The Perfect Carry On

Travel 101 | June 27, 2013

I’m sure you’ve already guessed that I am one of the biggest travel fans and constantly find myself with a case of wanderlust!  But this also means that I’m living a lot of my life out of a suitcase, and lets be honest, that’s never fun.  But it can definitely be made easier!  I’ve become a pretty good packer (if I do say so myself) so I decided to pass on some of my tricks for those of you hopping on a plane any time soon.

Especially if you’re on your way to your honeymoon, travel stress is the last thing you want to think about.  Your carry on will be your best friend and your only hope if your luggage gets lost so it’s important to always have the essentials with you.

To keep you busy:
Stock up on your favorite movies, TV shows, and books but instead of cramming a bunch of DVDs or hardbacks into your bag, download them on an iPad or iPad mini!  There’s also a ton of super cute cases to be able to slip your entertainment into while still staying stylish (the adorable hot pink one shown is by Kate Spade).  Then of course don’t forget your headphones!  If you’re not an earbud fan like me, I’m loving these mint green ones from Urbanears.  Your movies will sound great and you’ll look cute listening!  If you’re on a long flight there’s a good chance that your battery will run out before you land.  I love storing one of these little PowerMate’s in my bag from JCrew.  It will give you a little extra boost of power but also come in cute colors and patterns!

To snack on:
Remember that most planes are not serving snacks anymore so make sure to stock up on something easy to eat but that will also satisfy.  Trail mixes and power bars are always a good option and don’t forget to hydrate!  Lots of water will help with jetlag and get you moving as soon as you land.

To relax:
Make sure you wear your comfiest shoes on travel days!  Slip on flats are usually the best for security lines and I’m definitely loving Madewell’s Summer Skimmers right now!  They work for night and day, on and off a plane.  Layer a soft tee with a lightweight scarf that can double as a neck pillow and then you can really snuggle in with your new hubby and travel blanket.  I also find that journaling while I’m traveling makes it so fun to look back and remember a trip.  Kate Spade carries super cute notebooks like the “Ready for Departure?” one above!

To keep that newlywed glow:
I know some like to think of a travel day as a day with no primping necessary, but I usually like to carry at least the basics with me.  An eos chapstick, hand sanitizer, deodorant, and makeup remover towelettes will be your best friend by the end of the long flight.  I also pack all of my makeup that I will use on the trip in a travel kit that fits in a tote just in case my luggage gets lost.  Buying an extra outfit when arriving isn’t too bad but nobody wants to deal with restocking a makeup bag!

There you have it!  These are the basics of my carry on!  What are your thoughts?  Anything I’m missing out on or you just can’t travel without?  I’d love to hear in the comments below!

Happy travels! xo