\u201cAs a travel writer, I\u2019m often asked how I manage to get everything into a single bag, and after 51 flights and 238 hours in the air this year alone, I\u2019ve got my packing system down to a science,\u201d she writes. \u201cWhether I\u2019m boarding an overnight international flight or jetting off for a quick weekend assignment, there are a handful of tried-and-true items that always make it into my carry-on. Some are small comforts that keep me sane at 35,000 feet; others are practical tools that streamline security lines, hotel check-ins, and everything in between.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hard-Shell Carry-On Suitcase<\/strong> Duffel Bag<\/strong> Belt Bag<\/strong> Portable Charger<\/strong> Compression Socks<\/strong> Matching Travel Set<\/strong> Water Bottle<\/strong> Electric Toothbrush<\/strong> Sandals<\/strong> Passport Holder<\/strong> Disinfectant Wipes<\/strong> Compiled by Warren Hawkins <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n SOURCE: TRAVEL + LEISURE<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Travel writer, Samantha Leal, who writes for Travel + Leisure, has racked up more than 100,000 flying miles this year and has perfected the art of comfortable travel with a handful of essentials. \u201cAs a travel writer, I\u2019m often asked how I manage to get everything into a single bag, and after 51 flights and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":124,"featured_media":19807,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[19,35],"tags":[8394,8396,8395],"class_list":{"0":"post-19806","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-lifestyle-travel","8":"category-travel","9":"tag-air-travel-essentials-to-have-on-your-person-or-carry-on","10":"tag-r-travel-leisure","11":"tag-samantha-leal"},"yoast_head":"\n
\nSamantha Leal has relied on her favourite hard-shell carry-on suitcase for nearly 10 years, and it remains in top nick. Lightweight yet surprisingly roomy, it copes with weekend getaways or week-long holidays with smart packing. The 360-degree spinner wheels glide smoothly over airport floors and city streets, and it looks sleek and professional.<\/p>\n
\nSamantha\u2019s go-to duffel bag is the perfect under-seat mate. It fits neatly but holds a full outfit change, laptop, snacks, toiletries, and mid-flight extras. The padded laptop sleeve is a game-changer, with pockets making finds easy. The trolley sleeve slips over the carry-on handle, and the fabric is light, tough, and spill-proof\u2014liquids wipe right off. It doubles as an overnight or gym bag.<\/p>\n
\nShe always packs a simple belt bag in her personal item\u2014it’s a real lifesaver for layovers or city jaunts. It holds passport, lip balm, cards, and phone comfy-like, and so light she forgets it’s on. Easy to clean and sturdy, it works cross body or waist. Great for security, just tip contents into a tray. Minimal, practical, compact.<\/p>\n
\nA magnetic portable charger is key in Samantha\u2019s kit. It keeps her phone juiced for multiple top-ups, with a handy keychain and no bulky weight. Beyond scrolling, it’s vital for docs, maps, and emergencies\u2014a reliable charger is non-negotiable.<\/p>\n
\nShe swears by compression socks for comfort and circulation. Soft, breathable, and stylish\u2014not too clinical\u2014they cut swelling and fatigue on long hauls. Less puffiness after 10+ hours in economy, with bamboo or cotton blends keeping them fresh and odour-free.<\/p>\n
\nSamantha chooses a coordinated travel set for flights\u2014soft, light, and layerable for climate shifts. It looks smart with a hoodie on board or jacket on arrival, and great for home lounging too, a wardrobe staple.<\/p>\n
\nFor flights, Samantha insists on a slim reusable water bottle. Tall and slender, it fits pockets without bulk, keeps drinks cold sans leaks, and opens easy mid-air. Refill pre-boarding to ditch tiny cups.<\/p>\n
\nA compact electric toothbrush is a must for her\u2014hygienic, efficient, and toiletry-bag friendly with a two-minute timer. Cover doubles as a stand, battery-powered no charger needed, heads cheap and easy to get.<\/p>\n
\nSamantha loves waterproof sandals that last for years looking new. Worn on beaches, dinners, or cobbles, they’re supportive and stylish with memory-foam soles for long walks and quick-dry for pools or tropics.<\/p>\n
\nA sleek passport holder keeps Samantha Leal organised, with slots for cards, docs, and tickets. Leather or vegan, it ages well and easy to feel in a packed bag\u2014no customs panic.<\/p>\n
\nDisinfectant wipes are staples in Samantha Leal’s bags for tray tables, armrests, remotes\u2014any dodgy spots. Travel packs stay moist and leak-free, for peace before eats or flights, handy for phones or wheels too.
\nSunglasses<\/strong>
\nSamantha Leal packs affordable chic sunglasses in carry-on\u2014no designers. Sturdy with UV protection, they survive travel and are replaceable if lost\u2014practical for any spot.<\/p>\n