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I'm Shay! I’m a cookbook author, lifestyle blogger, travel agency owner, wife and mama who loves making every day special for my family.

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Mix & Match Mama

Fashion, Shay's Closet, Travel ·

What’s in my carry on bag?


carry on bag

Hey there, Tuesday!  Today, I’m showing you WHAT’S IN MY CARRY ON BAG.

I had a few people ask me about this when I did our Scotland/Ireland vacation posts, so I thought today would be a good day to give you a peek.  I don’t know why…but I love it when people share this stuff on IG and/or blogs, so hopefully, you’ll think it’s fun to look through mine too 🙂 .

What I pack in my bag varies a little depending on where we’re going and how long my flight is.  For long, overnight flights, I add things like cozy socks and a face mask (yes!) and you can read more about that stuff on THIS POST, but for just a standard flight here in the US or somewhere like Mexico, I would pack these things.  I went ahead and “packed” my bag just for this post (because I’m not going anywhere right now…). Here’s a little look…

I always take a tote with me on flights because I like that they’re open and I can just reach in and grab what I need.  Here are the 15 things I always carry with me on a plane:
1: My wallet (kind of a given, ha!)
2: Passport (I love traveling when it involves this baby!)
3: Sunglasses (I am a HUGE fan of the blue Ray Bans.)
4: My bag of tricks!  I like having one bag filled with little things so they’re not floating around inside my bag. (See pic below and I show you what’s inside!)
5: A magazine…because sometimes, I want a break from my book.  How fabulous is it that I’ve already gotten a Fall magazine in the mail?!  Whoop!  Whoop!
6: A baggie filled with chargers.  I keep all of my chargers in one bag so that they’re easy to find.  I have chargers for my Apple watch, Kindle, MAC book and iPhone in there.  I don’t check chargers because with flight delays and such, I don’t want my luggage to be stuck away from me and my stuff to start dying.
7: My MAC book
8: My jewelry bag.  Okay, I’ve showed you this before (see below for a pic), but this is the BEST darn thing for jewelry!  I always carry on my jewelry rather than put it in my luggage.
9: A bag for my makeup.  I try to carry all of my makeup on because that stuff is so fragile that I don’t want it getting broken in my checked bag.
10: Evian spray for my face.  This is a MUST for flights!!!  Whenever you skin gets dry and icky feeling from being on board, you spray this on (over your makeup) and it instantly hydrates your skin but doesn’t hurt your makeup.  It totally refreshes you before you land.
11: My Kindle Paperwhite.  I just CANNOT say enough about this little device!  Thanks to YOU, I bought one and it has CHANGED MY LIFE!  I used to carry 2, 3, 4 sometimes 8 books on trips, but now…just my Paperwhite and BONUS, because it has a built in light, I can see no matter how bright or dark the cabin is.
12: A scarf 🙂 . It keeps you warm, but is easy to take on planes.
13: A lint roller.  I carry a lint roller with me every day.  My friends have laughed at me before…but I geez…I hate having lint on me 🙂 .
14: An eye mask…because it’s the only way to sleep on the plane (again, read THIS POST about how I have a sleep routine on flights
15: Mints.  Got to have those!

It all folds up nice and neat in my bag…

See?  And off I go 😉 .

So, here’s what’s inside that one bag pictured above.  This has all of my “goodies” like a toothbrush and toothpaste, headphones, a pen, a clip and a rubber band, antibacterial, Advil, lotion and Band Aids.  I actually keep this bag in my every day tote because you never know when you might need some of this stuff.

And inside my makeup bag?  Some of my favorite things like this new eyeshadow/blush/bronzer kit, Bare Minerals, concealer, mascara, powder and my favorite eyeliner of all time.

Then, there is this baby…

…the best jewelry organizer of all time!!  I have LOVED this thing!!!  If has a place for everything!  I can’t believe it took me so long to get a legit organizer.

So…for those of you who wanted to know, that’s what’s inside my carry on bag.  The only other question is…when do I get to use it next??????

xo

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Comments

  1. Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says

    I love looking at What’s in my Bag videos and blog posts! I’m literally the worst at packing my carry-on, I always overpack!
    –
    Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
    http://charmainenyw.com

  2. Taylor says

    I went on vacation last week & I had THREE books in my carry on haha. It actually had to get searched by security because it was so heavy. The security officer looked through it and said “oh, there is just a lot of books in here, you must like to read.” I can’t bring myself to not have an actual book in my hand so until I reach that point, I will be over-stuffing my carry one.

