Top 10 Things to Pack in Your Carry-On

Where will your travels take you in 2017? No matter where you land, your carry-on is one of the keys to a smooth plane ride. Check out our top 10 items to keep calm and carry on.

What to Pack in a Carry-On

1. Travel Documents

You won’t get anywhere without your passport when travelling internationally or your boarding pass. Also, many countries require a visa or tourist card; make sure you have, or know how to get, the "extra" travel documents you may need. Know before you go, and check out the Government of Canada’s country travel advice and advisories.

2. Transportation and Accommodation Itineraries

Print out your itineraries, including the full address of anywhere you plan to stay (so you can give to taxi drivers or fill out immigration forms) as well as local phone numbers. Don’t forget to bring a pen along as well.

3. Travel Insurance

Compare travel insurance rates to find and buy the best travel insurance plan that will cater to your vacation needs, then, carry a copy of your policy alongside all your other travel paperwork so that you know where it is should you need to refer to it.

• Related Read: 10 Vacation Activities That Will Void Your Travel Insurance

4. Valuables

Keep your money, wallet, phone, keys and jewelry close-by.

• Related Read: Top 10 Ways to Protect Your Home from Theft

5. Small Toiletries

If you want to freshen up or re-moisturize during the trip keep a few items handy, like hand lotion, lip balm, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, and wet wipes. Make sure all liquids and gels are in containers no larger than 100 ml/100g or 3.4oz. Also, everything you plan on bringing in your carry-on must fit into one clear, resealable plastic bag.

6. Comfort Aids

A travel pillow or blanket can help you sneak in a nap during the trip. Use ear plugs or an eye mask to block out the light or noisy passengers.

7. Change of Clothes

A change of shirt, pants, underwear and something to sleep in are all you really need. You never know if your checked luggage will land with you so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Roll up your clothing to keep them compact so they don’t take up much space.

8. Water Bottle and Small Snacks

You could buy water after you’ve passed through security, or you could bring an empty bottle from home and fill it up from a fountain at your gate. Also, pack snacks like a granola bar or apple, but most importantly gum. Gum helps to relieve that uncomfortable "airplane ear" due to changes in air pressure.

9. Entertainment

Books and electronics like your laptop or tablet are a given. Just don’t forget your headphones or USB charger!

10. Medication and Supplements

Keep your meds, supplements and glasses on hand in case you need them during your travels, or if your luggage ends up in a different city than you.

Everyone has different travel needs and travel styles, and your carry-on list may vary based on your destination or length of trip. But, wherever your travels take you, the items in your carry-on can ensure you have what you need when you need it, at a time when you don’t have access to your luggage.