If you’re heading off on vacation, it’s likely that you’ve put a lot of thought into what’s going into your suitcase. From curating the perfect vacation wardrobe to whittling down your toiletries to those hero products you can’t live without, packing a suitcase well is certainly an art. However, don’t let this task distract you from one of almost equal importance—planning and packing what to take in your carry-on luggage. Even if your flight is only a few hours, you don’t want to be stuck without these essentials for long.
A Good Novel
Even if you’re not normally much of a reader, many of us find that a vacation is the perfect opportunity to make a dent in that ‘to be read’ pile. Select a novel by one of your favorite authors, or one that you think looks gripping, to keep you engrossed and entertained throughout the flight.
Candy (or alternative snacks)
It’s a well-known fact that most of the food available on the plane is not great. Bring your own snacks so that you have something to munch on if you get hungry or bored. Hard-boiled candies can also be useful to suck on if you start to feel pain in your ears and sinuses from pressure changes.
Headphones
Unlucky enough to be seated between a screaming toddler and someone who’s watching a video with their speakers up loud? Pop your headphones in and listen to some soothing tracks. Music or a good podcast can definitely make a journey more bearable, and putting headphones in can also be a good way to signal to others around you that you’re not in the mood for a mid-flight conversation.
