How to Pack Everything in One Carry-On Size Suitcase
Yes, really! You can do it, too!
Why I Don't Check-In My Luggage
I don't like to wait in lines when I can be on my way to enjoying my vacation. If you have ever had your luggage lost, you know how difficult it is to truly enjoy yourself. That's stressful. And I really don't want to pay airlines any more extra money than I already do for a ticket. Those are the reasons I don't check-in luggage when I travel. I've had years of practice to perfect fitting my apparel in a regular carry on size suitcase and carry on for any length trip.
What's my secret, you ask? Well, let me share some insights with you so you, too, can travel and be assured that no airline will be losing your luggage on your next vacation (or taking more of your hard-earned money!).
Think Color Schemes
For the most part, I tend to go with a set color scheme of clothes when I travel. I focus on three colors, so everything can be worn with each piece, which increases the number of different outfits you can put together while on vacation. I recommend to bring more tops and bring fewer bottoms (i.e., shorts, skirts, or pants). Remember, you can repeat an outfit on vacation, no one will know the difference!
Get Ready To Roll
I subscribe to the roll all your clothes club. It works. I can fit a lot of clothes in my bag by rolling everything and layering it in my suitcase. Any shoes I pack, like sneakers, I toss in them socks or other small items to maximize using all the space.
Do Laundry
If I'm on a long trip, I just do laundry while I'm there. Most places have ways to do laundry (i.e., sink or washer/dryer) or send it out to be laundered.
Pack It On For The Flight
A must-do tip is to wear my heavier items on the plane to reduce taking up room in my suitcase. Boots or booties are usually worn with my jeans and jacket on the flight. Aircraft tend to be cold, so it's a no brainer to wear my coat on the plane (which can double as a pillow if I need it).
Carry On My Wayward Traveler
Don't forget, airlines allow for two bags on a plane. Most definitely utilize a tote or a backpack as a second bag. Pick one that is light and plenty of space for overflow from your carry-on or other essential items.
Typically, you will find a book, snacks, water, gum, medications/vitamins, and a portable phone charger in my tote bag. Those of you who use a tablet, laptop, or kindle just tuck it into your tote for easy access while in flight.
Spell of Cold Weather
If your holiday is to a cold-weather destination, it can be tricky to bring enough items to keep you warm, but it can be done! Use the same concept of going with a color scheme, as mentioned earlier. Pack tops that can be layered with each other. Modern technology has also enabled the ability to create thinner fabrics that can keep you warmer. Choose tops and sweaters in lighter materials to fit more into your suitcase.
Tis The Sea-Sun
Beach or warm weather holidays are much easier to pack for. I bring along at least two bathing suits on a trip. They take up little space and don't always dry overnight.
Hats
I love wearing hats! It feels like I’m on vacation when I get to wear some of my hats. I usually bring a few on every trip with me and am able to fit them in my suitcase. With multiple hats I nest them so on the inside of the hat I can fit my scarfs or smaller items. This method works great and my hats keep their shape beautifully!