I’m currently in Greece! I know, it seems like just yesterday that I got back from Seoul fashion week, and now I’m in yet another country. It’s surreal how in the past two months I’ve traveled to NY, Paris, Seoul and now I’m on the road again for another week before I can see my Chloe bear. It’s not easy dealing with the mommy guilt every time I have to travel, but Chloe will finally be traveling with me to New York next week so I can’t wait for this! And in case I don’t say it enough, I’m also very thankful for my readers for constantly supporting me. I’m really excited to share with you guys all the upcoming projects I’m traveling for and working on, so be sure to follow the adventures on instagram and snapchat (@chrisellelim)!
Since I’ve had to be on the road so much, I pretty much have a system down for traveling. My closet might look like a mess after, but my suitcases are neatly organized and optimized for convenience. Since I’ve been traveling so often I thought I’d share with you guys the 7 items you need in your carry-on to make your traveling life a lot easier!
Every time I go to the airport I always wear the same thing. Well, not the same exact thing, but a variation of the same outfit. Consider it like an airport uniform!
Going through TSA is the biggest pain so I dress for convenience. Although I break out the black skinnies once in a while (only the ones with A LOT A LOT of stretch for international flights) I like to stick with my boyfriend jeans. Why? They skim my hips instead of hugging them, they are loose, and it’s the perfect effortless jet set look. I almost always wear two layers and carry a jacket (depending on where I’m traveling to). No matter what the climate is at your final destination.. flights are usually ALWAYS cold. I like to stick with a loose sweater or cardigan layered with a tank or a tee underneath (just in case it gets hot I can take off the sweater).
As for shoes.. I usually always stick to either sneakers or slip ons. They’re the most comfortable to walk around in and they’re easy to take off at the security checkpoint. I also like to take off my shoes and wear cozy socks when I’m on the plane so wearing shoes that are easy to take off is a must! I’ve also been wearing my apple watch for traveling because the GPS function on there is amazing. When I was navigating my way around New York, my wrist would vibrate to let me know when to turn or which street to cross, which is great for someone like me who gets distracted easily!
2. Carry-on Suitcase + Purse
It might seem like extra luggage to lug around a carry-on when you actually could fit your laptop, makeup case, wallet, books, and the rest of your belongings in your oversized purse, but trust me you do NOT want to be lugging that heavy purse on your shoulders when you are walking through the terminals. That is why I ALWAYS have a carry-on because I’m able to sit my purse on top of it without straining my shoulders. Want to know a secret? My carry-on is usually always empty! I carry around an empty carry-on so I have extra room when flying back since I’m always bringing more stuff back than going there. I recently got a hold of this amazing travel bag from Ectu (similar and affordable one here) as well. What I love about it is that it is EXTREMELY oversized, and has a pocket for everything.. I’m talking about one for your passport, wallet, cell phone, tickets, etc. And the best part? It has a little pocket in the back for the suitcase handle to go through so you don’t have to worry about your purse falling off.. I mean, how genius! My travels have gotten that much easier with this carry-on purse of mine. Not to mention.. its kind of perfect for a baby bag as well.
The first thing I do once I get to my seat is pull this beauty pouch out because it has all of my necessities I need to up keep with my skincare regime while in transit. If you follow me on snapchat you know how religious I am about my in-flight skincare routine. I think it’s because I used to not have a inflight routine and I saw how horrible my skin was getting from all the flights. So I literally always turn my international flights into a spa. In this beauty pouch I have everything from my contact case & solution to a sleeping mask, my oils, moisturizer, makeup wipes, you name it! You must follow me on snapchat to see me in action on the plane (some of you may think I’m ridiculous with all that oil on my face but trust me it’s necessary)!
4. Tech pouch
Yes, I pretty much organize my plane life in pouches. So in this pouch/clutch I have contain all things entertainment related. From my iPhone charger, laptop charger, headphones, digital camera, etc. Our whole lives revolves around technology now doesn’t it? Which means wires wires wires. As much as I love technology it can all get very messy with all the different wires, so I keep them all in one location. My iPhone charger, portable charger (my mophie I carry around with me EVERYWHERE I travel), headphones, digital camera charger, etc. Not to mention this makes your cord life last longer because it’s not getting damaged!
5. Socks & Scarf
I get cold VERY easily and that’s why I always carry around extra socks and a scarf with me on my carry-on. Socks is a necessity especially because my feet always freeze on the plane, so it’s important that I keep them warm. Usually business class offers you socks, but for some reason I still like to bring my own.. something about cuddling your feet into your very own familiar socks! Scarves are great because it can instantly make any off duty airport outfit look chic, but it can also double up as your blanket on the flight!
