Carry-Ons?

[Sunbeam]

So... In July, I am going to go visit my S.O.
I've checked American Airlines' website to see carry on restrictions and so forth. I think I've got a handle on what to pack in my luggage and so forth, I was just wondering if anyone had any tips on what to pack in my carry-on?

Thanks in advance

[blankita719]

My tip is next time to go on Southwest - you can fly with two bags for free

In all seriousness though - how long of a trip are you going for? I always try to consolidate and pack just a few pairs of jeans or shorts that I can wash while I am at my SO's house to save on baggage. Also, I'm keeping shampoo and other toiletries at his place so I don't have to pack them every time I go up. Maybe you could ask your SO to go ahead & pick some of those up for you before hand so you don't have to worry about the liquids limits or restrictions?

[Moon]

Pack a change of clothes, just in case your luggage ends up visiting somewhere else. No liquids at all, if you can help it. A snack and some gum. Something to entertain yourself with.

Try to keep it light, you'll have to lug that thing around with you, remember that just cause there's room, it doesn't mean it has to be filled!

[JIMB0]

I've never flown before so I'm at a lost as well. I'm flying with JetBlue so I get one free checked bag so I think all I'm putting in my carry-on is a couple of clothing items and stuff like chargers for my phone and mp3 because I don't want those to get lost. I'm putting most toiletries like hair gel in my other bag because I'm bring more than whatever number of ounces they allow on carry-ons.

[13000km]

I usually don't have very big bags for carry ons. I bring a book, one set of spare clothes, a sweatshirt, socks, my macbook, inhalers, my wallet and phone. I don't really need anything while on the plane so I prefer something that I can easily carry around.

[NaNi]

I always put expensive things in there because I don't want to put anything of (much) value in my suitcase in case it might get lost. Laptop, digital camera, iPod, USB flash drive, cell phone... stuff like that! Also a book to read on the plane and snacks. My mom also suggested a change of clothes.

[theyellowdart]

Well, my flight normally consist of about 9 hours of air time, and about another 2-3 hours of layovers.. so I am normally out and about all day on the travel day.. So I kind of look at my carry on as being only the things I need for that day..

Normally my laptop, charger, camera, and cell phone charger
My airplane pillow (I almost alway manage to pass out on the plane)
A good book
All the paperwork and information for my flights
A couple snacks I get after I get through security
I also bring a sweatshirt or something to keep me warm, its normally much colder in Maine than here in Cali

Just don't bring any liquids if you can help it.. the restrictions on these in carry-ons is hardcore, so just leave those in your checked baggage.

[princessmeg1328]

As someone whose luggage got lost last time she went on an international trip to visit the SO, here are my tips on things to pack in the carry-ons.
A few extra shirts and a pair of jeans, undergarments, anything of value, basic make-up, and toothbrush and travel sized toothpaste. Also, things to keep you entertained on the plane ride.
Here's just another piece of advice: your carry-ons don't just have to be the bag and your purse. You're allowed one carry-on and a personal item. The personal item can be your backpack. Just in case you need more room than what your purse allows you.

[NaNi]

Here's just another piece of advice: your carry-ons don't just have to be the bag and your purse. You're allowed one carry-on and a personal item. The personal item can be your backpack. Just in case you need more room than what your purse allows you.

I would also suggest carry-on trolleys. They hold much more than a backpack.

[Sunbeam]

Thanks for all your tips guys. I was gonna carry my carry on and a tote bag more than likely, but a backpack is a great suggestion
Also, I have prescription meds that I wouldn't want to get lost, they would be allowed in a carry-on, correct?

[hillke]

Also, I have prescription meds that I wouldn't want to get lost, they would be allowed in a carry-on, correct?

Yes! Always carry prescriptions on the plane with you. I'm diabetic and I always take my insulin and other accessories in my carry on. If you're worried about it, get a doctor's note, but generally there's never an issue as long as it's got your name on it. And 99 times out of 100 they don't care anyway :-) Good luck and have fun on your trip!

[Thad]

Also of an FYI for all you contact wearers out there...
You can bring a bottle of contact solution larger than 3 ounces through a TSA checkpoint. (This is great for extended visits or if you just don't want the expense and trouble of the tiny bottles.) It is considered a medically necessary fluid. You may be subject to a little more screening, but they must allow you to bring it through. This goes for any other medically necessary fluids. Always bring these in your carry-on.

Safe travels!