While most luggage arrives at our destination with us, luggage loss and delays do happen so it’s important to always pack the items you really need in your carry-on. If your luggage is lost or delayed, you will still have your most important items with you.

Clothing

Always pack several days’ worth of clothing in your carry-on, everything you will need for three or four days. If your luggage is just delayed, you will be able to get by until it arrives without having to purchase clothing. Roll or compress your clothes so you can fit more in your bag.

Medication & Toiletries

Any medication that you take should be packed in your carry-on. Also pack important toiletry items and contact lenses and eyeglasses.

Personal Documents & Valuables

Always keep your personal documents such as driver’s license, passport, visa, travel documents, credit cards and cash with you. Valuable items like jewelry, electronics including your phone and charger should be in your carry-on. Never leave your carry-on bag unattended.

Use Your Body as an additional carry-on

If you are comfortable dressing in layers do so on the flight, a tee shirt under a sweater or sweatshirt and a jacket with multiple secure pockets inside and out. They make jackets specifically designed for travel and some have locking pockets for valuables such as cash, credit cards, identification and travel documents. A jacket with a lot of pockets can hold a bunch of items leaving more room in your carry-on bag.

Personal Items Bag

In addition to your carry-on bag most airlines also allow a personal items bag. This could be a purse, diaper bag, tote, laptop bag or small backpack. Check with the airline for their regulations regarding a personal items bag. Pack strategically so that you can fit a lot of additional items in the bag.

Snacks & Reusable Water Bottle

It’s always a good idea to pack some snacks and a reusable water bottle. If you experience a delay you want to have something to eat and drink on hand.

Everyone’s list will be a bit different depending on your situation and travel destination but anything that is important or critical should be in your carry-on bag, personal items bag or in your pockets.