Peek Inside My Carry On

These are the items I pop inside my carry on for those extra long flights. Here I listed the products with a link in case you wanted to see what they looked like / costs. They also make for great gifts for that traveler in your life!

6/27/20253 min read

1. Foot holder

Why It’s in My Bag:
Because trying to get comfy in economy (yes, I fly economy) is basically a contact sport. A foot holder oops over the tray table and gives your feet a place to rest mid-air — like a mini hammock just for your legs. It helps reduce swelling, improves circulation, and actually makes it easier to fall asleep. It’s light, folds flat, and makes even the cheapest seat feel a little bougie. Once you fly with it, you’ll never want to go without it.

2. Headphones

Why It’s in My Bag:
Because duh — silence is golden and drama is optional. Whether you’re tuning out the crying baby in row 12 or zoning in on your “main character” playlist while boarding, AirPods are non-negotiable. They’re tiny, tangle-free, and perfect for podcasts, movies, or ignoring small talk with the person next to you. Bonus: they double as earplugs when you’re just trying to sleep(white noise!!). Honestly, if you’re flying without them… you’re doing it wrong. I currently use the older generation airpods, due to my teeny earholes but here is the better version. Over the ear headphones are also a win.

3. Neck Pillow

Why It’s in My Bag:
Because even if you think you won’t sleep on the plane… you probably will. A good neck pillow saves you from that awkward head-bob situation and waking up with a sore neck. Whether you’re team memory foam or inflatable, it adds just the right amount of comfort to make long flights feel a little less painful. Bonus points if it clips onto your bag so you don’t have to carry it like a baby. Heres the one I currently am loving

4. Kindle or Book

Why It’s in My Bag:
I’ll be honest — I love the feel (and smell!) of a real book. But when it comes to travel, a Kindle is just so practical. It’s slim, lightweight, and fits easily into any bag — which means I can bring 5+ books without the bulk. My favorite part? It comes with its own built-in lighting, so I can read in low light without bothering anyone (or juggling the overhead spotlight). It’s perfect for airport waits, long flights, or winding down before bed in a new time zone.

5. Portable Charger/ Chargers

Why It’s in My Bag:
Yes, technically you could just bring your regular charger and hope for the best… but let’s be real: airplane outlets are unpredictable, and there's usually only one — if it even works. A portable charger saves you the awkward outlet battle and lets you charge on your own terms. I especially love the cordless kind — no tangled mess, no fighting over the one plug, and I can charge my phone and AirPods while I watch a movie or scroll in peace.