How to Pack Carry-on Only For A Week or More
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Going on a trip somewhere? Lucky you. There are many benefits to packing in carry-on only these days, especially if you are flying. You don’t have to worry about losing your luggage or wasting time waiting for it to come off the conveyor belt in the airports. You will have everything you need handy on the plane. Also, it won’t be difficult to lug around with you and up narrow stairways.
Adhere to the airlines guidelines...
Most airlines allow you to bring one standard carry-on item and one personal item. The standard item must measure no more than 21″ -22″ long, 14″-15 1/2″ wide, and 9″ deep and weigh no more than 22lbs. It is best to check your particular airline’s site for their allowed measurements.
A personal item can be a backpack, a tote bag, or other item, as long as they adhere to the size and weight restrictions for a personal item. The personal item must measure no more than 13″ high, 6″ deep, and 16 or 17″ wide, to fit under the seat. Again, check the particulars on your airline’s site.
Some airlines also allow you to bring a small purse measuring no more than 25cm x 30cm x 14cm (10″ x12″ x 5.5″). There are several other items allowed, not included in carry-on baggage restrictions, for special needs – items for childcare, medical or mobility aids.
What weather will you encounter, at departure and destination?
Wherever you are going, you need to research the weather for the locale. It can be a challenge if you are going from one extreme to another or will have a variety of weather situations to deal with.
What activities will you be doing?
Plan outfits accordingly. Are you going to be doing a lot of walking or hiking? Sightseeing in museums or churches? Going to nice restaurants? Going to a business meeting or seminar? Dancing or swimming? Maybe hanging out in a hot tub? Going for a boat ride? Exercising? Running? Rock climbing?
Beware of any local customs or special dress requirements...
Some churches require women to be dressed modestly, wear skirts or keep their shoulders or head covered. Research your destination to see if there are any special considerations you should be taking. A lot of museums do not allow backpacks in, because they are afraid you may knock into something when you turn around, so having a cross body purse or tote bag would be preferable when going in those places.
Other things to consider...
What is your budget? Are you going to be staying at hostels, camping or staying in a five star hotel?
How long will you be gone? A week or two or more? You can still manage to pack everything you need in a carry-on even if you are going on an extended trip.
Laundry facilities...
I know this may surprise you…but most places have laundry facilities. Regardless of how long your trip is, if you pack enough for a week of different outfits you will be fine. You may even be able to stretch it if you can wear an item more than once. Socks and underwear can be washed by hand every night if needed.
Bring a laundry bag, or a plastic bag or two to put dirty clothes in.
Clothing tips to consider...
The key to a great travel wardrobe is versatility, durability and comfort.
- Also consider the weight and bulkiness of an item.
- If you are going to a cold climate it is preferable to dress in layers.
- Merino wool is also great for a cool climate and can be worn several times before washing.
- Wear your heaviest items on the plane, as the weight restrictions are on your baggage – not you.
- Try to select items that don’t wrinkle easily and are not too sheer or transparent.
- Synthetics can wick moisture away from the skin and dry quickly.
- Pre-wash any new clothing.
- Jeans don’t have to be washed after one wearing (unless you have an accident).
- Is it appropriate to the weather?
Making a capsule travel wardrobe...
By carefully selecting fifteen or whatever number of pieces you feel comfortable can have at least twenty-five outfits for two climates. Have one colour story – neutrals and a few pops of colour. Every piece of clothing needs to match with everything. Try everything on and take only items you are comfortable in, look good on you and reflect your style.
Your capsule wardrobe could consist of:
- Outerwear – a coat or jacket, suitable for the weather. (Two if you are going somewhere with the opposite climate from your departure point.)
- Seven bottoms – jeans, dress pants, capris, shorts or skirts suitable for weather and activities you will be doing. A dress might also fit into this category, if that is more your style.
- Seven tops.
Don't forget your footwear...
Take no more than two to three pairs, depending on what you will be doing. Try to select shoes that can be versatile in a variety of locations or function. Do not take any footwear that is uncomfortable.
- For comfort – shoes or boots for walking, sightseeing.
- For function – hikers, nice restaurant, business meeting.
- For fun – flip flops for beach or pool, shoes for dancing?
Accessories...
Accessories are not only stylish, but can be practical as well.
- A hat protects from sun or cold.
- A belt can add definition to your waist. (optional)
- Jewelry – earrings don’t take up any space and can bring focus to your face.
- A Cross body purse can help to avoid theft and a lot of museums do not allow backpacks
- A money belt or bra pouches can keep cards and money safe if worn under your clothes.
- There are also underwear with pockets.
- Scarves can dress up any outfit, can cover shoulders or used as a hood to cover the head when appropriate in some countries.
- A pashmina or a bolero wrap can also be used as a blanket.
Toiletries for carry-on...
Pack travel size toiletries or smaller. Take only the amount you are going to need. Because of the carry-on liquid restrictions (100 ml or 3.4 oz.) you could use a solid shampoo or face wipes.
Try any new products before you go, to test whether you are allergic to them. You don’t want to have a rash break out while you are gone.
If you use makeup, select one palette in different shades for day or night.
If you forget something or find you need something – don’t worry. you will most likely be able to purchase it at your destination.
Putting it all together...
Packing cubes and other small cases can be your best friend to pack a lot in a limited space and stay organized. A shoe bag (or a plastic bag) for your extra footwear can protect your clothes from getting dirty from them.
Remember - No one has ever said they wished that they had packed more...
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