6 things to always pack in your airplane carry-on

A well-packed carry-on can make the difference between a comfortable trip and a stressful one. Whether you're facing a long layover, a delayed flight, or lost checked luggage, having a few key essentials within reach helps you stay comfortable and prepared from takeoff to landing.

Reader's Digest recommends focusing on practical items that serve multiple purposes during travel. Instead of filling your bag with unnecessary extras, prioritize products that help you stay hydrated, entertained, healthy, and ready for unexpected disruptions. Many of these items take up very little space but can make a significant difference if your travel plans don't go exactly as expected.

Here are six things you should always pack in your airplane carry-on.

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Reader's Digest recommends carrying a portable power bank so your phone and other devices don't run out of battery during delays or long travel days. Airports aren't always equipped with convenient charging stations, and available outlets often fill up quickly.

A fully charged power bank ensures you can continue accessing boarding passes, maps, travel reservations, and emergency contacts throughout your trip. It also provides peace of mind if you're navigating an unfamiliar destination immediately after landing.

Keeping your devices powered means you'll be prepared whether your flight is delayed by an hour or an entire afternoon.

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According to Reader's Digest, airplanes are full of high-touch surfaces, making travel-size hand sanitizer an essential carry-on item. It's useful not only after touching airport kiosks and security bins but also once you're seated.

Reader's Digest suggests using sanitizer or disinfectant wipes to clean your tray table, armrests, and other frequently touched surfaces before settling in. These simple precautions can help reduce your exposure to germs during your flight.

Packing a TSA-friendly bottle makes it easy to freshen your hands throughout your journey.

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Reader's Digest notes that airline snacks often aren't enough to keep travelers satisfied, especially during delays or longer flights. Bringing your own food ensures you have something substantial if meal service is limited or unavailable.

Protein bars, trail mix, dried fruit, sandwiches, or salads travel well and provide longer-lasting energy than sugary snacks alone. Having food readily available also helps if airport restaurants are crowded or closed.

Packing snacks gives you one less thing to worry about while traveling.

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Reader's Digest recommends bringing an empty reusable water bottle through airport security and filling it before boarding. Air travel can be dehydrating, and buying bottled water at the airport often costs much more than filling your own container.

Staying hydrated can help reduce fatigue and make long flights more comfortable. Some travelers also add electrolyte or vitamin packets after filling their bottle for an extra boost.

Having water readily available means you won't need to wait for beverage service whenever you're thirsty.

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Reader's Digest emphasizes that prescription medications should always travel in your carry-on rather than checked luggage. If your suitcase is delayed or lost, you'll still have access to the medications you need.

The article also recommends packing a few common over-the-counter remedies, including pain relievers and stomach medicine, since changes in travel schedules and meals can sometimes lead to minor discomfort.

Keeping medications close at hand helps ensure small health issues don't become major travel problems.

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Reader's Digest recommends packing at least one clean outfit—or at minimum fresh underwear, socks, and a T-shirt—in your carry-on if you're checking luggage.

If your checked suitcase doesn't arrive with you, having clean clothes available can make the first day of your trip much less stressful while you wait for your belongings to be delivered. It also comes in handy after flight delays, spills, or overnight travel.

A small amount of extra clothing takes up little space but can make a big difference when travel plans don't go as expected.