Alright, let's cut to the chase. I'm no stranger to over-packing - but also, who wants to miss out on trying new snacks because they're weighed down by their hand carry? After years and years of trial and error particularly for long-haul flights, I've nailed down the essentials for a light yet prepared hand carry.
So, here's my go-to list to keep you cruising through your journey hassle-free. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, if you make a purchase through my links (at no additional cost to you).
Travel Wallet Get your passport, visa docs, pens, cash and cards into your travel wallet. Choose a travel wallet that you can recognise from your bag, but also be efficient enough to not take up too much room, here is one I'd recommend! This one is waterproof, thank goodness! The last thing you want is your passport getting water damage during your travels. I also like to have a small bum-bag/cross body for the things I'll need the most through airports as well. The viral Uniqlo cross body bag lives up to the hype! I would definitely recommend it for anyone who doesn't want shoulder/neck pain, wants to fit heaps into a small bag (even a water bottle), and fits under your seat, leaving plenty of leg space for you.
Portable charger This is KEY! I'm known for charging up my phone before I leave the house on a normal day, let alone when I'm travelling. But I also don't want to have to pace out when I'm using my phone. This charger is one I'd HIGHLY recommend. Yes it's a little heavy, but completely worth it if you want multiple charges, have a delayed flight or want to juice up multiple devices. The charge time is also quite efficient.
Noise-cancelling headphones This goes without saying! Comfy headphones (definitely noise-cancelling) is essential on any flight. Here are two I'd recommend and why. I prefer over-ear headphones, I find them more comfortable. I've been using these Sennheiser's for YEARS. Affordable and good-quality, need I say more. My partner uses these Bose over-ear headphones - I will admit the sound quality is better and the ear cushions are a lot softer, they are however a little more expensive but also a really good quality, long-term choice.
Moisturise those lips It's no secret that flights dry out your skin and lips. I have super sensitive skin, I found this soothing Aloe Vera Vaseline lip balm to be the absolute best. It isn't thick, and applies on thin and keeps my lips soft. An alternative to get that SPF protection as well is to go back to basics with your Nivea hydro lip balm - you can't go wrong!
Earplugs for sleep If you want to switch to some soothing earplugs that aren't those cheap, non-reusable foam plugs. I'd recommend the loop earplugs. My friend bought me these ahead of my three month travel stint, and let's just say they were an absolute game-changer!
Hairbrush or Comb Make sure you have packed your brush/comb packed in your hand-carry! Keep those tangles at bay and arrive at your destination looking effortless.
Snacks and Hydration Stock up on lightweight, non-perishable snacks to keep hunger at bay. And don't forget a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated!
Travel Pillow I've been through the ringer trying to find the perfect neck pillow, I'm fussy and coming from Australia, most flights are LONG. So it's no surprise that my absolute favourite is this TRTL neck pillow. It works well for long bus rides too!
A spare pair of clothes It's great to have a set of clothes handy, especially a spare pair of undies! Just on the odd case your luggage gets lost, or you have a long long flight with a transit...it's nice to feel somewhat human and clean with a fresh set of clothes.
Compression Socks Compression socks aren't for when you have calf pain, to help you avoid it altogether. An absolute must-have, and they keep you warm! These ones are affordable and great quality. They come in a heap of colours and patterns too, of course I went for the patterned!
Santiser Goes without saying! Keep it simple with dettol, I travelled with this one because it can hook on to your bag, super easy and more space inside your bag.
Hydrate your skin! You should definitely pop a face mask on, particularly if you are on a long-haul flight. If you want to hydrate your skin even more, or if your skin is naturally quite dry (mine is), this Laneige overnight mask makes your skin super soft and hydrated. You can still feel like a million bucks if you are in economy!
Sunscreen We all know we need to use SPF on planes because of the high UV, the AHC sun stick one doesn't feel sunscreen-y, it makes my super sensitive skin feel super soft and hydrating! I actually use it on a day-to-day basis, it's small and pocket-sized so it can fit into your day bag too. Also, it won't leak in your bag, because it's a stick and applies with no grease.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste Don't forget to pack this in your hand-carry too. Fresh breath is always a good idea, especially when you're meeting new people along the way!
A mini travel kit You'll want to pop all of your travel toiletry essentials in a small travel kit. This one is TSA approved, if you need that. It's transparent which means you can send it through security easily.
So there you have it, my go-to hand-carry list! Of course depending on you and your travel, you might have a kindle/laptop/notebook etc. But these are the essentials to get you travelling must-have items for your hand carry that'll have you traveling light and right.
So, pack smart, embrace the journey, and let the adventures begin! 🚀✈️
Oh and before I forget, don't forget to pack your sunnies in your hand-carry ( so you can land in style!).