With all the restrictions on what we can and cannot carry on the airplane when we fly, we have to be very selective when packing up our carry-on bag. The personal espresso machine and massaging jet foot spa will have to stay home.

These are the top 10 things we are always reaching for, after the cabin doors have been secured:

1) Band-aids - if you're having the same difficulty as we are in finding the ultimate travel shoe, you may have to prepare for blisters from schlepping through the airport. These are also useful if you happen to catch a finger in the seatbelt closure.

2) Book - for entertainment OR for the ideal "don't talk to me, I'm reading" message to your overly chatty seatmate. A magazine will work, but a book is more of a commitment, and it's not as easy for the seatmate to read over your shoulder.

3) iPod - also a good alternative to #2 - particularly if you have the video iPod.

4) Emery board - there are few things more annoying than a hangnail or the jagged edge of a fingernail when you're flying. If you've forgotten your book, the nail is almost all you can focus on.

5) Facial Wipes - especially for longer flights, where you just start feeling all goopy and greasy. The facial wipe will perk you right up.

6) Snack - it is always a good idea to carry something of nutritional value in your bag, or you're at the mercy of the trans-fat-peddling flight attendants. Granola bars, nuts, and those cute Babybel cheeses are all good, relatively healthy options. Peanut M&Ms have protein too...

7) Hair ties - even if you don't want the ponytail-with-outfit look, it is nice to have the option of tying up the hair to avoid getting it in the snacks.

8) Lip balm - Chapstick, Vaseline, Rose's balm, or our personal favorite, Aquaphor, whatever you use - bring it in the carry-on. The cabin air gets very dry, and you'll want to re-moisturize your lips after your snack.

9) Tide Stick - you will spill or smudge something. It's inevitable. Particularly if your snacks include chocolate.

10) Gum - preferably the kind that touts itself as a suitable alternative to brushing your teeth.