Carry-On vs. Checked

Oct 24

Packing with Purpose

Let’s talk about something that may seem trivial but is, in fact, incredibly important: how you pack for your trip. It may not be the sexiest topic, but trust me, it’s one that determines how well you survive long flights, layovers, and getting everything back home. I have created a master packing list. This way you don’t forget anything. When I travel internationally, my go-to setup is one large checked bag (half-empty for souvenirs or with another collapsible duffle inside) and my trusty carry-on with a boxy bag perched on top while I walk around. But what kind of luggage do I have? What do I put in them? How do I organize everything? Let’s get into it.

Personal Item

For me, maximizing the space under the seat in front of me is a must, and backpacks just don’t cut it. They are often too bulky, and I like the flexibility of having more structured space. So, I hunted for the boxiest bag I could find, the one that could truly maximize space while being functional and easy to handle.

Enter Pierre Cardin. It fits perfectly under the seat and holds all my essentials without feeling like I'm cramming things in. The best part? The personal item opens from the top, which makes accessing your stuff much easier during the flight. No awkward contortions while trying to grab something from the bottom of the bag! Plus, it keeps you from having to place your dirty bag, after it’s been on the floor, on your lap, which is a huge win for hygiene on a long flight. However, it’s not the most comfortable to hold or sling over your shoulder for hours. This bag's real strength is its ability to sit neatly on top of my carry-on. So find a carry-on that pairs well.

When it comes to in-cabin comfort, I always pack certain essentials that keep me productive, entertained, and at ease during the flight. Let’s dive into my must-haves for long-haul travel:

essentials

Passport and ID: No need to explain this one.
Copy of flight info and itinerary: Even if it’s just on your phone! (DOWNLOADED) I typically keep a printed copy in my carry-on or checked bag just in case my phone gets stolen. *knock on wood*
Cables/chargers; If you’re looking for an entire list of electronics to bring, please see my electronics for travel blog here
Cash, ATM Card, credit cards; when you travel, typically cash is king, most places take credit cards now, but some are not so plastic-friendly. Make sure you have options in case a store of restaurant have particular payment policies.

Entertainment

Sketchbook and pens: There’s something about travel that sparks creativity, and having a sketchbook handy allows me to jot down ideas or sketch inspiration while I’m on the go.
Tablet: My iPad is a must-have. It’s perfect for reading, watching shows, or catching up on work. My little tablet fits perfectly into the hard case I thrifted, making it a functional and stylish piece of my travel gear. If you're looking for a similar case, I’ve found a heavy-duty alternative. You can check it out here.
Books/magazines;
Headphones; no worries if you forget these they typically offer disposable ones on the flight (even if not the best quality), but if you’re like me and get earaches from certain pressure on your ears, you’ll want to remember to bring your own.
Pro tip: download music or audiobooks to your phone if you don’t want to carry any of these items with you.

BAGS

Multi-Pocket Jewelry Organizer: I like to travel light when it comes to jewelry, but I do have a few versatile pieces I bring. A multi-pocket organizer keeps everything in one place without adding bulk.
Mesh or Collapsible Snack Bag: Airports are notorious for overpriced snacks. I bring my own in a foldable bag full of snacks, which is great for saving money, space, and time. Plus, if I want to grab something at the airport (snacks, souvenirs, etc.), I don’t need to take a plastic bag.
Disposable Bag for Security: A small disposable bag is a must for security. I use it to hold my jacket, bag, or anything else I need to remove before going through the scanner. This way, I don’t have to place these items in the public, dirty security bins that others have put their shoes in. It’s a simple way to stay hygienic while going through the process. I typically opt for a Trader Joe’s bag or something of that nature.

Health

Ginger Supplements and antacids: For those who suffer from motion sickness, nausea and sensitive tummies on planes,these are a lifesaver. I take them before and during my flight to help with any discomfort. I like to bring my own because sometimes the ones they carry at the airport, typically the nausea meds are held in gelatin capsules.
Masks: I’ve always worn a mask on flights, long before COVID. It keeps you from getting sick and ruining your vacation—or worse, coming home sick and missing work, which we all know can happen.
Vitamin C tablets or airborne; essentially, the same thing, either will work. Keep your immune system fighting all the germs you come into contact with while traveling.
antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizer: with how much traffic airports get and how often things get cleaned between the thousand of peoples using them. I can’t stress this enough
Double Layer of Socks for Security: This one might seem a little crtazy but it gives me a bit of piece of mind especially since I like too slip my shoes off and put my feet on the seat when I’m in-flight. When going through security, I wear two pairs of socks on top of each other. Why? So I can take one pair off when I go through security and put them back in my shoes afterward. This way, I avoid having germs from the airport floor getting into my shoes and it keeps me feeling a bit cleaner. Just remember to turn them inside out when stashing them into your bag.

