It never ceases to amaze me how many people react with utter disbelief when I mention I only travel with carry-on luggage, even for international trips. Perhaps it’s the outdated notion that women require an overflowing suitcase for even a weekend getaway, or maybe it’s just hard for some to imagine streamlining their packing habits.
Whatever the reason, let me assure you: traveling carry-on only is not only achievable, but it’s also a game-changer. Say goodbye to baggage claim chaos, lost luggage nightmares, and lugging heavy suitcases across bustling cities. Once you embrace the freedom of carry-on travel, you’ll wonder how you ever traveled any other way.
You might be thinking, “Easy for you to say, you’re a pro!” And while experience helps, everyone starts somewhere. I too once believed that a week-long trip demanded an arsenal of outfits and shoes. However, after a disastrous experience wrestling an overloaded bag across European cobblestones and a near-miss with train luggage storage, I knew there had to be a better way.
Switching to carry-on only was the best travel decision I ever made.
If you’re ready to ditch the checked baggage burden and embrace lighter, smarter travel, this guide is for you. Whether you’re jetting off on a weekend escape or embarking on an international adventure, you’ll be amazed at how liberating it is to travel with just a carry-on.
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Choosing the Right Carry-On Luggage for International Travel
Selecting the Best Carry-on Luggage For International Travel is the first and most important step in your journey to lighter packing. The right bag will not only maximize your packing space but also ensure a hassle-free travel experience. When searching for your ideal carry-on, consider these key factors:
Size and Airline Compliance
The standard carry-on luggage size for most major international airlines is approximately 22 inches (56 cm) x 14 inches (36 cm) x 9 inches (23 cm), including wheels, handles, and any external pockets. This is a general guideline, and it’s crucial to verify the specific size restrictions of the airlines you’ll be flying with, especially when traveling internationally as rules can vary significantly between airlines and regions. You can usually find this information on the airline’s website in their baggage policy section or by contacting their customer service.
While my first carry-on bag was slightly larger than the standard (24 inches), I primarily flew with major airlines and didn’t encounter issues. However, budget airlines are known for stricter enforcement of size and weight limits. It’s wise to be particularly vigilant with budget carriers to avoid unexpected fees or gate-checking your bag. Remember, a seemingly cheap flight can quickly become expensive if you’re hit with baggage fees.
Durability and Weight
Your carry-on luggage will be your constant companion throughout your international travels, so durability is paramount. Look for bags constructed from robust materials like ballistic nylon or polycarbonate that can withstand the rigors of travel. At the same time, opt for a lightweight carry-on luggage to maximize your packing capacity and avoid potential weight restrictions. A lighter bag also makes navigating airports and public transportation much easier.
Organization and Compartments
The best carry-on luggage is designed for efficient packing and organization. Features like multiple compartments, interior and exterior pockets, and compression straps are invaluable for keeping your belongings tidy and accessible. Separate compartments help you organize items by type (clothing, shoes, toiletries) and make it easier to find what you need quickly without unpacking everything.
Hard Shell vs. Soft Shell
The choice between hard shell carry-on luggage and soft shell luggage is a matter of personal preference, but each style has its pros and cons. Hard shell bags offer superior protection for fragile items and are often more water-resistant. However, they tend to be less flexible when it comes to squeezing into tight overhead bins. Airline staff have even noted that hard shell bags might be more prone to zipper breaks due to overpacking stress. Soft shell bags, on the other hand, are more forgiving in tight spaces and often feature external pockets for added convenience.
Here are three highly-rated carry-on luggage options that cater to different needs:
Recommended Carry-On Bags
| Overview | Size | Latest Price | Check Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travelpro Maxlite 5 | Lightweight | ||
| Lightweight | 22″ x 14″ x: 9″; Weight: 5.1 lbs. | $144.49 | Check Prices |
| Samsonite Freeform | Hardcase | ||
| Hardcase | 22.8″ x 14.8″ x 9.7″; Weight: 7.6 lbs. | $199.99 | Check Prices |
| Travelpro Versapack | Easy Glide, Extra Storage | ||
| Easy Glide, Extra Storage | 21.5″ x 14″ x 9″; Weight: 7.19 lbs. 23″ x 15.5″ x 10″; Weight: 7.88 lbs. | $269.99 | Check Prices |
Maximizing Your Personal Item for International Travel
Don’t underestimate the power of your personal item! In addition to your carry-on luggage, airlines allow you to bring a personal item onboard, typically a smaller bag like a backpack, messenger bag, or briefcase. This is a golden opportunity to carry extra essentials and maximize your carry-on capacity. A personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. The average personal item size is around 18″ x 14″ x 8″, but slightly larger, less-stuffed bags are usually acceptable. My personal backpack is around 19″ long, and I’ve never had an issue.
