I don’t think I will ever be one of those people who will ever say they packed for their two week vacation in a carry-on. I’d bet money on it actually. I know the benefits of not checking: baggage fees, lost/damaged/misplaced luggage and the overall hassle of the process. When I fly domestic to visit family or for short trips, I can manage. However, when flying internationally, I justify checking a bag for several reasons. First and foremost, weather can be unpredictable and you need options. Secondly, I have a sweating thing and I can never wear the same shirt more than once without it being washed. I also get bored easily so I need options for entertainment on a flight and since baggage fees don’t typically apply for your first bag, I can pack a carry-on that suits the needs of 12+ hours of entertainment and comfort.

Before I traveled to China last year to visit our brother, I went on a hunt for the perfect carry-on bag. Requirements included but were not limited to lots of storage pockets, designated compartment for laptop/iPad, and easy access to documents like tickets and passport. After searching the blogosphere and Pinterest I found the answer! Unfortunately, many others had as well and the bag was on back order until after my trip. I bit the bullet anyways and spent way more than I ever would have because I knew it was a good investment. This bag has surely not been a disappointment and still serves as my bag for my daily work commute. And what is this bag you may ask? Lo & Sons O.G.

Their site has engaging videos and photos that show all the features of their bags. I took their lead and snapped some photos as I packed for my recent trip to Turkey. I am by no means a travel expert but I’ve made a few stops around the world and learned some tips along the way.

From top left:
Eye mask & Neck Pillow: necessities for sleep
Travel Books: to read, prep and share with my travel partners en route
Us Weekly: longtime subscriber and they don’t offer a free iPad version (Real Simple, In Style and Vanity Fair were loaded up digitally to save space and weight)
Travel Wallet: typically I do a wallet cleanse before a big trio and take out all the gift cards and other miscellaneous to make it easy to navigate the necessities.
iPad Keyboard, and Case (fits keyboard and iPad): I keep a travel blog that I share with family and friends to log days away; it not only keeps you in touch, you’ll be amazed at how much you forget by the end of the trip. Travel Pod also allows you to create books using your entires and photos!
Sunglasses
Frends Headphones: my new daily faves!
Chargers and converters: and iPad camera connector
FlipCam
Traveling medicine cabinet: toothbrush, toothpaste, eye drops. Lip balm, hand sanitizer, Tide pen, deodorant, pens, Advil, vitamins and some sleeping assistance
Monogrammed Passport Case : I love monogrammed things, necklaces, bags, notecards, you name it. My dear friend got me this as a holiday gift this year!
Travel jewelry case: I travel with my jewelry in my carry-on, just in case!
(Not pictured but necessary: compression socks!)

All zipped up!

Empty & Packed

My absolute favorite part of this bag when navigating airports and beyond is its ability to slide over the handle of a suitcase and not flop off.