Being a pro-carry-on-only travel packer means freedom. Freedom from having to lug around a large, cumbersome suitcase. Freedom from having to pay additional (and exorbitant) fees to check a bag. Freedom from waiting at baggage carousels on arrival. Freedom from worrying about lost luggage (and the subsequent nightmare follow-up if and when it does get lost).
If you’re ready to embrace the freedom of carry-on-only travel, with a bit of creativity and these helpful tips, you can become an expert at travelling light.
1. Know when to fold and when to roll
- Opting for rolling not only saves space but also keeps wrinkles at bay. Roll up your shirts, jeans and even underwear to see the magic of extra space unfold (no pun intended).
- When dealing with delicate items, folding might be the way to go. Consider folding like origami packing. When executed properly, it can result in neat, compact and wrinkle free garments.
- You could also consider combining both methods and using compression packing cubes, which offer the potential of extra organizing (tops in one cube, bottoms in another) and can be compressed down to maximize space in your bag.
2. Sock stuffing
- Don’t overlook the potential of your socks—they can be actual heroes in your packing game. Use them to stash smaller items like chargers or jewellery. Or they can be used for extra padding for any breakables that might make it in your suitcase.
3. Tiny toiletries
- Invest in some refillable and reusable 100ml containers. You already know that any airline with liquid restrictions (Air Canada, for example) will require it and repeatedly purchasing disposable ones isn’t very economical or eco-friendly. A quality toiletry set is more than worth the investment.
- Another option to skip the restrictions altogether is to opt for solid hygiene items like shampoo bars or toothpaste tablets, which are small and easy-to-pack for carry-on only travel with no risk of spillage.
4. Streamlined storage
- Edit your electronic gadget needs to the bare minimum. These days most of us can get away with a phone and a tablet, neither of which are too cumbersome to pack. This applies double if your devices use the same charging port, which limits the number of cords required. A multi-device charger can also save a bit of valuable space.
5. The right shoe for you
- Fashion-forward travellers might be resistant to this tip but it’s worth considering: a multi-purpose shoe. I know. I know.
- Fill your shoes with smaller items and always pack them in shoe bags or plastic bags to prevent dirt from getting on your clothes.
6. Embrace the layered look
- Not only is it a good idea to find clothing to work double-duty for comfort in any weather, but having a plan to mix and match a few versatile pieces is a perfect space saver.
- If you can swing it, wear some of your bulkier items (think: sweaters, vests, etc.) while you’re en route. You’ll keep toasty on the plane and free up that bit of extra space for carry-on-only travel.
RELATED: Carry-on vs personal item: Mastering minimalist travel
