Are you going on a trip soon? I’m sharing my top airport bag essentials that you should bring with you whenever you are traveling! These small things can make a difference in the way you travel. Either by making your life easier or something you’ll be glad you packed just in case.
Whether you’re embarking on a short weekend getaway or a long-haul international flight, having the right essentials in your personal airport bag can make all the difference. Being prepared can help you avoid unnecessary stress and ensure a smoother journey. Let’s dive into some of the must-have items you shouldn’t forget to pack before you head to the airport!
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Looking for a personal bag for the airplane? Click here to see my favorite bag!
Phone Charging Bank
This one is my favorite, click here to see it on Amazon!
One of the most frustrating things about traveling is running out of battery on your phone when you need it the most. Whether you’re using your phone to listen to music, stay in touch with family, or check your flight status, a dead battery can quickly turn a smooth travel day into a nightmare. Even if you bring your charging cable in your personal bag, it can be difficult to find an open outlet nearby. A portable phone charging bank is a must-have for any personal airport bag. It’s small, convenient, and can charge your devices on the go.
Electronic and Cord Organizer
I love this one, click here to see it on Amazon!
Traveling with multiple cords can get messy fast. Between phone chargers, headphone cables, and any other electronics, you can quickly find yourself in a tangled mess. It can be hard to find your smaller electronics like your AirPods and phone charging bank. That’s where a cord organizer comes in handy. It keeps all your cables and small electronics neatly stored and prevents them from tangling in your bag. Plus, it makes it easier to grab your electronics, saving you the frustration of digging through your bag during your flight.
Medication
If you take any daily medications, packing them in your personal airport bag is essential. You never know when you might need access to them—whether it’s during the flight or due to a delay. Even if you usually pack them in your checked luggage, it’s wise to have a small supply with you in case your bags get lost. This goes for over-the-counter medications as well, such as pain relievers, allergy meds, or anything else that might help you stay comfortable during your trip.
Underwear/Set of Clothes
If you’re flying without a carry-on bag, it’s smart to pack at least one set of fresh clothes and some underwear in your personal airport bag. Accidents happen—flights get delayed, bags get lost, you spill things on yourself, and sometimes you just want to freshen up after a long trip. Having a backup set of clothes on hand can make a huge difference in your comfort and confidence when traveling.
Jewelry
While it may seem like an afterthought, keeping your jewelry in your personal bag ensures it’s safe and within reach. Avoid putting your valuable or sentimental pieces in checked luggage—there’s always a risk of them getting lost or damaged. Tuck your jewelry into a small pouch or box and store it in a secure pocket of your personal bag for peace of mind.
This is my favorite travel jewelry container, click to see it on Amazon!
Important Documents and IDs
It goes without saying, but your important documents and IDs should always be within arm’s reach. Your passport, boarding pass, driver’s license, and any travel itineraries should be securely packed in your personal airport bag. Consider using a travel wallet or a document organizer that can keep everything in one place, making it easier to access them when you’re rushing through security or at the boarding gate. I recently switched to using a passport/ticket organizer and it’s made flying so much easier.
Here is a great one on Amazon, click here to see it!
Snacks
Airport food can be pricey and sometimes less than satisfying, especially when you’re in a rush or on a layover. Pack a few snacks that are easy to carry and eat—granola bars, trail mix, or dried fruit are great options. They’ll keep you fueled and happy, especially if you face delays or have long flights with limited meal service.
Cardigan/Jacket
Airplanes are notorious for being either too hot or too cold, and you can’t always predict what temperature you’ll encounter. A lightweight cardigan, sweater, or jacket is an easy solution to this problem. It won’t take up much space in your bag and can make a huge difference if you find yourself shivering mid-flight. Plus, it doubles as an extra layer if your destination turns out to be cooler than expected.
Hand Sanitizer
Traveling exposes you to all kinds of germs, especially in airports and on airplanes. Having hand sanitizer in your personal airport bag is a simple way to keep your hands clean and avoid getting sick while you’re on the go. Opt for a travel-sized bottle that meets TSA regulations, and use it regularly after touching high-contact surfaces like security bins, door handles, airplane seat belts, and seatback trays.
Reusable Water Bottle
This one is my favorite when flying, click here to see it on Amazon!
Staying hydrated while traveling is key to feeling good and avoiding that dreaded post-flight fatigue. Pack an empty reusable water bottle in your personal bag and fill it up once you pass through security. Many airports now have refill stations specifically for water bottles. Not only will this save you money, but it’s also a more eco-friendly option than buying bottled water.
Hydration Drink Mix
These are my favorite to travel with, click here to see it on Amazon!
Flying can be dehydrating due to the dry cabin air, especially on long flights. Hydration packs, such as electrolyte powders or tablets, are a great way to replenish your body’s hydration levels quickly. Simply mix one with the water in your bottle, and you’ll be giving your body the extra hydration boost it needs to feel refreshed and ready to hit the ground running when you arrive at your destination.
Wrapping Up
Packing your personal airport bag thoughtfully can make all the difference between a stressful travel experience and a smooth one. By preparing for the unexpected—whether it’s a long layover, lost luggage, or simply the need for comfort—you’ll be setting yourself up for a more enjoyable travel day. So, before you head to the airport, double-check that you’ve packed these must-haves in your bag, and you’ll be ready for whatever your journey throws your way! Safe travels!
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