Parenting & Family, Tips & Tricks, Travel
Here’s How to Pack the Perfect Carry-On Suitcase for a Stress-Free Flight
Most people get excited about leaving for a big vacation or trip, but almost no one loves to pack before they depart. Your checked bags hold all the essentials for when you arrive at your destination, but what about creature comforts while you’re in the air? Below, I’ve put together a list of my favorite carry-on essentials for adults and kids. Add them to your travel packing list to make sure you have everything you need to enjoy your next journey.
Adults
Noise-cancelling headphones
Look around the cabin on any plane and you’re guaranteed to see a few pairs of Bose noise cancelling headphones – and for good reason. The audio giant’s popular over-ear headsets have set the industry standard for the technology. You can’t control much when you’re sitting next to a few hundred strangers inside a loud, crowded airplane, but a good set of headphones can help you create your own little oasis if need be.
Portable charger
We’re all traveling with more devices than ever these days, and on the road, power comes at a premium if you can even find access to it. Pick up a portable power pack and you’ll never have to hunt for outlets again. This Anker portable battery charger won’t let you down. I’ll charge it in full before a long trip, and it can easily charge two cell phones to full power twice in one day.
Electronics organizer
Speaking of powering devices, you’ll want to make sure you have all the appropriate cords to keep your tech up and running. An electronics organizer with all the right cables will do the trick. I like this option because it has multiple ways to access all your important hardware and cables.
Cocktail kit
If you need to take the edge off at 30,000 feet, your options are usually limited to the basics like beer, wine or a basic mixed drink, until now. The W&P’s cocktail kits allow you to make any number of classic cocktails in the air. Each comes in a compact tin with a recipe card, a stir spoon, special ingredients and a napkin. Cheers!
Kids
Kids Activity Bag
Keeping kids distracted and entertained is the number one goal of any parent when traveling by air. You never know if the plane you’re on will have TVs, so a well-planned activity bag is a great way to guarantee your sanity when it’s wheels up. We recently purchased a clear backpack and filled it with crayons, books, toys and other items for a trip to California. It saved us multiple times during the long flight.
Kids seat harness
There’s no need to try and carry on a car seat when you have this harness on hand. It’s a true game-changer for parents with small kids. It stows away in a small, compact bag and easily attaches to any airplane seat. Just loop the strap over the top of the seat and tighten it down. Just make sure your harness is approved by the FAA so you won’t run into any issues when you’re getting situated during boarding.
As always, check Rakuten first when you’re picking up these must-have travel items. Not a member? Join now and start earning Cash Back in the form of a Big Fat Check. You’ll get $10 after your first purchase of $25 in any participating store, and you can earn an additional $25 for every friend you refer.
Join The Conversation