6. Vitamins
I used to ALWAYS get sick when I travel, so now I carry around a plastic bag of vitamins and Emergen-C. I like to drink a bottle of water with Emergen-C before I go on a flight because the air we breathe in a plane is pretty disgusting if you think about it. We are sharing the same air for 10+ hours (international flights) with others who may be sick or just coming down from a cold.. so it’s always good to protect yourself from all the bacteria that may be floating around on the plane. Nothing worse than getting sick right when you get to your destination!
7. Passport holder
And last but not least, a passport holder! I used to carry around my passport without a holder, and boy did things get messy. I would always misplace my tickets and such. This little detail goes a long way because it can keep you from misplacing any of the paperwork that you need for overseas. I usually stash my passport, multiple tickets, baggage claim sticker, custom paperwork, etc all into this convenient holder! I’ve lost my passport once and trust me..it’s the worst feeling in the world!
And there you have it, the 7 items that I always carry in my carry-on! I don’t know how I would be able to travel without them. I’m currently in Greece for a big project, follow me on snapchat to find out! (@chrisellelim)
Credits:
Photography by Karen RosalieWhat do YOU think?
74 responses to “7 Items You need In Your Carry-on”
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Another in-flight tip…take a little bit of vaseline and coat your nostrils with it! It blocks out alot of the bacteria youd otherwise be breathing in. I know…sounds disgusting but a woman I learned this from swears by it and I found that it works for me too! I used to be in mgmt consulting and would have to travel non-stop…flights are the worst for your skin and immune system…I loved this post!
Wait, Jenny, that’s genius! Thanks so much for the tip & thanks for stopping by! xoxo Chriselle
Hi Chriselle!
I love your blog and you’ve got great photography skills too! Your in flight outfit looks very comfy! By the way, where are your headphones from? They’re so cool!
Lots of love,
http://www.thingswedidntdo.squarespace.com
Hey Gara! Thanks so much! & the headphones are from Frends ! xoxo Chriselle
Ectula.com I just purchased it last night via the website!
Hey Michelle! So excited for you! It’s one of my favorites! xx Chriselle
Would you give more info about the carry on purse? Thank you 🙂
Pleeeaaase, where to find that carry on purse!? Thank you!
Hey Math! I have the website linked in the Outfit Details! xoxo Chriselle
What do you use for a day purse once you arrive??
Hi Catherine! It really depends on my outfit! I like to have two good purse options when I travel- one for day time, and a smaller one for the evenings! Hope this helped! xx Chriselle
I just ordered the Palmero bag and I am wondering if the airlines have ever asked you to check it in ? I am traveling in 2 weeks and I always only travel with a carry on and purse and I want to make sure this will count as my ” purse” thanks!
Hi Michelle! First of all, you’re going to love the bag! And I’ve never had a problem with it! Happy Travels! xx Chriselle
This is such a practical post, will remember to refer to it when I’m backing for my HK trip in a few weeks! I honestly really love that purse with the strap, I really want to get it but it’s so costly…
Velveteencockroach
Hi Audrey! I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Did you see the less expensive option I have linked? It’s perfect for travel too! xx Chriselle
Great tips!
Hi Alice! Thanks so much! xx Chriselle
What great practical ideas, it makes life easy being properly organized and comfortable. The cosy scarf or wrap is so useful and I also take a summer weight scarf to keep food spills off my clothes, a few baby wpes in a small cliploc bag for spot cleaning clothes and some panty liners to keep your knickets fresh.
Dont touch restroom handles after you wash your hands, use the end of your scarf (some don’t wash hands) also don’t touch handrails on stairs or escalators, these places are very germy.
Hi Magie! Great tips! I always try to carry hand-sanitizer as well. You can never be too safe! xoxo
Love, Love LOVE the carry on!
Thank you so much Barbi! xx Chriselle
I get sick so easily, my immune system is non existent haha. I’ve heard that putting Vaseline on that little dip under your nose prevents sickness because it prevents it from getting into your system… Not sure if it works, but seems interesting 🙂
sigurminn
instagram
Great tips!
|| D I A N A ||
http://www.TheNeonFactor.com
Loved this post, I am prepping for a flight to chicago tomorrow with my toddler and I couldn’t agree more about the vitamins and uniform. I always wear my standard chic and comfortable outfit because there is too much to worry about when traveling to spend anytime thinking about your outfit. And you should always look chic, you never know who you will see!
xoxo http://www.touchofcurl.com
Gonna try that look next timeI get on a plane. And these tips are gonna be so much helpful.
So glad you enjoyed the tips, Anisha! xx Chriselle
You look so effortlessly good
Love,
http://www.thestyleventure.com
Aw thanks so much Monika! xx Chriselle
Simply fabulous … Always traveling with practical essentials and most of all in style. Beautiful idea as always Mademoiselle Chriselle! 🙂
La Bijoux Bella | by mia
thanks so much love! xx Chriselle
I always go for trainers, or slip ons on a long haul flight, you need something easy to slip on and off for the plane! I hope you see Chloe bear soon <3
Vivian | LIVE . IN . LOVE
~
Thanks so much Vivian! And I totally agree! The quicker you can get through that security line the better! xx Chriselle
Oh my! You are in Greece! That’s fabulous! I too pretty much organize most of my life in pouches. Haha! It makes searching a lot easier without having to go through the entire items in bag. You look stunning! I too will be travelling to an international location next month. Most of the things you have mentioned should be available via http://cashkaro.com/ at low prices.
