Avoid checked bag fees with these 15 carry-on packing tips

As I used to be a travel agent, my packing skills are exemplary. I still travel for pleasure frequently, but I will never check a bag. I’ve traveled to more than 50 countries in planes of various sizes. I can always fit all my essentials into a single bag. carry-on bag. From bulky ski coats and pants for Antarctica to 15 days’ worth of clothes for Jordan and Egypt, I’ve truly packed it all and then some—all without ever checking a bag.    

My friends joke that it’s my superpower, and ask me jokingly if they could pay me to do their packing. What’s my packing secret? Over the years, I learned some packing hacks. A lot of them are based on having the right tools. Travel products such as compression packing cubesThree-in-one chargers that fold into a compact size. roomy personal item bag A little goes a very long way. Also, I pack light with my do-it all comfortable sneakers. day-to-night dressesLayerable basics, including. 

You can also say goodbye to baggage fees, and to waiting at the luggage carousel for your luggage. Here are my 15 travel must-haves for packing a carry-on—starting at just $6.    

Quince 100% Washable Slip Silk Dress

This little slip dress in black is my secret packing item. It is very compact and can be worn over a white shirt with sneakers or under a sweatshirt for a casual, daytime look. Dress it up and add some jewelry and heels for your fancy vacation dinner. The fit of this dress is flattering, as it has a slight cinch at the waist. It gives you shape and comfort while also giving a bit of shape.

Gonex Compression Cubes Set

Compression packing cubes They have changed my life when it comes down to fitting everything I need into a small carry on. This Gonex set has been in my bag for more than two years. I have used it to fit two weeks worth of clothes for a trip into Egypt, as well as 10 days worth of hiking clothes and city clothes, for Milan and Dolomites. Plus, they help you organize your suitcase. 

Iseyyox 3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Apple Charger Station Foldable

This handy little charger is one of my favorite travel products. It folds down to fit into a tech bag or purse, and it only needs a single outlet to charge up to three devices. I don’t need to pack separate chargers for my iPhone AirPods or Apple Watch. This compact charger will do the job. portable charger The job must be done.

Bagsmart Toiletry Bag with Hanging Hook

This is not the only benefit genius toiletry bag It is easy to pack and organize everything, from my toothbrush to skincare products. And it folds up to save space. No more worrying about having too little sink space in the tiny bathroom of a hotel. You can hang the swivel from a door hook or towel rack.

Did you know that the pockets inside are made from waterproof TPU? If you accidentally spill some toiletries, the bag won’t be ruined and the contents can easily be cleaned by wiping down the pockets with water. 

Samsonite Lightweight Hardside Carry-on Luggage Spinner

You’ll have to check your carry-on no matter how well packed it is. For some international airlines, the weight limit is not very high. It’s for this reason that I make sure to have the lightest possible carry-on, so I don’t start with a bag that weighs more than half of the limit.

I swear to my sworn Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin U The carry-on suitcase is the lightest on the market at only 4.4 lbs. If you don’t want to spend the money on a Rimowa, this Samsonite bag is an excellent option. It weighs just 5 pounds and is made by one of the most trusted brands. Travel + Leisure editors’ favorite luggage brands for the best carry-ons.

Etronik Travel Bag with Shoe Compartment

You can also use a large bag that will fit under your seat. This way, you’ll have more room to pack. I love my Béis The Weekender Travel Bag Since I can fit two or even three extra days worth of clothing in it and it also has pockets for gadgets like laptops.

It’s removable, so you can add an extra pair or take it out to make the bag smaller. Amazon sells a similar bag with all the same great features. It’s only $20 and has these same features. 

Veja Campo Leather Sneakers

Reduce the number of shoes that you bring. My Veja Campos are the perfect blend of casual chic, they can be worn with anything from jeans to dresses. These were also very comfortable, and they didn’t cause me any blisters while I walked more than 50,000 steps in Italy. In T+L’s tests, these were voted the best by our editors. best white sneakers. 

Amazon Essentials Water-Resistant Packable Puffer Jacket

You can also find out more about this by clicking here. packable puffer from Patagonia This is my holy-grail travel jacket for the fall and winter. I’ve worn it for over 10 years. It’s lightweight and compresses so small that it barely takes any space in my suitcase. It’s windproof design, and 800-fill power down keeps me warm. I’ve worn this jacket to chase the Northern Lights, mountain getaways in Colorado and even while snowshoeing on Antarctica. This piece is well worth the investment, but it’s also a great option for those on a tight budget. lightweight puffer on Amazon It has received over 17,400 5-star reviews from shoppers who say that it is easy to pack, warm and convenient.

SinZip 12 Piece Zipper Nylon Mesh Pouch set

When I organize my swimming suits at home, I roll them up and put them in one of the handy nylon zip pouches. Next, I arrange all the swimwear in a drawer. When I go on vacation, I grab the one that I want and put it in my suitcase, beach bag or backpack, which takes up little space. When I get to my destination it’s easy to organize, and on return trips it keeps any still damp swimwear separated from other items. 

Set of Depoza Silicone Travel Bottles that are Leak-Proof

The easiest and most obvious packing hack? Never pack your skincare or makeup products in full bottles. You won’t need to check your bag because of the liquids. This will also give you more room in your toiletry bag. The TSA approved set of leakproof containers allows you to only bring the exact amount of face cream or shampoo that you need.

FyGrip Vacuum Storage Bags 16 Pack Set with Hand Pump

If you need to pack heavy items or plan to travel a long time, vacuum-sealed bags Packing is like magic. The thicker sweaters and jackets will be flattened, giving you more space. This set also comes with a hand pump that you can use to reseal the bags on your way home.

Yujunkeman Leather Hat Clip 

I can now pack my wide-brimmed hats easily without having to take up space in the bag. This also means that you don’t have to roll up or flatten the hats when you get there, which can leave them looking a bit sloppy. Simply snap it onto the handle of your purse or rollerbag.

Chaus Utility Shirt

To pack lighter, it is a good idea to invest in a solid travel capsule wardrobe Mix and match basic pieces. White button-ups are a good starting point, since they can be worn for business meetings or to cover your bikini when you’re at the beach.

Coalatree Trailhead Pants

A pair of wrinkle-free trousers is another packing essential. These pants by Coalatree are great because you can roll them up to save space and they’re made of a fabric that is both stain- and odor-proof, as well as sweat-wicking. You can wear them over and over again. These can be dressed up and down for outdoor adventures, or even city strolls. I’ve worn these everywhere. visiting the pyramids in Egypt To museums in Copenhagen, to hiking in Italy’s Alps. Amazon shoppers recommend the $29 option. lightweight hiking pants Are stylish, comfortable and wrinkle-free “fall right out.”        

Polecasa Extra-large Heavy-duty Laundry Bag

Always check the hotel’s website or contact them in advance to confirm if they offer laundry services (sometimes, it is even free depending on your location). If you are going on a longer trip, do a laundry load mid-way during your vacation. This will reduce your packing requirements. I always bring a laundry bag to separate dirty clothes and keep the smells contained.

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