    PS: can’t wait for some of your fall posts! i.e..scarf exchange & fall decor!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      I was the same way, Taylor! I promise!!! But the Kindle has CHANGED MY WORLD!!! And PS: ME TOO!!!!

    • Lisa N says

      Me too! Bought my girls each one for Christmas…. on MM&M’s recommendation, and they in turn bought me one for my birthday. The built in light that allows you to lay in bed to read at night (or anywhere else) cannot be beat!

  4. Emily says

    Do you have a favorite everyday purse/tote? I see you using LV in many of your pictures. If doing a splurge would you recommend the tote over a different style? I always go back and forth on whether I want to buy the large tote.

  6. Christina L says

    Do you put your liquids in a quart size ziploc bag then put it in the other bags after going through security?

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      The only real liquid is the Evian spray and I just throw it in there. I’ve never had them ask me to put it in a bag. Hairspray, shampoo, and stuff like that gets checked in my suitcase or put in a baggie if I’m only carrying on.

      • Nadine says

        That is strange- the toothpaste, hand sanitizer, bare minerals, NARS, and Laura mercier should all be in one quart size ziploc along with the Evian when going through security.

        • Chelsey says

          I thought so too but last summer when I went to Europe my bag got searched by TSA and he told me that the majority of the stuff I had in a ziploc bag didn’t need to be – that included my foundation, concealer, toothpaste etc.

  7. Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says

    I always take my jewelry too! I know I should take all my makeup but I try to take anything that’ll break or change in consistency underneath the plane if I’m checking a bag. I prettt much bring the same things except I have to have my reusable water bottle! I’m packing on Thursday for a trip!

    Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams

  8. Alli says

    I LOVE bags and these are some of my favorite posts to read too! That jewelry organizer is great! Thanks for sharing! I hope you and your family have a great last week before school starts!

  9. Alexis deZayas says

    Loved peeking inside your carryon! Going to come back to this one for some ideas for my next flight! I always end up taking a backpack on flights and gum for takeoff/landing 🙂

  11. Carly says

    Shay I loved this post! Is that the large LV Neverfull? I am planning a treat to myself with my bonus this year but debating size. My carry on is always so stuff and I really don’t bring much! Also, will you do a new make up post this year? I’m on the hunt for some new products and yours is always so helpful!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      This one is the medium-sized one. I find it perfect for every day use too. The bigger one is a little too big for my every day needs.

  12. Michelle says

    Hi Shay, is your kindle with Just WiFi or cellular connectivity (I see both choices on Amazon)? Also, what case do you prefer? Thanks!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Mine is just wifi!! And I bought the basic case that Amazon sells. It works just fine!

  14. Sheaffer Sims says

    I do love posts like this! I have a jewelry carrier that I love, but I think I like yours even more! And it seems more compact than mine. Going to have to check it out!

  15. Elizabeth says

    I’m a frequent traveler and I try to always carry on a tote style bag as well, but typically one that zips at the top such as a Longchamp (large size)– I find it easier when going through security! Have you ever heard of the Flint reusable lint roller? I feel like you would like it. It is convenient because the “tape” is hidden, so it wont stick to everything in your bag. Google it and grab yourself one! I take mine with me on trips as well. One of my other items I always have in my carry on is my Truffle travel pouch. Its a clear pouch (they have tons of different styles and sizes), and it makes it super easy to see everything inside of them so you know where everything is in your purse. I have a large one and typically keep things like headphones/chargers/bobby pins/hairbands/floss/and a small wallet in mine. You should look on their website and give one a try!

  16. Nicole says

    Can you download the app Libby onto your paperwhite ? It allows you to rent library books without having to spend money on books

      • Kait says

        Yes! Libby is my favorite!! You can send them from your phone to your kindle device. I send them all over before my trip! It’s AMAZING!! If you don’t have Libby, you need her in your life!

      • Ashley Dong says

        I use overdrive for library ebooks! No app needed. Thru the overdrive website and signing in to your local library, you can send ebooks to your kindle through your amazon account!

      • Deena says

        I use Overdrive to download my library books from the Plano Library. They have a lot of ebooks to borrow so I seldom buy books anymore. It uses Amazon to send your book to your Kindle.

    • Maria says

      I use Libby for my public library. It works thru Amazon. When I get an email notification that the ebook is available, it links to my Amazon account and downloads it to my kindle. The library ebooks expire in 21 days.

