or reading books, any tech they will use (plus headphones) and small travel games (we love card games like Spot It). We also like to get most of these items new as the novelty helps get a little more longevity out of the activity. Having enough kid entertainment option is the most critical of carry-on bag essentials (other than snacks, of course)
Pro Tip: Pack a silicone mat to put on the tray…it provides a grippy surface so books, tech and toys don’t slide around.
Comfort Essentials
Pack their favorite stuffed animal and/or blanket for emotional support, layers of clothing and a change of clothes. If space allows and it’s a longer flight, a small neck pillow also helps if they want to take a nap.
Practical items
Same as for adults…wipes, hand sanitizer, toothbrush/paste and floss, any medications they might need. For the most part I pack all of these items in my own carry on/purse for ease and to free up their bags for the fun stuff 🙂
Here are some other miscellaneous items to help keep you organized on your trip.
Favorite travel backpacks for adults and older kids (the plain one comes in a ton of different colors too!)
Tech gear: Portable chargers, cord storage and air tag holder watches.
Packing Organization: Compression cubes, make up bag, hanging toiletry bag and jelewry case
I hope these travel tips and packing essentials for your carry-on bag will have you well-prepared to tackle any journey with ease and confidence. So sit back, relax, and get ready to make unforgettable memories on your next travel adventure!
