What To Pack In A Carry-On For Family Vacations: Top 21 Essentials

What To Pack In A Carry-On: 7 Toddler Carry-On Essentials

Traveling with a toddler can be challenging, to say the least.

No matter how well-behaved your child is, there’s always going to be a certain amount of stress that comes along with being in close quarters for an extended period of time.

That’s why it’s so important to be prepared before you even step foot on the plane.

Here’s what to pack in a carry-on for toddlers to make your trip as smooth as possible.

1. A Change Of Clothes (Or Two)

You never know when spills or accidents are going to happen.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry by packing an extra set of clothes (or two).

Include items like a shirt, pants, underwear, and socks. If you’re traveling with a baby girl, don’t forget to pack a hairbrush and hair ties!

2. Diapers And Wipes

Of course, you’ll need diapers and wipes regardless of your trip length when thinking of what to pack in a carry-on.

But it’s always a good idea to pack more than you think you’ll need, just in case of any delays or other unforeseen circumstances.

You can never have too many diapers and wipes when traveling with a toddler.

3. Snacks And Drinks

Hunger can strike at any time, so it’s important to have snacks and drinks on hand at all times.

Pack some of your child’s favorite snacks and healthy options like fruits and vegetables.

You can also bring a refillable water bottle, so everyone stays hydrated throughout the trip.

Check out the best TSA-friendly snacks for kids here.

4. Toys And Books

Toys and books are carry-on essentials for keeping toddlers entertained during long trips when planning what to pack in a carry-on.

Pack a few of your child’s favorite toys and some new ones to keep them occupied during the journey.

And don’t forget to throw in a few books for bedtime reading!

5. A Blanket And Pillows

A cozy blanket and pillows will make any trip more comfortable, especially if you’re traveling overnight or taking turns sleeping with your toddler on the plane or in the car.

Be sure to pack something small and lightweight so that it doesn’t take up too much space in your carry-on.

6. Inflatable Foot Rest

An inflatable foot rest like Koala Kloud can help your kids relax and feel better during long flights.

It’s easy to inflate and has durable quality, making it perfect for constant travel.

An inflatable footrest can be used as a footrest on a plane or a small seat.

It’s perfect for long trips when your child needs a break from sitting in their car seat or stroller.

7. First Aid Kit

You never know when you might need a Band-Aid or some antibiotic ointment.

That’s why it’s always a good idea to pack a small first aid kit in your carry-on essentials when you’re traveling with young children.

Be sure to include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relief medication.

What To Pack In A Carry-On: 7 Adult Carry-On Packing List

No one wants to start their vacation by dealing with lost luggage.

Packing your carry-on with everything you need will save you time and headaches at the airport.

Here’s what to pack in a carry-on for your adult carry-on essentials.

8. Clothes

When it comes to clothes, it is important to pack versatile items that can be mixed and matched when deciding on a carry-on packing list.

For example, pack a couple of pairs of jeans that can be worn with different shirts or sweaters.

You should also pack a jacket or coat that can be worn over your other clothes to keep you warm on the plane or in case the weather is colder than expected at your destination.

In terms of shoes, pack one pair of comfortable walking shoes and one nicer pair of shoes that can be worn out to dinner or on special occasions.

9. Toiletries

Toiletries are carry-on essentials for any trip, whether you are gone for a weekend or a week.

Pack all your essentials, such as toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, etc.

If you wear contacts, don’t forget to pack a contact solution and an extra pair of contacts.

You should also pack any prescription medications you take regularly.

If you are traveling internationally, it is a good idea to check if there are any restrictions on the type or quantity of toiletries you can bring into the country.

10. Electronics

In today’s world, it is practically impossible to travel without some sort of electronic device.

Whether you are bringing a laptop, tablet, e-reader, or just your smartphone, be sure to pack all the necessary chargers and cables.

If you plan on using your electronics extensively while on vacation, investing in travel-friendly versions of your devices, such as portable chargers and lightweight laptops, is a good idea.

11. Documents And Money

Of course, no vacation would be complete without your documents and money!