      I use the LV GM Neverfull for my carry on. With kids, I have more stuff. Even though they have their own travel bags, their stuff falls into my bag! I love the LV MM Neverfull size for daily use.

      Shay, check out “ Travelons 7 pack clear packing envelopes” on Amazon. I have 3 sets!! I use them for everything. It makes going thru security a lot quicker since they’re see thru.

    • NicoleinWI says

      Most library systems have ways to rent books from them and get them onto the kindle. In WI they use Overdrive and that allows you to rent a book and get it to your kindle. 🙂

  19. Renn says

    I know this isn’t specifically about the carry on but can you tell me how you do converters when you travel overseas. With all the things we need to charge at night (everyone’s phone and watch etc). How many do I need?

  20. Kathrine says

    Hi Shay. Do you find the open tote bag to be safe on flights? Surely there are times when stuff can all fall out and you wont even notice till its too late?

  21. Susan Jeffries says

    Love this post ! Thanks!! I also always take a few essential oils with me. I take lavender for sleeping, Thieves hand sanitizer, Peace and Calm, and a roller bottle with a mixture that I call Happy(:

  22. Anna says

    So does the Bare Minerals, toothpaste, lotion and hand sanitizer not have to be in a quart size bag? Have I been reading the TSA site too seriously because I’ve had to crammed all the stuff I want on a flight into a quart size bag. I’ve only traveled on long haul flights so I need quite a few things lol

  23. Jessie says

    I bought a paper white because of you, Shay! I love it but I don’t think mine has a backlight which is a bummer! I love that I can get a new book while I’m sitting on my couch!

  24. Chelsea says

    I’m glad someone else loves these posts too! I don’t know what it is about them.. so fun!

  26. Lindsay Dunagan says

    Love the post! I know I would need the WiFi to download a book, but do you need it to read the books you have already downloaded? Thanks!!

    • Beth Dunham Swindig says

      Once the books are downloaded your Kindle can be turned to airplane mode (wifi off) and the books will stay on your Kindle until you remove them or turn wifi back on. You do not need wifi to read the books. Hope this helps.

  27. Kristine W says

    I am a chronic overpacker. I always think I need choices so pack too much. And take too many shoes. Any tips on planning outfits? I have started using packing cubes and they help with organization. Loved today’s post. I carry all my toiletries in my carry on bag and it is so heavy. Taking the basics and packing the rest would help. Thanks in advance.

  28. Katie Dang says

    I also love reading blogs that breakdown what’s in their bags! Quick question – where do you store the bag in-flight if it doesn’t close? How do you keep everything from falling out?

  29. Laura says

    Thanks for sharing! I Love all the ideas. The only thing that makes me Very nervous is having your wallet and passport in an unzipped tote. A little plane turbulence can have those things rolling around the plane. Also it would ruin the trip if someone reached in and stole something. Safety First!!!

  30. Jes says

    OK, can someone help me better understand TSA 3-1-1 rule? I see a lot of people who travel often put up these carry on posts and there are liquid/creams not in the one quart size baggie. (i.e. hand lotion, face mist and even hand sanitizer as shown above). Is it THAT big of a deal anymore or am I just paranoid about sticking to the 3-1-1 baggie? I have gone out of my way to find awesome 1oz containers for my face creams, hair products, etc. & I still have to leave things out or not bring them because all my travel size items don’t fit. I will say, I’ve noticed having TSA pre-check does help but only when traveling within the USA… when traveling back from other countries is when I get worried. I just worry TSA will take away my expensive products and I like keeping my routine the same each day. Shay’s comment section is awesome, thought you girls would know 🙂

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Just throw a few baggies in your bag in case they question it! I think baggies are great (you can see everything!), but I don’t use them for trips like this and I’ve never had anything thrown away.

  31. Tracey says

    I think I am finally convinced to purchase a Kindle based on your love of it but am I understanding the Amazon description correctly? It does not come with a charger and I need to buy that separately?

  32. Lara says

    This is probably a really silly question – but with the Kindle, do you always have to be connected to WiFi to use it, or once you’ve downloaded the book are you good to use without WiFi?

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      That’s a great question! Once you download the book (with wifi), you don’t need wifi to read it. Right now, I probably have 12 books on mine and can read them all without wifi!

  33. Jen says

    Don’t you need WiFi to read the books on the kindle? I’ve always wondered how that would work on the plane where there’s no ability to use WiFi?? Thanks!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Nope! You need wifi to buy/rent new books but once they’re downloaded, you do not!