I use a medium-sized backpack that doubles as my laptop bag as my personal item. I typically pack a spare set of clothes and my toiletries in it to keep it relatively light. This also provides extra space for souvenirs or rearranging items on the return journey. As with carry-on luggage, always double-check the specific size restrictions for personal items with your airline. Budget airlines are more likely to enforce strict size checks, sometimes requiring you to fit your personal item into a sizer before boarding.
If you’re looking for a stylish and functional personal item, consider exploring vegan leather travel bags.
Recommended Personal Items
| Overview | size | Latest Price | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotopaxi Allpa 28L | Best All Around | ||
| Best All Around | 19″ x 12″ x 9″; Weight: 2.64 lbs. | $200 | Buy Now |
| NOMATIC 20L Pack | Anti-Theft & RFID Storage | ||
| Anti-Theft & RFID Storage | 18.5″ x 12″ x 6″; Weight: 3.5 lbs. | $299.99 | Buy Now |
| BANGE 28L Travel Bag | Budget-Friendly | ||
| Budget-Friendly | 18.5″ x 13″ x 7″; Weight: 2.56 lbs. | $40 | Buy Now |
Always Confirm Airline Carry-On and Personal Item Restrictions
It’s worth reiterating the importance of checking airline restrictions. Beyond size, be aware of potential carry-on weight limits. While I’ve rarely had my carry-on weighed, it can happen. If your bag is overweight, be prepared to redistribute items to your personal item or wear extra layers of clothing.
If your carry-on exceeds size or weight limits, the most likely outcome is that you’ll be required to check it at the gate, often incurring a significant fee. While inconvenient and costly, it’s unlikely to derail your entire trip.
Packing Smart for International Carry-On Travel
Once you’ve chosen your luggage, the next step is mastering the art of efficient packing. This requires a strategic approach to your wardrobe and toiletries. It’s time for a packing “heart-to-heart” with yourself! Resist the urge to pack for every “what if” scenario. With smart planning, you can travel comfortably and stylishly with less.
Choose a Neutral Color Palette
Building your travel wardrobe around neutral colors is key to maximizing outfit combinations. A foundation of black, white, gray, navy, or beige pieces allows you to mix and match items easily to create a variety of looks. Neutral clothing is also versatile and can be dressed up or down with accessories. Darker colors are practical for travel as they tend to hide stains and wrinkles better.
Select Versatile Clothing Items
Opt for clothing items that can be worn in multiple ways. Pack items that can be layered, dressed up or down, and suitable for various activities. For warmer climates, consider jersey dresses with pockets (they pack easily), versatile pants or shorts, and a selection of tops in breathable fabrics like cotton. Choose pieces that can transition from casual daytime wear to more polished evening outfits with a change of accessories or shoes.
Limit Shoes to Two Pairs
Shoes are often bulky and heavy, so limiting yourself to two pairs of shoes is crucial for carry-on travel. Choose a comfortable and versatile pair of walking shoes or sneakers that can handle sightseeing and everyday wear. For your second pair, consider dressier sandals, flats, or loafers depending on your destination and planned activities. Wear the bulkier pair on travel days to save space in your luggage. Look for carry-on luggage with dedicated shoe compartments for better organization. Some backpacks also feature hidden shoe compartments.
Roll, Don’t Fold Your Clothes
The rolling method is a game-changer for maximizing space in your carry-on. Rolling clothes compresses them more effectively than folding, saving valuable space and often reducing wrinkles. To roll, lay the garment flat, fold it in half lengthwise, and then tightly roll it from the bottom up. Arrange rolled items snugly side-by-side in your suitcase, placing heavier items like jeans at the bottom. Delicate fabrics can be placed on top to prevent creasing.
clothes rolled tightly in a carry on suitcase to save space
Consider Compression Bags for Bulky Items
If you need to pack bulky items like sweaters or winter jackets, compression bags can be incredibly helpful. These bags come in various styles, some requiring rolling to expel air, while others use a pump or vacuum. They significantly reduce the volume of clothing, creating more space in your carry-on. Compression bags are particularly useful for winter travel or trips where you need to pack heavier clothing. I used a compression bag to pack my winter jacket for a trip to Iceland, which made a noticeable difference in my carry-on’s bulk.