Be sure to bring your passport and any other required travel documents with your other carry-on essentials.

It is also a good idea to make photocopies of your passport and other vital documents in case they are lost or stolen while you are away from home.

As for money, it is always best to have a mix of cash and credit cards to prepare you for any eventuality.

If you are traveling internationally, check the currency exchange rate in advance to know how much cash to bring with you.

12. Entertainment

Don’t forget to pack something to keep you entertained during long flights or layovers!

A book or Kindle e-reader are always good options for avid readers.

If you prefer visual entertainment, consider bringing a portable DVD player or downloading movies and TV shows onto your laptop or tablet before leaving home.

Bring headphones or earbuds to enjoy your favorite tunes without disturbing those around you for those who like listening to music or podcasts while traveling.

If you’re on a long haul flight with kids, these tips can help. 

13. Food

If you are like most people, you get hungry when you travel.

Be sure to pack some snacks and drinks to avoid getting Hangry (hungry + angry).

Non-perishable snacks such as granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit are always good options.

Water is the best drink choice, but you can also pack juice boxes or sports drinks for the kids.

If you are traveling with young children, it is also a good idea to pack some baby food and formula.

14. Medication

Lastly, don’t forget to pack any medication you or your family members take regularly.

This includes over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers and allergy medicine.

If you have any chronic conditions that require prescription medication, be sure to bring enough to last the entire trip.

Also, bring a copy of your prescriptions in case you need to refill them while away from home.

What To Pack In A Carry-On: 7 Teenager Carry-On Essentials

Traveling with a teenager can be daunting, to say the least. Not only are they moody and uncooperative, but they also tend to lose things.

This is why it’s vital to ensure they have everything they need in their carry-on bag.

What can you pack in your carry on?

Here are seven essentials every parent should know about what to pack in carry-on bag for flight with teenagers.

15. Identification

Ensure your teenager has their driver’s license or passport in their carry-on packing list.

This is essential for getting through security. If they’re traveling internationally, they’ll need their passport.

If they’re traveling domestically, their driver’s license will suffice.

You should also pack a copy of your teen’s birth certificate just in case the originals are lost or stolen.

16. Phone and Charger

It’s essential to stay connected when you’re traveling, so you should ensure your teenager has their phone and charger in their carry-on bag.

If they’re traveling internationally, don’t forget to pack an adapter so they can charge their phone.

17. Medication 

If your teenager takes medication regularly, pack enough for the entire trip in their carry-on packing list.

You should also pack any over-the-counter medication they might need, like pain relievers, cold medicine, etc. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

18. Clothes 

Pack enough clothes for your teenager to last the trip in their carry-on essentials bag. This includes underwear, socks, shirts, pants, etc.

If you’re traveling with a boy, don’t forget to pack a belt! And if you’re traveling with a girl, don’t forget to pack a bra!

19. Shoes 

Packing shoes can be tricky because they take up a lot of space.

But it’s essential to make sure your teenager has at least two pairs of shoes in their carry-on bag.

Have one for everyday use and one for formal occasions (if necessary).

20. Toiletries  

Pack all your teenager’s toiletries in their carry-on essentials bag, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, etc.

Don’t forget feminine hygiene products if you’re packing for a girl!

21. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

This is essential for any teenager—especially if they’re traveling with younger siblings.

Noise-canceling headphones will help them block out the screaming and crying and hopefully allow them to get some peace and quiet.

Conclusion

Packing for a family vacation can seem daunting at first glance.

But if you break it down into smaller steps of what to pack in a carry-on bag for flight, it’s not that bad.

Just focus on packing the essentials (passport, travel documents, and medications), then move on to clothing and personal items.

Don’t forget entertainment for the kids and snacks for everyone—including yourself!

What are your carry-on essentials? Let us know in the comments below!

Koala Kloud is the #1 flight essential to keep your kids comfortable & happy on long trips, transforming your cramped, uncomfortable plane & car seats into a super soft surface you and your kids can kick your feet up on or lay down and relax for hours!

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