Carry-on packing tips for business travellers on long-haul flights

As someone who travels frequently for work, including long-haul flights from Australia, I’ve developed a deeply specific strategy for packing my carry-on so I always have access to what I need.

Being a tech journalist, a lot of my essentials are gadget-focused. But I also have a penchant for skincare because of the sheer havoc long-haul flights and travelling in general can wreak.

Over the years, I’ve refined my approach to carry-on packing.

If I am avoiding checked luggage, I opt for a small suitcase as well as a backpack. My go-to for the past couple of years has been July Carry All.

If I do have a suitcase checked, my go-to is a backpack and either a handbag or tote bag.

These setups make it easier to navigate airports rather than dealing with multiple suitcases. It also ensures I can keep the most important items close by.

If I have checked luggage, the overhead compartment is reserved for items I absolutely need in case my suitcase gets lost in transit — like a change of clothes, toiletries and anything I need for work.

But I try to minimise how often I need to access overhead bins during the flight, especially if I’m flying economy. Instead, my handbag or tote holds everything I might need within arm’s reach.

Here’s what’s always in there:

• Phone: Obviously.
• Laptop: I am often that jerk who is tapping away on long flights. Sorry!
• Noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds: Honestly, it’s usually both. The perks of being a tech reviewer. I enjoy having my over-ear noise-cancelling headphones if I really want to block out plane noise to work, or even just chill out. My go-tos are the SonySony WH-1000XM5s. But cans aren’t the most comfortable for sleeping, so that’s when I’ll swap to earbuds that still cancel or dampen noise, such as the Apple AirPods Pro or Sony WF-1000XM5.
• AirFly Bluetooth transmitter: This gadget lets me use my own headphones with the in-flight entertainment system wirelessly. More noise cancellation for me!
• Water bottle: I never drink un-bottled water or use ice on planes because I’ve heard too many bacteria-related stories. So I always bring my own refillable bottle. I fill it up at the airport lounge or a filtered water station before boarding.
• Hydralite sachets: I hate getting dry mouth on flights so staying hydrated is essential for me.
• Toiletries bag: Even if I’m in business class and get a complimentary kit, I always bring my own essentials. My kit includes ear plugs, a sheet mask (I am that person on flights and won’t apologise for it), makeup wipes, a Tatcha lip mask (chapstick works too), a small hydrating mist or moisturiser, hairbrush, hair ties, sleeping mask, toothbrush, toothpaste and breath mints. Keeping up with skincare during the flight helps combat the dreaded dry cabin air.
• Multi-country power plug: It’s a must for international travel. Being stuck without a way to charge your devices is a nightmare. I keep it in my carry-on to use between connecting flights, or even on-board when I’m flying business.
• USB-A charging cable: Despite being a USB-C gal, every plane I’ve been on in the last few years is still using USB-A ports, so I bring one.
• Many other cables: I’m a cable freak in general, so at any given time I’ll usually be packing: USB-C, USB-A, micro-USB and lightning cables. I’m your saviour at conventions.
• Power bank: Mine is solar-powered with five ports. It’s a bit bulky (I also use it for multi-day hikes) but perfect for charging multiple devices at once.
• iPad: While a lot of long-haul flights offer wi-fi now, it is not always free and I like to be prepared. I always have a mix of shows and books pre-downloaded on my iPad, which I also use for work when I am MCing or appearing on panels.
• Kindle: The same goes for books on my Kindle. While I love physical books, it is smaller and more practical for flights, and the battery life has always been more than enough.
• Audiobooks, podcasts, music: I also download plenty of audio content to keep me entertained for those times when I just want to listen and relax.
• Long-sleeved shirt or light cardigan: Planes can be unpredictable temperature-wise, so layering is key to staying comfortable.

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