If you’re wondering how to pack a carry on for a smooth flight, West Coast Traveller has a few tips.

How to pack a carry-on: The WCT Travel Guide

November 30, 2021 // by Amy Attas

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The fun part is almost here: you’ve booked a trip to somewhere exciting, you just have to get there first. It’s the night before your flight, there are clothes all over your bed, and even though you’ve done this a million times before, you feel like you’ve forgotten how to pack a carry-on.

We’ve got you covered, with three WCT tips for your packing list.

1. Throw liquids and gels in a clear plastic bag on an outside pocket of your luggage

Every traveller is allowed to fill a one litre (one quart) clear plastic bag with travel-sized (up to 100 mL or 3.4 ounces) liquids and gels. Put this bag of toothpaste, lip balm, hand sanitizer and moisturizer in an outside pocket of your carry-on so it’s easy to pull out at security. Once you’re through the x-ray you can redistribute those items to your purse, pocket or inside your luggage where they won’t get smashed.

2. What should I bring on the plane?

4 things: entertainment, comfort, nourishment and safety. Safety depends on your preferences, but extra face masks, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes are a good idea. Snacks and hydration are key, if you don’t think the in-flight service will be enough. For long haul flights, an eye mask and travel pillow will keep you comfy. Books, movies, podcasts… if you use bluetooth headphones, don’t forget noise-cancelling headphones with a wire to connect to in-flight entertainment!

3. Everything you’d need for 24 hours

If you’re avoiding packing by lying on the floor texting your friends “What should I pack?” then the answer, as far as your carry-on goes, is everything you’ll need for the first 24 hours of your trip. If your checked luggage is delayed, at least you’ll have the essentials: toothpaste, medication and everything for your nighttime routine, a change of clothes and layers to handle the weather (plus temperature changes on the plane). Of course some of us love the excuse of lost luggage to get a jump on vacation shopping!

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