Whether you're flying domestically within Nigeria or internationally from a Nigerian airport, what you pack in your carry-on can make a significant difference to your comfort and convenience. From frequent delays to varying airport facilities, these carefully selected items will help you navigate the unique challenges of air travel in Nigeria.

1. Valid Identification & Travel Documents

The most critical items in your carry-on should always be:

  • Valid ID (National ID, driver's license, international passport)
  • Boarding pass (printed or digital)
  • Hotel reservations
  • Visa documentation (for international travel)
  • Travel insurance documentation

Pro tip: Keep digital copies in your email or cloud storage as backups, but always carry physical copies of critical documents.

2. Power Bank & Charging Cables

Power outages and limited charging points can be common at some Nigerian airports. Always carry:

  • A fully charged power bank (10,000mAh capacity is recommended)
  • Charging cables for your phone and other devices
  • A universal plug adapter (for international travelers)

Important: Ensure your power bank complies with airline regulations (usually under 100Wh/27,000mAh).

3. Cash & Cards

While card payments are increasingly common, cash remains king in many situations:

  • Nigerian Naira in small denominations
  • USD or EUR for international travelers
  • Multiple payment cards
  • A small amount of destination currency if traveling internationally

Pro tip: Keep money distributed in different secure places rather than all in one wallet.

4. Essential Medications & First Aid Items

Always carry these in your hand luggage, never in checked baggage:

  • Prescription medications in original packaging with prescription
  • Pain relievers
  • Anti-malarial medication (if required)
  • Anti-diarrheal medication
  • Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes
  • Face masks

5. Snacks & Water Bottle

Flight delays are not uncommon, and airport food can be expensive:

  • Non-perishable snacks (nuts, energy bars, crackers)
  • Empty reusable water bottle (fill after security)

Note: Remember that liquids over 100ml must be purchased after security screening.

6. Comfort Items for the Flight

Especially important for longer flights:

  • Neck pillow
  • Eye mask
  • Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones
  • Light jacket or shawl (air conditioning can be very cold)
  • Compression socks for long flights

7. Personal Hygiene Products

Freshen up during your journey with:

  • Toothbrush and small toothpaste (under 100ml)
  • Face wipes
  • Deodorant (travel size)
  • Hand cream
  • Tissues/wet wipes

8. Electronics & Entertainment

Keep yourself occupied during delays and flights:

  • Smartphone (with offline maps of your destination)
  • E-reader or tablet with downloaded content
  • Headphones
  • Small notebook and pen (useful for immigration forms)

9. Change of Clothes

Particularly important if traveling during rainy season or if concerned about delayed baggage:

  • One complete change of lightweight clothing
  • Underwear and socks
  • Flip-flops or foldable shoes

10. Important Contact Information

Keep a physical copy with:

  • Hotel addresses and phone numbers
  • Embassy contacts
  • Emergency contacts
  • Airline customer service numbers

Pro tip: Have this information stored both digitally and on paper in case your phone battery dies.

Conclusion

While airline regulations vary, these essentials will ensure you're prepared for the unique challenges of flying in Nigeria. Remember to check your specific airline's carry-on weight and size restrictions before packing, and always keep valuables, medications, and important documents in your hand luggage, never in checked bags. With these items in your carry-on, you'll be well-equipped to handle common travel inconveniences and enjoy a smoother journey through Nigerian airports.