carry on essentials

Here's a practical list of carry-on essentials that every traveller should include:

1. Travel documents — Passport, ID, boarding passes, visas and a printout of your travel insurance policy
2. Phone and charger — Plus a power bank, especially for long-haul flights
3. Headphones or earbuds — To enjoy entertainment without relying on airline-issued gear
4. Medications — Include prescriptions, pain relief, allergy treatments and anything you can't risk losing
5. Snacks — Protein bars, nuts or other non-liquid, non-perishable snacks
6. Empty water bottle — Fill up after passing security to stay hydrated
7. Toiletries — Travel-size toothpaste, moisturiser, lip balm, deodorant and hand sanitiser
8. Spare change of clothes — Even just underwear, socks and a t-shirt in case of delays
9. Copies of important documents — Physical and digital backups on your device or email
10. Eye mask, neck pillow and a lightweight scarf or wrap for comfort

If you're flying internationally, consider tailoring your bag to longer transit times. Wondering specifically what to pack in a carry-on for international flight routes? Add extras like compression socks, a basic first-aid kit, travel adaptors and entertainment like a book or downloaded shows.

Be strategic, not excessive

When people ask what to pack in a carry on, there's a temptation to throw in everything just in case. But packing light and purposefully is smarter. Aim for a small bag with compartments so you can quickly find what you need.

A zipped pouch or packing cube for your liquids and toiletries will speed up security checks. Keeping all your tech in one accessible section makes security screening simpler, too.

Liquids and restricted items

One of the most common mistakes travellers make is forgetting the liquid rules. Yes, they still apply. If you're bringing toiletries or cosmetics, each container must be 100ml or less, and all must fit inside a clear resealable plastic bag no larger than one litre.
That means no oversized sunscreen, shampoo or large aerosols in your carry-on. Liquids over the limit will be taken at security, so save yourself the frustration and pack wisely.

Need a refresher? Here's a quick list of what counts as a liquid under these rules:

• Gel-based products like toothpaste and hand sanitiser
• Creams, lotions, moisturisers
• Liquid makeup
• Perfumes or colognes
• Drinks or soup
• Sprays or mists

There are also carry-on luggage restrictions for liquids that might surprise you — things like snow globes or foods with high liquid content (hello, curry leftovers) are often not allowed.

For more detail on what you can and can't bring onboard, check out this guide to restricted items on aeroplanes.

Don't get caught with banned items

In addition to liquid limits, there are other items that are a definite no-go in carry-on bags. Sharp tools, flammable substances and some sports or work gear are automatically banned from the cabin.

Here are a few things you can't bring in your carry-on:

• Knives, scissors or anything with a sharp blade
• Sporting equipment like cricket bats or hiking poles
• Work tools like hammers or screwdrivers
• Aerosol insect sprays
• Fireworks or flares
• Power banks that exceed airline wattage limits (check yours!)

Not only can carrying these delay your journey, but it might also lead to confiscation or fines. Always double-check your airline's list before packing to avoid any last-minute drama.

Bonus tip: your bag should work for you

Beyond knowing what to pack in a carry-on, the bag itself matters. Choose lightweight luggage with easy-access pockets and strong zippers. If it fits under the seat or in the overhead locker without fuss, even better.

And don't forget your personal item: this could be a backpack, handbag or laptop bag, perfect for stashing valuables and things you'll use throughout your flight.

Pack smarter for peace of mind

A well-packed bag filled with carry-on essentials can help you stay calm in the chaos of airports, delays and gate changes. Plus, it's the one bag you'll always have eyes on, so make it count.

Need extra tips on what to do when your bags don't arrive, or your trip hits a snag? Learn more about luggage and personal effects cover, so you're prepared for the unexpected. And if you're heading out on a cruise, remember: your cabin bags may not arrive until hours after you board. Find out what could go wrong on a cruise to pack with confidence and avoid common pitfalls.