Are you a teenager (or a parent of a teen) about to pack for vacation and wondering what you need in a carry-on? Â Packing smartly can make the difference between a stressful trip and a fantastic getaway, especially for young travelers.
Going on a vacation with your teenager can be both fun and overwheliming, especially when packing. If you're a parent like me, with two teenagers who have been my travel companions on numerous flights, both long and short, you know the importance of a well-packed carry-on. This blog post is designed to ease that packing puzzle for you and your teen.
In this post, we're diving into the essentials of what a teenager should pack in a carry-on for vacation. From must-have items that ensure comfort and convenience to those that cater to their unique needs, we've got it all covered. As a mom who has navigated the highs and lows of traveling with teens, I'll share the insights and tips that have worked for us, making our journeys smoother and more enjoyable.
Whether you're a parent preparing for your teen's first flight or a teenager gearing up for an exciting trip, this guide is tailored to help you. You'll learn about the practicalities of packing, balancing necessity with entertainment, and ensuring that your teen is equipped for any travel scenario.Â
This post is all about what a teenager should pack in their carry-on!
Key Takeaways:
- Choose a suitable carry-on bag to fit all your essentials.
- Include items that will keep you comfortable, such as a travel pillow and a change of clothes.
- Bring entertainment options, such as a puzzle book and electronic devices.
- Don't forget to pack snacks, medications, and personal care items.
- Avoid overpacking and consider the specific needs of your trip.
Understanding Carry-On and Personal Item Allowances
Knowing what you can bring on board is crucial when traveling by plane. Airlines typically allow two main types of luggage in the cabin: a carry-on bag and a personal item. Let's break down what each of these means, their usual size limits, and some common restrictions to keep in mind.
Carry-On Bag
A carry-on bag is the larger of the two items you can bring into the plane's cabin. This is usually a small suitcase or a backpack that fits in the overhead bin. The standard size for a carry-on bag is typically around 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, but this can vary slightly between airlines. It's always a good idea to check your airline's specific size guidelines before you pack. This bag is perfect for storing clothes, travel essentials, and larger items you won't need immediate access to during the flight.
Personal Item
Your personal item is a smaller bag like a purse, laptop bag, or a small backpack. This should fit under the seat in front of you, making it ideal for items you might need during the flight, such as a book, headphones, or snacks. The typical size for a personal item is about 18 inches x 14 inches x 8 inches, but this can vary.
Common Restrictions
While packing, it's important to remember there are certain things you can't bring in your carry-on. Liquids are a major one – they must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, and all containers must fit in a single, clear, quart-sized bag. Sharp objects, flammable items, and certain tools are also a no-go in your carry-on. It's always better to check the latest regulations on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website or with your airline to avoid any surprises at the airport.
By understanding these guidelines and restrictions, you can pack smartly and ensure a smooth start to your journey. Remember, the key is to pack efficiently, keeping in mind the size limits and what you'll actually need during your flight.
PACKING Essentials for Flights
Long Flight Comforts
Long flights can be challenging, especially for teenagers who might not be used to extended periods of sitting in one place. To ensure their journey is as comfortable as possible, there are a few key items that should not be overlooked.
Travel Pillow: A good travel pillow is a game-changer on long flights. It provides neck support, preventing stiffness and discomfort that often comes from sleeping in an upright position. Various types are available, from inflatable to memory foam, so your teen can choose what works best for them.
During one of our family trips, my son forgot his travel pillow. It seemed like a small oversight until we faced a long, sleepless flight. The discomfort was evident; upon landing, he was too exhausted to enjoy our first day of sightseeing. Since then, we never overlook the importance of a good travel pillow. It's not just about comfort; it's about arriving at your destination ready to explore
Eye Mask: An eye mask is essential for blocking out cabin lights or sunlight if crossing time zones. It helps in maintaining a sleep schedule and ensures restful sleep, which is crucial on long-haul flights to avoid jet lag.
Comfortable Clothing: Dressing in layers is advisable as cabin temperatures can fluctuate. Encourage your teenager to wear loose, breathable clothing and bring a light jacket or a sweater. Comfortable clothing makes it easier to relax and allows better circulation during the flight.
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Tech Needs
In today's digital age, technology plays a vital role in our travel experiences, especially for teenagers. Ensuring your teen's tech needs are met can greatly enhance their comfort and convenience during the flight. Here are the key tech items to consider packing:
Cell Phone: Teenagers' most essential tech item is their cell phone. It keeps them connected, serves as a source of entertainment, and can be crucial in case of emergencies. Make sure the phone is fully charged before heading to the airport.
Chargers: A dead phone or device is useless, so packing the right chargers is crucial. Include a charger for each device being carried, and if traveling internationally, remember to pack a travel adapter compatible with the destination's outlets.
