12 essentials for your carry-on packing list

At 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches tall, your carry-on may not seem like much in terms of space. But what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in utility—that is, if you know what items to pack.

A well-curated carry-on bag keeps your most vital essentials within arm’s reach: prescription medications, laptop, tablet, and any item that would be easily replaceable if your check bag were to take an unexpected detour out on the tarmac. 

But not everything in your carry-on has to be practical. Add a few fun extras to make the journey more enjoyable—like a favorite book, a travel-friendly game, some snacks, or noise-canceling headphones to escape into a playlist, podcast, or movie while mid-flight.

With this carry-on packing list, you’ll not only be ready to breeze through TSA and enjoy a comfortable, stress-free journey in a snap.

12 carry-on must-haves 

The contents of a carry-on are as unique as its owner, but some items are indispensable no matter whose name’s on the boarding pass. Whether you’re traveling for business, jetting off on a getaway, or something in between, these 12 essentials will help you stay comfortable, connected, and ready for whatever the skies throw your way.

1. Your laptop

Even if catching up on emails isn’t part of your flight plan, keeping your laptop in your carry-on gives you options during delays. Answer emails, edit a presentation, or simply have peace of mind knowing it’s with you and not in your checked luggage.

2. Toiletries in TSA-approved sizes

No one wants to step off a plane feeling less than fresh. Pack your go-to items—lip balm, deodorant, toothpaste, mouthwash, shampoo, conditioner, facewash, hand sanitizer and wet wipes—in a reusable, TSA-approved liquids bag. Remember, all liquids and gels must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Before you travel, double-check TSA regulations to make sure all your products are fine to fly in your carry-on.

3. Prescription medications

These are non-negotiable. Medications should always travel with you—never in checked luggage. Keep them in their original containers to avoid questions at security.

4. Reusable water bottle 

Flying is dehydrating. Skip the overpriced airport bottled water by bringing your own reusable bottle. Fill it after security and sip it throughout the flight to stay fresh. Just remember to empty it before you hit the TSA checkpoint.

5. Portable charger

Compact and easy to stash, portable chargers are perfect for when you need to recharge your devices, but no USB outlets are in sight. They fit neatly into your carry-on’s smaller compartments, keeping you powered up from takeoff to touchdown.

6. Travel documents (passport, visas)

If traveling internationally, these are your most important documents. Losing an ID is the last thing you want to deal with when you’re far from home, so keep your passport and any other government-issued forms of identification somewhere secure, but they’re also easy to find when you need them. Storing them separate from cash and cards is usually a smart idea, too. 

7. Extra athleisurewear, pajamas, socks, and underwear

You might not lose your checked luggage, but on the off chance it’s delayed, a spare set of clean, comfy clothes in your carry-on will save you time and stress.

8. Business attire

If a meeting’s on the books soon after you land, pack an extra shirt, tie, or blouse (and another pair of shoes, if your carry-on has space) for quick change in the plane’s lav or the terminal restroom.

9. Business cards

Networking opportunities present themselves anywhere and everywhere. Keep a few cards handy to make connections, even in the departure lounge.

10. A universal power adapter

Heading abroad? Electrical outlets and voltages vary across countries. A universal adapter keeps your devices powered no matter where you land.  

11. Noise-canceling headphones

Block out crying babies, engine hum, and chatty seatmates. Headphones are a lifesaver when you need to get some peace mid-air.

12. Compression socks

Cramped seats and long flights can wreak havoc on circulation. Compression socks boost blood flow, keeping you comfortable and preventing post-flight fatigue.  

Got extra space? We’ve got extra ideas

If there’s room left in your carry-on, here are a few “treat yourself” items for your consideration:

• Eye mask and travel pillow: Must-haves for those well-earned mid-flight naps
• Snacks: Some of your favorite nibbles to pick up where the complimentary bag of pretzels left off
• Reading material: That latest best-seller or vintage classic you’ve been meaning to start 
• Hydrating mist: Because air travel is notorious for being dry
• Packable blanket: Because air travel is also notorious for being cold

5 tips to consider before packing your carry-on

With so many things to pack in a carry-on, it can sometimes feel like putting together a jigsaw puzzle with no picture to guide you. Before you start cramming everything in, take a moment to strategize with these tips:

1. Know your airline’s rules

Not all airlines have the same baggage policies. Some allow an extra personal item, like a backpack or purse, alongside your carry-on. Check your carrier's guidelines to maximize what you can bring onboard without running into issues at the gate.

2. Think about the essentials

It's easy to get carried away when deciding what to pack for a flight. Focus on the essentials first, using the list above as a guide. Once those are covered, consider what can go in your checked luggage or stay at home.

3. Invest in packing cubes

If space is tight, packing cubes compress your clothing and other items into neat compartments, making the most of every inch of your bag. Tightly rolling your clothes also helps you fit more in your carry-on.

4. Dress for the destination

Check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. If rain is on the horizon,  a compact umbrella might be all you need. For colder climates, wear bulkier items like boots or jackets to save space in your bag.

5. Plan for the unexpected

Missing luggage is unfortunate, but it happens. If you're checking bags, save room in your carry-on for a change of clothes and anything else you'll need for the first day of your trip—just in case.

Pack smart. Travel smarter with Engine

A well-packed carry-on keeps you prepared for whatever a business trip throws your way. The same goes for Engine. Built for business travelers on the go, Engine offers 24/7 Member Support to handle last-minute changes, misplaced luggage, or any unexpected hiccups along the way.

Free to join and with no membership fees, Engine connects you to the best rates on hotels, car rentals, and flights, streamlining your travel plans from start to finish. Sign up today and see how simple business travel can be.