The two items you should never check in when flying, according to a flight attendant

When packing for a trip, it’s crucial to know the luggage restrictions in advance. If you’re not checking a bag, your carry-on must hold all your essentials in a compact space – which is often a challenge, especially in winter when bulkier clothing takes up more room.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), carry-on luggage must not exceed 22 in (56 cm), width of 18 in (45 cm) and depth of 10 in (25 cm). With such tight limits, fitting everything can feel like solving a puzzle.

The perfect cabin suitcase

To help travelers pack efficiently and ensure nothing essential is forgotten, flight attendant Annika Sharp shared her must-have travel items during an appearance on Finland’s Viiden jälkeen TV show, as reported by the Huffington Post.

Her packing essentials focus on comfort and practicality. She suggests bringing:

• Good walking shoes, if you’ll be on your feet a lot
• Comfortable, wrinkle-resistant clothing – “one or two pairs of pants and one or two blouses that allow you to sit cross-legged”
• A minimal selection of cosmetics, using refillable travel-size bottles

The two things you should always carry on a flight

Beyond clothing, Sharp stresses that two items are absolutely essential when traveling: medication and supplies for children, if traveling with them.

“Personal medications are a must. Sometimes, you realize you need something that’s ten kilometers away – in a checked bag, sitting in the cargo hold. That’s why it’s absolutely crucial to have them with you,” she explains.

For those traveling with young children, she advises bringing items that make the journey easier for everyone, including:

• A small snack and a change of clothes
• A pack of tissues or wet wipes for quick clean-ups

A well-packed carry-on can make all the difference, ensuring a smoother, stress-free trip.

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