Overseas travel is always exciting but the long flights and extra security concerns have made it more stressful than it ever has been. Travelers may be concerned about what they can and should carry on for long flights.
The first thing a traveler needs to do is to make certain his carry-on luggage meets the guidelines set by the airline. Some U.S. airlines have one set of guidelines for domestic flights, and one for international flights. This is because international flights are usually full and space in the overhead bins is at a premium. So, a carry-on bag should either fit comfortably in the plane’s overhead bins, or under the seat. Most airlines have Web sites that detail their guidelines for size and number of carry-ons. Most airlines allow a carry-on bag and either a purse, briefcase or computer bag.
One good way for a woman to get a bit more in the carry-on is to pack a regular-sized carry-on bag, and to carry a large purse or medium-sized tote. But, both should fit in the bins or under the seat. Carry-ons should not have dangling locks or straps (this goes for checked baggage as well). These tend to catch in the security X-ray machines and conveyor belts.
So, now that the traveler has made certain his carry-on items are within the guidelines, what should he pack in them? Well, the traveler will be better off if he assumes the worst. He should assume his luggage may well not arrive when he does, and should pack accordingly.
To that end, a traveler should first have any prescriptions filled and should pack medicines first. He should pack the medication in the drugstore containers and also have copies of his prescriptions with the medication. He should also have a letter from his physician, on letterhead, explaining each medication and why the traveler needs it. This is especially critical for any kind of narcotic pain reliever, such as Oxycontin. Also, a prescription/letter should be included for any medical supplies, such as insulin syringes. The traveler should also pack insulin in a sandwich bag (labeled with his name) and should ask the flight attendants if it can be stored in the plane’s refrigeration section in the galley.
A traveler should also have his passport and all travel documents in an outside, zippered pocket of the carry-on or tote for easy access. He should have a copy of all these documents inside his carry-on luggage, as well as a copy at home with a trusted friend or family member.
In case the checked baggage goes missing, the traveler should always carry a description of his checked baggage, and a packing list. This could be critical for identification when the bag is recovered.
The wise traveler will also pack a couple of changes of clothes, including clean underwear. If he is going somewhere he might be swimming, swimsuits roll up and stow easily, so they should be included, as well.
All toiletry items should be packed in the carry-on baggage, including shaving kits for men, deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste, dental floss, a hairbrush and comb, shampoo, and basic cosmetics and feminine hygiene products for women.
Eyeglasses/contact wearers need to consider their carry-on luggage, as well. They should carry a spare pair of glasses, or contacts, and their cleaning/storing solutions. Contact lens wearers should carry their glasses in their carry-on luggage as a matter of course.
Travelers should, for the most part, leave valuables at home. Men should buy a cheap watch and women should wear conservative jewelry. However, valuables that must be carried should be packed in the carry-on luggage discreetly, and preferably at the bottom, or near the bottom of the bag, so the shape will not be visible from the outside. Traveler’s checks and most cash should be packed in the carry-on, again, discreetly, and the traveler should only carry a small amount of money on his person, and then in an inside pocket or in a money belt. Some have found it expedient to buy cheap wedding bands at a discount store. That way, women have a sign that they are married (which will often save them from being harassed), and if the ring gets lost or stolen, no one has lost much.
In short, a traveler should carry-on anything he or she is likely to need in the first 48 hours after landing in the destination country. This will help ensure the stay overseas is a pleasant and happy experience and will generate happy memories.
