1. Carry-on Backpacks A reliable carry-on backpack is essential for any traveler. Here are some top recommendations:
YOREPEK Travel Backpack - I've had this backpack since 2020 and I've taken it to quite a few places. I haven't had any issues yet. The zippers, mesh, pockets, etc. all are running very smoothly.
At the beginning of 2021, I packed this backpack and took it to South America for a couple of months. I traveled cross-country via bus and plane, hostels and hotel rooms.
Over the years, I've used it as my carry-on luggage for what amounts to maybe 10 trips now, and I also use it for short local weeklong trips, too. When it's overstuffed, it's too big to fit below the seat, so I mostly used it as an upper bin bag. It's slammed along the bottom of over a dozen bus carriages, and trekked through wet, humid, and dry conditions, and it still looks great. I'd say it's even stretched out a few inches over the years.
Here are a few things you should know:
- I wore this as I walked the misty, rainy streets of South America and the clothes inside remained dry.
- I've had to run to catch planes in between quick layovers, sweating as I raced to catch my plane, and the straps have excellent wicking capabilities because it's never smelled.
I can also cram my second laptop, but sometimes not, if I pack too many clothes.
That compartment is about 2.5" W x 17"H closed. Frankly, it doesn't have a lot of give, so I try not to add additional items to that side.
-Two pockets in the side have zippers, Usually, I add water bottles here, but you could also add shoes or dirty socks inside the zippered areas.
-The largest compartment measures around 6.5" W x 16" H, though it has stretched out over the years.
-Then there's an additional flap, where I usually add a small toiletry bag with soap, shampoo, toothbrush/toothpaste, etc.
-There's another small clamshell pocket where you can put pens, and there's a key ring so your keys don't get lost inside your bag.
-There's an additional zippered pocket where I put my passport and extra TSA locks.
EMPSIGN 17.3” - Travel Laptop Backpack Work Business Extra Large Backpack, Casual Daypack Water-Resistant with USB Charging Port, Computer Bag, TSA Friendly Anti Theft for Men & Women Black 40L.
SHRRADOO - Extra Large 50L Travel Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port, College Backpack Airline Approved Business Work Bag Fits 17 Inch Computer for Men and Women.
2. Travel Containers Efficiently packing your toiletries and other essentials is crucial. Consider these travel container options:
Lermende - 2pcs TSA Approved Toiletry Bag Clear Toiletry Bag for Traveling, Airport Airline Travel Toiletry Bag. Carry On TSA Bag, Clear Bag for Travel, Quart and travel Toiletry bag for Women and Men (Black).
WANDF - Clear TSA Approved 3-1-1 Travel Toiletry Bag with Sealing Strip Quart Size Toiletry Containers Cosmetic Pouch Makeup Bags for Men and Women (2pcs Black).
BAGSMART - Clear Toiletry Bag, 2 Pack TSA Approved Travel Toiletry Bag Carry on Travel Accessories Bag Airport Airline Quart Size Bags Water Repellent Makeup Cosmetic Bag for Men & Women (Black-2pcs).
Checklist for Travel Essentials:
Passport and travel documents
Money and/or travel cards
Electronics and chargers
Clothing appropriate for the destination and weather
Toiletries (consider travel-sized options)
Medications, if needed
Entertainment (books, music, etc.)
Travel adapter and cables
Snacks and water bottle (empty before security)
Travel pillow and eye mask
Travel locks for bags
Packaging Tips:
Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.
Use packing cubes to organize and separate different items.
Place liquid toiletries in sealed plastic bags to prevent leaks.
Utilize the corners and gaps in your bag for smaller items.
Pack heavier items closer to your back for better weight distribution.
Keep important documents and valuables in a secure, easily accessible location.
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