How to Pack Light When Traveling with Just a Carry-On

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I think most of us are guilty of overpacking. It’s so tempting to grab our biggest suitcase, fill it with everything we need — and never possibly need — and then regret the decision when we are weighed down by our luggage. Traveling light doesn’t always come naturally, but it’s a skill that seasoned travelers swear by.

Packing light becomes even more crucial when you opt for just a carry-on. In this guide, I’m sharing all you need to know on how to pack light. From wardrobe planning to practical tips, you'll be equipped with all the essentials to enjoy your travels stress-free.

Last week, I moved to Germany just a month after hauling my belongings from France to the United States. After realizing how much stuff I had acquired, I realized that I would not make the mistake of taking too many things with me to Germany. By applying some lightweight travel packing tips, I was able to pack everything in just 2 carry-on bags and a tote. While you might not be moving abroad like me, these strategies work for any type of travel.

Ready to start packing? Here are my tips for packing light when traveling with just a carry-on!

How to Pack Light

Think Like a Minimalist

The first step to successful carry-on packing is a mindset shift. We often pack for every "what if" scenario, leading to an overstuffed bag. Instead, focus on packing light with only the essentials you'll definitely need. This means ruthlessly editing your clothing and beauty choices and prioritizing versatility. Resist the urge to pack "just in case" items – chances are, you can buy them at your destination if needed. Remember, packing light is about efficiency and maximizing your carry-on space.

Understand Your Itinerary

Before diving into packing, it's essential to strategize. Start by considering your destination and the duration of your trip. Research the weather forecast and any cultural norms that may influence your clothing choices, for example, long sleeves for conservative destinations. Compile a list of planned activities. Having a clear understanding of your itinerary will help streamline your packing process.

Choose the Right Luggage

With your trip details in mind, select the appropriate amount of luggage for your trip (and avoid allowing yourself to bring more!). If your trip is 2 weeks or less, challenge yourself to bring just a carry-on and a personal item. By opting for fewer bags, you’ll have less luggage to manage and won’t feel tempted to pack unnecessary items.

Be sure to familiarize yourself with the airline's specific carry-on size and weight limitations when choosing your luggage. These can vary between airlines and even routes.

Most airlines allow one carry-on bag and a personal item (like a purse or backpack). This personal item can be a valuable way to save even more space. Pack a small purse for essentials like your boarding pass, phone, and wallet, leaving more room for clothes and toiletries in your carry-on. Some airlines also allow a small additional item, such as a laptop bag. Utilize these allowances to your advantage to pack light without sacrificing essentials.

Create a Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Building a capsule wardrobe is a game-changer for packing light. With a well-curated travel wardrobe, you can create multiple outfit combinations without needing to pack extra “options”.

Start by defining a color palette. I’d recommend versatile, neutral-colored clothing that can be mixed and matched effortlessly. However, don’t be afraid to add some color to your wardrobe — it doesn’t have to be basic and boring, but all of the pieces should go together.

Make sure the style of your wardrobe reflects your travel plans. Are you beach-bound or exploring a city? Skiing in the mountains or sightseeing in Spain? Browse Pinterest for style inspiration tailored to your unique destination. With a general style and color palette in mind, you’ll be able to create a travel capsule wardrobe more easily.

Opt for lightweight and wrinkle-resistant fabrics like cotton or linen. Prioritize pieces that require little maintenance like ironing or dry cleaning. If you won't have access to laundry facilities, choose dark pieces that won't easily show wear or dirt.

Choose pieces that can transition seamlessly from day to night and from casual to formal settings. A few staple items like a classic white shirt, a versatile pair of jeans, and a lightweight jacket can go a long way in creating multiple outfits. And even though it’s tempting, resist the urge to pack pieces for single outfits.

If creating a travel capsule wardrobe seems overwhelming, no worries! I’ve already curated dozens of capsule wardrobes for various destinations:

Document Everything

Before packing your capsule wardrobe, document it! Take photos of different outfits you’ve planned. No need for a full fashion show either - I normally lay my outfits flat and grab a photo. Add all your pictures to a folder, and you’ll be able to reference them while traveling and get quick style inspiration.

Along with taking photos, make a list of everything you pack on your trip. Check off each item on the list as you use it throughout your trip. This ensures you haven't forgotten anything essential, and more importantly, you’ll know exactly which items you used, and which items you can avoid bringing on your next trip.

