We ONLY travel with a carry-on and personal bag. Why?! Because we hate waiting for our bags and risking lost luggage. Don't worry, you can do it and have space for souvenirs!
From a small weekend away to a 2.5 week trip, here are my tips to pulling off a carry-on bag only:
Choose the Right Carry-on Bag: Opt something lightweight, durable that meets airline size requirements. It is essential for the bag to have 360 wheels. This helps when you are racing through the airport to get to your next flight.
Make a Packing List: Create a list of essentials to avoid forgetting items.
Phone charger: my #1 item forgotten
Multiple outfits: you will want to pick items that are versatile, can be mixed and matched, and have the ability to dress in layers if needed. I always wear my sweatshirt in the airport to open space in my bag and I am always cold.
Personal care items: think about packing smallest containers possible. Ideally you would use them up on the trip and discard to free up space for souvenirs. *Keep in mind of liquid restrictions and prohibited items!
Multiple shoes: ideally wear your bulky pair of shoes. I always pack a dressy pair, active pair, and a go to pair. This allows me to have multiple options during my trip.
Water bottle: I bring a water bottle on every trip because I hate buying water.
Powder laundry detergent: I travel with detergent all the time. I use it to treat unwanted stains or rewash clothing items in the sink.
Personal Item: usually a large backpack purse or backpack. We place all of our electronics, chargers, bulky items, and water bottle in here.
Space saving techniques:
Roll Your Clothes: Rolling saves space and minimizes wrinkles.
Use Packing Cubes: Organize items by category to maximize space and accessibility. I always pack my underwear and socks in 1 packing cube. I also use a packing cube for all my shirts. If traveling with kids, I use packing cubes to keep their clothing separated as I make my kids share a carry-on.
Leave Room for Souvenirs: Pack with the idea you will need a bit of extra space for items you may acquire during your trip. *Remember, you will be using up items like shampoo or toothpaste or snacks, opening room for your souvenirs.
**Check the weather: this will depend on your ability to use a carry-on. If you are traveling for more than a week and require winter clothes a carry-on might not be a great option. Carry-ons work best for all other trips.
Hope my tips help you to save time at the airport and ditch your checked bag. If you have any tricks to packing leave them in comments below. Bon Voyage!
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