How to Perfect Travel with Only Your Carry-on Luggage
Ahhh packing for a trip, you either love it or you hate it. I love the packing part, and hate unpacking when we get back home. Have you ever tried to pack for a trip with only your carry-on luggage? I love the freedom it can give especially when traveling abroad and being able to roll through customs without waiting at baggage claim.
I’ve compiled my top 5 packing tips on how to travel with just your trusty carry-on bag, all for you below.
Tip #1: Find the right carry-on luggage & packing items
The first step to being able to travel with only a carry-on is finding products to keep your items organized and compact. Below is my basics list with specific recommendations for products detailed out after.
Carry-on luggage basics list:
- Carry-on Luggage
- Packing Cubes
- Toiletry Bag
- Quality Backpack
Durable carry-on suitcase
A hard-sided bag is great because it can take a lot of wear and tear. I like that this suitcase has a built-in lock, and practical compartments and pockets inside. It comes in 13 different colors to choose from!
Packing cubes for organizing
Packing cubes are a game-changer, especially these compression cubes. I own this set in grey, and I love how much space they save me in my carry-on luggage! They also help me stay organized. Pro tip – once on your trip use one of the compression bags for your dirty laundry to keep it separate.
Toiletry bag
This is a great toiletry bag that comes in both feminine and masculine colors. The handle makes it easy to grab out of your bag when going through security. Definitely an upgrade from the plastic ziploc bag! (but do bring one just in case security requires it)
Quality backpack
A travel backpack is truly essential for me! I use it on the plane, while site-seeing, and even at home. I like the style of this bag and the versatile pockets.
This techy backpack is another great option for those who want to be able to charge on the go. It includes a luggage band on the back so you can slide it onto the handle when you are not wearing it, and a lock. My husband travels with this exact bag.
Travel Packing Extras
Man do I love this folding hairdryer! Not only does it save space by folding in half, but it also has dual voltage so you can use it in Europe and the US. A must-have carry-on luggage item!
Keep all of your chargers and cords in one neat place with this zip-up cord organizer. You’ll never have to dig to the depths of your bag to charge your phone again.
Tip #2: Make a packing list, then pare it down!
This is definitely the hard part for most travelers. I’ve said to myself many times “but what if I need this item??”
My best advice here is to pare down your outfits by picking clothes that all go together. For example, black, grey, and green can all be intermixed as basics, and you can add a pop of color with your cardigan or jewelry. I lay out possible outfits on my bed and see what works, and typically pick my favorite go-to items because I know I will actually wear them!
For a 1 week trip in the spring or fall (in just a carry-on bag) the clothing items I typically pack are:
- 5 shirts (including the one you wear on the plane)
- 2 pairs of jeans and a pair of leggings
- 2 pairs of shoes (1 in the bag, one on my feet)
- 1 sweater/cardigan
- 1 casual dress
- 1 Jacket (wear this on the plane too)
- Pajamas
- Socks
- Enough underwear for the week
Pro Tip: Check the weather the week before your travels to really narrow down what you need to pack. Also, research your destination a bit to make sure you have appropriate attire. Bringing heels to a mountain town may not work out well for you.
Tip #3: Pack plane essentials in your backpack
Want maximum comfort on your flight? Make sure you pack essentials in your backpack. I always make sure to have the following items, especially on long flights.
- Sanitizing wipes – For years I have wiped down my tray, seat handles, and seatbelt. I swear it’s saved me from so many germs.
- Headphones or earbuds – Whether you want to watch entertainment, listen to music, or just drown out the sounds of others these are a must-have.
- Eye Mask – Much needed if you want to sleep, or maybe you want to ignore the stranger next to you, just saying. 😉 I use my mask at accommodations too.
- Ginger Drops – I found these at Target a few years ago and they have saved me from getting nauseous during turbulence. They can also settle your stomach if you drink a little too much, or eat something that doesn’t quite agree with you.
- Snacks – Seriously, snacks. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve been delayed either on a flight, or waiting on a rental car or taxi, or more. Snacks have saved bad situations from becoming even worse. I like nuts, dried fruit, crackers, and carrot sticks or snap peas.
- Refillable water bottle – Staying hydrated is so important while flying. I’ve been on super quick flights where they don’t have time for service, or turbulence cancels service altogether. I can’t stand being overly thirsty! I also use my water bottle all through my trip to save on the cost of bottled water (where it’s safe to do so).
Tip #4: Double check airline regulations
Always check the rules on the airline you plan to book with to see what their luggage regulations entail.
Checking regulations is especially important when it comes to budget airlines or basic economy seats. Some don’t allow more than a backpack on board! You should be able to pay to check a bag in that case, so check the fees there as well. A budget flight can end up not being so budget after all if you have to pay multiple fees!
Tip #5: Travel packing hacks
Over the years I’ve gained a number of travel hacks, especially when it comes to packing! I’m including my top 5 hacks below.
- Roll your clothes AND put them in a compression packing cube. You’ll save so much space!
- Pack a few dryer sheets in your luggage. Your bag will smell fresh, and you can place a sheet into the bag where you keep your clothes you’ve already worn. Also helps with static!
- Use hair ties to bundle up hairdryer or straightener cords. It helps keep cords from tangling around things or flying around in your bag.
- Bring a plastic or washable bag or two. You never know if your shoes will get dirty, or your bathing suit will still be wet when it’s time to pack up. I also like to use them to bundle up wine if I plan to check my bag on the way back. 🙂
- Leave a little room! If you want to bring anything home from your trip, make sure there is at least a tiny space for a special item.
Did you find any new tips to help you travel with only your carry-on luggage? Let me know in the comments!
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