What to pack in your carry-on: a traveller's checklist
Liquids, gadgets, documents and your make-up bag — we've put together a carry-on checklist that means you leave nothing at home and hand nothing over at security.
Your carry-on is your emergency kit in case the suitcase flies off to another city. A smartly packed bag saves both nerves and money. Let's go through what to take and how to lose nothing at security.
Liquid rules and sizes
The classic rule: liquids, gels and creams in containers of no more than 100 ml each, all together in one transparent zip bag of about a litre. Even a half-empty 200 ml bottle will be taken at security — what matters is the container's volume, not what's left inside.
- Carry-on size and weight limits differ by airline — check the limits for your specific carrier and fare in advance.
- Power banks and spare batteries go in the cabin only; they must not be checked in.
- Take medicines with a margin and in their original packaging; prescription ones — with the prescription or a doctor's note.
Make-up bag and gadgets
Pack your make-up bag on the "mini versions" principle: decant your favourites into travel bottles of up to 100 ml, and dry textures (powder, solid deodorant, balm sticks) don't count towards the liquids limit at all — take them without worrying.
- Phone, charger, a short cable and a power bank — all in one organiser, so you're not digging around the bottom of your bag.
- Headphones, wet wipes, lip balm and hand cream — the things you'll actually use in flight.
- A change of underwear, a T-shirt and a minimal folding wash bag — in case your luggage is delayed.
- An empty water bottle: fill it after security and skip the overpriced departure-area drinks.
The rule is simple: anything you couldn't survive a day without should travel with you in the cabin, not in the hold.
Documents and packing hacks
Documents — in one place and duplicated. Keep your passport, boarding pass and accommodation booking in a separate compartment or sleeve, and copies (a photo on your phone and in your email) as insurance in case of loss.
- Roll clothes into rolls — it saves space and creases less.
- Use your wash bag and shoes as containers: hide small items and chargers inside.
- Put heavy things closer to the back of the bag, light things on top — easier to carry and to reach.
- Leave 10% of the space free for souvenirs and things you buy on the trip.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take cosmetics in my carry-on?
Yes, if liquid and cream products are in containers of up to 100 ml and packed in one transparent zip bag. Dry textures — powder, sticks, solid shampoo — don't count towards the liquids limit and can be taken freely.
Why can't a power bank go in checked luggage?
Lithium batteries travel in the cabin only, for fire-safety reasons. Keep your power bank, spare batteries and e-cigarettes in your carry-on.
What if my bag is declared too big?
Measure the dimensions and weight against your airline's and fare's rules in advance. If the bag is borderline — put on your bulkiest clothes and move heavy items into your pockets; at check-in that often saves you the extra fee.
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