12 Carry-on Travel Essentials If Your Luggage Gets Lost

Losing your luggage is a travel mishap no one wishes for—but you’d better prepare for it, anyways, so that your whole trip won’t get completely derailed if it does. Nothing’s worse than that sinking feeling you get when the baggage carousel finally grinds to a stop without your suitcase onboard. Whether your checked suitcase is delayed, sent to the wrong airport, or lost entirely, this experience can throw a wrench into even the most carefully planned trip, especially if your most important items are stuck inside of it.

But a lost bag doesn’t have to mean lost time. The secret is in your carry-on (literally). Packing the right essentials can ensure you can still freshen up, change clothes, charge your phone, and keep your medications close to the chest—all without waiting for your luggage to catch up. From toiletry bags and pill keepers to backup socks and a backup daypack, these picks are lightweight, space-saving, and designed to keep you comfortable and prepared no matter what happens to your checked bag—starting at just $8.

Best Carry-on Essentials Overall

TecQach Pill Case 2-pack

If your checked bag disappears, so will any prescriptions, vitamins, or supplements you packed inside it—and replacing them mid-trip can be tricky, expensive, or even impossible. This two-pack of slim, moisture-proof pill organizers can keep up to six different medications or supplements neatly separated and protected from humidity, so you can keep your daily or as-needed doses on hand.

Longjet Sunglasses Organizer

If your suitcase takes an unexpected detour, the last thing you’ll want is to be stuck without your prescription glasses, readers, or protective sunglasses. This foldable case keeps up to five pairs safely organized in your carry-on, so you can swap between them without worrying about scratches or squishing. The hanging design is great for hotel rooms with limited counter space, and it folds into a compact, travel-ready shape when it’s time to pack up.

TopBag Travel Document Wallet

It goes without saying that your passport, important travel documents, and cash should always be with you and never packed into your checked bag. This waterproof travel wallet keeps all of your most important documents in one place, with designated slots for passports, cards, and cash so you’re not fumbling at the airport. The slim design fits easily into your carry-on or personal item, and the zip-around closure keeps everything secure.

HappyLuxe Travel Shawl

Planes are notoriously cold, and you’ll appreciate having an extra layer to curl up with if you’re stuck without your luggage. Soft, lightweight, and generously sized, this travel shawl works as an in-flight blanket, a cozy scarf, or even a makeshift pillow. The breathable fabric keeps you comfortable in a range of climates, and it folds down small enough to slip into a tote without hogging space. Plus, it’s machine washable, so you can freshen it up easily between trips.

BagSmart Travel Toiletry Bag

If your checked bag didn’t make it your destination, you’ll be beyond thankful that you kept your toiletries tucked into your carry-on. This toiletry bag, equipped with a hook for hanging, has plenty of room for your travel-sized toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, moisturizer, and any other hygiene products you like to travel with. Multiple compartments keep everything organized and easy to grab mid-flight or during a long layover. The water-resistant fabric protects the rest of your carry-on from spills, and the slim, structured design tucks neatly into your bag without wasting precious space.

Anker 737 Power Bank

When your luggage goes missing, the last thing you need is a dead phone while you’re trying to track it down. A reliable power bank, like this one from Anker, ensures you can stay connected—whether you’re calling the airline, routing to your hotel, or pulling up boarding passes for a rebooked flight. With enough capacity to charge multiple devices at high speed, it’s a lifesaver in airports, on long travel days, or anywhere outlets are scarce. Compact and durable, it’s also TSA-approved for your carry-on.

Bovicas Charger Block

You’ll also need to keep your devices powered up, especially while you’re trying to coordinate your bag’s return with the airline, or track down stores where you can buy backup supplies. This compact charger block is a carry-on MVP, letting you power up all of your electronics in a pinch with just one outlet. Stash it in your bag along with all the relevant charging cables, and you can juice up your phone, tablet, and headphones without hunting for multiple wall plugs.

Owala FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle

Travel days are dehydrating, and if your checked bag is delayed or lost, you’ll want a reusable water bottle to keep you going. The Owala FreeSip water bottle has a clever built-in straw for sipping and a wide-mouth opening for chugging. Its double-walled insulation keeps drinks cold for hours, so you can refill it at the airport or your hotel room without it turning lukewarm on you later. Durable and leakproof, it won’t leave you with an unexpectedly soaked carry-on, either.

G4Free Packable Backpack 

If your checked luggage goes missing, having an extra bag on hand can be a game-changer. The G4Free packable backpack folds down to the size of a sandwich, but opens into a roomy daypack you can use for sightseeing, hauling unexpected purchases, or storing replacement clothes and toiletries until your suitcase catches up with you. It’s water-resistant, surprisingly durable, and comfortable to wear—making it a versatile backup you’ll be glad to have tucked in your carry-on. “This was an absolute lifesaver for our travels,” wrote one five-star reviewer, applauding its compact size and lightweight feel. “It more than accommodated everything that we needed it for.

Earth Breeze 30-pack Laundry Detergent Sheets

If your checked bag is delayed, having a way to freshen up the clothes you do have on hand can make a big difference. Travel-sized detergent sheets—like these ones from Earth Breeze—let you handwash your clothes in a hotel sink without the bulk or mess of liquid detergent. They’re lightweight, dissolve easily in hot or cold water, and come in a resealable envelope that slips right into your carry-on. Even if your luggage ends up arriving on time, they’re a handy backup for spills, stains, or quick washes on the road.

Yiderbo Travel First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is one of those things you hope you won’t need, but invariably do end up using for small injuries and inconveniences. This compact first aid kit includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and other basics for handling minor cuts and scrapes on the go. Because it’s for emergency use, it’s far better to keep it in your carry-on rather than in your checked luggage, in the event your suitcase gets lost or delayed. Lightweight and organized, it’s an easy addition that can make a stressful situation much more manageable.

Sox Town Unisex Crew Socks 6-pack

A clean pair of socks and underwear in your carry-on can be a lifesaver when your luggage goes AWOL, providing a major comfort and hygiene boost during a stressful time. One fresh set of socks can help you feel human again after a long travel day, especially if it’s made from quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabric. These unisex crew socks are breathable, soft, and designed to keep your feet comfortable whether you’re navigating airports, sightseeing, or waiting for your bag to catch up to you.

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