Pack Like a Pro

Now that you've curated your travel wardrobe, it's time to learn how to pack light within the confines of your carry-on. Here are some of my best space-saving packing techniques:

Find an efficient folding method. Try rolling or folding your clothes to save space in your luggage and minimize wrinkles. Experiment with different methods to find what works for you. I prefer to tightly roll any shirts and pants to create compact bundles. For delicate items, like silk blouses, or those requiring a maintained structure, like blazers, utilize packing paper to keep clothes wrinkle-free.
Organize with packing cubes. Using packing cubes and compression bags will also help you create space. These compartmentalized organizers keep your belongings neatly categorized and compressed. Use them to group similar items like socks, underwear, or rolled clothes.
Stuff smartly. Utilize empty spaces in your bag strategically. Stuff shoes with rolled socks or delicates. Pack bulky items like jackets or scarves around your clothing to fill gaps and create a barrier.
Pack heavy items on the bottom. Pack heavier items like shoes and outerwear at the bottom of your suitcase to distribute weight evenly. This helps prevent wrinkles in your clothes (and keeps your luggage from tipping over!).
Wear your bulkiest items. Wear your bulkiest clothes and shoes on the plane to free up carry-on space. Layer with lightweight pieces that can be easily added or removed to adjust to temperature changes on the plane. Also, be mindful of the destination's climate when choosing what to wear on the plane. If you're heading to a warm destination, pack light layers like a long-sleeved shirt and a light jacket. Conversely, for colder climates, wear a sweater or a light coat.
Put your first outfit on top. Pack your first outfit or change of clothes at the top of your carry-on for easy access upon arrival. This eliminates the need to rummage through your entire bag and potentially disrupt the packing organization you've worked so hard to create! Whether it's a comfortable outfit for lounging after a long flight or a stylish ensemble for a planned dinner, having it readily available saves time and frustration.

Simplify Your Beauty Routine

Toiletries and personal care items can often be the bulkiest items in your carry-on. So when it comes to your beauty routine, less is more. Invest in travel-sized containers for your favorite shampoo, conditioner, and other liquids. Make sure these smaller versions comply with TSA regulations (3.4oz or 100ml).

Go for multi-purpose products that offer multiple benefits. Look for lip and cheek sticks, tinted moisturizers with SPF, styling gel for hair and brows, and hydrating balms.

If you’re looking to splurge, I’d recommend investing in an all-in-one palette like the Charlotte Tilbury Instant Look in a Palette. They contain everything you need to create a complete look – eye shadows, blushes, bronzer, and highlight – all in one compact case. I own this palette in the shade ‘Stoned Rose’, and I’ve gotten so much use out of it when traveling.

You might even ditch the liquids altogether and opt for solid toiletries like shampoo bars and solid perfume sticks to minimize liquid restrictions. Although I haven’t experimented with shampoo bars, I’m a fan of the solid perfumes from Diptyque for everyday touch-ups and minimal packing. Yves Rocher also provides some long-lasting options that are on the more affordable side.

Consider the amenities provided by your accommodation and pack accordingly to avoid duplicating items. If you really want to pack light, purchase items like shampoo, lotion, and deodorant when you arrive at your destination. Consider setting a small budget for items that you might need to buy on arrival.

What to Pack in a Carry-On Bag

Here is a sample carry-on-only packing list. Adjust it based on your destination, climate, and personal preferences.

Clothing

1 neutral-colored t-shirt (white, black, grey, etc.)
1 long-sleeved top (lightweight sweater, button-down shirt)
1 tank top (optional, for warmer climates)
1 pair of jeans
1 pair of tailored pants
1 versatile dress or skirt (lightweight and wrinkle-resistant)
1 light jacket (blazer, denim jacket, or packable down jacket)
Underwear
Comfortable pajamas or a comfy loungewear set

Shoes

1 pair of sneakers or comfortable walking shoes
1 pair of versatile sandals or flats (evening wear or additional walking option)

Accessories

1 scarf (can double as a blanket on the plane)
1 hat (baseball cap or sunhat)
Sunglasses
Jewelry (a few minimal pieces)

Toiletries

Shampoo & conditioner
Body wash
Moisturizer
Sunscreen
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Floss
Deodorant
Makeup (minimal essentials like mascara, lipstick, and a small makeup palette)
Hygiene products

Electronics

Phone and charger
Portable charger
Headphones or earbuds

Miscellaneous

Reusable water bottle
Travel adapter (if needed)
Small first-aid kit
Medications (in a clear, labeled container)
Book or travel journal
Pen
Packable tote bag (for souvenirs or additional shopping)

Mastering the art of packing light is a skill that can truly elevate your travel experience. By strategically planning your packing, utilizing smart packing techniques, curating a capsule wardrobe, and streamlining your toiletries, you can bid farewell to bulky suitcases and embrace the freedom of traveling with just a carry-on.

Remember, the key is to pack light without sacrificing comfort or style. Start planning your outfits well in advance, create a packing list, and experiment with different packing techniques. With a little planning and these tips, you'll be a carry-on packing pro in no time.

Do you have any favorite tips for packing light when traveling with a carry-on? Let me know in the comments below.