What to back in hand luggage for the plane

[unicornsrule]

Off on holiday on monday just have plane bag to pack

What essentials should i pack for the plane?
I will have a 17 litre backpack on the plane ✈️

You mean to amuse yourself for the journey?
Kindle/book/mags
Tablet with downloaded shows or films
Snacks
Drink

swimwear & change of clothes in case of delayed/lost luggage.

I'm currently two days into a trip and my main luggage still hasn't arrived. So from bitter experience I'd advise if you need contact lenses or medication to take them in your carry on.

Otherwise, headphones, book/kindle, snacks & a portable phone charger. Most airports have drinking water fountains, so you can bring a reusable bottle through empty and fill it up before boarding.

And don't forget your passport!

Change of clothes, wrap (like a pashmina - for warmth, pillow etc) any meds, glasses/contacts, book/kindle, pack of cards, snacks, pen, make up, hair brush, contact details of people, folder of flight/insurance/hotel confirmations/driver license details. Some cash separate to your other bag.

In case of delay or lost luggage: change of clothes, swimwear (if it’s a beach holiday), make-up, essential toiletries e.g. toothbrush/toothpaste, medication
For the flight: kindle, iPad with stuff downloaded, headphones, mobile charger, bottle of water, snack
And don’t forget your passport!

I learned the hard way after my checked-in bag which containeD essentials was delayed for 48h on a trip to the US. So, in order of importance....

Medication.

Purse / wallet, phone and charger, glasses, Passport, tickets, driving license, insurance documents, any important bits of paper.

Camera, tablet and any other electrical equipment. A change of clothing. Toiletries.