In the last post you heard of my latest adventure getting stranded in Detroit. Fortunately it was not in a blizzard, like in 1998. I take carry on luggage as often as possible when traveling. It is easier to manage and the airline can’t lose what you don’t give them. It means that you need to stay on top of the ever-changing rules, and must avoid the silver seashell cheese slicer (apparently considered a weapon) you wanted to bring as a housewarming gift. But I will take that, and re-wearing clothes, over dealing with airline personnel when they lose my bag.
That being said, even if you do check bags, there are things you should always take in your carry on, lest you get stuck somewhere or they lose your luggage:
- Medicines. This one should go without saying
- Books, iPod, Kindle to keep you occupied on your trip
- Noise canceling headphones – they really do drown out screaming toddlers, and overly chatty seatmates
- Two pairs of clean undergarments, and a change of clothes. If you are going to a wedding, bring the appropriate clothes – nobody wants to be the guy at wedding in jeans.
- Toiletries. You don’t need more than 3 oz of toothpaste unless you are traveling for several weeks. Even then, buy extra at your destination. The same goes for shampoo and contact lens solution.
- Extra batteries and your phone charger. Don’t get stuck somewhere with a dead cell phone and no way to reach the person picking you up at the airport.
- A pen. Useful for filing out customs forms on international flights, and writing drafts of your letter to the airline when they screw up your flight.
Do you have things you can’t live without in your carry on? Post a comment and let me know.
