Brits Warned Against Packing This Summer Essential in Suitcases

Essential Items to Keep in Your Carry-On Bag

When traveling, it's crucial to know which items should never be left in your checked luggage. While the convenience of checking bags is undeniable, there are specific essentials that should always stay with you in your cabin bag. These items can significantly impact your travel experience if they go missing.

One of the most critical items to keep in your carry-on is prescription medication. According to a travel expert on TikTok, this is a non-negotiable rule. Even if you can get a doctor to call in your prescription, the process becomes complicated if it's a weekend or holiday, or if your medication doesn’t allow for refills before the previous prescription runs out. Ensuring you have access to your medications is essential for maintaining your health and comfort during your trip.

In addition to prescription medicine, expensive electrical items such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets should also remain in your carry-on. These items are not only valuable but also more vulnerable to theft. Although most airport staff are honest, there is a risk that they may open a case to identify its owner. This increases the chances of these items being targeted if your bag falls into the wrong hands. Similarly, any high-value personal items like jewelry should be kept with you to avoid the risk of loss or theft.

Another important consideration is carrying enough cash for your trip. The travel expert recommends keeping wads of holiday money on your person whenever possible. This ensures that you have immediate access to funds in case of emergencies or unexpected expenses. Alongside cash, other essential items include toiletries, a change of clothes, and necessary travel accessories like sunscreen and plug adapters. These items help you feel more comfortable and prepared once you reach your destination.

New EU Regulations on Carry-On Luggage

Recent developments in EU airline regulations could change how travelers manage their luggage. The EU Parliament transport committee has approved new rules that would allow all passengers to carry a handbag or small suitcase weighing up to 7kg at no extra cost. Under the amendment, passengers would be allowed one cabin bag with dimensions measuring up to 100cm, in addition to a smaller personal item that fits under the seat.

This proposal could have a significant impact on budget airlines such as Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air, which currently charge extra for larger cabin baggage. If implemented, the rule would apply not only to domestic EU flights but also to international flights connecting the EU with non-member countries, including the UK.

However, the proposed changes still need approval from at least 55% of EU member states, representing 65% of the total EU population. The process could take time and might face opposition from national governments and airline lobbies. Spain has already expressed support for the changes, but not all parties are in agreement.

Airlines for Europe, an industry group representing major carriers, warns that the new rules could disrupt operations and potentially lead to increased ticket prices for passengers. Managing director Ourania Georgoutsakou emphasized that the European Parliament should "let travellers decide what services they want, what services they pay for, and, importantly, what services they don't."

The industry body also highlighted practical challenges, pointing out that many aircraft can carry up to 180 passengers, but overhead compartments can only accommodate about 90 trolley-sized bags. They argue that requiring free carry-on luggage could cause boarding delays and overcrowding, and that travelers should retain the flexibility to select and pay for only the services they require.

These proposed changes reflect ongoing efforts to improve the travel experience while balancing the needs of airlines and passengers. As the debate continues, travelers should stay informed about potential updates to luggage policies and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.