Packing for a trip carry-on only can be a game-changer, helping you avoid checked baggage fees, speed up your airport experience, and give you more mobility. However, it's important to pack efficiently to maximize space while ensuring you have everything you need for your trip. When finalizing your items, ask three major questions:
1. Can it serve two functions?
2. How much does it weigh?
3. How much space does it take up?
Below are some essential carry-on only packing guidelines to help you make the most of your space:
1. Know the Airline's Carry-On Policy
Check Size and Weight Limits: Every airline has different size and weight restrictions for carry-ons. Generally, the maximum dimensions are around 22” x 14” x 9” (including wheels and handles). Verify your airline's policy to ensure your bag fits. I have found that domestic airlines are more lenient and that international airlines limits are much smaller.
Personal Item: Airlines typically allow a personal item (backpack, tote, or laptop bag) in addition to your carry-on. This personal item should fit under the seat in front of you. Note that many international airlines have size and weight restrictions on personal items.
2. Choose the Right Luggage
Lightweight and Compact: Choose a durable and lightweight carry-on suitcase or backpack that fits the airline's size requirements. Soft-sided bags are often more flexible and can fit slightly more than rigid bags.
Four-Wheeled Suitcase: If you are going to use a suitcase, opt for a bag with four spinner wheels for easy maneuverability through the airport.
Packable Bags: If you're expecting to pick up items during your trip or for sightseeing, consider a foldable bag that can easily be packed into your carry-on.
3.Clothing: The Capsule Wardrobe Approach
There are so many guidelines on how to pack clothing with just a carry-on........5-4-3-2-1 Rule, Sudoku Method, 4 x 4 Wardrobe, etc. Through trial and error, I have adopted a little bit from each. It does take a lot of forethought and planning. And, what works for me, may not work for you.
Plan Outfits: Pick a neutral color for main items and add one or two pops of color sticking to a color scheme so that all your clothes can be mixed and matched. Focus on versatile pieces that can serve multiple purposes.
Layering: Pack clothes that can be layered, such as lightweight jackets, cardigans, or scarves, which are ideal for various temperatures.
Essential Pieces: Include a couple of pairs of pants, shirts, undergarments, socks, and a pair of shoes that can work for all activities (casual, semi-formal, or outdoor).
Roll your clothes to save space or use packing cubes to compress items and keep your bag organized.
Wear your heaviest clothing on the plane to save space in your luggage. This includes jackets, sweaters, boots, or anything that takes up a lot of space.
Keep in mind that you will never see these people again, so they won't know if you have worn something more than once. And most people are not paying attention to what you are wearing.
Before packing an item, try everything on and try every possible outfit combination before finalizing your options, this includes shoes. If an item is a “maybe” or you do not feel wonderful in it, toss it.
Depending on your length of travel, consider doing laundry. Pack a small clothesline and detergent strips. I also add a few dryer sheets to keep things fresh.
4. Toiletries: Stick to the 3-1-1 Rule
3.4 oz / 100 ml Bottles: The TSA's 3-1-1 rule means you can bring liquids in containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less, and all your liquids should fit in a single quart-sized bag. I have found that some international airports like Paris or Edinburgh (any UK airport) are a lot stricter with what is considered to be a liquid. Depending on the security agent, mascara, lip balm, lipstick, and deodorant could be considered a liquid.
Solid Toiletries: To avoid the hassle of liquids, consider solid shampoo bars, deodorants, lotion sticks, and toothpaste tablets, which are all carry-on friendly.
5. Shoes: Pack Smart
Limit Footwear: Stick to a maximum of three pairs of shoes (two id better): one pair of comfortable shoes (for walking/hiking or sightseeing) and a dressier option (for evenings or formal occasions). Choose lightweight, versatile shoes.
Wear Your Bulkiest and Heaviest Pair on the plane
6. Electronics: Minimize and Organize
Charging Cables: Pack a compact charger or power bank to keep your devices powered up. Consider bringing a universal adapter if traveling internationally. Keep organized with an electronics organizer. To keep these easily accessible, I keep these in my personal bag.
7. Travel Documents and In-Flight Essentials
Organize Important Documents: I like to keep items like passports, boarding passes, tickets, IDs, and credit card in a fanny pack so it is easily accessible and safe from theft.
Travel Comfort: Don’t forget items like a neck pillow, eye mask, or small blanket (travel scarf) if you're traveling overnight. Consider packing a reusable water bottle (empty through security) and snacks for the flight.
9. Packing Strategies
Packing cubes are a must for me. They keep your clothing neat and organized and I am able to fit so much in them if placed properly (a combination of rolling (less wrinkles) and folding works for me depending on the size/type of cube and type of clothing). Just remember, the more you pack, the more it weighs. A great guide on how to use packing cubes is from Travel Fashion Girl. The video uses packing cubes from Compass Rose but the link to the ones I got from Amazon work just as well at a fraction of the cost.
Compression Packing Cubes & Rolled Compression Bags: For bulky items like jackets, compression bags can help you save space and reduce the overall size of your luggage.
11. Plan for Souvenirs or Extras
Leave Room: If you plan to pick up souvenirs, make sure you leave a little extra room in your bag, or have a foldable bag that you can use for your return trip. I collect magnets. They weigh nothing, do not take up space and do not collect dust at home.
12. Be Prepared for Security
Easy Access Items: Be prepared for TSA checks by keeping your electronics, liquids, and any items that require removal (such as a belt or shoes) easily accessible. Consider TSA Precheck or Global Entry.
REMEMBER: Unless you are traveling somewhere remote, do not stress about forgetting something. Chances are you will be able to buy it when you get there.
HAPPY TRAVELING!