Thanks!
http://cashkaro.com/
Hi love! Thanks so much! xx Chriselle
I saw the ‘backstage’ progress on snapchap! so cool seeing it all come to life on your blog!
never fail to impress 🙂
Aw thanks so much Chrissy! That means so much to me! xx Chriselle
Loveee the bag. And I love this post. Unfortunately they do not deliver to Europe :'(
Thank you so much Dani! xx Chriselle
AGREE <3
SRS Blogger | NEW POST : CREPE SIGNATURE BALIKPAPAN, THE BEST CREPE IN TOWN | YOUTUBE CHANNEL
haha so glad you enjoyed it! xx Chriselle
I do have a question: Doesn’t TSA require you put the liquids into a clear ziplock bag for presentation at the security checkpoint? Your creams and liquids are in a beauty pouch. Thanks!
Hi love! I’ve never had a problem using my beauty pouch for my creams and liquids! xx Chriselle
Clicked onto the link and wow that ectu bag is actually really massive! Thank you for sharing your tips Chrisells. Have a wonderful week ahead 🙂
Real Life Nerd // http://www.vivienekok.blogspot.com
Hey Viviene! It is huge- which is perfect for long trips! Glad you enjoyed! xx Chriselle
Thank you so much for this list, Chriselle 🙂
I love traveling, but whenever it comes to packing, I’m always stumped 🙁
I always want to do an in-flight spa/skin treatment too, but I’m also a bit self-conscious LOL 😛
XO, Elizabeth
http://clothestoyouuu.com/
So glad you enjoyed it, love! & don’t be self-conscious- they’re the best thing you can do for your skin! xx Chriselle
You think in everything Chriselle!
Eliana,
http://around-eliana.blogspot.com
Aw thanks love! xx Chriselle
You think informação everything Chriselle!
Eliana,
http://around-eliana.blogspot.com
Great style! I always love to dress in sweats while travelling but that sweater look super cozy!
Can’t wait for your big project reveal 🙂
XOXO,
Mash | http://www.sarmash.com
Sweats are the best! Thanks Mash! xx Chriselle
Aha I saw on your snapchat you were taking these photos in the airport, posting this is such short time now that’s dedication. Love the post! <3
The Quirky Queer
Aw, thanks Izzy! So glad you enjoyed the post! xx Chriselle
Love this! I swear by an extra scarf and jacket even if I’m going to a warm climate. Also, the skin care…yes that is a must! I also bring along an eye mask, which helps me sleep much better. I only recently started wearing one and can’t believe how it improved my quality of sleep, especially on flights.
Hey Sharon! I agree completely! And my eye-mask has totally changed my travel experience! I’ll never get on a plane with out one now! xx Chriselle
we love this airport look! your posts are always amazing and helpful on what to wear!
xx
http://www.coedue.com
Thanks loves! xx Chriselle
I really like the new templet for the articles.
Keep posting amazing content !!
Any affordable moisturizing face oil you can think of for someone on a budget ?
Thank you so much for the hard work <3
xoxo
C.L.
This is such a cool and stylish travel outfit!! You’re rocking it!
http://lartoffashion.com
Thanks so much Natali! xx Chriselle
Need everything:P
Shall We Sasa
Hehe, glad you enjoyed the post Sasa! xx Chriselle
These are so informative. Would def be referring back to your blog when I start to travel especially long distance. Your outfit is so fab.
http://www.dleonalife.blogspot.com
That’s so sweet! Thank you! Glad you enjoyed the post, love! xx Chriselle
Cool airport outfit
http://www.stepfromsteph.blogspot.com
Hey Stephanie! So glad you enjoyed it! xx Chriselle
I don’t travel outside the country at all but within Nigeria trips are becoming a common necessity for me. Almost forgot my picture identification once and the thought of all the traffic I’d have o go through if I didn’t have it with me was horror indeed, lol.
Your flight prep is just great and when I do start going on long haul trips, your tips will be going along with me.
www,barbara1923.com
Lagos, Nigeria
Hi love! So happy I could help! xx Chriselle
Great adivices some of your seven things are also my carry-on must haves
STYLURE
STYLURE
STYLURE
Thanks Deborah! Great minds think alike! xx Chriselle
I love the airport look, these jeans look super comfy.
http://www.teacupsandtulips.com
They’re super comfortable! Thanks Desimira! xx Chriselle
Love this airport style look, that sweater looks so cozy.
Xo, Christianne
http://simplychristianne.com
It’s so cozy! Thanks Christianne! xx Chriselle