With the cost of checking luggage, more people are carrying their suitcases on the plane. Which makes for a very.crowded.plane. But we don’t blame those folks – no, if we could get all our shoes and toiletries and potential outfits in a small suitcase, we’d do it, too.

What do we carry on the plane? We like a small bag that will fit under the seat (because those overhead bins are stuffed to the gills). Here’s what we consider essential on the plane:

• Travel documents * your ID, passport, tickets, boarding passes, itinerary, destination address and phone number, contact info, etc.
• A bottle of water (or two) * yes, you have to ransom it from a vendor after you get through security – do it. The little cup they’re happy to give you on the plane is not enough to fight the drying cabin environment.
• Food * whole food bars (like Organic Food bars or Lara bars), small bag of trail mix, fresh fruit (apples and grapes do well), raw vegetables, crackers, a wrap. You never know how long you’ll be on that plane. Always carry food. Note that some food cannot cross international borders – that is, you may be able to take it on the plane, but not into your destination country.
• Audio player * iPod or mp3 player and headphones. Noise-canceling headphones are especially good on planes, to block out that incessant engine droning. Load up the player with your favorite songs and a podcast or two.
• Book/magazine/newspaper * whether you use an electronic reader like Kindle, or have an actual book/magazine/paper is up to you. Something to read is good, though, or you’ll find yourself browsing the SkyMall catalog, and bursting into loud guffaws at inappropriate times.
• Medications * any prescription meds should be with you at all times.
• Valuables * if you want to make sure it doesn’t get lost, carry it with you. That includes jewelry and your camera.
• Toiletries * remember that liquids are limited to small sizes that fit in a quart-size zipper bag. If you’re not checking a bag, sample sizes and powder products are your best friends. Include hand sanitizer – travel is dirty.
• Scarf/pashmina * a lightweight scarf/shawl/pashmina/wrap will keep you warm in a cool cabin, help block the light if you want to sleep, and even cover your face to block germs if the person next to you is coughing.

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