Portable Charger: As mentioned earlier, a portable battery pack or power bank is a lifesaver on flights where charging outlets might not be available. This ensures that devices stay charged throughout the journey.
Laptop or Tablet: A small laptop or tablet can be a great addition, depending on your teen's preferences and the trip's needs. It's perfect for watching movies, playing games, reading, or even doing schoolwork. If packing a laptop, ensure it's easily accessible for security checks.
Headphones or Earbuds: A good pair of headphones or air pods is essential, especially if your teen plans to listen to music, watch movies, or play games on their devices. Noise-canceling headphones can be particularly useful to block out engine noise and help them relax.
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Entertainment and Engagement
Books and Puzzle Books: For times when screen fatigue sets in, or to simply switch up activities, books and puzzle books are great. Whether it's the latest novel or a book of crosswords, Sudoku, or brain teasers, these can be a great way to pass the time and stimulate the mind.
Travel Journal: For the creatively inclined, a travel journal can be a wonderful way to document the journey. Encourage your teen to write, draw, or scrapbook their experiences, making the travel itself an engaging activity.
Card Games: Compact and versatile, card games can provide hours of entertainment. They are a great way for your teen to engage with family members or make new friends with fellow passengers.
Portable Gaming Devices: If your teen is into video games, a portable gaming device can be a great addition to their carry-on. It's a perfect way to keep them occupied during those long hours in the air.
Travel-Sized Board Games: Many travel-sized versions of popular board games are available. These can be a fun way to spend time, especially if traveling with siblings or as a family.
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Hydration and Snacks
Staying hydrated and well-fed is crucial, especially on long flights with dry cabin air, and meal services might not align with your teen's hunger pangs or dietary preferences. Packing a water bottle and some carefully chosen snacks can significantly impact your teenager's travel experience.
Water Bottle: Encourage your teen to carry a reusable water bottle. While they can't bring it through security, most airports have water fountains where they can fill it up before boarding. Staying hydrated is key to avoiding jet lag and feeling fresh upon arrival.
Extra Snacks: Airplane food doesn't always appeal to everyone, and this can be particularly true for teenagers, especially those with specific dietary needs or picky eating habits. Packing a selection of their favorite snacks – like granola bars, nuts, dried fruits, or even sandwiches – ensures they have something familiar and satisfying to eat. It's also a cost-effective way to keep hunger at bay.
I remember this one time when we were on a six-hour flight, and the airline ran out of meal options by the time they reached our row. My teen, who is a bit of a picky eater, was left with limited choices. Thankfully, we had packed his favorite Epic bars and fruit snacks. It turned a potentially cranky situation into a manageable one. Since then, packing snacks has become a non-negotiable part of our travel routine.
If your teen has dietary restrictions, bringing their own snacks is even more important. Gluten-free, vegan, or allergy-friendly options might not always be available on the flight, so having a stash of suitable snacks can provide peace of mind and prevent hunger.
Personal Items and Documentation
Keeping Essentials Handy
Whether on a short or long flight, keeping certain essentials within easy reach is vital. For teenagers, ensuring they have quick access to important items like travel documents, credit cards, and prescription medications can make the journey smoother and less stressful.
Travel Documents: Always pack essential travel documents in an easily accessible spot in your teen's carry-on. This includes their passport, boarding pass, and any other necessary travel-related paperwork. A travel wallet or a secure compartment in their carry-on can be ideal for this purpose.
Credit Cards and Cash: While it's unlikely that your teen will need to handle most financial transactions, it's still a good idea for them to carry a credit card or some cash for emergencies. Teach them about carrying these items and ensure they're stored securely.
Prescription Medications: If your teenager is on any medication, it's crucial to have it in their carry-on. Medications should be in their original containers with labels intact to avoid any issues at security checkpoints. Also, consider packing a small first-aid kit with basic items like pain relievers, band-aids, and any over-the-counter medications they might need.
Keeping these essential items handy in their carry-on prepares your teen for the journey ahead. It fosters a sense of responsibility and ensures they have everything they need for a comfortable and hassle-free flight.
Clothing and Personal Care
Change of Clothes
Packing extra clothes in your teenager's carry-on is a wise decision to save the day in unexpected situations. Whether it's a spilled drink, a lost suitcase, or an unplanned overnight delay, having a change of clothes readily available can be a real comfort and convenience.
Last summer, our friends faced an unexpected overnight layover due to a flight cancellation. While it was an inconvenience, they told us that having a change of clothes in their carry-ons was a game-changer. It allowed them to freshen up and face the delay with a better attitude. Their experience taught us always to be prepared for the unexpected when traveling.
