i travel a lot for my job and for vacations, and over the years have discovered (sometimes the hard way) the best items to keep in my carry-on. here are my must-haves that keep me happy on long flights (check out my pinterest board on pouches to hold many of these items without cluttering your carry-on). do you have any ideas that i should adopt?

• a big tote – this is always a big investment piece for me. i can use it as a work bag, a travel bag, and a quick overnight bag.
• ipad or book/magazines – my favorite apps for flights include the kobo e-reader (which allows me to read e-books purchased from my neighborhood bookstore, skylight books), the new york times crossword puzzles, and evernote (to jot down any thoughts during the flight, or to scan through travel info i’ve clipped to my travel notebook). some flights have plugs in the seats now, so i pack my chargers, as well.
• snacks and a bottle of water (bought once in airport) – the small complimentary glass given during short flights is almost never enough
• headphones – for watching in-flight movies or listening to music
• cardigan and/or large scarf – i am always cold on flights (and basically in every other situation), and these help take the chill off while still being light and easily folded into the tote post-flight
• kleenex – there’s nothing worse than needing one and having to make row-mates get up so i can grab one
• eye drops – i wear contacts, and my eyes always dry out during the flight, especially if i doze off for awhile
• necessities – my checked bags have been lost multiple times (including on my honeymoon when i packed only carry-ons, and was still forced to check a bag by the airline). i’ve since learned there are certain items i must keep with me at all times: any necessary medication, a contact case and glasses, a toothbrush, and any nice jewelry with sentimental value.
• a good wallet – aside from holding my money, this keeps my travel essentials within easy reach for quick access. i include my id, boarding pass, confirmation number, credit card, and frequent flyer info.