Packing a carry-on bag for a trip is an art form. You need to fit all your travel essentials without overstuffing your luggage, all while adhering to strict airline liquid rules. For frequent flyers, this process becomes second nature, but for the rest of us, it can be a daunting puzzle.
Insights from a Seasoned Jetsetter
To demystify the process, we consulted a true packing pro: Caroline Bologna, a senior travel and culture reporter at HuffPost. As a Delta Platinum frequent flyer who exclusively travels with carry-on baggage, Bologna has honed her packing list to perfection. Below, she reveals the 14 items she never boards a plane without, offering Canadians a blueprint for a smoother, more organized travel experience.
Stain Fighters and Organization Tools
Accidents are inevitable, which is why Bologna always packs a Tide To-Go Stain Remover Pen. "I hope one day I get through a trip without needing it, but I'll probably always carry one," she says. This compact solution allows you to tackle spills on clothing instantly, with pens available for around $3 at major retailers like Target and Walmart.
For organization, Bologna swears by packing cubes. She recommends a five-piece set from Calpak, priced at $68, which includes four cubes of various sizes and a water-resistant pouch. "They are a game-changer for keeping things organized and preventing overpacking," she notes. For a more budget-friendly option, a highly-rated seven-piece set from Bagsmart is available on Amazon for $16.
Tech, Hygiene, and In-Flight Comfort
No modern travel kit is complete without tech. Bologna considers her Apple AirPods (starting at $142) essential for listening to music or podcasts during transit and while exploring new cities solo. For hygiene, she favours the Touchland Power Mist Hydrating Hand Sanitizer ($10 at Sephora), a 1-fluid-ounce spray that doesn't dry out hands. She also keeps a stick of Megababe's aluminum-free, clear deodorant ($14) handy for long travel days.
Health and comfort are paramount on longer flights. Bologna strongly advocates for wearing compression socks to promote blood flow and reduce the risk of clots. She chooses knee-high socks from Comrad ($34), but an affordable eight-pair set with thousands of positive reviews is available on Amazon for about $20.
Smart Solutions for Limited Space
To maximize her liquids bag, Bologna uses clever alternatives. She packs a MakeUp Eraser cloth ($20 at Sephora), which removes makeup with just water, eliminating the need for a liquid remover. For hydration, she bypasses bulky viral bottles for a 24-ounce Lululemon Back to Life Sport Bottle ($48) with a folding straw lid, perfect for sightseeing.
Her skincare staple is the French pharmacy favourite, Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré (from $19 on Amazon). The 2.54-ounce tube is carry-on compliant and works as a moisturizer, primer, and makeup remover. For layering, she recommends a versatile, pocketed knit cardigan from Amazon ($34), available in 19 colours.
Finally, a simple zippered canvas tote bag (like this $12 option on Amazon) is a travel must-have for Bologna. "They take up so little room and always come in handy," she says. For ultimate packability, a set of five nylon bags that stuff into a tiny pouch costs just $9.
By integrating these 14 expert-approved items into your carry-on routine, you can transform your packing strategy. The key is choosing multi-functional products and organizational tools that save space without sacrificing preparedness, ensuring your next journey through Canadian airports like Toronto Pearson or Vancouver International is your most efficient yet.
