I spent this past weekend in Colorado, visiting some very dear friends whom I haven’t seen in awhile I was only gone 3 days, so I didn’t need to check any luggage. Because it’s on my mind, I wanted to share 7 of my favorite tips for your next adventure that only requires a carry-on.
1) Make a list
You’ve heard it before. You might even be annoyed that this tip is on every. single. packing. list. But it’s there for good reason. Even if you don’t want to plan out your outfits or list the number of shirts you need, at least write down the days you’re going to be gone so you can make sure you bring enough undies. Also, be sure to write down the activities you already have planned so you don’t forget to pack accordingly. Are you going spelunking the day after your cousins wedding? You’ll need different clothes for those 2 activities, so set your future self up for success by writing it down.
2) Cut down
I like having different clothes to choose from while I’m on vacation. On the other hand, I don’t like to having to lug heavy bags around the airport or check luggage when I’ll only be gone for a few days. Space is at a premium when you’re only traveling with a carry-on, so this isn’t the time to try to squeeze your entire wardrobe into your backpack. If you’ve ever overpacked like me, you know you won’t wear everything you bring with you anyway. A good way to prevent overpacking is to lay out all the items you think you need, and then put a 3rd of them back. A good place to start eliminating is multiples (do you really need 4 pair of pants for those 4 days, or can you go with 1 or 2?).
Eliminating multiples also applies to shoes. It’s better to bring a pair of nice shoes that can be worn in many different situations than to bring more than one pair. However, there are times when you’re going spelunking after your cousins wedding and really do need different footwear. If you absolutely need to bring more than one pair, be sure to wear the heaviest ones on the flight to save room. Also, don’t let the empty space inside of your packed shoes go to waste – stuff them with socks or other small, rolled items.
Carry-on only travel is a great time to get creative with accessories. If you’re worried about not having enough variety, try bringing small accessories which can be layered to make different looks (scarves and light cardigans work really well for this).
3) Maximize your space
Make sure to check weight and size limits for the airline you’re flying before you start packing. Although most airlines let you bring 2 bags into the cabin with you (one “carry-on” item and one “personal” item), some budget airlines charge for carry-ons.
For those airlines that don’t charge (or if you find it’s better to pay for a carry-on over checked luggage), you can maximize your space by bringing the biggest allowable bag(s). Instead of bringing a small purse as your personal item, bring a larger purse/bag so you get more packing space.
4) Rethink your toiletries
Traveling with only a carry-on limits the amount of liquids you can pack; “Liquids” also includes “aerosols, gels, creams or pastes” (so toothpaste and deodorant in addition to shampoo and liquid soaps). Current TSA guidelines allow for containers up to 3.4oz, and all containers need to fit in a single ziplock baggy.
The good news is that there are SO many options for toiletries. Maybe think about bringing solid shampoo and conditioner bars instead of liquids (like these from Lush). Mini travel bottles are always a go-to option (bonus points if they’re from the last hotel you stayed at). But, I recommend you completely rethink your toiletries – do you really need to bring these items with you, or can you buy them once you get to your destination? I never pack shampoo or conditioner when I’m going to a hotel that I know will have them there (as most do).
If you’re not sure about the items which can be packed, or the sizes of the items you can bring, the TSA has a pretty cool “What can I bring?” FAQ where you can search for items to see if they are allowed in a carry-on bag. For example, I’ve been flying for years and only recently learned that disposable razors can be put in your carry-on because of this interactive FAQ.
5) Wear your bulky clothing
If you’re bringing a large sweatshirt or jacket, or you couldn’t say no to a pair of boots or heavy shoes, wear them on the plane instead of packing them in your carry-on. Dressing in layers on the flight is always a good idea because it can get pretty cold in the cabin.
6) Organize it
Pack so you’ll be able to get out electronics and liquids easily to get through security. But, remember that you’ll also need to put these items back after security, and you don’t want to mess up the order of your bag. Things should be easy to get out AND put away. To do this:
- Pack liquids on top so they are easy to pull out and don’t risk getting squished in your bag
- Pack electronics together so you can get at them more easily. If your bag has a pocket for electronics, take advantage of it. Pack cords in a small bag or container so they don’t get too tangled (I use twisty ties to keep the cords together and put them in an old glasses case so I don’t lose them).
- Use packing cubes or vacuum bags to separate clothing – This will also help you stay organized when you get to your destination! I prefer packing cubes over vacuum bags, because resealing the bags takes too long, and I don’t like the mess of having a bunch of open vacuum bags laying around while I try to pick out my outfits.
7) Have a separate bag or container for items you brought to use on the plane
Although this is part of organizing you bag, I think it’s one of the best things you can do to make your flight easier and more enjoyable. Pack your entertainment and comfort items (books, iPads, earbuds, pillows, socks, blankets) in your smaller personal bag or in a smaller container within your bigger bag which can be removed. This way you can can put them under the seat in front of you and you don’t have to disturbe anyone to get them.
Hope these tips help you feel more comfortable taking your next adventure with only a carry-on!
Nice blog, Kim. Anything a person can do to alleviate stress on travel days is good.