If you’ve ever wondered how Ryan Seacrest manages his nonstop schedule, the answer might be found in his backpack. In a playful new video promoting Season 24 of “American Idol,” the longtime host gives fans a peek inside his bag, and it’s filled with essentials like…extra-virgin olive oil?
“Why? Why not?” Seacrest jokes in the video while holding up the bottle of olive oil.
Watch the clip below to find out the items that Seacrest finds absolutely necessary for his on-the-go lifestyle.
Backpack Essentials With Ryan
In the video, posted to the official American Idol Instagram, Seacrest stands in front of a banner that reads “Idol U” with his backpack placed on the table in front of him. First, the host, dressed in a blue letterman jacket with the letter “R” on the front, pulls out a reusable water bottle. “Gotta have a water bottle to stay hydrated. Always on the go.”
Next, he takes out a snack that’s perfect for his busy schedule: a pack of almonds. “They’re unsalted. They’re toasted. They do get in your teeth, but they’re a really good snack.”
Seacrest goes on to show off his lip balm. “Because, you know, these lips are…well, they’re talking probably too much.”
His next item is a notebook. “This is where I write the lyrics to my songs. Album forthcoming.”
“This is George’s leash,” Seacrest takes out a dog leash. “It doesn’t have the dog bags, but those usually are on there.”
The lineup of snacks continue as Seacrest finds a bag of salty snacks. “Peanut butter inside.” He goes on to take out another brown bag. “I thought these were my snacks at first. These are not not. They’re for my dog, Georgie. She’s 12.”
“My sunglasses,” says Seacrest as he puts on a pair of aviator shades. “Perfect for when you don’t wanna make eye contact.”
Seacrest takes out a pair of headphones before reaching his final item: breath mints. “Last but not least, who wants coffee breath? Not me.”
“That’s what’s in my backpack. What’s in yours?” Seacrest throws the question back to the fans.
Everything We Know About Season 24 of ‘American Idol’ So Far
GettySeason 24 will start significantly earlier than the last. The upcoming season will premiere on ABC on Monday, January 26, 2026. This marks the earliest start in a decade and, if the show ends mid-May as it always does, it will be the longest “Idol” season since it moved to ABC in 2018, according to The Boot.
Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood are back, marking Underwood’s second season as a judge. Seacrest will be returning as host.
One notable change in Season 24 will be the elimination of “Hollywood Week.” A Golden Ticket will now get you to Nashville for Hollywood Week: Music City Takeover, focusing on a single, high-stakes round.
