EF staff
We solved the age-old mystery: What to pack in a carry-on
Madeline Muller | June 2, 2022
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It’s no surprise that here at EF, we like to travel. A lot. We travel to new cities, to faraway countries, to the coffee shop down the street (hey—it’s something!). So at this point, we have packing down to a science—and it’s time to share our secrets with you. Below, we’ve enlisted some fellow EF staff members to give you their greatest and strangest tips for what to pack in a carry-on.
Safety supplies
“Since the pandemic began, I’ve been packing a toiletry bag with a bunch of masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes. Essentially bringing a whole aisle in the pharmacy means I can skip a trip to CVS while traveling and makes me feel safe and prepared.”
–Sophie H., Marketing Manager, Health and Safety Monitor
Colored pencils
"I like to bring a couple of colored pencils and some blank postcards when I have a long travel day—for jotting down memories, writing letters, or just doodling!"
–Natasha F., UX Designer, Director of Arts & Aircrafts
Oranges
"The fresh scent of citrus masks funky airplane smells, and they double as a great snack."
–Madeline M., Copywriter, Citrus Sensei
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Tennis ball
"Airplanes are cramped! A tennis ball works great for rolling out muscle knots and stretching after a full day of flying or walking around. Bonus: you’re always ready for a game of catch."
–Rob W., Art Director, Ball Boy
Good recording app
"This might seem pretty obvious in terms of what to pack in a carry-on, but I always keep my phone on me. I love to record sounds with it when I travel. Spanish guitars, markets in India, an accordion on the Paris metro, church bells—these are the things that stick with me years later."
–Will C., Business Analyst, Pocket Producer
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One more sly tip:
“I’ve been on a lifelong mission to figure out how to travel light (overpackers anonymous, over here). My top trick? Here’s what not to pack in your carry-on bag: sneakers. Instead, tie them to your carry-on. That way, they don’t take up space inside!”
–Sarah B., Copywriter, Sneaky Sojourner
Editor’s note (2022): This piece has been updated for clarity, accuracy, and relevance.
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Madeline Muller
Madeline is a copywriter at EF tours. She loves sitcoms, tacos, re-reading books, and befriending dogs. Her favorite city is Budapest.
