How to Pack Carry-On Luggage:
Travel Light

In the past (we’re talking last century), when you bought a plane ticket, that included the price of a bag. And we’re not talking about a small bag, either. You could bring a full 50 lbs suitcase at no extra cost.

Since then however, airlines began charging for checked bags. This move has made more people consider taking only a carry-on with them. That doesn’t mean that a carry-on bag doesn’t have its limitations. And if you want to avoid getting stopped at the gate and paying extra, we’re here to help you learn about them.

What Size is carry-on luggage?

It’s important to note that every airline has its own luggage size and weight restrictions. The best thing you can do is check what your ticket says to avoid disappointment. It’s even more important if your journey includes more than one airline. Your bag might be okay with one but too big for another.

In addition, some airlines don’t allow a carry-on unless you pay extra. Their policy will state that you can only bring a personal item, which is no larger than a backpack in most cases.

With that said, there is a standard size that might vary a few inches with each company. For domestic flights in the US, it’s 22" in height, 14" in width, and 9" in depth. For international flights, it’s best to keep the suitcase under 21" in height.

As for weight, some US airlines don’t have a restriction at all. They only ask that you are able to lift it and store it in the overhead compartment yourself. However, most European airlines might cap the weight at 10 kg (22 lbs), so again, ensure you check their website.

Roll your clothes and fill any gaps

How you pack your carry-on can impact how much you can bring along. Some people like to use packing cubes. These allow you to stay organized while also compacting your clothes. However, you can achieve the same result by rolling your clothes and stacking them. In addition to using up space, this method helps prevent wrinkles.

Another method to make your suitcase fit more is to use up any space in it. For instance, your shoes are empty inside, so you can stuff your socks in them. Instead of rolling a belt, you can spread it around the perimeter of the bag.

Minimize your toiletries

Things like shampoo, body wash, and makeup remover can add up – not to mention that airport security has limitations on how much you can have in your carry-on. In most places, you can only have bottles of 100ml or less, and they all have to fit in one ziplock bag.

The first way to reduce your toiletries is to think of what you’ll have at your destination. They'll have soap and shampoo if you’re staying at a hotel. As for the things you need to bring, decent them into smaller bottles.

If you can choose a solid version of your products, that can also be helpful. For instance, take a stick deodorant instead of a roll-on. Use a shampoo bar instead of liquid. Those usually weigh less as well.

What to pack in carry-on luggage

First, we should review things you should never bring in your carry-on. As this bag goes through security, there are certain limitations. This is especially important if you don’t have a check-in bag.

What you cannot bring in a carry-on

• Liquids:
  As we already mentioned, all liquids must be in bottles under 100ml and fit in one ziplock bag. Leave anything full-sized at home
• Anything sharp:
  Things like knives, scissors, and safety razors, however there are some exceptions, such as knitting needles
• Athletic equipment:
  Things like golf clubs, baseball bats, or anything you can use as a weapon
• Weapons, large tools, and flammable items

As the rules always change, you should check on your airport's website before leaving.