Travelling is an exciting adventure, but nothing puts a damper on a trip quite like lost luggage. Whether you’re heading off on a cruise, taking the train across a continent, or flying to your dream destination, it’s essential to be prepared. Packing your hand luggage with care can make all the difference if your checked bag goes missing. Here’s a guide on what to pack in your hand luggage to ensure you’re covered for any eventuality.
1. Travel Documents and Essentials
Your passport, visa, travel insurance details, and any necessary identification should always be in your hand luggage. Also, keep a printed copy of your itinerary, hotel reservations, and contact information. It’s wise to carry a pen and notepad, especially for filling out forms on the go.
Must-Have Items:
• Passport and visa (if required)
• Travel insurance documents
• Boarding passes and itinerary
• Hotel and tour confirmations
• Pen and notepad
2. Medication and Health Essentials
If you take any prescription medications, make sure they’re in your hand luggage. Include a few days' supply to cover any delays. Be sure to include a doctor’s letter as well confirming your prescriptions, just in case of any questions by security. Over-the-counter medicines like pain relievers, antacids, and motion sickness tablets can also be lifesavers, as well as a small first aid kit. Carry a reusable water bottle that you can fill up once you’re through security.
Must-Have Items:
• Prescription medication with doctor’s letter
• Pain relievers and other OTC medicines
• Small first aid kit
• Reusable water bottle
3. Change of Clothes
In case of lost luggage, having at least one change of clothes is essential. Opt for comfortable, versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Lightweight fabrics that are easy to wash and dry quickly are ideal. If you don't fancy sleeping in jeans, make sure to pack some light sleepwear so you can comfortably snuggle up for a cat nap.
Must-Have Items:
• A fresh set of underwear
• A spare outfit (shirt, pants, and socks)
• Lightweight sleepwear (if needed)
4. Toiletries and Personal Care Items
While airlines often provide basic toiletries in case of lost luggage, it’s always better to have your own. Stick to travel-sized containers and pack the essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and face wipes. If you wear contact lenses, pack an extra pair and solution. If travelling interntionally, make sure to abide with the liquid amounts for your airline, and carry all items in a clear plastic bag.
Must-Have Items:
• Travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Face wipes or cleanser
• Travel-sized contact lens solution and case
5. Valuables and Fragile Items
Jewellery, watches, and any other valuable or fragile items should always be in your hand luggage. Additionally, carry your cash, credit cards, and any other financial documents you may need.
Must-Have Items:
• Jewellery and watches
• Cash and credit cards
• Any fragile items (e.g., glasses, camera)
6. Snacks and Entertainment
Long waits are inevitable if your luggage is lost, so pack snacks to keep hunger at bay. Non-perishable items like nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit are perfect. For entertainment, bring a good book, a travel-sized game, or download some movies or podcasts on your phone. Don’t forget a charger and some headphones!
Must-Have Items:
• Phone & charger
• Headphones or earbuds
• Non-perishable snacks
• Book, magazine, or e-reader
• Downloaded movies or podcasts
Final Tips
• Pack Smart: Use packing cubes or bags to keep your items organized. It’ll make it easier to find what you need quickly.
• Weight Considerations: Remember that hand luggage has weight limits, so pack wisely to avoid any surprises at the gate.
• Stay Informed: Some items might be restricted in hand luggage, so check the latest regulations for your airline before packing.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to handle the inconvenience of lost luggage with minimal disruption to your travel plans. Safe travels!
To start planning your next holidays, check out our favourite holidays or get in touch with one of our travel experts
1300 854 897 | holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
Images courtesy of Nicole Geri, Alfred Quartey, Anastasiia Gudantova, Arnel Hasanovic, Bindle, Paul Hanaoka, Filip Baotic, Sincerely Media, Anastasia Solohub, Cludio Schwarz, Denny Muller, Charles Deluvio & Unsplash
