Travel Packing List: What to Pack
in Your Hand Luggage

Traveling can be a lot of fun, but it can also turn into your number one nightmare. The best way to ensure that your travel plans go smoothly is to prepare yourself for everything.

One of the most neglected preparations that are so often overlooked is your hand luggage. There is nothing worse than packing something you need for the trip, but can't get to it because it's tucked away in your suitcase. Whether traveling long or short distances, the correct hand luggage is an absolute necessity.

Don’t let luggage be the cause of holiday horrors.

With most airlines, you are only allowed one carry-on bag, so make sure you pack the right stuff and avoid extra weight that you don’t need.

• Look out for a small sized bag that has wheels and a handle. It will save you a lot of unnecessary slugging if you’re running around the airport in between flights. If you have very little hand luggage, a small backpack will work fine.

• Keep your passports, visas, and traveler’s checks in your hand luggage. Most of the good quality suitcases have compartments that you can zip these up in. Lock them, just in case. Remember to keep the lock on your person.

• Keep your toothbrush and deodorant in your hand luggage. You never know when a plane’s going to be delayed and you might find yourself staying overnight. If this should happen the very last thing you want is to get to your destination all stinky and smelly. It's also nice to refresh after a long, tiring flight and a bit of deo and toothpaste will do the trick.

• Pack a small jersey just in case the chill hits.

• Make provision for some things to keep you occupied on the plane. An Apple Ipod, good book or a magazine will keep you from getting too bored.

• If you can, try to pack a small snack like a packet of chips or chocolate. These will come in handy when hunger strikes.

Remember to check with the airline on their weight and size restrictions for hand luggage. Also remember that sharp objects such as scissors, razors, knives and steel nail files are not allowed in your hand luggage for security reasons.