Travel Etiquette: What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

A successful travel experience depends on how you handle the important details. Being prepared for the unexpected will serve you well, especially in the case of a canceled or delayed flight. When you receive notification of the change of plans, you’ll be grateful you remembered your iPad or Kindle.

Here are a few reminders of what to pack in your carry-on to avoid any rookie mistakes.

A travel cube.  Use it to easily store a change of clothes should your luggage arrive later. Include statement earrings, a scarf, and versatile heels. You’ll be ready to dress up your look before reaching your business destination. The scarf can also be used to keep you warm on a chilly flight.

Spare pair of glasses. Nothing is worse than losing a contact and not being able to see where you are going. An extra set of contacts, a contact case and back up glasses are a must in your carry-on. Bring a travel size bottle of lens solution and eye drops for tired eyes.

Required paperwork. For international flights, you’ll want to have your passport within reach. I also like to keep a copy of my itinerary, including confirmation numbers for hotel/rental car, etc. handy.

Chargers. The plural part is crucial. A power charger is extremely useful when conducting business on the go, and when using your phone and computer at the same time. Power up both devices while you are sitting for long periods during flight delays. Don’t forget your Mophie juice pack for those moments you are inevitably low on battery and need to access your iPhone.

A thin journal or your favorite note-taking app. Often the brightest ideas come to us during a quiet moment, so have an efficient way to jot your thoughts down.  If you prefer paper, I’d recommend a small Moleskine journal with a sturdy cover. Many clients swear by Evernote for keeping everything organized on multiple devices. Having an e-reader handy also allows you to skip the magazines and save on space.

Miscellaneous cosmetics and toiletries. Lip tint that can double as blush, breath mints, travel toothbrush/toothpaste, mini-face wipes, bandages, (why did you wear those new shoes?), and ibuprofen always seem to come in handy. Bring along a mini bottle of hand sanitizer; the fresh scent will give you an immediate lift as well as keep you germ-free.

Snacks. Power bars, chewing gum, nuts, and ginger candy (for those with air sickness) are great purse fillers for curbing your hunger. Multi-grain crackers in a small zip lock bag also help control your hunger.

You may also like my travel etiquette articles on The Huffington Post, including 10 Tips to a Mannerly Flight and How to Pack Your Suitcase Like a Pro.