What's In My Carry On

I'm back! I took a little break while I was in San Antonio and then my brother came home Tuesday, so I just wanted to have time to spend with my family, but I'm back and it feels good. My trip to San Antonio was so much fun, but it was so hot. The Texas heat is no joke. Wow. I spent most of my time on a military base, but we did go to the Riverwalk one day which is absolutely beautiful.

When I was packing for San Antonio, I knew that I wanted to write a travel-related post and when I was trying to figure out what to pack in my carry on, I did so much research. I watched some YouTube videos and read blog posts to make sure I had the perfectly packed carry on bag, so I'm going to share what I packed for my trip.

First, you need to pick out what you want to use as your carry on (or personal item). I usually use a backpack because you can fit so much in it and it is just easy to carry. I use the backpack that I received when I attended a program for journalism students at the Atlanta Journal Constitution, but I know many people who use Northface or Herschel backpacks. I have a Northface for school and I love it, so I definitely recommend that, but any backpack works!

 Laptop

I don't pay for Wifi because I'm cheap, but I do bring my laptop to listen to music or watch shows/movies that I've downloaded. I will do work on the plane, so my laptop is essential. Also, my laptop is something that I want with my at all times, so it goes in my backpack.

Phone charger

I always keep my phone charger with me. Having a dead phone is never fun, especially when you need to make calls after you land. Because my laptop charger is bigger, I usually put it in my checked bag, but sometimes I'll throw it in my carry on, too.

Portable charger

There are not always outlets near you at the airport or on the plane, so a portable charger is really important. I bought mine at TJ Maxx for like $14.

Headphones

When I bought my MacBook a year ago, I got free Beats headphones and they are incredible. On a plane, I recommend headphones over earphones because planes can be loud. 

Wallet

This is important and kind of a no-brainer. Keep your wallet with you always.

Medicine

I always keep a small bottle of ibuprofen or another kind of pain medicine with me. It is not fun when you have a killer headache on a plane and can't do anything about it.

Book

A good book is essential. I always have a book with me to read while traveling.

Planner

Because I often do work on a plane, I keep my planner with me because it helps me stay on task and remember what I need to do. My planner also just helps me stay organized and know what I have to do when I get to my destination.

Pen

Have some pens, pencils, highlighters, whatever on hand. You never know when you'll need one.

Water bottle

I always bring a reusable water bottle with me when I travel. Just make sure it is empty before bringing it through security.

Small bag with health/beauty items

I bring a quart-sized bag with a toothbrush and TSA-approved toothpaste, deodorant, lotion, and any other small items I might need.

What are other travel essentials? Share in a comment!

xo,

Amanda