How to pack for six months of travel in one carry-on

Stick to a capsule wardrobe of 7-10 items that can be layered and washed easily in a sink. Only pack for one week of wear, regardless of how long you are away, and use compression cubes to keep your bag organized.

1. Choose your primary bag. Select a 35L to 40L backpack. It must be soft-sided and have a clamshell opening so you can see everything at once without digging.
2. Draft a color-coordinated list. Select one neutral base color (black, navy, or charcoal) and ensure every single item you pack matches every other item. Avoid prints or bold colors that limit outfit combinations.
3. Use the 5-4-3-2-1 rule. Pack 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 pairs of socks/underwear, 2 pairs of shoes (one on your feet, one in the bag), and 1 jacket. This is your core setup; anything more is excess.
4. Utilize compression packing cubes. Fold clothes using the 'ranger roll' technique and place them in compression cubes. This reduces volume by 30% and keeps items from shifting during transit.
5. Commit to weekly laundry. Bring a universal sink stopper and a travel-sized tube of concentrated laundry detergent. Wash your clothes in the sink once a week to avoid carrying a heavy load of dirty laundry.

What if I need specialized gear?

Rent it at your destination. Do not carry gear for a one-off activity like scuba diving or hiking if you can rent it locally for $10 a day.

How do I deal with different climates?

Dress in layers. A high-quality base layer, a fleece mid-layer, and a windproof/waterproof outer shell will handle almost any temperature.

Does my bag need a lock?

Yes, use a TSA-approved cable lock to secure your zippers if you plan to leave your bag in hostel lockers or transit storage.