Utilize Empty Space Strategically
Maximize every inch of space in your carry-on by filling gaps and utilizing empty areas. Pack small items like socks and underwear inside your shoes to save space. Fill any remaining gaps between rolled clothing with smaller items like accessories or toiletries. Think of your carry-on as a puzzle and strategically place items to fit everything efficiently.
Take Advantage of Laundry Options
For longer trips, utilize laundry services at your accommodation or consider hand-washing clothes. Many hotels offer laundry services, and laundromats are readily available in most cities. Hand-washing is a convenient option for smaller items like underwear and socks. Pack a travel-sized laundry detergent or eco-friendly laundry soap sheets for easy washing on the go. Ensure clothes are completely dry before packing to prevent mildew.
Streamline Your Liquid Toiletries
Liquid toiletries can take up significant space and are subject to TSA restrictions. Minimize liquid beauty products by switching to solid alternatives whenever possible. This not only saves space but also reduces the risk of leaks and spills in your carry-on.
liquid beauty products held up in peoples hands that you dont want to pack in your carry on
Shampoo and Conditioner Bars
Shampoo and conditioner bars are fantastic space-saving and eco-friendly alternatives to liquid bottles. While some people are hesitant to try them, they are surprisingly effective and long-lasting. Finding the right bars for your hair type may require some experimentation, but many brands offer sample sizes to try. Brands like Brixy and Ethique are popular choices, offering a variety of bars for different hair needs. Ethique even offers sample boxes, perfect for travel and trying out different options. A small shampoo bar can last for a month of travel, saving considerable space and plastic waste.
Face Wash and Scrub Bars
Similar to hair care, face wash and scrub bars are excellent solid alternatives to liquid cleansers. Whether you have oily, combination, or sensitive skin, there’s a bar cleanser for you. Meow Meow Tweet offers charcoal and pink clay facial bars for different skin types. Ethique’s face scrub bars provide effective exfoliation using natural ingredients.
Solid Soap
Solid soap bars are a straightforward swap for bulky liquid body wash. A bar of soap is compact, lightweight, and eliminates the risk of leaks.
Toothpaste Tabs
Toothpaste tabs are a revolutionary travel-friendly and eco-conscious alternative to toothpaste tubes. These small, chewable tablets are just as effective as traditional toothpaste and eliminate the need for tubes. Bite toothpaste tabs are a popular brand and offer a 10% discount through a specific link. They also offer other eco-friendly oral care products like floss and bamboo toothbrushes.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is non-negotiable for travel, regardless of the destination or season. Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with a travel-sized sunscreen. Bare Republic sunscreen stick is a convenient pocket-sized option for on-the-go application. For more coverage, their mineral sunscreen lotion is oil-free, reef-safe, vegan, and cruelty-free. When traveling to beach destinations, always choose reef-safe sunscreens to protect marine ecosystems.
Moisturizing Balm
A multi-purpose moisturizing balm is a travel essential, especially for dry skin. These balms can be used on hands, lips, elbows, and other dry areas. Look for balms in solid or semi-solid form to avoid liquid restrictions. They are particularly helpful in dry climates or during winter travel.
Solid Perfume
Solid perfumes are a space-saving and spill-proof alternative to liquid perfumes. They come in balm or solid form and are easily applied. Lush Karma perfume balm and handmade options on Etsy are popular choices. For a subtle scent boost, you can also lightly spray your clothes inside your carry-on with liquid perfume before packing.
Wrap Up: Embrace the Freedom of Carry-On Only International Travel
Traveling with only carry-on luggage for international trips is not just about packing light; it’s about traveling smarter and more efficiently. By choosing the best carry-on luggage for international travel and mastering efficient packing techniques, you can experience the freedom and convenience of carry-on only travel. Say goodbye to baggage hassles and hello to a more streamlined and enjoyable travel experience.
For more travel tips and resources, explore these articles:
Don’t Leave Home Without These Vegan Travel Tips
Must Book Vegan Travel and Tour Companies
Vegan-Friendly Caribbean: Resort & Island Guide
23 Vegan Travel Snacks to Pack for Your Next Trip
TrustedHousesitters Review: The Pros and Cons from a Pet Sitter
