How To Pack Your Life Into a Carry-on

I miss the good old days before I was a fashion blogger and used to travel with just a carry-on. Now bringing just a carry-on is almost like a cardinal sin because how else am I going to change into a 100 different outfits to show you I am really having the time of my life! Next trip I go on I will be trying to go back to my old ways and just pack a carry-on. I used to go on week long trips and only pack a carry on! They have so many perks.

1. No lost luggage.
2. You can pocket that extra $50 you would spend on a checked luggage and use it on vacation.
3. No waiting for sometimes over thirty minutes for your luggage to come out. Which means vacation can start earlier.
4. Less weight to roll around. However I find I can pack my carry on to weigh just as much.
5. All of your essentials are always within reach and right there when you need them.

Here a few quick & dirty tricks to mastering the art of packing your life into a carry-on.

1. Use compression bags or ziploc bags.

If you find that you are still running out of room, consider using some Ziploc bags or compression bags to shrink your clothing. Simply roll  up to squeeze out the excess air. The bonus to packing Ziploc bags is you can also separate the dirty clothing from the clean as you wear them. My Ziploc bags come in handy every trip.

2. Check with your travel partner.

If you still don’t have enough room to fit everything in your carry-on check with your travel partner and see what space they might have left. I’m always cramming in a few extra things last minute.

3. Plan your outfits before you pack.

I always lay them out on the floor and match key pieces together and always try them on before packing them. I really don’t want to waste any space on something I only half like. Narrow down the key pieces and find a way to combine them for the best result! It’s never a good idea to bring a brand new pair of shoes to “break in” on your vacation. Unless you are a risk taker and know you might get some killer blisters on the backs on your feet. By knowing ahead of time which outfits you plan to wear, you can mix and match your items, and cutting down on the amount of clothes you need to take with you.

4. Check Yourself.

Think about what you’re actually going to use, and pack those things first. Then check yourself. Do you really need 10 pairs of jeans or those sky-high heels you’ve never worn? Now is not the time to try out those heels anyway. Try and be as realistic as possible.

5. Roll it up.

Literally roll up all your clothing including underwear and socks.  Rolling up your clothing saves space and helps to prevent wrinkles. Plus most hotels provide irons these days. Simply unroll them when you arrive.

6. Wear your biggest clothes on the airplane.

Wear your biggest/bulkiest clothes on the airplane.  This not only keeps you comfy during your flight (airplanes can be a little chilly for me) but it frees up a ton of space in your luggage. Whenever I want to bring a sweater and a jacket I wear it on the plane instead of packing it. Wear your boots or largest shoes on the plane. If you’re planning on taking shoes other than flip flops or sandals, wear the largest pair you’re taking so they aren’t taking up most of your carry-on.

7. Recycle key pieces.

If you have a pair of shorts or jeans that work with a few different tops it is best to pack those items to re-wear with different tops. You really don’t need 15 outfits for a weekend getaway. Do we even change that much when we are at home? I know I don’t.

8. Pack travel size toiletries.

Take advantage of all those fun sized travel goods since you can only carry 3 oz liquids in your carry-on. Most hotels provide shampoo and conditioner so I tend to just pack 2 travel size toothpaste, mouthwash, toothbrush and a razor. Be sure to pack them in a clear bag like a ziploc for the security check to avoid them searching your bag.

9. Check the weather before you pack.

Don’t pack for all kinds of weather. Make sure to check the weather before you go and make your best guess as to which clothing you’ll need. Worst case scenario you may have to purchase a light jacket while away which can then be a souvenir of your trip.

10. Bring a “personal item”.

A personal item is basically your second carry-on but smaller. It’s the item that fits under the seat in front of you. Everyone has the right to this so take advantage of it. Try packing a large backpack or large purse full of the items you might use during the flight like camera, laptop, magazines and of course snacks. It is also my go to for adding in last minute items the morning of my flight.

11. Put your loose items at the bottom of your carry-on.

Put your loose items such as underwear and socks toward the bottom of your carry-on. This way in case TSA opens up your suitcase he isn’t flashing that sexy thong you packed to the rest of the airport.

12. Leave no space unclaimed.

I will throw in anything last minute just to not waste that space. Why not now throw in those extra pairs of heels I probably won’t wear. Now I at least have the option of one extra item!

What is in my bag:

Sand Ready: Tory Burch Miller Sandals
Sexy: Christian Louboutin So Kate Heels
Comfort: Converse All Stars
Athletic: New Balance
Leggings: Free People
Denim: One Teaspoon Shorts and Skinny Jeans
Electronics: Ipad, Laptop, Laptop Charger, Camera, Camera Charger, Iphone charger
Accessories: Hat, Ray-Ban Mirrored Sunglasses, The Giving Key Necklace.
Tops: Free People Bombay Tank, Free People Cardigan, Free People Cami, White Tee.
Other Essentials: Socks, Underwear, Bathing Suits.