Packing for a trip is hard enough when you have a full size suitcase – I would know as I am a self-identified over-packer. My suitcase is always full to the brim. It’s a real problem. With the price of flights and checked baggage costs these days, I’ve challenged myself that when I fly, I’m going to pack ONLY a carry-on piece of luggage and nothing else. I call it a challenge because it’s absolutely one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done.
Since setting this challenge for myself, I’ve been following three main rules to help me stick to my carry-on only challenge. Read on to check them out.
My first tip is to pack all your toiletries in a cute little plastic pouch. I’m sure you already know that airlines have some pretty strict rules about liquids which I find is the most difficult part of taking only a carry-on bag when you fly. I got this little pouch as a gift from a purchase at Sephora and it’s perfect to fit all of my 100 mL or less toiletries. The trick here is to keep your toiletries in your personal item until you’ve already gone through security as you’ll need to take them out anyway. Once you’ve breezed through security, you can just pop them into your carry-on suitcase.
A little bonus tip is that this is the PERFECT way to use up all of those sample sized products I know you’re hoarding in your bathroom but never find the time to use. This way, you don’t have to go out and buy travel size products or spend time funneling your regular sized products into little travel sized bottles and then back again once you get home. Sample products are key, you’re welcome.
Secondly, I know it’s really tempting to bring your one piece wonders on a trip – your favorite dresses, jumpsuits, and rompers that are just so cute – but girl, leave them behind. Bringing a piece of clothing that can only be worn in one way is, quite literally, a waste of space! The best thing you can pack to really maximize your space are lots and lots of separates that can be worn in a bunch of different ways. Take a look at what you’re packing and ask yourself – how many different outfits can I make with these pieces? Drop anything that you can only wear one way. Such a simple tip but such a space saver!
My final tip is to make sure that you wear your bulkiest clothing (including shoes) on the plane. In my case, it’s these giant Fila Disruptors and this chunky sweater. I can fit so much more in my bag if I wear these on the plane – bonus if your bulkiest items are also the comfiest!
And voila – you’ve magically packed for a trip (albeit a short one) using only a carry-on. Enjoy that $60 you saved by not checking your baggage, you earned it.
xo Teagan
The suitcase featured in this post was gifted by Monos. Monos suitcases are beautifully and thoughtfully designed for travelers everywhere. I love that they include lots of soft travel bags for your shoes, straps to hold your items in place, a gorgeous luggage tag, and a Magic Eraser to scrub the scuffs off of your light colored suitcase and all at an affordable price point.