Spills and Accidents: In the confined space of an airplane, spills are not uncommon. A spare outfit means your teen can quickly change out of any uncomfortable, wet, or stained clothing, allowing them to remain comfortable for the rest of the journey.
Luggage Delays: Sometimes checked luggage can take a while to arrive, or in rare cases, it might get misrouted. Having a change of clothes in the carry-on ensures that your teen has something clean and fresh to wear upon reaching the destination, regardless of any luggage mishaps.
Unexpected Delays or Layovers: Travel plans can be unpredictable. Flights get delayed or missed, leading to unexpected overnight stays. In such scenarios, having a spare set of clothes is invaluable, allowing your teen to freshen up and feel more comfortable during the wait.
Comfort and Layering for Temperature Control: The temperature inside an airplane cabin can fluctuate, making it challenging to stay comfortable throughout the flight. Encouraging your teen to pack layers, such as a lightweight hoodie or sweater, allows them to adjust to these changes easily. Layering is practical for maintaining a comfortable body temperature and contributes to overall hygiene, especially on longer flights. Being able to add or remove layers as needed ensures that your teenager remains cozy and relaxed, regardless of the cabin conditions.
Personal Hygiene
Maintaining personal hygiene during a flight is key to feeling fresh and comfortable, especially for teenagers. The dry cabin air can affect the skin and lips, so including a few travel-sized hygiene products in their carry-on can make a significant difference. Here are some essential items to consider:
Hand Cream: The low humidity in airplane cabins can lead to dry skin. A small bottle of hand cream can keep your teen's hands moisturized and comfortable throughout the flight.
Lip Balm: Just like the skin, lips can also become very dry on a plane. A compact lip balm can prevent chapping and discomfort, ensuring your teen's lips stay hydrated.
Facial Moisturizer: A travel-sized facial moisturizer can help keep your teen's face hydrated, combating the dry air effects and leaving their skin feeling refreshed.
Wet Wipes or Face Wipes: These are great for a quick refresh, especially on long flights. They can be used to wipe hands, clean up spills, or freshen up the face.
Deodorant: A small roll-on or stick deodorant can be a lifesaver, helping your teen feel fresh during and after the flight.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Oral hygiene shouldn't be neglected. A small travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste can make a world of difference in how fresh your teen feels.
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PACKING Considerations for Teenage Girls
For Teen Girls
Traveling as a teenage girl comes with its own set of needs, and being prepared can make the journey much more comfortable. Here are some specific items that are particularly useful for teenage girls to include in their carry-on:
Hair Ties and Accessories: Long flights can be uncomfortable with hair getting in the way. Packing a few hair ties, headbands, or clips can help keep hair neat and out of the face, making the journey more comfortable.
Small Makeup Kit: For teens who wear makeup, a small makeup kit can be a great addition. It allows for touch-ups before landing or after a nap. Remember to keep any liquid makeup items within the airline's liquid restrictions.
Sanitary Products: It's important to be prepared for any situation, so including sanitary pads or tampons is a must, even if they might not be needed. It's better to have them just in case, especially since they might not be readily available on the flight or at the airport.
Skincare Essentials: Teenage skin can be sensitive, especially in different climates and conditions. Packing a small skincare kit with a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and any acne treatments can help maintain their skincare routine.
Compact Mirror: A small handheld mirror can be handy for touch-ups or hair fixes, especially when the bathroom is occupied or in a rush.
By including these items, teenage girls can feel more at ease and prepared for their journey, allowing them to focus on the excitement of the trip rather than worrying about their personal care needs.
Safety and Security
First Aid and Health
When preparing for a trip, it's important to consider the health and safety of your teenager. Packing a small first aid kit and other necessary health-related items in their carry-on can provide peace of mind and handle minor health issues that may arise during the flight.
Small First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit should include items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and a small tube of antibiotic ointment. This can be useful for treating minor cuts or scrapes. It's compact and won't take up much space in the carry-on.
Prescription Medications: If your teen is on any prescription medications, make sure they have enough for the duration of the trip, plus a little extra in case of delays. Keep these in their original containers with clear labels to avoid any issues during security checks.
Pain Relievers: Including a small bottle of pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be helpful for headaches or minor aches and pains.
Allergy Medications: If your teen has allergies, don’t forget to pack any necessary antihistamines or other allergy medications.
Motion Sickness Remedies: Consider packing over-the-counter remedies or anti-nausea bands for teens prone to motion sickness, especially for long flights.
Hand Sanitizer and Tissues: A small bottle of hand sanitizer and a pack of tissues are always good to have on hand, especially in the confined space of an airplane where germs can easily spread.
