A carry-on is honest. If something doesn't earn its space, it doesn't go.
I flew to LA in July. Everything in the first half of this list came with me, and all of it is going again. The second half is new this year, and I'll tell you exactly how new.
Earned Its Place
This is the bag that went to LA and back. It rolls easily through the airport, fits in the overhead bin and holds everything I need for the trip. It's the base the rest of my kit builds on.
My Bose noise-canceling headphones
I've been a Bose person for a long time. I bought my first pair when I started traveling for work, and I splurged with my first bonus check. They aren't cheap, but they're worth every penny on a flight. The engine noise and cabin chatter just disappear. They also last, and if you ever have an issue, Bose customer service is top notch.
This is my go-to. It clips onto my suitcase handle, so I never lose it or have to carry it. It's filled with microbeads, so it's flexible and not too thick. Sometimes I don't even use it on my neck. I set it in my lap to prop up my arms while I read my Kindle.
My BAGSMART clear liquids bags
They come in a 2-pack and are TSA-approved, and mine went to LA and back. Security goes faster when your liquids are already in a clear bag you can pull right out.
New This Year
I finally wore out my old one, and it isn't made anymore. This is its replacement. It hasn't been on a trip yet, but so far it holds my everyday makeup and brushes, and I can see everything without digging. And it is a cute leopard print with easy access!
Hotel rooms never have enough outlets in the right place. I haven't taken this one on a trip yet, but it's working at home and it's going in my bag next time. It turns one outlet into several, with USB ports built in.
The Bottom Line
Everything above the line has been tested at 30,000 feet. Everything below it is on trial, and I'll report back.
What's the one thing you never travel without? Tell me in the comments.
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