How I Pack with Just a Carry-On

Packing with a carry-on can make travelling so much easier.

You don't have to wait for checked bags, worry about lost luggage, or pay additional baggage fees.

And if you're jumping in and out of taxis, switching hotels, or travelling by train, you'll be glad you packed light.

Here are five easy ways to do it.

Step 1: Pack One Outfit for Each Day

Of course, my biggest tip is to pack complete outfits. If you already have your go-to outfits, packing becomes incredibly quick and easy. If you don't, you'll need to create outfits before you go.

Start by counting how many days you'll be away.

If you're travelling for one week, pack seven complete outfits. Knowing exactly what you're wearing each day means you won't overpack "just in case" clothing.

If you will be going out for dinners or dressier occasions, include a few nicer outfits. You can also dress up a more casual outfit simply by changing your shoes, adding jewellery, or switching to a clutch.

Step 2: Reuse Your Pieces

To save space, build outfits around the same pieces.

For example, if three outfits all use the same pair of white jeans, you only need to pack one pair of jeans and three tops.

If you need sweaters or a light jacket for cooler evenings, bring only what you need and wear your bulkiest layer on the plane.

This is one of the easiest ways to fit an entire week's worth of outfits into a carry-on.

Step 3: Keep Shoes to a Minimum

Shoes take up the most room in your luggage.

Wear your bulkiest shoes on the plane. I usually wear sneakers because airports involve a lot of walking, and you can pair them with casual outfits for sightseeing and other daytime activities.

Then pack one or two neutral pairs of shoes that work with all of your outfits.

Step 4: Keep Toiletries Ready to Go

I always keep travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, face wash, moisturizer, and sunscreen packed and ready to go.

Not only does it make packing faster, but it also means I always have backups at home if I unexpectedly run out.

Step 5: Bring a Tote Bag

I bring a tote bag on the plane with my passport, wallet, keys, phone, laptop, chargers, and a reusable water bottle.

It saves room in my luggage and I can get work done in the airport and on the flight.

The Benefits

Travelling with a carry-on is easier, cheaper and faster. You don't have to wait at baggage claim, pay checked baggage fees, or worry about your suitcase getting lost. And because you've packed complete outfits, getting dressed each morning is quick and easy.

The key is knowing exactly what you're going to wear before you leave. Once you've planned your outfits, packing becomes surprisingly simple.