There's a growing interest in traveling light as many travelers choose to only bring a carry-on suitcase on their trip. This is compounded by the fact that many airlines charge extra for checked-in luggage. Traveling with cabin luggage only can be a bit tricky, but with some forward thinking, you'll be able to enjoy your holiday without sacrificing any essentials.
Always Check The Airline Requirements
Different carriers have different rules, so always make sure that you go on the company's website and check their carry-on luggage specifications. Pay particular attention to the size requirements as they can differ significantly between airlines and your favorite suitcase may turn out to be too big. Weight restrictions are also important — while some airlines allow unlimited weight, others have a strict limit.
Don't forget your personal item — most airlines allow you to have one along with your carry-on. It should fit under the seat in front of you and hold your valuables, money, and electronics. Most airlines allow you to bring a small backpack as a personal item, which can give you plenty of extra space.
Always Make a List
Making a list before you start packing is great practice in all circumstances but it's especially important when you're traveling light and space is at a premium. Write down everything you absolutely need and then a make separate list for your nice-to-haves. This will help you stay on top of your packing, give you a realistic idea of how much you can bring with you, and give you the peace of mind that you're not forgetting anything.
Pack Smart, Pack Tight
Once you've decided to travel carry-on only, it becomes your mission to pack as tightly as you can. The best option for maximizing storage is to roll all your clothes, rather than fold them. Rolling is without a doubt the most efficient way to make clothes as small as possible and also minimizes creases. Also, if you'll be bringing bulky clothing, try wearing it to the airport instead of stuffing it in your luggage. Put on your thickest sweater and heaviest coat and you'll free a lot of space for other essentials.
If you're into fashion, you might be worried that you'll have to sacrifice your style to travel light. This is not the case — you just need to be strategic. Pack clothes that go well with each other and allow you to create multiple outfits. If you're not sure how to do that, a good strategy is to bring neutral-colored bottoms and more colorful tops, as you're pretty much guaranteed that all your clothes will match well.