Ready, Set, Jet! If you’re like me, I’m ready to get packing my perfect carry-on!
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.
Not sure if a hard-sided or soft-sided carry-on is better? Check out our hard-sided vs soft-sided article to find out what type works best.
Here are my top 7 tips to packing the perfect carry-on bag:
#1 Know Your Airlines Carry-on Luggage Rules
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 Travelpro’s Platinum Elite 21” – with self-aligning spinner wheels that make it a breeze to ‘fly’ through airport terminals with ease – and 2” expandability in case you do a little shopping.
Tip: If you have the time, take your bag to the airport before your trip to see if it fits onto your airline’s sizer box.
Travelpro Platinum Elite 21” Spinner Bag
#2 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’s Go Bagg – 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.
Tip: Keep your PPE items – like masks sanitizer wipes – in one of the handy outside pockets for quick access.
Baggallini Go Bagg
#3 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
#4 Pack Clothing that Layers to Save Space in Your Carry-on
Clothing usually takes up the most space in any bag. Instead of packing bulky single-use items (like a heavy coat) pack a couple pieces that can be layered – to create custom comfort for any weather.
A stylish long sleeve shirt – like Columbia’s Silver Ridge Shirt – can take you from hiking to dinner and keep your dermatologist happy providing UPF 40 sun protection. Then, a lightweight vest – like the Silver Ridge Vest – can be layered for warmth with multiple pockets to keep you organized.
Tip: Pack enough clothes for a week and do laundry.
Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Vest
#5 Limit the Number of Shoes in Your Carry-on Bag
Shoes are usually the heaviest item in any bag. So, what’s 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 eco-friendly packing organizers – like these ultra-light Specter Cubes from Eagle Creek.
Eagle Creek Specter Packing Cube Medium
#6 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, and that means additional packing space.
Tip: Compression bags come in a set of four. So, save two for laundry for the way home – they seal in odors!
LC Compression Bags Set of four
#7 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 expandable bag 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 at limited overhead bin space.
