How To Pack ONLY A Carry On

Do you have trouble fitting all your things in a carry on? Is your goal to never check another piece of luggage again? If that sounds like you, then you’ve come to the right place! Everyone has tips and tricks that work for them, so I hope some of my recommendations below will help you on your packing journey. I consider this article the ultimate guide for how to pack only a carry on, no matter the duration of your trip.

Firstly, it comes down to your mindset. If you really think about the things that bring you value, you’ll find the list is smaller than you think. With a minimalist mindset, you’ll most likely have an easier time packing all your belongings in a carry on. That said, let’s get started!

Below is a breakdown by category of the common items you’ll need in your carry-on luggage. When you travel by plane, you’re also allowed one smaller bag, like a backpack or purse, so keep that in mind as well. The items I recommend are just ones that worked for me, so remember to always do your research based on what works best for you. I hope you take away a few tips from this ultimate guide for how to pack only a carry on. Please leave any tips you have in the comment section as well!

• Carry-on luggage bags
• Clothes
• Electronics
• Entertainment
• Documents
• Sleep
• Health & Hygiene
• Food & Drink

Finding the perfect carry-on luggage can be difficult. It’s important to look for one that will suit you and make your travel journey easier. Be sure your carry-on luggage has at max the dimensions of 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches, as that is the standard for most airlines. It’s always smart to check the airline’s website to ensure your luggage meets all the requirements as well. If you need a head start, here are a few examples of carry-on luggage found on Amazon, which are similar to carry-on’s I’ve used in the past. To learn more about the specifics of each luggage, just click on the name/image of each product below:

• Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels:

• Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 20-Inch Carry-On Lightweight Durable Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Cabin Size Luggage

• Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

• Travelpro Maxlite 5 Hardside Lightweight Expandable Luggage

If you’re searching for a smaller laptop bag, here’s a short list of a couple from Amazon that are similar to what I typically travel with. Make sure your laptop bag has a horizontal strap on one side, as you can slide it down your carry-on luggage handle, making it much easier to transport. Your shoulder and back will thank you. Additionally, if you want a few items to be easily accessible while flying, then you can place your laptop bag underneath the seat in front of you.

• Targus Classic Slim Briefcase with Crossbody Shoulder Bag

• KROSER Laptop Bag Premium Laptop Briefcase

Now, when it comes to packing your clothes, it’s best to think about using the capsule wardrobe method. This method is all about creating outfits only using a few staple pieces of clothing that can be easily interchangeable. The goal is to find clothing items that can work with many different outfits. For example, if you only pack two pairs of jeans in your carry on, then make sure those jeans can work with a multitude of shirts. Additionally, it can help to pack darker or neutral-colored items, as those are easier to pair with different outfits. I also try to wear my heaviest/bulkiest clothes to the airport, since it’ll help keep my carry-on luggage a little lighter. If you’re having a tough time deciding what clothing items to bring, just remember to pack only what’s most comfortable to you.

If you’re traveling for longer than a week, I would suggest finding somewhere you can do laundry. For example, find lodging that offers free laundry service or check to see if there are laundromats around your area. That way, you’ll be able to reuse your clothes more than once if traveling for a prolonged period of time.

To give you a starting point, check out the list below for exactly what I pack when I’m only traveling with my carry-on luggage:

• 2 comfy pairs of pants & 2 pairs of jeans
• 5 shirts
• 1 nice outfit
• 7 pairs of underwear & 2 bras
• 5 pairs of socks
• 1 light jacket or cardigan
• 1 winter jacket (if applicable)
• A comfy pair of shoes (wear your tennis shoes)
• A hat or mini umbrella

Let’s talk electronics! The essential items you’ll want to remember, include your phone, phone charger, power bank, and headphones. If you’re traveling international, it’s crucial you pack a travel adapter that converts in your destination country. Additionally, if you’re someone like me who can’t go without a laptop, don’t forget your laptop charger. Luckily, most of these items can be stored in your smaller bag, allowing for more room in your carry-on luggage.

• Cell phone and charger
• Laptop (if needed) and charger
• Small travel camera, battery, & charger
• Travel adapter: I recommend this travel adapter on Amazon by Ceptics. It works in many different countries and includes four USB ports.
• Power bank
• Headphones

Get your favorite tunes ready! If you’re traveling on a short flight or road tripping, remember to pass the time by bringing music, movies, and tv series beforehand. However, if you’re taking a long-haul flight, then try to download your favorite movies and music, as you may not have access to WiFi. Personally, I always opt to watch the movies onboard a long-haul flight, since there’s so many to choose from. Getting from one place to another can sometimes be a little boring, so whether you bring a good book or listen to your favorite podcast, just remember to always have something to do. This can also be a great time to plan your future travels or journal about your past adventures. What do you do to pass the time on long trips? Let me know in the comment section.

• Download music/movies/tv shows
• Download books/podcasts

The most important items are definitely your required travel documents, so it’s imperative not to forget these items. For domestic travel in the States, you’ll need your government-issued ID and your boarding passes. However, for travel to certain destinations, along with international travel, you’ll need to present COVID-19 documentation. Make sure to always do your research based on your destination of choice, and check out the CDC’s website for specific details. Furthermore, some countries require a visa to visit, so be sure to find out if you’ll need to apply for one prior to travel.

• Passport or government-issued ID
• Boarding passes
• Visa (if applicable)
• COVID-19 documentation

For sleeping, the common items I typically bring with me include a neck pillow and headphones. However, I included an eye mask and ear plugs on the list, as those can really help some people stay asleep. Personally, I just need noise-cancelling headphones and a neck pillow on long-haul flights. If you’re searching for tips on how to sleep better while traveling, check out my post all about the topic here! Is there anything in particular that helps you sleep on the road or in the air? Feel free to drop it in the comment section below. 😴

• Eye mask & ear plugs
• Neck pillow: Check out Amazon for a plethora of neck pillow options. This one pictured below is made of memory foam and can be tied around the top of your carry-on handle for easy transportation.

Firstly, if you’re traveling by air, remember to never pack any liquid that’s more than 3.4 fluid ounces. For a list of all things you can and cannot bring, check out the TSA’s website. See the list of items below for the essentials I bring when traveling with only a carry-on luggage:

• Medication
• Deodorant
• Toothbrush/toothpaste/floss
• Hairbrush
• Cleanser/moisturizer/sunscreen
• Make-up
• Feminine products
• Eye drops (if applicable)

I’m a big believer in packing my own snacks and water bottle when traveling. If you’re looking to save a little money, opt to pack a few snacks for the road. Additionally, if you haven’t already, transition to being a water-bottle owner. A water bottle is an excellent addition to any carry-on luggage, and it will help keep you hydrated while in the air, on the road, or on foot.

• Water bottle
• Snacks

To conclude, whether your trip lasts a week or a month, I hope these recommendations help you travel a little lighter. There’s a multitude of tips out there for only packing a carry on, so please feel free to leave a comment below on what works best for you!

Searching for more travel tips and inspiration? Head over to my travel destinations page here. Happy packing! 😎✈