Choosing the Right Luggage
Best Carry-On Luggage
Choosing the right carry-on luggage is crucial for any traveler, especially teenagers who might be managing their luggage for the first time. When selecting the best carry-on suitcase, there are several factors to consider, including size limits, durability, and features that cater to a teenager's travel needs.
Size Limits: The most important thing to consider is the size of the carry-on. Most airlines have strict size limits, typically around 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, but these can vary. It's a good idea to check with the specific airline to avoid any surprises at the airport. A carry-on that fits these dimensions ensures it can be easily stowed in the overhead bin.
Durability: Teenagers' luggage can go through a lot of wear and tear. Look for suitcases made from sturdy materials that can withstand rough handling. Features like reinforced corners, scratch-resistant exteriors, and durable zippers are important.
Wheels and Handles: A carry-on with smooth-rolling wheels and a robust telescoping handle makes it easier for teens to navigate through airports. Four-wheel spinners offer great maneuverability, which can be a big help in crowded spaces.
Compartments and Organization: Internal compartments and external pockets can help keep belongings organized. This is particularly useful for teenagers who might need to access certain items quickly, like travel documents or a cell phone.
Weight: Since teenagers will be handling their own luggage, opt for a lightweight carry-on. This makes it easier for them to lift it into overhead bins and move around the airport.
On our first few trips, my teenager had the habit of overpacking, 'just in case.' It led to a heavy carry-on that was difficult to manage through the airport and took up too much space. After learning the hard way on a particularly hectic travel day, we now focus on packing only what's necessary. It's made our travel experience much lighter, literally and figuratively. Plus, it teaches a valuable lesson in distinguishing wants from needs.
Personal Preferences: Let your teen have a say in the choice of their luggage. They might prefer certain colors or designs that reflect their style. This can make the travel experience more enjoyable for them.
Security Features
When it comes to traveling, ensuring the security of your belongings is paramount, especially for teenagers who might be carrying valuable items like electronic devices, cameras, or essential documents. One way to enhance the safety of these items is by choosing carry-on luggage with robust security features.
Built-in Locks: Many modern carry-ons come equipped with built-in locks, often TSA-approved. These locks provide a layer of security and peace of mind, knowing that the contents are safeguarded. TSA-approved locks are particularly useful as they allow security agents to inspect the luggage, if necessary, without damaging the lock.
Option for Adding a Padlock: If the carry-on doesn’t come with a built-in lock, choose one with zippers designed for attaching a padlock. This allows you to add an extra level of security. Again, opting for a TSA-approved padlock is a wise choice for travel within or to and from the United States.
Zipper Quality: The strength and quality of the zippers are also important. Durable, well-made zippers are less likely to break or be forced open, adding a layer of security to the contents of the suitcase.
Hard Shell vs. Soft Shell: Hard-shell suitcases can offer better protection against impacts and are generally more secure against tampering than soft-shell suitcases. However, soft shells might offer more flexibility with expandable options and external pockets, so weigh the pros and cons based on your teen’s needs.
Privacy Features: Some carry-ons have privacy compartments or covers for sensitive items. These can be useful for storing electronics, travel documents, or other personal items your teen might want to keep out of sight.
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We have the Samsonite hard shell carry on and we really like it.  It is very sturdy and comes in lots of colors.  But if you prefer a soft sided bag the Carthartt duffel bag is a great choice. Â
Final Tips and Tricks
Last-Minute Checks
Performing some last-minute checks before heading out the door is crucial to ensure a smooth travel experience. Here are key reminders for your teen:
Size Limits: Double-check that the carry-on and personal items comply with the airline's size restrictions. Remember, the standard size for carry-ons is usually around 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches.
Prohibited Items: Review the list of prohibited items for carry-ons. This includes large liquid containers over 3.4 ounces, sharp objects, and flammable items.
Essentials: Ensure that all essentials like travel documents, prescription medications, cell phones, chargers, and any necessary health-related items are in the carry-on and easily accessible.
Making Travel Fun
Involving teenagers in the packing and planning process can transform travel into an exciting and educational experience. Encourage them to take part in choosing what to pack, researching the destination, and even planning some activities. This makes the trip more enjoyable and helps develop their organizational and decision-making skills. Giving them a sense of ownership over their travel experience will spark a lifelong love for exploration and adventure.
Conclusion
Packing for a trip can be daunting, especially for teenagers embarking on their travel adventures. By understanding what to pack in a carry-on, from essentials like travel documents and personal hygiene items to entertainment and snacks, your teen can be well-prepared for their journey. Remember, efficient packing is not just about fitting everything in; it's also about making the travel experience comfortable and enjoyable. Encouraging your teenager to be involved in the packing process not only eases the stress of travel but also teaches valuable life skills. With these tips and some planning, your teen is ready for a memorable and hassle-free journey.Â
