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Whether your goal is to pack light for convenience or to avoid airlines’ ever-increasing luggage fees, there is an art to traveling with only a carry-on suitcase. Here are some tips for the next time you plan to hop on a plane without checking a bag.
Choose the right carry-on luggage.
Though most airlines follow the same standard for size restrictions for a carry-on, be sure to look up the specific guidelines of the carrier you’ll be flying with. Some only allow for smaller suitcases than the norm, while some are stricter in enforcing their rules than others.
Pack multi-purpose items.
That colorful pair of pants that only matches one shirt? Those shoes you can only wear under one specific circumstance? Leave them at home. The key to packing light is to focus on bringing items that can be easily mixed and matched with one another. Bring about one week’s worth of clothing and if you’re traveling for longer, then expect to do laundry at your destination.
Don’t fold your clothes. Roll them.
Choosing the proper clothing is vital in packing light, but so is the method of placing them in your carry-on luggage. Instead of folding your clothes like you might do at home, tuck in all edges of the garment (like sleeves, for example) and roll them into a tight cylinder. This method saves space, but it also prevents hard-to-get rid-of wrinkles.
Bring the essential toiletries.
While it might tempt you to bring all your favorite hair and body products, full-size bottles of liquids, creams, and gels are not allowed in your carry-on. Instead, purchase TSA-approved 100 ml bottles and fill them with your indispensable products. If you’re lucky, Your products may already be sold in a travel size. Remember that you can only bring the number of bottles that can fit in a large Ziplock bag (though many airports are not strict about this rule), so only bring what you need. The rest—like toothpaste, shower gel, and lotion can indeed be found in your accommodations or at a local drugstore in your destination.
Make use of your item.
While some airlines may charge fees even for a carry-on suitcase, passengers are still allowed a free personal item. These bags—usually a backpack, purse, or weekender—should fit under the seat in front of you, and though they’re typically small, don’t be afraid to pack them with any additional items that don’t fit in your carry-on. It’s also best to keep electronics, important documents, and you should also keep identification in your article for safekeeping.
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.