6 Simple Packing Tips from Someone Who Only Takes a Carry-On

I’ve been traveling almost full-time since 2016, which means I’ve had some time to build out my own list of packing tips.

And this was something I really had to grow in as someone who was a chronic overpacker for almost their entire life.

I remember when my husband and I first started to travel and we thought we needed to bring two carry-ons, and a HUGE luggage piece filled with things we didn’t even need (+ a satchel).

But after a few alterations in how we packed, we decided to just go down to carry-ons. And I think it was a very good choice.

Whenever we tell people we only take carry-ons (and sometimes the occasional reusable grocery bag with snacks), they’re a bit shocked. But we love it and we’re able to bring everything we need!

Also, it’s helped us really think through what we actually use and need and has turned us into minimalist packers.

So if packing light isn’t your strong suit and you find yourself overpacking on nearly every trip, then here are some travel packing tips that’ll make your vacation a lot less stressful!

1. Really Think Through What You’re Going to Use

This is one of the most important packing tips for travel on this list.

And while this was a learning curve for us, I think we’re in a good place to make sure we’re not overpacking anymore.

It’s so easy to think, “Oh, I’m totally going to wear that dress or these shorts,” and then they only get brought out maybe once (if at all).

So here are two things you can do to stop this habit:

1. Run through each day of the vacation in your head: Then think, “Will I actually be excited to wear this at any point on my trip?” If the answer is no, put it back in your closet.
2. Plan out your outfits for each day: Think through the different activities you’ll be doing and then plan that day’s outfit (or outfits). Also, the more that can be repeated, or the more pieces that can mix and match, the better.

Packing smart is all about being mindful of what you’re genuinely going to use.

2. The Rolled Method

I know so many people already talk about this method, but I still need to cover it.

When you roll your clothing (military style), it saves you so much room. I just packed my mother-in-law’s suitcase for her when she was going down south to see her mom in Florida, and she was surprised by how much I could get in there.

It really is a great way to save a lot of room and be able to bring all the necessities.

Also, it makes unpacking your travel bag after having traveled a very long distance so much less stressful.

3. Wear Your Bulkiest Pieces in the Airport

Tennis shoes, jeans, sweaters, and anything else that takes up a lot of space are great to wear on airport days. Then you can get maximum space in your carry-on and not have to be one of those tourists lugging around a huge heavy checked bag.

I apologize, I know this is another tip that has been talked about a lot, but I feel like it’s something that we don’t always think about when the time actually does come to travel.

4. Do a Toiletries and Beauty Product Audit the Night Before

I think it’s also important to use the “Will I actually use this?” Method when it comes to toiletries and beauty products.

There have been so many times where I packed a skincare product or an eyeshadow palette that I didn’t really need, but it took up way more space than I wanted.

So make sure to look through your toiletry and makeup bags and do an audit.

Figure out what you’ll actually want and need to use on your trip so you can effectively pair down on any liquid or dry products.

Quick Tip: Also when packing your toiletries, try to get as many travel-sized essentials as you can to save on space.

5. Choosing the Right Carry-On (It matters)

Side Note: We took this photo right before our trip to Thailand in early 2017. This was before we learned it was smart to only take carry-ons. 😂

I’m not some sort of salesperson, I just want to talk about what we use because we love these suitcases (not sponsored).

They’ve been around the world with us for years, haven’t broken down, and are so easy to push and pull around the airport.

Travelpro suitcases are (in my opinion) one of the best carry-ons you can have. And if you are curious, you can check them out here. 🙂

The design has changed a bit since we got them in late 2016, and they’re not the cheapest, but they’re so worth it!

6. Make Sure to Use a Packing Checklist

You have no idea how many times I’ve accidentally left something behind because I was in a rush and completely forgot. 

So trust me when I say that a packing list is your best friend.

It’s something helpful to go over the night before (when you’re relaxed) to make sure you’re not leaving anything behind. And especially something that’s valuable or that you really value.

Also, it’s just a great way to stay organized before you head out on your trip!

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