12 Tips for Packing a Carry-On Only

Whether you’re hopping over to Paris for a whirlwind week of consuming as much cheese and bread as possible, or embarking on a beach-hopping adventure through Southeast Asia, packing everything into a single carry-on might sound impossible. But it’s totally doable! 

In fact, once you get the hang of it, you may never check a bag again. Packing only a carry-on means you’ll skip the luggage carousel, avoid lost bag nightmares, and breeze through the airport. 

It admittedly took me quite a few trips over the years to perfect the science of minimalist packing, but now I have the process down pat.

Here’s how to master the art of packing light, without sacrificing style or sanity.

1. Choose the Right Carry-On Bag

Not all carry-ons are created equal, and what counts as a carry-on can vary depending on where you’re flying.

Domestic flights within North America generally allow bags up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches. 

International flights, especially on budget European or Asian carriers, often limit you to a slightly smaller size (think: 21 x 13 x 8 inches), and many weigh your bag at check-in or the gate. 

Always check your airline’s carry-on size and weight restrictions before you pack.

Then there’s the hard-shell versus soft-shell debate. 

Hard-shell carry-ons offer better protection and often weigh less, but they tend to be less forgiving when overstuffed. Soft-shell bags, especially those with exterior pockets, offer more flexibility and room to sneak in a few extra items. 

If you’re heading somewhere where weather or security is a concern, a hard shell might be worth it. Otherwise, a soft-sided bag with smart compartments could give you the edge.

2. Roll Your Clothes Instead of Folding

This packing hack is considered one of the oldest tricks in the carry-on game for a reason. 

Rolling your clothes saves space and reduces wrinkles. You can fit more into every inch of your suitcase, and your clothes are easier to spot and pull out without disrupting the whole pack. The first time I rolled my clothing was a packing revelation, and I haven’t looked back.

Pro tip: Depending on what you’re packing, it can be helpful to roll softer items like tees and knit dresses and fold stiffer fabrics like structured pants or blazers, then layer those flat on top of your rolled pieces to further maximize space.

3. Use Packing Cubes for Organization

Think of packing cubes as tiny drawers inside your suitcase. They keep your clothes organized by type, outfit, or day, and also help compress your clothing, which means you can fit more in your bag without chaos erupting when you open it.

Bonus: If the TSA ever needs to inspect your bag, it’s much easier to repack neatly if you’ve used packing cubes. Look for lightweight cubes with mesh tops so you can see what’s inside at a glance.

RELATED: 13 Ways to Avoid Losing Your Stuff While Traveling

4. Choose Versatile Mix-and-Match Outfits

Packing light means packing clothing that can be worn multiple times with a variety of other items. 

A good rule of thumb is that if it doesn’t go with at least three other things in your bag, it shouldn’t make the cut.

Clothes that serve multiple purposes are ideal, like a wrap dress that doubles as a beach cover-up, or leggings that work for a hike and also for the flight home. 

It’s also a good idea to stick to a neutral color palette (think: black, white, grey, navy, beige) with one or two punchier accent shades to keep things interesting. 

5. Visualize and Plan Before You Pack

The more space I have, the more I tend to pack, just because I can. But when the goal is to stick with only a carry-on, you need to be more thoughtful in your approach to putting together outfits. 

This is where visualization can help your cause. Physically lay items out on your bed to see what goes together and what can be used in multiple scenarios. 

Something you think can be easily mixed and matched with other things might not be as versatile as you thought once it’s laid out. 

This may seem like a laborious step, but it can make a significant difference in streamlining your travel wardrobe. 

6. Opt for Dual-Purpose Accessories

Accessories that pull double duty are key to saving space. For example, a sarong can be used as a beach towel, and a scarf or shawl can also work as your plane blanket. 

Shoes can be particularly tricky, so your best bet is to choose one comfortable, stylish pair for walking, plus one slightly dressier option that can handle dinners or events. 

If you absolutely need to pack a third pair, make sure they’re lightweight and can pack down flat.

7. Follow the 5-4-3-2-1 Packing Rule

A good formula to use when packing is the 5-4-3-2-1 rule, which generally includes:

• Five tops
• Four bottoms
• Three dresses (or alternate items)
• Two pairs of shoes
• One swimsuit or one set of accessories 

Adjust the numbers based on your trip length and climate, but the idea stays the same, which is to simplify as much as you can without compromising your personal style. 

With five tops and four bottoms, that gives you a wide range of outfit options even before you start layering or adding accessories.

RELATED: Business Travel Tips for Your Next Work Trip

8. Wear Bulkier Clothing Instead of Packing It

Want to take an oversized knit sweater or chunky boots with you? Wear them on the plane versus packing them.

Airlines don’t count what’s on your body against your luggage weight, and you’ll stay cozy in a potentially chilly cabin. 

Just make sure your outfit is easy to remove if you get hot mid-flight — you don’t want to be the person holding up the drinks cart while trying to peel off layers and lace-up boots.

9. Pack Travel-Size Toiletries or Buy at Your Destination

TSA’s 3-1-1 rule is non-negotiable. Liquids must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 mL) or less, all packed into one quart-sized clear zip-top bag, one per traveler.

Travel-size versions of your essentials are easy to find, or better yet, buy them when you land if they aren’t specialty items. Most destinations have what you need, and skipping toiletries gives you more room for clothes or souvenirs.

For makeup, try multi-use sticks (like lip-and-cheek tints) and travel-sized tools. A mini mascara and retractable brush can go a long way. 

There are also multipurpose skincare items to consider, like moisturizing balms that can be used on cheeks, lips, cuticles, and any other dry areas.

10. Separate Your Medications

You likely don’t need the entire bottle of every supplement and prescription. Pack only what you need, plus a couple of extra days’ worth, just in case of a delay on either end of your journey.

Bring a printout of your prescriptions, especially for international trips or if your medications could raise eyebrows at customs. 

Use a labeled pill organizer or small zip bags to keep everything tidy and accessible.

11. Use All-in-One Chargers 

Nobody wants a tangled mess of cords. Universal charging blocks or multi-port USB chargers can power up your phone, watch, tablet, and e-reader with one plug.

If you’re traveling internationally, throw in a universal adapter that works in multiple regions. One sleek device is much better than carrying multiple bulky chargers and outlet converters.

12. Weigh Before You Leave

Some airlines can be sticklers for carry-on weight limits, especially internationally or on budget carriers. Even if your bag looks regulation-size, it may get flagged at the gate if it’s too heavy, and you’ll end up owing a checked bag fee.

Use a portable luggage scale to weigh your bag before you leave home. If you’re close to the limit, wear heavier items and move small essentials (like a book or charger) to your personal item.

FAQs About Packing a Carry-On Only

TL;DR: How To Be a Carry-On-Only Traveler

Traveling with only a carry-on isn’t just about saving money, it’s about freedom and saving time. You’re lighter, faster, and there’s no chance you’ll lose your luggage. 

With the right strategy — like versatile outfits, multi-purpose accessories, travel-size essentials, and smart packing tools — you can go further with less. 

Think of it like editing your closet for your trip and focusing on pulling together the pieces that work best together.