Tips and Tricks To Easily Travel With Carry-On Only

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Traveling carry-on only can be tricky!

You don't want to end up on your dream getaway without important items like pain relievers, band-aids, razors, or your favorite dress. But bringing too much stuff can make any trip feel long and uncomfortable. That's why I put together this guide to help you find the perfect balance between packing smart and not overpacking. Keep reading for Tips and Tricks to easily travel with a carry-on only, travel light, stay organized, and find the best carry-on luggage options available.

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First, What Is Considered Carry-On?

This can get confusing because each airline has its own restrictions. However, carry-on is the luggage you bring on the plane, and traveling carry-on only means you won’t be checking your luggage. Carry-on luggage is usually a small suitcase or backpack and a ‘personal item’ handheld bag or backpack. These items are taken on the plane with you and can be stored under your seat and/or in the overhead cabin.

Size, weight, number of bags, and restrictions vary by airline; check with each airline you plan to travel with. Most airlines allow carry-on luggage that measures up to 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches.

Additional items that you can often be brought on to the plane without being checked:

• Stroller

• Diaper bag

• Wedding dress

• Some Musical instruments

• Formula, milk, breast milk, juice or food for infants (the amount will vary by airline)
  

Most carriers will let you bring these with your carry-on luggage and personal item, but I can’t stress this enough, you should contact the airline in advance to confirm.

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“Remember that happiness is a way of travel — not a destination.” — Roy Goodman.

Reap The Benefits Of Carry-On Only Travel!

Carry-on isn’t for everyone or every trip, and that is perfectly fine. But there is no shortage of benefits!

• Save on baggage fees

• Don’t worry about lost luggage/delays

• Spend less time at the airport by avoiding long queues at the check-in counter

• Pack only what you need and save time when deciding what to wear daily

• Less stress about your items and luggage potentially getting damaged by handlers

• Your bag should fit nicely in any mode of transportation, including tiny rental cars and sleeper trains

• Save space in tight accommodations

• Lift and maneuver your luggage through crowds with ease

• Easily keep your items organized and make finding the items you need easier during your trip

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How do you travel with carry-on only?

Now that we have covered how traveling light can vastly improve your trip, here are my best tips and tricks to easily travel with carry-on only:

• Make a packing list: Always start with the essential items you'll need for your trip. The goal is to leave any unnecessary items behind; goodbye, curling iron! Download one of our free customizable packing lists to help keep you on track.

• Plan a travel capsule wardrobe: This is my favorite part! Picking versatile clothing and shoes that can be mixed and matched will help you create multiple outfits with limited items. I know that it is common to run into decision fatigue at this point, and that is why I have dedicated a section to travel wardrobe planning and created a Facebook community for women to help with inspiration and feedback.

• Choose multi-functional items: A great example is a pashmina that works in hot or cold weather and can be used as a scarf, blanket, or swimsuit coverup.

• Roll & fold your clothes: The verdict is out on this one! I think you roll or fold depending on the material and bulkiness of the item.

• Use packing cubes: Packing cubes can help organize your clothes and maximize space in your luggage.

• Use compression cubes: Compression cubes help you pack more in a tight space. I use these for socks and underwear and to separate dirty laundry.

• Leave behind non-essential items: You can buy items at your destination, such as toiletries or snacks. I don’t recommend leaving behind items that might be challenging to find at your destination (like a hair straightener in the countryside of Florence). Clearly, I value my hair straightener more than my curling iron.

• Utilize all the space: Something as simple as stuffing small items into a bag and inside your shoes will help you gain more space in your carry-on.

• Choose the right luggage: Aim to use lightweight luggage that maximizes carry-on allowances. (I’ve got some great carry-on luggage options listed below.)

  Pro tip: Wear your heaviest and bulkiest items on the plane.

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How To Stay Organized While Traveling Light

First off, I highly recommend using packing cubes and lightweight luggage. They make a huge difference! But another important thing is to stay organized. Label your organizers so you can easily find what you need. And if you're staying at multiple places for short periods of time, it's a good idea to pack your outfits together. That way, you won't waste time searching for what to wear.

PRO TIP: If you're traveling with your family, consider packing everyone’s PJs together in compression cubes.

With a little planning and organization, you can avoid overpacking and focus on enjoying your trip.

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What To Pack In Your Carry-On:

• Pack your packing lists. I have created free customizable lists because if they aren’t customizable, they aren’t for you. I always find this handy when I am in a hurry to check out and want to make sure nothing is hiding somewhere in the room. Grab your list here

• Printed lists of emergency contacts and itineraries, including accommodations. Print one per person! I almost lost my Husband at a train station in the dark (why is everything scarier in the dark?) on our first night in Rome and quickly realized I didn’t know where I was going! Don’t be like me, haha)

• Travel documents & copies: Passport, visa, ID, travel insurance, diver’s license, and other important documents.

• Wallet with credit cards and some cash. Don’t forget the coins for tipping or washrooms in Europe.

• Cell phone and charging cord/box

• A comfortable yet stylish travel capsule wardrobe (perfect for carry-on only travel)

• Statement scarf that doubles as an airplane blanket

• Crossbody sling, day bag, or bum bag as the kids like to call it

• Moisturizer with SPF

• Menstrual care, if applicable

• A minimum amount of over-the-counter medication and maybe a face mask just in case

• Prescription medication (if removed from original containers, print out information and give a copy to a fellow traveler in case of an emergency.)

• Deodorant or antiperspirant (wipes are great if you are trying to keep liquids to a minimum)

• First-aid items; assorted bandaids, antibacterial ointment, antiseptic wipes, gauze, surgical tape, and tweezers

• Bar shampoo, bar conditioner, dry shampoo, and hair styling tools

• Travel toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste

• Travel-sized face wash, toner, and serum

• Hand sanitizer because I have always been a bit of a germaphobe

• Reusable shopping bags

• Universal adapter

• Portable charger

• Noise-canceling headphones

• Packing and compression cubes

• Luggage scale

• Luggage tracker, such as AirTags (Trust me on this!)

