How to Pack For 2 Weeks in a Carry-On Bag
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Yes, you can travel with just a carry-on. Here's how...
The typical reaction to my rather small backpack has consistently been surprise, by old and new friends alike. As a former over-packer (and I mean serious over-packer. I used to bring two large roller bags on a week-long beach trip) it felt like a little major victory when I fit all of my essentials (for 4+ months) into my green 35L backpack.
But that’s exactly the point – essentials. Adopting a fairly minimalistic lifestyle became necessary, fast…
Focus on wardrobe staples, mini travel necessities (like this Packtowl that was a total game changer!), and the bare minimum when it came to “frivolous” extras.
Step #1 Pick Out Only Outfit Essentials
According to the season, of course – keep to a “capsule wardrobe” mentality when picking versatile, neutral, easily-paired pieces. I really like to stick to a rule of three for the main wardrobe pieces: 3 basic tops, 3 bottoms, 3 additional layers (sweater, jacket, scarf) and 3 shoes at maximum.
Everything should be multi-functional. Basic tops can be worn as everyday layers, or double as workout and pajama tops (the same goes for the leggings and shorts). If you plan on doing hiking or any workouts during your travels, then that pair of sneakers will come in handy – otherwise, ditch them!
Step #2 Eliminate From The Pile
It may seem impossible, but it’s very likely that there is at least a sprinkling of pieces that you can’t envision wearing more than a couple times. You probably don’t need them. Sure, cute chunky boots & oversized knits for one unique outfit sound fun, but they’re going to fill up your bag very quickly, as opposed to lighter, basic layers that can be reworn in various ways.
Plus, if the opportunity presents itself and you desperately need a new scarf, dressy top or something along those lines, you can always buy it at your destination! Who doesn’t love a souvenir that you can incorporate into your normal wardrobe?
Step #3 Organize Into Packing Cubes
Organization will prevent that suitcase “clothing explosion” during your trip. Sort your chosen pieces by type or by size (bulkiness). Roll everything, and then pack into packing cubes or compression cubes prior to packing into your carry-on.
Step #4 Pack Into Your Bag From Bottom to Top
Heaviest stuff at the bottom, then pack in bulkier bits, and squeeze in smaller items in the surrounding spaces. Socks and underwear can be packed into your sneakers / nooks & crannies. It’s a bit like a puzzle, but it will fit with some strategic arranging.
Exterior pockets (if applicable) should be for miscellaneous items, such as chargers & plug adapters, as well as items that you’ll need to access quickly during travel.
Step #5 Leave (Almost) All Toiletries at Home
I almost never fly with liquid toiletries. Upon arriving in a destination, you can head to the nearest shop and grab some travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and more to get you through your trip. (Or use the toiletries provided at your hotel!)
At most, my carry-on bag will have some face wipes, a mini toothbrush & toothpaste, and a mini Batiste dry shampoo for freshening up upon arrival. Also, any essential toiletries that you truly can’t purchase away from home should of course be packed.
Step #6 Wear Your Bulkiest Items on the Flight
For example, your coat, scarf (if you’re going to a cold climate), sneakers. You’ll likely shed and add layers throughout the flight anyways, and a scarf doubles perfectly as a blanket, so it’s best not to use up precious bag space with these items.
Next, the small personal item…
An additional purse, tote or fanny pack type of “personal item” is almost always allowed in addition to the normal sized carry-on. Thank goodness for this extra space.
My small personal item usually contains the following:
phone & charger
wallet
passport
chapstick
Fujifilm camera (when I’m not packing my whole camera gear bag)
That’s the packing tips round-up for easy carry-on travel! Since we kept an emphasis on clothes in this post (because that’s often the most difficult part), I’ve shared a separate post with my photography-specific travel essentials and my favorite camera gear bag.
Happy travels!