As a Wellness Editor, here are the 9 essentials I always bring in my carry-on.

      April 30, 2025

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      Not to boast, but I've become quite skilled at packing my carry-on. Given my passion for wellness (#itsmyjob) and my family being on the other side of the country, I find myself traveling at least every few months, allowing me to perfect the technique of packing for travel days. Although my carry-on can sometimes resemble Mary Poppins’ endless bag, there are specific items I always bring along regardless of the trip. Continue reading to discover the essentials that consistently find their way into my carry-on and how they enhance every travel day.

      The Essentials I Always Pack In My Carry-On

      Over the last couple of years, I've experienced some travel anxiety, particularly when flying. The stress of traveling, whether it's rushing through the airport during a short layover or dealing with flight delays, can be overwhelming. Alongside various methods to cope (like working with my therapist on airplane anxiety and meditating in the morning to manage stress), I appreciate having these all-natural supplements available that take effect in under an hour to help alleviate stress and calm racing thoughts.

      One of my preferred travel hacks is taking tea bags with me. Airport prices are exorbitant; for example, a tea can cost between $4 and $5, while a coffee can reach upwards of $8 or $9. Additionally, the choices (especially for tea on planes) are rather limited. I favor peppermint tea when traveling because it relaxes stomach muscles, aiding digestion and relieving bloating or cramping, which can be particularly beneficial after airplane food or eating at irregular hours. Most airport locations will provide a cup of hot water for free, or you can request hot water on the plane and just steep your bag. It’s convenient, healthy, and tasty!

      I make sure to carry this throat spray with me wherever I go, especially on planes where I'm more susceptible to getting sick. Incorporating this throat spray into my daily routine has significantly boosted my immune system (I haven't really fallen ill since starting it, but I'm knocking on wood). I tend to use it more heavily on travel days when my immune system is working hard.

      For those who also face gut issues, you understand the dilemma: you grab a bagel sandwich before boarding a flight, and suddenly, at 20,000 feet, your stomach feels uncomfortably full and bloated. I've encountered painful travel bloating too frequently, so I always pack Arrae Bloat. These small capsules, made from natural ingredients including powerful herbs and digestive enzymes, are among the few supplements that truly help my body digest foods it typically struggles with (looking at you, bagel sandwich). I take them after every meal while traveling.

      At one point, long flights frustrated me, leading me to pay the $10 Wi-Fi fee just to feel productive and not waste time. However, I have completely shifted my mindset and now view planes, cars, and other travel modes as opportunities for self-care. I believe any travel experience can be transformed into self-care (unless you're traveling with kids, which I can’t speak to). I apply my Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask, grab an inspiring book, and intentionally spend this time away from my phone.

      I am someone who never travels without a snack. Whether I'm running errands for a couple of hours or on a longer trip, I always bring something to eat. While I enjoy fueling up at the airport (like that bagel sandwich), I refuse to feel obligated to eat whatever's available at exorbitant airport prices. Plus, you never know when hunger will strike while traveling (you're just one flight delay away from missing a meal). My favorite snacks are Perfect Bars because they're the tastiest I've found and made from real whole foods. They are much more fulfilling compared to the typical protein bar.

      I can't part with my lip balm—it’s a highly codependent relationship for me. When on dry airplanes, I keep my lip balm in an outer pocket of my carry-on for easy access, especially for those ten times I'll want to apply more before landing. I particularly like this lip balm for flights because it acts more like a lip mask, sealing in moisture for optimal hydration.

      When traveling, I stop worrying about my appearance, embracing a carefree attitude. If you spot me in the middle seat of aisle 25 wearing eye masks for the entire flight, just ignore it. I adore using eye masks on planes because the dry air can sap moisture from my skin, leaving my under-eyes looking parched and dull. Applying eye masks ensures I land with brighter, more hydrated skin, making me look fresher than I feel. Dieux is my go-to for this, as they offer reusable eye patches that are better for both your wallet and the environment.

      I've mentioned the drying