How to Pack the Perfect Carry-On Bag
Ready, Set, Jet! Let’s get ready to start packing!
No matter where your next journey takes you, a carry-on bag is one of the most important bags you will be packing. In addition to medications and valuables, be sure to pack in your bag at least one change of clothes, mobile power for your smart devices and a snack – because as they say, you never know when your next meal is coming.
Here are AAA’s 7 tips to packing the perfect carry-on bag:
How to Pack the Perfect Carry-On Bag
Carry-on rules vary from airline to airline, so always confirm with each of the airlines that you are flying what their size and weight restrictions are. Most allow one personal bag – generally no larger than 9’ x10’ x17” and one carry-on bag – generally 9” x 14” x 22”.
If it’s time for you to purchase a new carry-on, be sure to invest in a quality bag – like Briggs & Riley’s ZDX 22” Expandable Carry-on Spinner – Glide with ease with high performance wheels that make it a breeze to ‘fly’ through airport terminals – and 2.5” expandability in case you do a little shopping.
Tip: To get the true carry-on size; measure your carry-on from the base of the wheels to the top of the handle.
Briggs & Riley ZDX 22” Carry-on Expandable Spinner
Member Price $459.00
Pack Your Handbag Inside Your Personal Bag
Generally a personal bag is defined as a purse, small backpack, or laptop/computer bag. Utilize every inch of allowable space by packing a smaller handbag – like Baggallini Modern Everywhere Slim Crossbody – inside a larger ‘personal bag’ – filling up extra space with additional items.
The Baggallini Overnight Tote makes an ideal personal bag because it fits nicely under the seat in front of you and stays upright – making it easy to find anything you might need in flight. Features include a padded laptop pocket and removable RFID phone wristlet that fits most plus sized cell phones – and a luggage sleeve to secure it over the telescoping handle of any carry-on bag.
Baggallini Slim Crossbody
Member Price $85.50
Baggallini Overnight Tote
Member Price $129.99
Be TSA Ready with Liquids and Food
Things are constantly changing, so be sure to check with TSA.gov for security updates. Currently – each traveler is allowed one clear quart size bag of liquids, each item no larger than 3.4 oz plus TSA is now allowing one liquid hand sanitizer container up to 12 ounces per passenger in carry-on bags.
Tip: To help expedite time at security, pack all your snacks inside a clear bag – like this bag from Travelon, which combines a TSA approved 1 quart bag with 2nd compartment for non-liquids, like food or medicine.
Travelon Wet/Dry 3-1-1 Bag
Member Price $22.50
Have a Carry-on Comfort Kit
Flying is no longer as comfortable; seats are tight, and some don’t even go back! The best thing to do is to take your own comfort. The cocoon lumbar pillow and U-shape neck pillow are ergonomic designed. With two breath inflation these make any travel comfortable.
Tip: Use the medium size Baggallini cube to store your comfort kit.
Cocoon Ultra Lumbar Pillow
Member Price $32.95
Cocoon U-Shaped Pillow
Member Price $32.95
Limit the Number of Shoes
Shoes are usually the heaviest item in any bag. The secret? Limit yourself to a maximum of three pair – one that you are wearing and two that you pack. Make sure all shoes are well broken in and comfortable: a good walking shoe, a loafer or runner and a pair of sandals make a good combination for most trips.
Tip: Pack shoes in repurposed newspaper bags or use the Briggs & Riley Translucent Shoe Pouch. Fits up to US size 15 and material is easy to wipe clean
Briggs & Riley Translucent Shoe Pouch
Member Price $40.00
Maximize Space with Compression Packing Organizers
The challenge of packing a carry-on is trying to fit everything into one small bag. Compression packing cubes – like Baggallini’s – and compression one way air-valve bags – like Lewis N’ Clark’s – are the answer. These organizers allow you to ‘compress’ the excess air out – providing additional packing space.
Tip: Compression bags come in a set of two – use one for laundry for the way home – they seal in odors!
Baggallini Packing Cubes (3)
Member Price $31.50
Travelon Compressions Bags (2)
Member Price $10.99
Always Have a Back-up Plan
It happens: You double checked to make sure your carry-on bag is compliant and at the last minute the airline says you have to check it. Be prepared by packing a small expandible bag – like a Blu Bag Tote – in the outside pocket of your carry-on your bag.
This everyday essential can be a lifesaver: Before you check your bag, quickly transfer your most important items – like medications and valuables – to this much smaller more manageable tote.
Tip: Always board when your row is called to have the best shot (or most opportunity) at limited overhead bin space.
Blu Bag Expandible Tote
Member Price $11.00