Packing Guide: 23 Essentials You Need in Your Personal Bag

January 12, 2025

The items in your personal bag will really make or break your in-flight experience. I refuse to rely on complimentary amenity kits when flying for hours on end. Stay prepared with these 20 in-flight essentials you need in your personal bag.

Personal Bag vs. Carry On Bag

The way I look at it is: carry-on bags are optional, and personal bags are non-negotiable.

Personal bags are smaller in size and are required to fit under the seat in front of you. Size limitations vary by airline, but generally allow you to bring a backpack, purse, or small duffle bag. The best part? Every airline allows you to bring a personal item for free!

Carry-on luggage is larger than your personal bag, so it must be stowed in the overhead compartments during the duration of the plane. This limits your access to your bag during your flight. Many budget airlines in the U.S. charge extra for carry-on luggage, so a personal item may be the only piece of luggage many people use for their travels.

Sometimes, if the overhead compartments have reached maximum capacity, you will have to check your carry on bag. This means no access to your bag until after the flight.

Things To Consider

There is a lot to pack, so it is important to keep your bag organized. Choose a bag with a variety of pockets. I once had a suitcase small enough to qualify for a personal bag, but it was one big compartment that I had to throw everything in. Not to mention, it was hard to access anything while it was under the seat in front of me.

Do not overpack. Especially if your bag isn’t on wheels. Remember, you will have to travel throughout the airport and to your destination with this piece of luggage on your back or shoulder.

In some cases, if the overhead compartments are full, you may be asked to check your carry-on, meaning you won’t have access to your belongings until after the flight.

Since then, I’ve been using my BÉIS Mini Convertible Weekender religiously. It comes with me on nearly all of my flights because of its many features, and I’ve never been stopped for its size!

23 Essentials You Need in Your Personal Bag

Documents

Passport

Only necessary if you are traveling to a foreign country. Remember, you may need a passport when traveling to certain European countries, even if you are departing from one.

Visa

Passports are for identification, Visas are for permission to enter a country. While U.S. citizens can enter many countries without a visa, be sure to check entry requirements for specific countries you plan to travel to.

Printed Hotel, Airline, and Car Reservations

It’s always good to have physical copies of your reservations in case your phone runs out of battery or you don’t have internet connection at your destination.

Electronics

Headphones

One thing I cannot live without on any flight is headphones. Noise-canceling headphones will make for a better experience. Be sure to download movies or music in case the in-flight Wi-Fi is spotty! If you want to watch in the free entertainment provided by the airline, bring a wireless adapter to use your own headphones while watching.

Chargers

Especially during long-haul, international flights. Bring your chargers on board so you don’t drain your battery on entertainment.

Laptop

Get some work done during your time in the air! If you don’t absolutely need it, consider leaving it, because it can add unnecessary weight to your bag.

Toiletries

Hand Sanitizer

Airplanes are not the cleanest places. When you touch any surface don’t expect it to be clean. Use hand sanitizer regularly to keep your hands clean and reduce cross-contamination.

Disinfecting Wipes

If you want to go the extra mile, bring a small pack of disinfecting wipes to wipe down any surfaces you will be touching and using, especially the tray table. I usually reserve this for long-haul flights or when I fly with my toddler.

Tooth Brush and Toothpaste

One of the best ways to feel fresh during a long flight is to brush your teeth!

Deodorant

Deodorant can make you feel refreshed after a long flight. Remember to bring one that is within restrictions for carry-ons.

Beauty Products

Make Up

Bring your necessities to touch up after your long flight. I normally bring my eyeliner, mascara, eyebrow pencils and tinted moisturizer. Don’t forget your compact mirror!

Lip Balm

The air is super dry on airplanes so keep your lips moisturized to stay comfortable!

Makeup Wipes

Remove your old makeup with some makeup wipes. They’re a quick and convenient way to cleanse your skin, leaving you refreshed for a more comfortable flight.

Gua Sha

To depuff my face after a long flight.

For Your Comfort

Neck Pillow

A neck pillow can make all the difference when traveling. You don’t want to arrive at your destination with a stiff neck. Reduce the chances of that with a neck pillow.

Compression Socks

Compression socks are something you don’t know you need until you try it. This will encourage blood flow through your legs and prevent swelling.

A Light Jacket

Airplanes are always cold and the complimentary blankets airlines provide never do it for me. I always bring a light jacket to layer up when necessary- it’s more compact than a blanket and I won’t risk it sweeping the airplane floors. This also adds an extra layer when you arrive to your destination and it’s chilly.

A Set of Comfortable Clothes

Pack a fresh set of comfortable clothes to change into mid flight. I recommend not packing full-on pajamas, as you may need something to change into incase of an emergency.

Comfortable Shoes

…especially ones that easily slip on and off. This isn’t necessarily something to pack, but something you should wear. This will make it easier to navigate through the airport and the flight itself.

Eye Mask

If you’re bothered by the bright cabin lights, consider bringing eye masks to block out the light to help you sleep comfortably.

Food & Drinks

Snacks

In-flight meals follow a schedule that may not align with your appetite. Packing snacks can keep you satisfied especially if you sleep through meal service! Be mindful not to pack anything that too fragrant because you don’t want to upset your neighboring passengers.

Electrolyte Packs

Electrolyte packets have quickly become an essential part of my packing list. It keeps me hydrated throughout the flight without the need to chug water the entire time. This significantly reduces the need to get up to go to the bathroom as well.

Gum or Mints

Being stuck with stale breath for hours sounds like torture. Keep your breath breath with gum or mints. This can help prevent over snacking, and the gum can help with popping ears when changing altitudes!

Final Thoughts

These 23 essential items can significantly enhance your in-flight experience, making your travels more comfortable and enjoyable. While you may not need every single item on this list, I’ve found that each one adds value in its own way, especially during long-haul flights or when traveling under less-than-ideal conditions.

Be sure to customize your packing list to suit your personal needs, preferences, and the specifics of your flight to make all the difference. Consider factors like flight duration, your seating arrangement, and any special circumstances (such as medical requirements or travel comfort preferences) when selecting the items that will best support you on your journey!