How to Pack Carry On Luggage

People who travel on airplanes know the advantage of having certain items on hand in their carry on luggage. More than just cosmetics and a good book, carry on luggage should contain enough things to sustain you should your other bags be lost, and keep you comfortable during your trip.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A bag that fits the size requirements of your airline.

1. Choose a bag that is large enough to handle all the things you need to take, but small enough to fit the size requirements for carry on luggage at your airline. A soft sided bag is best, as it can serve as a pillow should you become stranded in an airport.

2. Put in two changes of underwear and one set of extra clothes. This is especially true if you are traveling overseas. These flights are very long and you may want to freshen up somewhere during your trip.

3. Add your daily toiletries. Things like toothbrush and small toothpaste, contact lens solution and case, facial care products, a small bottle of shampoo and lotion. All of these should be packed in plastic zip up storage bags in case of spills.

4. Pack a large water bottle. Airplane air tends to be dry and keeping well hydrated is important. Take advantage of water offered in flight and save yours for when you need it.

5. Add snacks to your bag. Never count on having time to stop for something to eat while traveling. Keep non-perishable food items in zipped bags. Crackers, raisins, nuts, granola bars and chocolate all travel well. Be sure to include a pack of wet wipes for quick washing up.

6. Carry medications. This includes insulin even though it involves a needle and may take you a little longer to get through security.
   
   

7. Take a sweater, sweatshirt, fluffy jacket or compact blanket for warmth. These things may or may not be available in transit, and you want to be prepared for temperature changes.

Tips & Warnings

• Think about packing your carry on luggage as if it were the only bag you'll have for two days. This way you'll be sure to include all the little things you might want or need.
• Don't forget some good reading material, ear plugs and motion sickness medicine to make your journey more pleasant.
• Airlines have strict rules about what items can be carried on a plane. No sharp edges of any kind are allowed. Check with your airline a few days before traveling for the most recent list of excluded carry on items.

[afterburner1]

on 9/19/2009 1. Don't put your home address on baggage tag. putting your home address on the tag allows other people to know where you live and that you are away from home. Email address is better option.
2. Note on and in your bag of destination address and itinerary. Your decision: do you want the bag to follow you or to be returned home. (Use email address for home)