If you’re a frequent traveler, you already know that baggage fees can be frustrated. Most Canadian airlines and U.S. airlines alike charge if you have more than one bag, or if it’s over a certain weight. Air Canada, for example, charges $50.00 for a second bag. 

So, it’s important to be packing-savvy when it comes to strategically putting everything in the right place. We’ve talked before about backup items that you should always have with you when you’re going on a holiday. But, what about personal items? 

There are some personal belongings that you can get away with putting in a secondary bag, or a suitcase that you don’t need access to right away. Other items, however, you should always pack in your carry-on bag. Far too often, you’ll forget to bring them with you so they’re easily accessible, and you could find yourself feeling beyond frustrated until you get off the plane and you’re able to unpack. 

See more packing tips here:
Luggage Rehab: My Secrets To Packing Light
Backup Items You Should Always Pack

With that in mind, let’s take a look at six of the most important personal items you should always have in your carry-on bag. By keeping these belongings close during your travels, you’re more likely to always have exactly what you need at just an arm’s length away. 

1. All Electronic Devices and Chargers

Picture being on a long flight and you have nothing to do but watch the same movie on the back of your seat for the fifth time this year.

Okay, while things might not get that extreme, a flight is a great time to catch up on work, watch your own favorite movies/shows, or stay connected with friends and family about your trip (if your flight offers WiFi). While you absolutely can leave your computer in your larger suitcase, carrying it on with you will make it accessible just in case you need it. The same goes for your phone, tablet, and any other electronics you might be bringing with you. 

It’s also a good idea to have all electronic chargers in your carry-on bag, too. You may not be able to charge them directly on the plane, but knowing that all of your charters are in one place will make them easier to find when you do need them. 

Finally, carrying your electronics on with you will help you to ensure they’re safe. If something were to happen to your computer or device in a checked bag, travel insurance may help to cover the cost. But, wouldn’t you rather have peace of mind in knowing that your devices are with you and safe in your possession? 

In addition to your devices, make sure you’ve got an extra charger or two with you, as well! While most airports have charging stations, they don’t all have the cables you’ll need for your devices. 

2. Glasses/Sunglasses

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure they are nearby at all times. When you’re traveling, being able to see everything is imperative, especially if you’re going to a new place. Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, following the details of every rule is more important than ever. So, you want to make sure you don’t miss anything.

If you’re not sure which glasses or sunglasses to buy to fit your needs, there are buying guides available, like the guide by Mark Agnew. Try to read it for yourself, and you just may start to see eyeglasses and sunglasses in a whole new way. 

Depending on where you’re going, it’s also a good idea to have your sunglasses within reach. You don’t want to step off of a plane into a sunny location and feel practically blinded because of the brightness. Investing in a good pair of sunglasses with UV protection is a must for any traveler. Keeping them close to you within your carry-on bag will make life much easier, no matter where you end up!

3. Multiple Forms of Identification

If you travel frequently, you probably know most (if not all) of the rules regarding identification. But, airline policies can change, and unless you do your research ahead of time, they can switch without warning. 

A good rule of thumb is to always have more than one form of identification on you. Your driver’s license/ID card is always a “must”, but you might want to have backup options such as a passport or copy of your birth certificate. The last thing you want is to be ready to board your flight only to discover you don’t have the right form(s) of identification. 

Obviously, these forms of ID are something you’ll want to keep close to you. Not only will you likely need to take them out more than once on your travels, but if you were to put them in a checked bag, you could run the risk of losing them, or someone taking them. Unfortunately, as hard as it might be to believe, that would make it incredibly easy for someone to attempt to “steal” your identity. Whenever you have any form of identification, keep it as close to you as possible. 

4. A T-Shirt

We’ve all seen romantic comedies where two people are hurrying down the street or rushing through the airport. They aren’t paying attention to their surroundings and end up running into each other. In a perfect movie world, they spill coffee on each other, end up spending time together, and live happily ever after. 

Well, that may not work in the real world, but that doesn’t mean accidents don’t happen when you’re traveling. 

Keeping a simple t-shirt with you in your carry-on bag will help to ensure you always have something fresh to wear if needed. Even if you don’t get your travel clothes dirty, being able to change into a clean t-shirt can make you feel better and more relaxed if you’ve been on a long flight, or you need something comfortable to sleep in while you’re traveling overnight. 

This is an item that many people overlook, but once you start keeping one in your carry-on bag, you’ll never forget it again!