I learned the hard way how to pack a carry-on the right way. Back in 2014, on my first trip out of Canada ever, we were flying to Fort Lauderdale, Florida to get on a cruise ship when my luggage didn’t arrive on time. Something got messed up in the Ottawa airport, which resulted in my luggage not arriving in Florida until 6:00 p.m. Unfortunately, the ship was leaving the port at 5:00 p.m. so Air Canada ended up having to fly my bags to Jamaica, which was our second port – our first one was Haiti but they weren’t able to get the bags there. Because of this, I had to go 3 days without my luggage and as a first-time flyer I was not prepared. I ended up having to buy a lot of things to tide me over until our bags arrived in Jamaica, which thankfully Air Canada reimbursed me for. Ever since this trip, I have always been extremely careful about what I pack in my carry-on
Clothes
I always make sure to pack enough clothes to last me 2 full days. Depending on the type of vacation I may include a formal outfit as well. Always remember to pack your bathing suit and at least one pair of flip flops as well. Also don’t forget to pack a pair of pajamas – there is nothing worse than trying to sleep in clothes you’ve been walking around all day in!
Electronics
All of my electronics get packed in either my carry-on or in my purse. I usually ravel with my laptop and my ipad in my purse so that they are easily accessible when on the plane. My carry-on usually includes my camera, gopro, portable charger, charging cables and my plug adaptor (if I’m travelling outside of North America).
Toiletries
I personally prefer to pack all of my makeup and hair tools in my carry on as well. On the off chance my luggage does get lost (which I pray I never have to deal with), I don’t want to me without my makeup or hair tools. I do my hair and makeup every single day (yes, even on weekends) so it would be torture for me to go without. I always pack my make up removing wipes and moisturizer in my carry-on especially for any long haul flights!
This is essentially the basics that I pack in my carry-on for every trip I take. If there is any room left in my carry-on I usually pack any clothes or items that I would be upset if they were in my checked bag and got lost – I may have a slight attachment to my clothes!
