How to Pack Light and Travel With Only a Carry-On
Stick to a 40-liter backpack or a standard carry-on suitcase to bypass checked bag fees and move freely. Pack for one week of clothing regardless of the trip length and commit to doing laundry once mid-trip.
- Select your vessel. Use a 35L to 45L backpack without wheels. If you must use a suitcase, ensure it weighs under 6 pounds empty and meets the 22" x 14" x 9" carry-on requirement for major airlines.
- The 5-4-3-2-1 rule. Pack no more than: 5 pairs of socks and underwear, 4 tops, 3 bottoms, 2 pairs of shoes (one on your feet, one in the bag), and 1 hat or jacket. This is enough for a week and infinite re-wears.
- Use compression packing cubes. Roll your clothes tightly and secure them inside compression cubes. This organizes your gear and reduces the volume of soft goods by about 30%.
- Digitize and consolidate. Replace paper books with an e-reader. Use one universal power adapter with multiple USB ports rather than bringing individual blocks for every device.
- Wear your bulk. Always wear your heaviest shoes and your largest jacket on the plane. Never pack them. This saves roughly 3-5 pounds of weight and significant space.
- What if I need something I didn't pack?
- Every city in the world has shops. If you truly need an extra sweater or a specific toiletry, buy it there. You will likely spend less on the item than you would have on checked bag fees.
- How do I deal with dirty laundry?
- Bring a small, lightweight dry bag or a dedicated laundry pouch. Hand wash items in a sink using a travel-sized concentrated detergent or visit a local laundromat once every 7 days.