What Do You Carry In Your Carry-On?

I don’t know about you, but I have definitely been stuck without luggage in a few places. I remember one family vacation we went on where we ended up without luggage for nearly a week. It finally arrived the last day of our trip! There’s nothing worse than not having a toothbrush, deodorant, clean undies, or your special face-wash.  Well actually, not having it and having to buy it all over again is much worse. If you just can’t get it all in one bag and you do have to check-in your luggage, make sure your carry-on is carrying what you need. These days, if I’m checking my luggage, I pack 2 carry-ons.

Carry-on A has: at least one pair of undies, socks, my basic toiletries (a toothbrush, face/body-wash, deodorant, mouthwash, lotion and toothpaste all in mini-sizes), my jewelry and hair-care products, and snacks for the trip. If you plan ahead, you can buy your candy, nuts, and other packaged treats (on sale) and Ziploc them for later. Why spend $10 for M & Ms in the airport or at the hotel mini-bar?

Carry-on B has: my ipod, computer, chargers, phone, wallet, camera, books/magazines, travel documents, make-up, umbrella or poncho…This way I’m good to go on the plane, and good to go when I land, no matter what happens to my luggage. You can even throw in a swimsuit and flip-flops if you’re going to a tropical place. Wear your wrap as a scarf on the plane. Hey, you’ll be thanking yourself when you’re spending that extra $30 on mojitos instead of a cheap two-piece so you can enjoy the beach.

And while you’re at it, toss in a fold-up tote-bag (made of nylon/recyclable materials) and a regular plastic shopping bag. Some of the things you carried-on during the 1st half of the trip can be packed in your check-in bag on the way back. This extra bag will come in handy to bring back your fantastic finds. The other bag can be used for your dirty clothes.

So travel light and travel in something you can be comfortable in for a day, with a few extras on the side. You never know, anything can happen. Make sure your carry-on will help you carry on.