You’re going on vacation. Yay!! You want to be the most efficient and make the most of your vacation. You want all the cute pictures and don’t want to forget anything.
This is a definite do as I say and not as I do. I still have to work on this myself but as much as I travel and for sometimes up to 3-4 weeks I really try to do carry on only.
This is why.
Having to go up and down stairs with luggage is hard. Believe me. I know first hand when I had to bring a large suitcase with my daughter’s clothes that she wanted me to bring. She lives in Spain and wanted a few of her sweaters and boots. I was also traveling for almost 3 weeks to Ireland and a Danube river cruise. Having a large suitcase and a carry on was just too much to handle. Never again!
And don’t forget that most of Europe has cobblestone streets. Getting on and off trains is hard with large heavy suitcases. Then you have to pray to the luggage gods that your checked luggage arrives on time with you. Wouldn't it be so great if you didn’t have to check in luggage. Save that luggage fee and pack carry on only.
Most airlines will let you have a carry -on luggage and a personal item. Check with your specific airline to make sure you have the right measurements. Both American Airlines and Delta specify that the maximum carry on luggage size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches. This includes wheels and handles. If you are buying new luggage make sure you look at both the wheels and handles. These are the places where most damages happen. Make sure the wheels are large and sturdy. That they spin 360 degrees and glide easily. Look at the handle goes up and down easily. Again, learn from my mistakes. I’m on my 3rd carry on.
Getting a good personal item is key too. This will give you more packing room. Make sure your personal item can go under the seat in front of you. Choose an item that is 17 inches x 13 inches x 9 inches or smaller. Remember you still have to carry it. Don’t have something too big that it weighs you down. I pack anything that doesn’t fit in my carry on, which honestly everything fits in my carry on. My laptop and electronic cords go in my backpack. I have a snack bag with granola bars and some candy. My headphones and small blanket also go in my backpack. And,of course, a book. Don’t forget you have enough room to pack your purse.
Ok. Now that you have your carry on and your personal item it’s time to think about what you want to wear. I have packing lists for both cruises and resorts. I’ll share those in a future post. Try not to over pack. Try to color coordinate your clothing so you can mix and match. What’s your activity? Do you have to change for dinner? Is it warm or cold climate? Pro tip: If it’s a cold climate this doesn’t necessarily mean more bulky sweaters. Wear layers. Most of the time you’ll be in the same jacket anyway.
Bring laundry sheets. It’s not bulky and you can sink wash underwear and socks. Maybe where you are going has a laundry service.
Using packing cubes, better yet compression packing cubes will change your life. You’ll be organized and make unpacking a breeze. I pack them by category. Socks and undergarments in one. T-shirts and blouses in another. Shorts and pants in the last. If you use compression packs this should only take up half your carry on.
Make sure your toiletries are organized too. Your liquids, gels and aerosols packed must be in a 1 quart plastic ziplock bag. And they must be 3.4 ounces or less. Keep this readily available if security wants you to take it out.
The bulkiest will always be shoes and boots. Try to keep it to 1 pair of sneakers, 1 pair of flip flops or slippers and 1 pair of dress shoes. Again, this will depend on where you are going. Pack your shoes on the bottom. Under or around the packing cubes. You can pack miscellaneous items inside the shoes to save space.
How to Pack Light for Any Trip: A Carry-On Only Guide
The Benefits of Carry-On Only Travel
Traveling with only a carry-on offers numerous advantages:
Convenience: Avoid baggage claim delays and the hassle of checking and retrieving luggage.
Efficiency: Navigate airports and transportation with ease, especially in crowded areas or with limited mobility.
Cost Savings: Avoid checked baggage fees and potential damage charges.
Essential Tips for Packing Light
Choose the Right Luggage: Opt for a sturdy, lightweight carry-on with smooth-rolling wheels and a comfortable handle.
Utilize a Personal Item: Maximize packing space by carrying a personal item that fits under the seat.
Plan Your Outfits: Consider the climate, activities, and dress code to pack efficiently. Layer clothing for versatility in varying temperatures.
Pack Smart: Use packing cubes or compression bags to organize and maximize space.
Minimize Toiletries: Adhere to TSA liquid regulations and pack only essential toiletries.
Consider Laundry: Pack laundry sheets or plan for laundry services to reduce the need for excessive clothing.
Additional Tips:
Pack Shoes Strategically: Place shoes at the bottom of your bag and pack smaller items inside them to save space.
Roll Clothes: Rolling clothes can help reduce wrinkles and save space compared to folding.
Leave Room for Souvenirs: Plan for extra space to bring back souvenirs or purchases.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently travel with only a carry-on, enjoying a more efficient and stress-free journey.
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