I have several different size carry on bags that I use for airplane travel, depending on the length of the trip.  As you know from previous blog posts, I am a traveling minimalist.  Although, you may not think so when you see what I carry in my personal bag.

I choose a bag like this that I can fit my crossbody travel purse in as well.  Only being allowed one carry on and one personal item I like to tuck my purse in a tote bag.

If I am traveling for more than two hours or traveling overseas, I pack my entire list.  This is where you want to be overprepared.

Comfort Items - Airplanes can be cold.  I have frozen more than once.  I always dress in layers and always wear comfortable socks and shoes.  I travel with a pashmina like this one.  It can be used as a blanket on the plane and again as a shawl or wrap when you reach your destination.  Airplane air can be drying.  I always have chapstick, saline, eye drops and hand lotion.

Entertainment - Earbuds are a must, along with a laptop or Ipad.  You might want to consider noise canceling headphones like these for even more comfort.  If you are not a Kindle user, bring magazines as well.  Don't forget a portable external charger like this.  I carry one in my purse every day - it is perfect to give my phone or Ipad a full charge.

Valuables - Never, ever, ever, ever pack valuables in your checked luggage.  Jewelry, medications, tickets, camera, etc, should always be carried on a plane with you.  Too much luggage is lost and never recovered to trust them with my valuables.  My makeup is included in this category.  I do not want to have to buy a whole new makeup kit when I reach my destination if it is lost.

Snacks - More than once my plane has been delayed on take off once we were already boarded.  A few good snacks and a bottle of water has been my saving grace.

Extras - If there is room, I pack an extra set of clothes or at the very least a pair of underwear.  Lost luggage is no joke.

Just think about the things you might need if you are delayed on a plane or if you luggage doesn't make it when you do.  These are the items that you will want with you in cash of an emergency. Pack smart and be prepared.  You will thank me.

Here is my complete list:

• Travel pillow
• Pashmina/wrap
• Sleeping mask
• Headphones
• Ipad/Laptop
• Magazines
• Tickets/money
• Jewelry
• Camera
• Chargers
• External Charger
• Medicine - Tums, Immodium, Prescriptions
• Chapstick
• Hand sanitizer/wipes
• Lotion
• Saline
• Eye drops
• Makeup
• Toothbrush/paste
• Underwear/Extra Clothes
• Gum
• Water
• Snacks