Packing tips for your carry-on luggage

In today's travel world, there are a number of things to keep in mind when packing your carry-on bag. Many airlines, particularly on domestic flights, now charge checked baggage fees, which is prompting more and more people to travel light and pack only what they can take on the plane with them. For others, particularly those on international flights, carry-on luggage and checked baggage are a necessity. So what should you pack in your carry-on bag? Here are a few tips to make sure you've got all you need for flight, will make it through security, and are covered should your checked luggage go missing.

Pack valuables and important documents in your carry-on. Apart from the essential travel documents (your passport, insurance information, flight details and tickets and hotel addresses), it's also best to carry anything of monetary or sentimental value in your carry-on luggage -whether this be jewellery or electronic goods such as MP3 players or laptops. This way, you'll keep the things you'd least like to lose close to you, and won't have worry about their whereabouts should your bag go missing.

Pack an emergency wardrobe: Whether it's a missed connecting flight, a lost bag or unpredicted weather there's always a risk when flying that you'll be delayed or (touch wood!) be the unlucky person left watching the empty baggage carousel. It's always wise, therefore, to pack an emergency wardrobe in your carry-on bag in the case of unforseen delays or lost baggage. Always pack extra underwear and undergarments, as well as a flexible outfit that would be appropriate for a number of occasions. For example, for Australia holidays, women should consider packing a swimming costume and a versatile dress in their carry-on bag, while men would benefit from a pair of shorts and a t-shirt.

Pack things to keep you busy: Despite all technological developments and transport innovations, flying across the globe still takes time, and sitting still for long periods can be a struggle. It's important, therefore, to pack things to keep you busy. Even though most international carriers offer personal in-flight entertainment systems, one can only watch so many movies! Books, crossword puzzles and personal music players are all good distractions, and will help make the time pass quickly. Also remember that if you're flying on a budget international carrier, in-flight entertainment systems are often not included in the price of the ticket. Cheap flights to Vietnam from Australia on budget carriers, for example, will often require passengers to purchase personal television sets if they wish to watch television shows or movies.

There are a few other important things to consider when preparing for a flight and packing your carry-on baggage. Stringent safety measures require all liquids to be in containers of no more than 100ml, so make sure you don't pack your favourite bottle of perfume or a bottle of alcohol in your carry-on bag as it will be taken off you. Also consider what you will wear on the flight. Pick something that is loose fitting, comfortable and will keep you warm in the air-conditioned cabin. For those who are prone to losing things, it might also be a good idea to make a list of what you have packed in your carry-on bag, so you leave the flight with everything you got in with!