Don't get me wrong I love flying, but that doesn't mean I don't get bored after about an hour of looking out the window. That's why I'm super specific about what ends up in my carry-on luggage. And after a couple long-haul flights I've got a whole new list of carry-on essentials. Some of these are my staple carry-on essentials and some only make their way into my carry-on when the flight is longer than 2 or 3 hours.
Tech
Phone - It seems obvious but seriously don't burry your phone in the bottom of your bag especially if you have your boarding pass on it!
Watch - I love my Apple Watch and I wear it pretty much all the time. Certainly you don't need a smart watch but I definitely like having a watch of some sort on the plane. I just like to be able to see what time it is, especially if I happen to shut my phone off or I'm on a plane that doesn't have the TV in seat.
iPad - I really try to avoid brining a lot of heavy items with me in my carry-on. That's why my iPad is perfect for me when I travel. I rarely need my computer and on the off chance I did need to check something, everything I need is also on my iPad. Since I also keep my work email and accounts off of my iPad it makes it really easy to disconnect and be fully present on vacation. Plus it's great for watching movies/shows while flying too!
Kindle - I am obsessed with my Kindle Paperwhite! Seriously, I read more books now that I have this - especially on vacation! I download a few before take off and I'm good to go! It beats packing multiple books in my bag, plus the battery life is insane so I'm usually good to go for an entire long-haul flight!
Airpods - Full confession, I'm not a huge fan of using my airpods on the plane the entire time. But, I do like to have multiple sets of headphones for if one pair dies, and my airpods are certainly the easiest to pack!
Noise Cancelling Headphones - These are my personal favorite type of headphones to wear on the plane. Half the time I use them mainly when I'm tryin to sleep because planes are so loud! I'm in the market for a new pair so let me know your favorites!
Chargers - You never know when you're phone's going to die, etc. so personally I like to keep all of my chargers in my carry-on so that I can plug everything in at the airport or even on the plane if I'm lucky enough to be on one with outlets!
Portable Charger - If there aren't outlets nearby and you need to charge your phone ASAP having a portable charger is key!
Outlet Adapter - If you're long-haul flight is domestic this certainly isn't an essential but for international flights having an outlet adapter in your carry-on is key! You never know when you're going to need to switch the type of outlet plug you're using and there's nothing worse than having a charger but no way to actually plug it in!
Beauty/Toiletries
Clothes
Health
Misc.
There you have it! All of the many things I have to have when boarding a long-haul flight! What are some of your carry-on must haves? Let me know in my latest Instagram post!