The Carry-On Packing Checklist for Type-A Travelers
Jordan, MD
Traveler Details: Age Range: 30s, Food Preferences: Balanced eater | Open to trying new foods but loves familiar comforts | Efficiency-focused | Practical adventurer | Loves creating structure even on spontaneous trips
I pack like I’m going on a NASA mission — checklists, backups, and a real fear of forgetting that one crucial item that ruins everything. And while people might joke about “overpacking,” nothing feels better than zipping up a carry-on and knowing you’re 100% ready for takeoff — no checked bags, no lost luggage, no drama.
Whether you’re traveling for a weekend or two weeks, this carry-on checklist is tailored for Type-A travelers who want ease, efficiency, and peace of mind. I’ve fine-tuned this after flying to 14+ countries — and yes, I’ve learned the hard way so you don’t have to.
1. ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS & TECH
• Passport + Copy
• Phone (with downloaded travel apps from [this post])
• Charging cables + this universal travel adapter — I’ve used it in Italy, Fiji, Colombia, and it hasn’t failed me once. Compact, multi-port, and life-saving when outlets are limited.
• This slim power bank is my non-negotiable carry-on item. It fits in my pocket, charges fast, and gets me through full travel days without panic.
• Noise-canceling headphones or earbuds
• Laptop or tablet (if working or watching movies)
• Travel insurance info, printed AND digital. I prefer Seven Corners!
• Pen for customs forms (seriously—don’t be the person begging your seatmate for one)
2. CLOTHING (SMARTLY ROLLED)
For 5–7 days of travel, this usually does the trick:
• 3–4 tops (mix of casual and dressy)
• 3 bottoms (pants, shorts, or skirts)
• 1 lightweight jacket or outer layer
• Swimsuit (always, even if you “don’t think” you’ll swim)
• 1–2 formal pieces (for dinner or going out)
• Underwear + socks (2 per day, plus 1–2 extras)
• 2 comfy walking shoes
Roll instead of folding. It saves space and keeps things wrinkle-free.
These changed my life — I now know where everything is in my bag.
My go-to packing cubes or travel compression bags
3. TOILETRIES (CARRY-ON APPROVED)
Pack them in a clear zip bag or TSA-approved pouch:
• Toothbrush + paste
• Face moisturizer
• Body wash bar (less messy than liquids)
• Hair essentials (travel-size tools if needed)
• Deodorant
• Sunscreen (under 3.4 oz)
• Lip balm, makeup basics, floss, razor
• Travel toiletry bag
• TSA-size refillable bottles
Pro Tip: Skip the hotel shampoo and bring a product that works for your hair type, especially if you’re melanated or picky like me.
4. HEALTH + COMFORT
• Masks (just in case)
• Hand sanitizer
• Personal meds + basic pain relief
• Sleep mask + earplugs
• Gum or mints (for plane pressure + fresh breath)
Packing light doesn’t mean packing less — it means packing better. This list keeps me sane before every trip, especially international ones where you’re hours away from your go-to pharmacy or clothing store. When you’re a planner, preparation equals peace — and this checklist gives you both.
