7 Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Whether we are travelling within the city, out of the city or out of the country, the only thing that stresses me as a mother is responsibly packing all the travel essentials in a carry-on bag.

In order to stay relaxed and stress free, I have now prepared a list of carry-on bag essentials that I follow without any hesitation or reluctance. As a result, I pack as quickly as I can and save a lot of time without facing any difficulties.

Today I am going to share my tried and tested packing list with all those moms who wish to avoid this task before taking a step out of their house.

So, if you are also finding it hard to decide what to pack in your carry-on bag? Read through this article once, it is here to help you remember all the things you should always pack in your carry on bag.

1. Travel Wallet

When I am traveling with my children, Olivia and Liam, I never begin my journey without having some cash, my credit cards and my driving licence in my wallet.

For road trips, I use a smart Wallet to keep it in my purse or handbag.

But for international trips, I use a cross-body Wallet and keep my passport in it.

It is because kids can demand anything at any time. As a sensible mother I always have some cash with me so that I can fulfil the demands that I can. This not only saves me from the trouble of handling a crying child but also prevents my children from becoming stubborn. 

2. Travel Pillow

Over the years, I have gained an understanding that I can take rest while we are still traveling that is how I will be able to enjoy when we will reach our destination.

To make it possible, I always keep my travel pillow hanging on the carry-on bag. And the same for kids. The long road trips can be so tiring for kids especially if they can’t even relax while napping. So I keep pillows for kids too.

The extended shape supports their chins and prevents their heads from falling forward.

Whenever I feel uneasy, I take out my pillow too and relax my shoulder and neck muscles effectively. The best part? I can adjust the thickness of my pillow.

Believe me, a comfortable neck pillow and eye mask contribute a lot to making my journey an enjoyable experience. 

3. Toiletry Bags

I always pack tooth brushes, toothpaste, hair brush, shampoo, soap, perfume, rose water spray and body lotion in a transparent toiletry bag and keep it in my carry-on bag.

Keeping kids toiletries separate is a great hack if you want to see yours messed up…hihihi
And for this purpose I recommended a pair of these bags.

Refill bottles for our shampoos and lotions are a saviour. No mom wants to deal with a new skin problem when travelling. So switching to new products is a BIG NO!

Whether we are traveling by road or by air, I usually spray rose water on my face and perfume on my clothes that is how I manage to stay fresh and lively even after a long and tiring journey.     

4. Toys

Children can never enjoy their journey without having their favorite toy with them.

Olivia likes to play with her dolls while my son Liam is more into playing with his toy cars. It means that a doll and a toy car definitely go into my carry-on bag.

As a result, when my children cry without any valid reason, I make them feel relaxed by allowing them to play with their toy.  

5. Mini Makeup Pouch

Pictures play a prominent role in saving moments of happiness. That is why I love capturing pictures when I am traveling with my family members.

For a picture-perfect look, I do not forget to keep my mini makeup pouch with me. I usually put two to three lipsticks, an eye pencil and an eye liner in it and keep it in my carry-on bag.

As far as the camera is concerned, thankfully my smartphone has a brilliant camera and I confidently use it for capturing our moments of joy and happiness.

After all, years later, when my children will grow-up I will have these pictures to remind them of their childhood memories.

6. Portable Power Bank

Being the tech manager for the whole family comes with its challenges. From charging tablets for in-flight entertainment to keeping your phone charged for those perfect vacation snaps, a portable power bank is a must. It’s your travel lifesaver when “Mom, my iPad is dying!” comes up mid-flight.

Plus Whether you’re catching a movie on the in-flight entertainment system or just zoning out while the kids nap, grab a set of earbuds.

7. Clothing

Planes can get chilly, and no one wants a grumpy, cold kid. Pack soft blankets or use hoodies as dual-purpose pillows and warm layers. And if you bring matching mom-and-kid hoodies, it’s an adorable way to make twinning memories while staying cozy!

I believe that our clothes and style say a lot about who we are or how we are feeling. Therefore, when I am traveling especially in the winter season, I never forget to put our socks, gloves and light but warm jackets or sweaters in the carry-on bag.

For my children, I also pack a casual shirt and trouser so If anyone of them spills anything on their clothes, I easily take those clothes out of the carry-on and change their clothes before reaching our destination. 

Wrap up

I have honestly shared my packing list with you so that you may use it as an inspiration to prepare your own list.

Always remember, if you want to pack your carry-on bag without missing out on anything important that you might need during your trip, the best solution is to have a list that you can blindly follow without having any doubts. 

If you have already planned for your next trip, save yourself from the stress of packing before you run out of time. Your time is the most valuable thing that you have, in other words time is money.

Be courageous and act wisely. If you want to do make a list of things you should always pack in your carry-on bag grab a FREE pdf here.