Carry-On Essentials

Packing a carry-on may seem straightforward, but seasoned travelers know it’s a practiced skill — equal parts planning, precision, and personal comfort. What you bring on board can shape your entire travel experience. From unexpected delays to mid-flight dry skin, a well-packed personal item can be the difference between travel stress and travel ease. It’s not just about having the basics within reach; it’s about creating a sense of order, calm, and readiness at 35,000 feet. After years of refining my routine, I’ve landed on a small collection of essentials that keep me grounded, no matter how far I’m flying. These are the items I never board without.

CUYANA Small Classic Zip Around Wallet

A refined essential for streamlined travel. This wallet strikes the perfect balance between minimalism and functionality, with compartments for your ID, credit cards, and a few currencies — all enclosed in Cuyana’s buttery soft pebbled leather. It slips effortlessly into a seatback pocket or a crossbody and feels just as appropriate at an airport lounge as it does at a sidewalk café abroad. Elegant, practical, and always in reach.

CUYANA Tech Case

Modern travel requires power and order, and this case delivers both with quiet luxury. Designed with thoughtful compartments, it houses my full suite of tech necessities: Apple AirPods Pro, laptop and phone chargers, Apple Watch puck, a mobile hotspot, and a portable battery charger. No more fumbling for cords mid-flight or scouring terminals for outlets. It’s compact, polished, and essential to staying connected from takeoff to check-in.

CUYANA Zipper Pouch

The unsung hero of my carry-on. This sleek leather pouch holds the little things that make a long journey feel more human: a mini tube of Aquaphor for dry lips and cuticles, cleansing wipes for a mid-flight refresh, nourishing hand cream, sanitizer, zinc lozenges, and a discreet travel toothbrush kit. I also toss in a few hair ties, clips, tissues — the odds and ends that restore some sense of control and comfort when you're miles from your usual routine.

iPhone

More than a phone — it's my entertainment center, communication hub, and navigation tool in one. Before every flight, I preload Spotify playlists, a few favorite podcasts to ease me into sleep or keep me company in transit, and a series or two in case Wi-Fi is spotty. With a fresh charge and noise-canceling AirPods, I can settle in, tune out, and travel in my own curated bubble.

KN95 Masks

Still very much a staple, especially for international flights. I always keep a few on hand, mostly for peace of mind if I start feeling off mid-trip or if the person next to me is clearly sick. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and offer a simple layer of protection when you need it most.

Laptop

My mobile workspace, editing bay, and creative studio in one slim package. A true workhorse, not just a carry-on staple. I use it to edit photos, refine pitches, or put finishing touches on a draft — whether I’m in-flight or waiting at the gate. Lightweight and easy to access, it’s the one item that lets me stay productive and creatively dialed in, even at 30,000 feet.

Moleskine Notebook + Le Pen

It’s less about romanticizing travel and more about carving out a moment without distractions. When everything else is digital and fast-moving, putting pen to paper feels like a reset. I use this slim set to jot down notes, map out ideas, or work through edits in peace. The Le Pen writes cleanly, the Moleskine holds up well in any seatback pocket, and together, they offer a kind of mental clarity that’s hard to come by mid-itinerary.

Paperback Book (or Kindle, depending)

I go back and forth between the two. A paperback feels grounding — a tech-free escape that’s immune to Wi-Fi and battery anxiety. But when I know I’ll be reading often — at the beach, in bed, or solo at dinner — I usually reach for my Kindle. It’s lightweight, holds everything, and disappears in your hand, which is exactly what I want when I’m deep in a story. Either way, I always bring something to read that doesn’t require a login or a signal.

Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask

A small luxury that makes a big difference. This silk mask feels soft against the skin, doesn’t tug at delicate under-eye areas, and truly blocks out harsh cabin light. Whether I’m on a red-eye or just want a moment of calm, it signals to the world (and to myself) that rest is a priority.

Snacks

Gone are the days of relying on dry airplane pretzels or sad granola bars. I pack a few things that actually hold me over: lightly salted almonds, crunchy edamame beans, and a David Bar (the peanut butter chocolate chunk one is my favorite). If I’m flying long-haul or expecting delays, I’ll throw in an LMNT electrolyte packet to stay hydrated without relying on sugary drinks. At the airport, I’ll usually pick up a Greek yogurt, a Creminelli tray, or a Starbucks protein box — something with real substance to balance it out.

refillable water bottle

I’m obsessed with my Stanley IceFlow Flip Straw; its 36 oz size is unapologetically large, but that’s exactly why I bring it. With a built-in straw and wide-mouth opening, it's built for regular sips on long journeys. The stainless steel insulation keeps water cold for hours, and the straw lid seals tightly to prevent leaks. BPA‑free and designed for real use, it helps me stay hydrated without relying on airport buys or feeling like I need to ration the last drop.

Sunglasses

I always bring a pair — mostly for early arrivals, tired eyes, or when I just want a break from bright terminal lights. My go-to is a tortoiseshell frame from Warby Parker that’s easy to throw on and works with pretty much everything I pack. Simple, functional, and always worth the space.