  35. Michelle says

    I’m a little curious. I fly out of Philadelphia and Newark and even last month I was’t permitted to bring hand sanitizer (same size) or foundation/bb cream/lotion or anything in a spray bottle or aerosol. Could it be specific airports? PHL and EWR always say its TSA restrictions

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      I don’t know?? I flew out of Philly twice last summer and they didn’t say anything.

  36. Rebecca says

    Thanks for sharing this, Shay! I’m moving to Australia in February and have been on the hunt for a great jewelry organizer for my carry-on. I have a feeling I’ll be buying one or two ASAP!

  37. Brittany says

    Love these kind of posts!! I see you have a pair of threader earrings in your jewelry bag. What brand are they? I’ve been wanting a pair forever! Ooo! And a good eye mask — are you able to link that? I love me an eye mask! 😉

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      The eye mask is just a basic one I bought at the airport in one of those magazine/snack shops!

  39. Tamara H says

    Are you able to fit your entire bag under the seat in front of you? I hate having to put my carry on in the overhead bin! Thanks for sharing a peek of your carry-on contents. So helpful!

  42. Lindsay @ Lindsay's Sweet World says

    I always love posts like these because I’m nosy! Haha. I have a jewelry organizer that is very similar and I couldn’t live without it! It’s pretty much the best thing ever!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Catherine gave them to me as one of my Christmas gifts years ago. They’re fun, right?!

  45. Anna says

    Love seeing what people pack for different trips!!!

    I am also team I Pack Too Much In My Carry On. I’m the weirdo that’s packs the most absurd things because “what if I need it” Like, I wouldn’t be surprised at all with myself if I ended up on the plane with a tire jack and a bag of potting soil just in case. Hahahaha

  46. Christina L says

    Jes- I always keep everything in a quart size baggie as well b/c I’m scared of items getting thrown away. I didn’t realize you don’t have to keep mascara, toothpaste, lotions and hand sanitizer in the quart size bag. I would love it if I could just keep these things in a regular toiletries/makeup bag with the rest of the items they belong with. However, I’ve been in airports where they’ve also made you take your food out….

    Thanks for your tips on this Shay!

  47. Christina L says

    Can you please link or share the brands of the bag in item #4 (bag of tricks) and item #9 (make up bag). Thank you!

  48. Lisa Henderson says

    When you travel, do you kennel your dogs or have a friend keep them? The cost to kennel can be so expensive but one of our dogs is rather large so I always hate to ask a friend to keep a dog the size of a horse! Loved this post, it’s always fun getting to peek in other ladies bags 🙂

  49. Ralinn says

    I use my iPad for reading books. The Kindle Paperwhite sounds great and it is a good size. I love having a real book in hand but it was too much when we travel. I have the Flint roller as one other reader mentioned. I love it. I purchased it from Container Store.

  50. Lisa M Miller says

    I looooooooove these posts!!! Thanks for sharing. Please continue to do an updated post on this topic 🙂 I don’t understand the phenomenon but I just gotta know what’s in everyone’s bag lol

  51. Christina says

    Michelle- I fly out of Philly also. I’ve never had a problem with those items but I keep everything in a quart size ziploc bag. I’ve never tried leaving things in my actual toiletries bags.

  53. Elizabeth fedpausch says

    Love this post! I love how everything is organized! What bags do you use for makeup and misc?? Thanks!! P.S. getting excited for all things fall coming! Every time we go into the grocery store my daughter (2) says “ooooo mommy pumpkins! I just love pumpkins!”

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      A whole random assortment that I’ve collected over the years from places like Target!

  55. Tracey says

    I finally bought my Kindle today because of you but wanted to let you and your readers know I used the code, READ30 and brought it down to $89. Thanks again for all your recommendations.

  56. Sandy says

    Hi Shay. Thank you for the organization tips for travel! My question is, do you pack a small purse for when you get to your destination or do you continue to use your bag around town?

  57. Michelle says

    Thanks for sharing all your travel bag tips! I travel quite a bit for work and never know how to pack my jewelry…a ziplock has always been my last resort! I literally just ordered the jewelry organizer on amazon, can’t wait to finally have a stylish and organized way of storing my jewelry!

  58. Tara Friedmann says

    Hi Shay! Just wondering what Mac book you have? I’m looking into getting one but unsure if I should splurge on pro or go with the air. Love your blog!
    Thanks!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      I have the smaller Air. I love it for so many reasons, but one being the size. It fits right in my bags!

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