Travel news
The sight of hundreds of suitcases piled high at Heathrow recently, the result of a baggage handling backlog, was enough to strike fear into the heart of the most confident traveller.
If you’re jetting off on holiday, being without your clothes and belongings even for a few days, is a real hassle.
That’s why it’s important to take essential items on board as part of your carry-on allowance. Here’s what you should always think about including in your hand luggage…
Important documents
Saving documents such as travel insurance policies, vaccination records and booking references on your phone or tablet is the easiest way to take them on board – and it’s wise to keep digital copies accessible in your email inbox, too.
But for anything that has to be a hard copy, such as tickets or visas that can’t easily be replaced (even if not needed until later in your trip), keep them in a folder in your baggage.
Medication
Medicines can be tricky to replace – even with a prescription. So take at least one week’s worth of any medications you rely on, and make sure to check before you travel, as restrictions on drugs such as painkillers can vary between countries.
Electronics
As well as your phone, tablet or laptop, be sure to pack your chargers, cables and an adapter if necessary. A universal adapter with multiple USB ports is a great space saver.
Sentimental items
If the loss of an item would result in tears, don’t risk putting it in your checked bag. Jewellery gifted by a loved one, for instance, or a child’s favourite blanket/cuddly toy they can’t sleep without, should stay close at hand.
Spare clothes
Including a few items of clothing will save you from having to shop for replacements if your bag is delayed after your flight.
Top of the list should be underwear and swimwear (if you’re going on a beach holiday), plus a hat, sunglasses, and versatile items such as shorts and tops.
Wear your most useful shoes on the plane – trainers if you’re going to be doing lots of walking, or sandals if it’s a relaxed itinerary.
Toiletries
Unless you’re staying in a fancy hotel with mini toiletries, a small set of essentials (in bottles no larger than 100ml) is a good idea – and don’t forget sunscreen, which can be hugely overpriced in some holiday destinations.
You may also want to pack your make-up (because replacing a whole kit could be very costly) and a small bottle of travel wash so you can launder and rewear your clothes.