Carry-On Tips Every Traveller Should Know
- Julia Benedict
- Jun 23
- 3 min read
Your carry-on bag is more important than many people realize. Even if you're checking a suitcase, your carry-on should hold the items you'll need if plans don't go exactly as expected.
A little planning can make your travel day smoother and save a lot of frustration if there are delays, missed connections, or luggage that decides to take its own vacation.
Check the Size Before You Go
Carry-on size limits vary by airline, and not every bag that claims to be "carry-on approved" will fit every carrier's requirements.
Before your trip, take a quick look at your airline's size and weight restrictions. It's much easier to adjust at home than at the gate.
Here are a couple of links to major airlines to check the size limits:
Pack a Change of Clothes
One of my favourite travel tips is to always pack a spare outfit in your carry-on.
If your checked luggage is delayed, you'll have clean clothes, underwear, and a few essentials to get you through the first day or two. If you're headed to a beach destination, toss in a swimsuit and flip flops too. Nothing is worse than staring at the pool while your suitcase is somewhere else.
Use Packing Cubes
Packing cubes aren't just for checked luggage.
They keep your carry-on organized and make it easy to find what you need without digging through your entire bag. They're especially handy for separating electronics, clothing, and travel essentials.
Follow the Liquid Rules
Airport security still follows the 100 ml rule for liquids in carry-on luggage.
Keep liquids, gels, and creams in travel-sized containers and place them in a clear bag for screening. It will help you move through security much faster and prevent any surprises at the checkpoint.
Keep Electronics and Batteries With You
Laptops, tablets, cameras, charging cords, power banks, and spare batteries should always travel in your carry-on.
Not only are they easier to access during your flight, but airlines generally require lithium batteries to stay in the cabin rather than in checked baggage.
Don't Forget the Essentials
There are a few items that should always stay with you:
Passport and travel documents
Prescription medications & other meds (i.e. meds for headache, tummy upset, allergy)
Wallet and valuables
Chargers (make sure you have the right charger depending on destination)
A pen for customs forms (not so common anymore)
Headphones
Snacks (note: solid foods are generally fine through security, some items (yogurt, peanut butter, jam, hummis, dips, soft cheese) may be considered liquids and must follow rules, some destinations may have restrictions on bringing fresh fruit, veggies, meat or dairy across borders so eat those before landing if you are travelling internationally.
A Few Bonus Tips
Carry an empty reusable water bottle and fill it after security.
Wear your bulkiest shoes or jacket on travel day to save space.
Use the inside of your shoes to store socks or small items.
Add a luggage tag with your contact information.
Some airlines charge extra for a carry-on bag depending on the class of airline ticket purchased.
Your carry-on is your travel safety net. Pack it thoughtfully, and you'll be prepared for almost anything your journey throws your way. Hopefully the only thing you'll need to worry about is deciding what to order for your first vacation cocktail.
Ready for your next adventure?
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