The Carry-On Only Life
When it comes to packing for trips, do you find yourself drafting an extensive packing list and feeling compelled to bring clothes for every imaginable scenario (including a surprise yacht invitation) just in case? I understand your struggle; I used to be the same way. However, I’m here to tell you that you can embrace the Carry-On Only Life. It might sound daunting, but let me share some benefits of traveling with just a carry-on, no matter where you’re headed.
No More Over-Packing
We’ve all experienced it—the night before your trip, you’re sitting on your suitcase, trying to squish it closed. Inside it lies a collection of clothes, shoes, and accessories that you probably won’t wear. Take it from me: you don’t need to pack everything! I’ve championed the carry-on-only lifestyle for the last decade, including an around-the-world trip with my husband and two kids. We traveled with only our carry-on bags and managed to fit two weeks’ worth of clothes for 29 countries on six continents, navigating diverse situations along the way. (And no, the yacht invitation never materialized.) If I can do it, so can you!
What to Consider Before Packing
As you prepare for your journey, consider these simple questions:
- Where are you going? The weather will significantly influence your packing choices.
- What activities will you be doing? Will you be active, enjoying the beach, or attending meetings?
- How can you optimize your packing? Is laundry available at your destination? Can any items serve multiple purposes?
- Do you have the right tools for packing? Keep reading to find out more…
Avoid the Baggage Claim Hassle
As you glide past the long check-in lines, you’ll realize that traveling with only carry-on luggage can be a lifesaver. Say goodbye to waiting in line to drop off your luggage and struggling to find a spot at baggage claim when you arrive. Plus, you won’t have to stress about whether your luggage has arrived safely. When you travel carry-on only, you always know where your bags are. If chaos strikes and you need to make an unexpected flight change, you’ll find it effortless.
However, it’s not just about the decision to go carry-on only; it’s also important to find luggage that maximizes your storage space. Recently, I shared some helpful packing items on The Social. If those don’t suit you, think about their features as you search for your next go-to suitcase.
Packing for a Family Trip
We’ve previously discussed packing light when traveling with kids, and there’s a reason we keep coming back to it. Kids can be one of the most challenging groups to pack for, but there are advantages to having them travel with you—hear me out! Each ticketed child is allowed to have their own carry-on. That means even your toddler can have their own bag and a personal item onboard. If your kids are old enough, giving them their own luggage to pack and manage can be an exciting responsibility. A Logan Suitcase is both fun and functional, perfect for storing travel essentials like clothing and toiletries while also offering space for entertainment. Alternatively, Trunki cases come in various fun themes and patterns, making them excellent choices for toddlers and younger children.
Packing for a Girls’ Trip
When planning a getaway with the girls, being discerning about your outfits and accessories is essential! Here’s a pro tip: choose shoes that can be worn more than once and limit yourself to 2-3 pairs. Avoid the temptation to try new looks right before the trip; stick with outfits that you know and love, and try them on before packing.
Another pro tip: When you return home from the trip, don’t unpack your bag completely. Keep the items you primarily used for the vacation in your suitcase, so they’re ready for your next spontaneous getaway with the girls. Trust me, it will simplify your carry-on lifestyle. If you’re seeking a stylish upgrade, check out the Quartermaster by Ebby Rane. It has designated compartments for everything you need, including a leather clutch for a night out!
Packing for a Business Trip
With the return of business travel, finding the right bag is crucial. You’ll need something that presents a polished look while accommodating all your professional essentials. I highly recommend the Baseline Essential Expandable Carry-On Spinner from Briggs & Riley. This suitcase is perfect for maximizing space; its compression feature allows you to expand the bag with a button press and then compress it by simply pushing down on the bag. It also has interior straps to keep your items secure. Another great aspect is the built-in tri-fold garment folder, which can hold 1-2 suits, ensuring they stay wrinkle-free.
Do you have a favorite carry-on-only item? Share it with us in the comments or on social media!
