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12 Things to Always Have in Your Carry-On Bag

Look at you, Miss Prepared

As anyone who’s ever been stranded in Denver for 17 hours knows, airline travel often throws a curve ball. But if you’ve got a well-packed carry-on, you’re good to go no matter what happens. Here, 12 things to always have on hand.

The 10 Best Travel Hacks We Know


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1. Eye Mask
Whether you’re trying to sleep on a red-eye or in a hotel room where the sunlight pokes in at 5 a.m, an eye mask will help you get the shut-eye you need to feel your best.

2. Antibacterial Wipes
From the airport to the shuttle bus, you’re going to be touching lots of germs. Decrease the ick factor with a pack of Wet Ones.

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3. Layers
Planes can never decide on a temperature. (Hello arctic takeoff and hot-flash-central landing.) Do yourself a favor and pack some options so you can stay comfy throughout flight.

4. Advil
Getting a migraine three hours into your trans-Atlantic is no fun. Always travel with pain-relievers so you can nip it in the bud. 

RELATED: 6 Lifesaving Jet-Lag Remedies Everyone Should Know

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5. Photocopies of your passport
Losing a passport abroad is a complete nightmare, so make sure you have a few photocopies in case of emergency. Keep one in your wallet, one in the pocket of your favorite handbag and heck, even one in your toiletry case.

6. Toothbrush
Feel a little grimy upon landing? Freshen your breath and get on with your life.

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7. Extra Cash
Because who knows when you’ll see another ATM. 


8. Slippers
Is it just us, or is it impossible to get comfortable on a plane when your toes are all jammed into your sneakers?

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9. Refillable Water Bottle
Of course, water won’t be allowed through security, but you can fill up at the nearest water-fountain, then stay hydrated throughout the flight. (These amazing Kleen Kanteen bottles keep water ice-cold for an entire day.)

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10. A Notebook
You don’t have to be a travel blogger to keep a written record of your trip. Pack a journal and pen or pencil so you can jot down thoughts, memories or goals as they come to you.

11. Snacks
Because you are not fun when you’re hangry.

RELATED: This is How You Will Never Lose a Charger Again When You Travel


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Freelance PureWow Editor

From 2015-2017 Hannah Loewentheil held the role of Editor covering entertainment, food, travel and all things nyc.