Carry On Packing Tips
These carry-on packing tips are top-notch. I’ve traveled to 10+ destinations with ONLY a backpack, so I know a thing or two. Let’s be real, waiting in line to check a bag just for it to get lost is a travel nightmare. Whether you’re jetting off on a 10-day European backpacking trip, hitting the slopes for a weekend ski escape, soaking up the sun on summer vacation, or taking a spontaneous local trip, packing shouldn’t be stressful.
I’ve cracked the code on how to travel only with a carry-on, yes, even with all my camera gear. And if I can do it, so can you. I’m sharing all my go-to carry-on packing tips so you can pack light and travel smarter every time.
My Favorite Carry-On Of All Time: Cotopaxi
The Cotopaxi carry-on is my biggest hack for packing lightly & more efficiently. I’ve tested the same number of items in my bigger roller carry-on and this backpack, and guess what? The backpack wins every time. I’ve done this multiple times as a test, and the Cotopaxi backpack wins every time. There’s something about its compact and compressed packing cubes built into the bag that makes this a unique find. The zippers are also durable, which is perfect for squeezing in last-minute souvenirs. Get your hands on the Cotopaxi 28L bag today – I promise you won’t regret it!
Check Out My Personal Cotopaxi Carry On Reviews On My YouTube Channel
Carry On Packing Tips: The Ultimate Guide
- Pack a few days before and then remove 20-30% of the items 1 day before the trip. The main reason for this is that packing in advance allows you to think about or even see things around your house that you might want to bring with you. Additionally, you’ll start second-guessing and asking yourself, “Do I really need this?”. Maybe you only need 3 shirts instead of 6.
- Pack 50% of the clothes you originally packed if you have a laundry machine in the Airbnb. If you can wash clothes halfway through the trip, then this is an absolute game-changer. Just keep in mind, sometimes drying clothes can take forever, so you’ll want to carve out a little time in to make sure everything is clean. I’d probably only focus on the undergarments and clothes you plan on wearing for the rest of the trip. From experience, you’ll find yourself washing your clothes again when you get some, just because.
- Pack an extra few bags with you. You’ll want to bring an extra backpack, tote bag, and even a small going-out bag to cover your bases. Even when you’re trying to organize yourself and your belongings in the hotel, having a tote bag you can throw some things in is key.
- Packing cubes are your best friend. Take advantage of the compression that comes with the packing cubes, but don’t abuse it. Overpacking defeats the purpose of this, and you don’t want it to break.
- Bring only 7 makeup items. I know, I know. It might not seem like a lot, but makeup is bulky, heavy, and time-consuming, so you’re doing yourself a favor. I usually bring my sunscreen/moisturizer, tinted moisturizer, eyebrow powder, mascara, blush, bronzer, and a lip product. That should cover your bases. Embrace your natural beauty and leave the rest of your makeup at home- your skin will thank you!
- Bring 3 shoes: Sneakers, flip flops & either a nice sandal or flat to dress up. If you’re not planning on dressing up that much, you can bring a pair of sneakers that have the potential to look classy. When you wear your heaviest shoe, you’re only packing the small sandals and slip flops, which saves lots of space.
There You Have It
Packing has never been simpler. When you learn to part ways with items/clothes you never wear, thinking this will be the chance, you’ll feel a lot better. Your back will thank you, and you’ll be a lot happier. Why? Because you have to lug around 20 pounds of your belongings throughout your travels, which can get frustrating. Let me know your favorite carry-on packing tips in the comments, and stay tuned for more tips!
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