Miscelanous

Empty Water Bottle: Staying hydrated on a plane is important, and most flights only give you tiny cups of water. I bring an empty water bottle through security (fill it up once I’m past) to ensure I have plenty of hydration during the flight. Plus, it saves you from having to rely on flight attendants for refills.

Carry-On

Personally, I love my Pelican case because of how sturdy they are, but you may prefer something with four wheels. I also love it because I can cover it with stickers so its easily identifiable at baggage claim. Again, make sure it pairs well with your personal item, not just aesthetically but so that your item fits on top.

Purses: I always pack two: one for day trips that can fit my essentials and another for evenings out. Sometimes you can find a bag that will do both. Remember, compact but functional. When packed right, they’re great for assuring I’m prepared for any situation, from sightseeing to dinner.
Pocket Dictionary: This one’s a lifesaver, especially when without Wi-Fi. I always keep a small dictionary of the local language in my carry-on for those emergency translation moments when Google Translate may not be available.
Change of clothes, both for on the go and clothes to sleep in. Just in case your luggee ends up somewhere it shouldn’t and you don’t have access to it when you land
Toiletree bag; of course, remember the liquids rules. If you want to know everything I keep in my toiletry bag, see my breakdown here
AirTag or something similar: Make sure the battery is new! This makes it easier not only to locate your bag when its lost but gives you an idea of where your bag is while you’re waiting at baggage claim.
Pro tip: Try not to stuff it just in case you need to take weight out of your checked bag or in case you find something you want to buy in the airport tax-free!

Checked Luggage

Anything you can live without for a few days or indefinitely should live here. Don’t put anything you are particularly attached to, like a gift from grandma or your favorite dress. I can’t stress enough that checked bags get lost all the time. With that being said, what bag do I use? No surprise, my Pelican case is again my favorite. I also put an extra tote or duffle inside in case I get too crazy with the shopping while away. Benny prefers something a bit easier to roll, but either way, I am a big advocate for getting a matching set, even if everything is simply the same color. I’d suggest staying away from common colors like navy blue or black. It makes it easier to spot yours in a sea of bags coming off the belt. Here’s what I always pack in my checked bag:

Important Documents: Always keep a copy of your passport in your checked luggage. It's a precaution against theft or loss, though I still keep the original on my person. I also make sure to include my address and phone number inside my checked luggage in case the AirTag dies or stops working, and carry visa documentation as needed for international travel.
Clothing Care: A clothes steamer is my secret weapon for wrinkle-free outfits on the go. Plus, I pack a laundry bag and dry laundry detergent sheets—they save space and make laundry day a breeze.
Food: I can’t survive a long journey without a few power bars. These are especially helpful for anyone with dietary restrictions or low blood sugar. I also carry oat milk powder for my coffee (because I prefer non-dairy options), and honey as a sweetener, as some sugar isn't plant-based, so honey is a great alternative when I am in need of a sweet fix!
Reusable Collapsible Shopping Bags: I’m all about avoiding plastic, so I pack extendable or net shopping bags that fit in my purse. They’re perfect for grabbing souvenirs without the need for plastic bags.
Nonessential electronics, like photography gear: For example, if I’m heading somewhere with the potential for swimming or diving, an underwater phone case is awesome for getting fun shots while protecting my devices. For more on travel electronics, you can check out my electronics for travel blog, where I list my must-have travel gadgets.
Blister Kits, Band-Aids, and Hygiene Essentials: For those 20k step days, these are a must. I also like to make sure I have other hygiene essentials like wet wipes, lens cleaners, and sanitizers. I keep some of these in my checked bag, but it’s good to have extra, as you’d be surprised how many you go through.

Packing for International vs. Domestic Travel

Packing for international travel requires a little more thought, especially when it comes to staying organized and secure. Here are my go-to tips:

Airtags in Each Bag: I never travel without AirTags. These little gadgets give me peace of mind and ensure that I can track my luggage at all times. I’ve tried cheaper alternatives, but I always end up trusting Apple’s version more.
Phone/Keys Lanyard: A lanyard for your phone and keys is a must for keeping everything secure, especially when I’m in crowded areas. And no, I’m not talking about the traditional conference lanyard you’re used to. There are now woven and leather lanyards that make your phone and wallet into a minimalist purse situation, keeping things stylish and functional.
Discretion in Style: There’s no avoiding the fact that you might stand out in a new culture, but a little research goes a long way in helping you blend in. I like to bring basic cotton hats, sunglasses, and scarves to cover up when needed. A scarf collection is a lifesaver for adjusting to local modesty standards, and you can check out my collection here.