Pack your carry-on

When I started packing everything into a carry-on backpack years ago, my friends and family thought I was a little crazy. Back then, only die-hard travelers embraced this approach, as budget airlines weren’t as popular among most travelers yet. To give you some context, this was during the days when many people still booked trips through travel agencies, and online bookings were largely limited to package deals.

Fast forward to today, traveling with only a carry-on is no longer frowned upon—it’s becoming one of the most popular ways to pack. For many, the idea of fitting all their necessities into a small bag still feels overwhelming. But as someone who has successfully packed for up to eight days in just a carry-on backpack, I can confidently say it’s not only doable but also incredibly freeing. Come along as I teach you how to pack a carry-on!

Why should you choose a carry-on over your trusty big suitcase? For many, the most obvious reason is to avoid checked baggage fees. Initially, this was a concern mainly with low-cost carriers like Ryanair and EasyJet, which charged extra to check bags into the hold. However, more and more airlines now consider checked luggage an optional add-on rather than a basic service. By learning how to pack a carry-on, you can easily save as much as €30-€50 per flight—sometimes even more on long-haul routes. But for me, the cost savings are just the beginning. The Top Benefits of Traveling with a Carry-On go far beyond saving money.

It starts the moment you step into the airport: no need to queue at the check-in counter – you can head straight to security. This alone saves you precious time and energy, making your travel experience much smoother from the start. On arrival, the benefits continue. Once you disembark, you can walk straight out of the airport without the dreaded wait at the baggage carousel. There’s also peace of mind. With a carry-on, your belongings are always with you, eliminating the risk of lost luggage or damage caused by rough handling.

Save Money, Time, and Stress: The Case for Packing a Carry-On becomes even stronger when you reach your destination. A carry-on is easier to maneuver through tricky terrains, like European cities with cobblestones and endless stairs (we see you, Venice and Lisbon!). If you’re hopping between locations, living out of a compact bag is far simpler – it takes up less space in your room and keeps everything more accessible.

Packing light isn’t just a way to save money; it’s a way to travel smarter, faster, and with fewer worries.

The first step in packing your carry-on is selecting the right size. Every airline has its own rules for carry-on dimensions, so it’s crucial to check if your bag meets the requirements. Airlines typically distinguish between a “personal item” (small enough to fit under the seat) and a larger carry-on designed for the overhead bin.

Which one you should choose depends on the length of your trip and the type of gear you need.

• Short trips (weekend getaways or city breaks): A personal item is usually sufficient.
• Week-long trips: It depends. Do you need specialized equipment like hiking gear? Are you visiting a cold destination that requires bulky clothing? If you’re prone to overpacking, consider the larger carry-on for added space.
• Trips longer than a week: A larger carry-on is typically the better choice for most travelers.

The key to packing a carry-on is focusing on what’s absolutely necessary. There’s no room for “just in case” items here.

1. Capsule wardrobe: Pack a few neutral-colored pieces that mix and match easily. Add one standout item for variety, but ensure everything works together.
2. Layer strategically: Minimize bulky items like sweaters by choosing one versatile piece that works across outfits. Wear your heaviest layers, like coats and boots, on travel day to save space in your bag.
3. Shoes: Limit yourself to one extra pair, such as flats or lightweight evening shoes. Stuff small items like socks inside your shoes to save space.
4. Avoid duplicates: Traveling with a companion? Share items like shampoo or toothpaste.

Packing liquids for air travel requires careful consideration. In Europe, all liquids must be in containers no larger than 100ml and fit into a one-liter clear plastic bag.

• Opt for solid alternatives where possible: shampoo bars, conditioner bars, and solid deodorants take up less space and last longer than liquids. Brands like Kitsch, Yves Rocher, and Wild offer sustainable, travel-friendly options. I even switched to them full time!
• Bring essentials like laundry detergent (great for washing socks or dealing with spills) and skip items often provided by hotels, such as body lotion and shower gel.
• Use refillable containers for must-have liquids instead of carrying full-sized bottles.

When packing for your flight and downtime at your destination, it’s important to prioritize items that are both practical and compact. Instead of lugging around a heavy book, consider an e-reader or tablet preloaded with your favorite movies, series, and music. These devices are versatile and save valuable space in your carry-on. Similarly, a streamlined wallet with only essential cards and IDs will keep you organized and reduce unnecessary bulk.

For medications, there’s no need to pack an entire box. Cut down blister packs to carry just enough for your trip as part of a compact emergency kit. Finally, leave bulky appliances like hair dryers or curling irons at home. Most accommodations provide these items, or you can easily find them at your destination if needed. By focusing on lightweight, multi-purpose items, you’ll make the most of your carry-on while staying prepared for both the journey and your leisure time.

Now that you’ve chosen your items, it’s time to pack them efficiently. Let’s go step by step through how to pack a carry-on like a pro!

1. Lay it all out: Place everything on a bed or table so you can see it. Remove anything you don’t absolutely need.
2. Set aside your travel outfit: Wear your bulkiest clothing items during travel to free up space.
3. Optimize space:
   • Stuff small items (e.g., socks) into shoes or other hollow spaces.
   • Roll your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles.
   • Use packing cubes, especially compression ones, to keep things organized and squeeze in extra items.
4. Strategize placement:
   • Place heavy items near the bottom or against your back for backpacks to improve weight distribution.
   • Pack liquids and electronics last for easy access during security checks.
   • Keep in-flight essentials on top if your bag doesn’t have separate compartments.

By following these steps, you’ll make the most of your carry-on space while ensuring your trip is smooth and hassle-free.

Packing everything into a carry-on may seem challenging at first, but with the right mindset and strategies, it can transform the way you travel. By choosing the right bag, focusing on essentials, and packing efficiently, you’ll save time, money, and stress while enjoying the freedom and convenience of traveling light. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend city break or an extended trip, mastering the art of the carry-on ensures you’re always ready to explore with ease and style. So, next time you’re packing, skip the checked luggage and embrace the simplicity of carry-on travel!