Why Pack Light? How to Only Pack in Carry-on Luggage When You Travel

Could you pack your needed items only in a carry-on for your next vacation? I think you can! Even for a month in Europe, an Alaskan cruise, or a week-long site seeing adventure in NYC, it is possible. Let me share why I think packing in carry-on luggage only gives you freedom plus I’ll share some practical ways to make everything fit that you need without making any sacrifices.

Why we only take carry-on luggage when we travel

  • Ease of getting around. We don’t have to haul lots of luggage through the airport, public transportation, or hotels.

  • We don’t have to worry about lost luggage since everything is always with us.

  • You can skip the check-in counter at the airport and head straight to your gate with your mobile boarding pass.

  • If you are traveling by car, smaller bags will take up less space you will have less to manage.

  • If you are on a cruise, you can just walk off with your luggage at the end of the week and not wait for your boarding group to be called.

How to Pack in Only Carry-on Luggage

  • Use a carry-on-sized suitcase plus one other bag. I like bringing a small duffle bag, an oversized purse, or a backpack.

  • Use packing cubes! Seriously, these will change your packing life.

  • Set out everything you think you want to pack. Then start removing things from the pile.

  • Plan to stay where you have a washing machine or access to a laundry service. This means that you can bring a lot fewer clothes and wash them during your trip.

  • In the winter, wear your coat on the plane. It can serve as a blanket and won’t take up precious space in your suitcase.

  • Be selective about which shoes you pack. Bring as few pairs of shoes as possible. Select shoes that can work in multiple places kike sandals for the beach, walking around town, and paired with a dress for dinner.

  • When packing your two bags, place things you won’t need during your trip in the suitcase. Place things you will want during the trip (chargers, iPad, snacks, medicines, etc.) in your duffle or backpack.

Listen to this episode for even more tips and ideas on how to fit everything you need into your carry-on luggage.

Be sure to check out my free & downloadable packing lists.

Happy packing!