Will I be cold if I only pack layers?

No. The secret is the air trapped between layers. A base layer, a fleece, and a down shell are significantly warmer than a single bulky wool coat.

How do I handle dirty laundry on a multi-climate trip?

Use a dry bag to separate dirty base layers. Merino wool can usually go 3-4 wears without washing, but carry a small packet of travel detergent to hand-wash in a sink if necessary.

Is it worth buying compression cubes?

Yes. They are the single most effective way to fit a winter jacket and summer clothes into a standard 40L carry-on.

How to pack a carry-on for multiple climates

Stick to a strict base-layer system and use compression cubes to manage volume. Wear your bulkiest items on the plane and prioritize technical fabrics that wick moisture and dry quickly to keep your bag weight under 7kg.

Establish a base layer. Pack 3 merino wool base-layer tops. They are odor-resistant and temperature-regulating, meaning they work as a warm layer in winter and a standalone shirt in moderate weather.
Use the 'Layering Sandwich' method. Instead of one heavy coat, pack a thin thermal base, a light fleece mid-layer, and a packable, water-resistant down jacket. When it's cold, you wear all three; when it's warm, you shed the outer layers.
Optimize for weight and volume. Use compression packing cubes to shrink your clothes by 30%. Never pack more than 2 pairs of pants; wear one pair of sturdy travel trousers and pack one lightweight pair.
Select versatile footwear. Wear your heaviest boots on the plane. Pack only one pair of lightweight, multi-purpose sneakers that can handle walking and casual evening outings.
Maximize worn items. Wear your heaviest sweater, your winter jacket, and your boots during transit. This saves approximately 2-3kg of weight in your carry-on.

Will I be cold if I only pack layers?: No. The secret is the air trapped between layers. A base layer, a fleece, and a down shell are significantly warmer than a single bulky wool coat.
How do I handle dirty laundry on a multi-climate trip?: Use a dry bag to separate dirty base layers. Merino wool can usually go 3-4 wears without washing, but carry a small packet of travel detergent to hand-wash in a sink if necessary.
Is it worth buying compression cubes?: Yes. They are the single most effective way to fit a winter jacket and summer clothes into a standard 40L carry-on.