Trip Must-Have Essentials for Your Carry-on

When it comes to travel, I’m proud to be a carry-on-only gal. It doesn’t matter if I’m gone for a few days or a few weeks—traveling with my bag as light as possible is crucial for me, not only for peace of mind, but for constant movement, different forms of transportation, and ease. I also find that the more you travel, the less you need.

That being said, some travel essentials stay packed and ready—the gear, gadgets, and go-tos that make every trip that much easier. After years of traveling for work (I’ve logged 78 flights this year alone), these are the items I never unpack, because they’ve proven themselves useful time and time again. Keep scrolling for the essentials I always keep in my carry-on, so I’m ready for any adventure. And bonus: They’re all available at Amazon.

Travel Essentials I Always Keep in My Carry-on

• Thule Compression Packing Cubes, $48 (originally $54)
• Bagsmart Tech Organizer, $15
• Bagsmart Clear Toiletry Bags, $9
• LifeStraw Sip Filtering Straw, $24 (originally $35)
• Vifuur Water Shoes, $7

Thule Compression Packing Cubes

As a carry-on-only traveler, these compression packing cubes are the first thing I grab to keep my bag organized and lightweight. The durable nylon and compression zippers make them feel much sturdier than standard packing cubes, and they actually squeeze down the air to free up serious space. I use the larger cube for bulkier items like jeans or sweaters, and the smaller one for tees and dresses. They make packing so efficient that I can fit a full week’s wardrobe into a carry-on, which is probably why people always ask how I travel so light.

Bagsmart Tech Organizer

Nothing feels messier than cords tangled at the bottom of your bag mid-travel day, which is why this smart tech organizer never leaves my suitcase. It has elastic loops for chargers, mesh pockets for adapters, and just enough padding to keep everything safe without being bulky. I keep mine pre-packed with an extra phone charger, travel adapter, and other cords so I can grab and go.

Bagsmart Clear Toiletry Bags

These clear toiletry bags live permanently in my carry-on—and my toiletries stay packed. They’re TSA-approved, waterproof, and structured enough to stand up on a bathroom counter without flopping over. The clear panels make it easy to see what’s inside at a glance—especially helpful when digging through your bag at security or in a tiny hotel bathroom.

Pro Tip

Keep a 1-liter Ziploc bag tucked in your toiletry kit for those airports that insist all liquids be packed in one. When needed, just transfer your items, breeze through security, and pop them back in your bag afterward.

LifeStraw Sip Filtering Straw

This sleek stainless-steel straw filters out 99.9 percent of bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, letting me safely sip from any glass, tap, or questionable refill station. Perfect for long flights, day trips, or places where bottled water isn’t readily available. The filter lasts up to one year of use!

Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches

Another one that stays in my zippered compartment is this waterproof phone pouch. It’s perfect for rafting, rainy hikes, beach days, or unpredictable weather. The double-locking clasp seals tightly, comes with a lanyard, and allows touchscreen use while keeping your phone dry.

Vifuur Water Shoes

Lightweight, quick-drying, and versatile, these water shoes are perfect for rivers, beaches, or poolside. They fold easily into my carry-on and save me from soggy socks.

When it comes to travel, I’m proud to be a carry-on-only gal. It doesn’t matter if I’m gone for a few days or a few weeks—traveling with my bag as light as possible is crucial for me, not only for peace of mind, but for constant movement, different forms of transportation, and ease. I also find that the more you travel, the less you need.

That being said, some travel essentials stay packed and ready—the gear, gadgets, and go-tos that make every trip that much easier. After years of traveling for work (I’ve logged 78 flights this year alone), these are the items I never unpack, because they’ve proven themselves useful time and time again. Keep scrolling for the essentials I always keep in my carry-on, so I’m ready for any adventure. And bonus: They’re all available at Amazon.

Travel Essentials I Always Keep in My Carry-on

• Thule Compression Packing Cubes, $48 (originally $54)
• Bagsmart Tech Organizer, $15
• Bagsmart Clear Toiletry Bags, $9
• LifeStraw Sip Filtering Straw, $24 (originally $35)
• Vifuur Water Shoes, $7

FAQs

Thule Compression Packing Cubes help organize clothing, compress bulk, and maximize space in your carry-on. They are durable and ideal for long trips.

The Bagsmart Tech Organizer has elastic loops and mesh pockets to keep chargers, cords, and adapters tangle-free and easy to access.

Yes, these clear toiletry bags are TSA-approved, waterproof, and structured for convenience at security checks and hotel bathrooms.

The LifeStraw Sip filters 99.9% of bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, allowing you to safely drink from glasses, taps, and refill stations.

Vifuur Water Shoes are perfect for rivers, beaches, pools, or rainy hikes. They are lightweight, quick-drying, and foldable for easy packing.