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Have you ever found yourself lugging around a massive suitcase and thinking, "Do I really need all this stuff?" It's all too easy to overpack and end up with a heavy, cumbersome suitcase. However, traveling with just a carry-on can be a game-changer. Not only does it make navigating through airports and train stations a breeze, but it also forces you to be more mindful of what you bring with you. In this blog post, we'll explore some tips and tricks for traveling with just a carry-on, so you can streamline your packing process and travel light and hassle-free.

1. Choose The Right Luggage

When choosing the right carry-on luggage, there are a few key factors to consider. First, consider the size and weight restrictions of the airline you'll be traveling on. Most airlines have a limit of around 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches deep for carry-on luggage, and choosing a bag that exceeds these limits can result in additional fees or the need to check your bag. Additionally, consider the type of trip you'll be taking and what items you'll need to bring with you. If you'll be traveling for business, for example, you may need a bag with separate compartments for your laptop and documents, while if you're traveling for leisure, you may want a bag with more space for clothing and other personal items.

Secondly, consider the material and durability of the carry-on bag. Look for a bag that is made from high-quality materials and features sturdy zippers/latches and handles. This will help ensure that your bag lasts for many trips to come and can withstand the wear and tear of travel. Additionally, look for a bag with helpful features such as a telescoping handle or spinner wheels, which can make navigating through busy airports much easier. By taking these factors into account when choosing a carry-on bag, you can ensure that you have a reliable, practical, and long-lasting bag for all your travels.

2. Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are small, zippered bags that come in a variety of sizes and are designed to help you compartmentalize your belongings. This means that you can separate your clothes, shoes, toiletries, and other items into different cubes, which makes it easy to find what you need and keep your belongings organized throughout your trip. Having your suitcase explode all over the hotel room should hopefully be a thing of the past once you incorporate packing cubes into your travels.

Packing cubes can also help you maximize the space in your carry-on. By using cubes, you can pack more efficiently and reduce the amount of unused space in your suitcase. And, you won’t have to struggle tucking t-shirts back inside your bag while you're trying to zip up your stuffed carry-on.

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3. Roll Your Clothes

If you're looking for an easy way to save space in your luggage, consider rolling your clothes instead of folding them. Rolling your clothes can help reduce the amount of space they take up and make it easier to fit more items into your suitcase. When you fold clothes, they tend to stack on top of each other, which can create air pockets and take up more space. However, when you roll your clothes, you can pack them tightly together and create a more compact, space-efficient bundle.

Another benefit of rolling your clothes is that it can help prevent wrinkles. When you fold clothes, they can get creased and wrinkled, which can be a hassle to deal with when you're trying to look your best on vacation. However, when you roll your clothes, they are less likely to get creased, and you can easily shake out any wrinkles once you arrive at your destination.

4. Bring Travel Sized Toiletries

This one might be a bit obvious, but when packing your Dopp Kit with your toiletries, opt for travel-sized versions. You are not going to use 16 oz of shampoo in a week. Plus, TSA has restrictions for liquids in your carry-on. So you will need to keep them below 3.4 ounces. Seriously! If you bring bigger bottles then that, they will take them from you and throw them away. If your goal really is to travel light, make sure to only bring the essentials for toiletries.

5. Bring Clothes That Can Be Mixed And Matched

When all the clothes you pack go well together and all match, it can help you save valuable space in your luggage. By having clothing items that can be mixed and matched, you'll be able to create a variety of different outfits without having to pack as many items. This means that you can fit more clothing into your carry-on. Having coordinating pieces can also prevent you from overpacking or bringing unnecessary items, which can further save you space. Carry-on-only travel requires a bit more thought about what exactly you are bringing. Think about what you’ll be doing the days you are there and plan out the clothes you’ll need for each activity. And bring clothes that match, for example bring one jacket that goes with all your shirts and pants instead of a different jacket for each outfit.

6. Wear Your Bulkiest Clothes On The Flight

Wearing your bulkiest clothes on the flight can be a smart way to save space in your luggage and ensure that you're comfortable during your journey. Bulky items, such as heavy coats or sweaters, can take up a lot of room in your carry-on. By wearing them on the flight, you'll be able to free up space for other items. Airplanes can be chilly, especially during long flights. Wearing warm, bulky clothing can help you stay comfortable and cozy during your journey. And if it’s too warm for you just take off the sweater and use it as a pillow. That saves you even more space since you won’t need to bring a travel pillow.

7. Use Every Inch Of Space

Many carry-on bags have multiple pockets, which can be perfect for storing smaller items. You can also use the space between the handle and the bag to tuck in any smaller items, such as a book or your smaller packing cubes. And make sure that you stuff the inside of your shoes. That’s typically where I will stuff my socks. Not only does it help with space, but it also helps the shoes keep their shape.

8. Take Advantage Of Your Personal Item

The majority of airlines around the world will also allow you a personal item. As long as it can fit under the seat in front of you. They don’t want you putting these items in the overhead bin. The typical size restriction is around 18 x 14 x 8 inches, but make sure to check the baggage allowance of the airline you're flying beforehand. Take advantage of this extra bag you can bring and don’t waste it by bringing a small purse or other small bag. Bring a backpack instead, you can still put your purse inside the backpack plus a bunch more stuff. Keep in mind, this bag is way more accessible throughout the flight so this is where you’ll want to put your in-flight necessities like headphones, your tablet, phone charger, etc.

9. Do Your Laundry At Your Destination

Most hostels and hotels have in-house laundry facilities, and you can use them for a fee. Alternatively, you can use laundry services available in the local area. In many cities, there are coin-operated laundry facilities where you can wash and dry your clothes. This option is affordable and convenient, as you can drop off your clothes and pick them up later in the day.

Another option for doing laundry while traveling is to wash your clothes by hand. I know I know you're on vacation, but it can save you a considerable amount of money and space in your carry-on. You can carry a small packet of laundry detergent, and wash your clothes in the sink or bathtub of your accommodation. The process is simple; soak your clothes in soapy water, scrub them gently, rinse, and hang them to dry. This way, you can avoid accumulating too much laundry, and always have clean clothes to wear. You also don’t have to be traveling home with a carry-on full of dirty clothes.

10. Only Bring What You Need

Only bring items that you know you'll use, and avoid packing things "just in case." Remember, you can always buy the things you need at your destination if absolutely necessary. This is a skill you’ll develop the more you travel. And traveling with only a carry-on helps you realize how little materially you need to bring with you to have an amazing trip. In my experience traveling lighter and avoiding waiting in line at the baggage area is a huge happiness boost during my trip. Nothing puts you in a bad mood like having to walk across a new town at night with a 50 pound checked bag, a carry-on, and a backpack.

So there you have it! Traveling with just a carry-on can be a total game-changer, and it's not as hard as you might think. I mean, who wants to deal with the headache of checked baggage anyway?

And don't forget to follow these tips and keep things lightweight, so you can breeze through airport security and onto your destination with no sweat. With a little practice, you'll be a carry-on only traveler in no time!