I’ve done a bit of traveling this year. Chicago, Thailand and now Dubai, so I’ve worked out what I do need in my carry on luggage to make the trip more comfortable (and I fly economy so I need to make it as comfortable as I can, as on average these flights are all 12 hours or more!).
Today I’m sharing with you what I’m packing for Dubai (leaving tomorrow night!). I like to pack a carry on size trolley case (I’m taking this one from Samsonite with me as it’s super light and versatile).
Essential Carry On Items:
Entertainment
- Headphones (preferably noise cancelling ones to get rid of the roar of the engines and hum of the airconditioning) for my ipad/phone with the little adapter so I can plug into the airplane entertainment system
- Reading materials – my stash of unread copies of the Good Weekend magazine, that I never manage to read during the week, but can happily read and discard along my way.
- ipad- I always download a TV series or two before I leave so I can watch it when I need, to. Waiting in the the lounge at the airport or on the plane.
- Computer for doing some work, with mouse and an international charger, in case I’m stuck in an airport and can find a power outlet to recharge. Blogging requires constant work!
- Smart phone for listening to podcasts and music
- Ear plugs to cut out the noise when sleeping
Comfort
- Eye mask to cut the light so I can nap
- Empty water bottle, to fill and drink on the plane and in transit, once through customs and immigration
- Lip balm and hand cream as it’s drying on the plane
- Toothbrush and toothpaste, face wipes, moisturiser – remember no more than 100ml per item and 1L total in a clear plastic bag
- Pashmina or two, can be used as a blanket or even rolled up and as extra pillow on those uncomfortable elbow rests.
- Ear plus to cut out the noise when sleeping
- Neck pillow for sleeping, I much prefer the memory foam ones to the ones with little balls.
- A little makeup for making myself look more human at the other end
- Small hairbrush
Essentials
- DVT Flight Socks
- Sunglasses as I will need them at the other end
- Reading glasses because I’m going slowly blind in my old age
- Extra wallet with local currency and frequent flyer card, then I don’t have to empty my regular wallet of cards, and I just keep it in the hotel safe til the trip home
- Documentation in a plastic wallet
- Travel Insurance as I’ve heard horrendous stories of overseas hospital bills. Never travel without it. Mine is through Bupa*
- Itinerary
- Passport
- Hotel address/details
- Pen for filling in landing cards
* Exclusive Offer from Bupa for followers of Bloggerati Getaway: If you buy Travel Insurance before December 31 2014, you will receive a Travel Adaptor Kit. Conditions apply. Make sure you buy via the link or by calling 1300 555 240 to receive yours.