Carry-on Necessities For Travel Nightmares

I have been to Aspen, CO so many times in my life that I know the layout of the trip like the back of my hand. Takeoff in Philadelphia, PA. Four hour flight to arrive in Denver and have a short layover. Leave Denver and take the 30 minute flight over to Aspen. Easy right? I’m used to weather delays given that I’m arriving in a ski town, but the trip I had the single time I left from Pittsburgh over spring break my freshman year of college was a nightmare. The quick 8 hour overall trip turned into a 32 hour hell, spanning four different airports across the country (but that’s a story for another day). I was thankful to have some of my must-haves in my carry-on to make that experience slightly better, but still wished I had brought some more necessities (like a toothbrush). That being said, here is a list of my absolute must-haves in my carry-on when traveling.

• Hand Sanitizer– It’s pretty nauseating to think about how trafficked airplanes and airports are, and how they really aren’t cleaned super well given the fact. That is why my number one item to have in my carry-on is hand sanitizer. Not only does it help keep you from getting sick, but it can also help make you feel clean after having to sleep on the floor of the airport (yes I had to do that).
• Chargers– While I waited alone for 8 hours in Houston, TX (who knows how I ended up there) I really relied on my computer and phone to keep me entertained. That’s why I was glad I packed my chargers in my carry-on, so that my electronics had enough charge to keep me entertained for that long! You just have to make sure to try and snag a seat close to an outlet.
• Snacks– Airport food is super pricey, so I always bring snacks to hold me over. They especially came in handy after all the energy I burned walking every square inch of Denver Airport (that’s what happens when you’re stuck there alone for 9 hours and you’re bored out of your mind).
• Tissues– No one likes the person who is sniffling every 30 seconds on the plane, so make sure to bring tissues (or at least some napkins). These also come in handy when you’re crying in a bathroom in Pittsburgh’s airport after being trapped there for 12 hours with the employees saying you won’t be able to leave for another 24 hours (I made it out in 12, don’t worry)!
• A Change of Clothes– Some of you may think it’s weird to bring a change of clothes with you in your carry-on, but you’ll never know when you may need them. For example, after I finally arrived in Aspen 32 hours later, I found out my suitcase was still in Texas! Luckily I was able to shower and change into some clothes I left out there in my room.

With weather delays and plane malfunctions, you never know how long your travel will actually end up taking (I’ve clearly learned this from experience). Hopefully these tips will help you be prepared for the many delays traveling by plane has to offer.