• Water bottle

• Neck pillow

• Snacks

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What You Can’t Take In Your Carry-On

• Liquids over 100ml/3.4oz. Research the 3-1-1 rule.

• Corkscrews, pocketknives, and other sharp objects

• Straight razor blades or safety razors

• Tools, weapons and sporting goods that can cause injury

• Dangerous and harmful items

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Carry-on Suitcase Recommendations: Travel Experts Reveal Top Brands

As I mentioned above, you’ll need to research your airline's size restrictions. Every airline has different size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage; exceeding these limits can lead to additional fees.

Most airlines allow carry-on luggage that measures up to 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, including handles and wheels. Keep in mind that the airplane might run out of cabin storage, and you could be forced to check your bag (thankfully, you will have a luggage tracker).

While shopping for your carry-on, look for durable, lightweight, and TSA-approved luggage from reputable brands. With the right carry-on luggage, you can jet-set in style and make the most of your travel experience.

Here are the brands that made the list:

Best Budget:

• Samsonite

• AmazonBasics

Mid Range:

• Eagle Creek

• TravelPro

• Osprey

• Delsey

• Away

Luxury Brands:

• Tumi

• Briggs and Riley

These are the 5 Best Overall Carry-on Suitcase Recommendations:

1. SAMSONITE Omni PC Hardside Spinner 20

   The Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Spinner is a durable, lightweight, and small carry-on luggage option. It features four multi-directional spinner wheels, a TSA-approved lock, and a scratch-resistant exterior. The interior is spacious and includes a divider and several pockets for organization.

   Size: 55.88 x 38.1 x 24.76 x CM | 22 x 15 x 9.75 IN
   Weight: 7.05 LBS | 3.19 KG

2. TRAVELPRO Maxlite 5 22" International Carry-on Luggage 

   The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Lightweight Carry-On Luggage is a great option soft-side option for those looking for comfortable and reliable carry-on luggage. It features four 360-degree spinner wheels, a TSA-approved lock, and a water-resistant exterior. The interior is spacious and includes a full-length lid pocket and adjustable straps.

   Size: 55.2 x 40.08 x 19.6 CM | 21.75 x 15.75 x 7.75 IN
   Weight: 5.4 LBS | 2.45 KG

3. AWAY The Carry-On

   The Away Carry-On Luggage has a sleek design and practical features, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking high-quality carry-on luggage. It features four 360-degree spinner wheels, a TSA-approved lock, and a scratch-resistant exterior that is easy to keep clean. The interior includes a compression system and a removable laundry bag.

   
   Size: 55.1 x 34.8 x 22.9 CM | 21.69 x 13.70 x 9 IN
   Weight: 7.49 LBS | 3.4 KG

4. TUMI Voyageur Leger International Carry-On - This is the most expensive suitcase on the list, and I would call it a splurge-worthy option. Features: Front-lid and split-case zip, locking zipper pulls, USB port, 3-stage telescoping handle, 4 recessed wheels, leather-wrapped top and side handles, bottom grab handle, interior divider and lid, and a media pocket. It is to be noted that their warranty is only valid for five years.

   
   Size: 56.0 X 35.5 X 23.0 CM | 22 x 14 x 9 IN
   Weight: 7.7 LBS | 3.49 KG

5. DELSEY Chatelet Air 2.0 Carry-on 19" Spinner

   This carry-on luggage is very lightweight, weighing only 5lbs. This means that you can pack more items without exceeding the weight limit. And it is a great price point for all the features! Additionally, this luggage provides convenient and thoughtful organization with three exterior pockets; two on the front and one on the side that can fit a water bottle or an umbrella. The interior is roomy and features a zipped mesh pocket and tie-down straps to keep items from shifting during travel. For security, a TSA-accepted lock is integrated, along with DELSEY's patented zip SECURITECH® that is three times more resistant than a standard zip. Lastly, a bottom skid plate will protect the luggage against wear and tear.

   Size: 21.75 x 13.75 x 9.75 IN | CM
   Weight: 5 LBS | KG

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Alternatives To Carry-On Suitcases:

Obviously, spinner suitcases have a lot of great features, but they aren't the only choice, and they aren’t always the best option for every trip. Here are some alternatives:

1. Backpacks - Backpacks are an excellent option for hands-free travel if you will be traveling on uneven terrain and if you don't have any physical limitations.

2. Duffel Bags - A duffel bag can be a good choice if you'll be carrying larger items, such as sports equipment.

3. Tote Bags - A tote bag can be a good option for shorter trips.

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Carry-On Luggage For Kids

When traveling with kids, packing everything into carry-on luggage may seem challenging, but it's totally possible! You can pack for them, or depending on their age, provide your child with a packing list so they can pack for themselves. I prefer to lay everything out, ask for their input, and then pack everything myself. This way, I know nothing is left behind.

Each child can bring a small personal item AND a carry-on backpack or suitcase.

We have three children between 7 and 10 years old, and they each have a 18L Deuter backpacks that I purchased on Amazon. This size is perfect for a few outfits, snacks, activities, and water bottles.

Alternatively, Osprey has a smaller 11L backpack that is ideal for 4-12-year-olds.

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If you are traveling to Europe with a carry-on only, you may also find our ‘HOW AND WHAT TO PACK IN A CARRY-ON FOR EUROPE’ helpful in streamlining the process and making those big packing decisions.

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All in all, if you plan a little and pack a little, your trip will be vastly superior because you can travel with carry-on only vs. overpacking!