Bag Lady, You Gone Hurt Your Back: Why and How to Pack Light

Hi, my name is Rebecca, and I’m a recovering over-packer. And it was really bad. Six pairs of essentially the same jeans, eight bathing suits for a three-day beach trip, a large bag of jewelry, and every hair tool and product I owned. It was exhausting. Over 50% of the stuff I would pack went unused or unworn. And I always lost something because it was too much to keep track of. 

But a few years ago, I adopted a new travel philosophy. Travel light with CARRY-ON LUGGAGE ONLY. In the past five years, I have only checked luggage twice. In 2017, I travelled throughout Europe for three weeks with a huge duffel backpack (big mistake). The next time was for my move to Madrid in 2019. A move I accomplished with just one backpack, one carry-on suitcase, and one large suitcase. Literally, my entire life in three bags.  

Why?

I have several reasons.

First, mobility. Traveling light makes you more nimble and able to maneuver quickly. Running to your connecting flight? Need to catch a bus or train? As Ms. Badu said, “one day all them bags gone get in your way.” 

Second, minimalism. This is a practice I’ve applied to my life in general. My design aesthetic is minimal and I’ve reduced my belongings to only the things I need and love.

Third, street cred. When travelers (especially, Americans) step out of an airport with a caravan of luggage, it can signal two things to locals: robbin’ season and/or inexperienced travelers who can be taken advantage of. With less luggage, you look like an experienced traveler who shouldn’t be messed with.

Fourth, coins. Remember when you received a free checked bag for every flight? No más. As airplane seats became tighter so did the checked bag policy. And checking luggage can really add up if you don’t have reward points or other travel perks. Carry-on luggage circumvents that issue and your coins can be spent at your destination instead.

Fifth, time. Carry-on luggage ensures you spend less time packing and allows you to the skip long lines for bag check-in. 

Sixth and finally, no more lost luggage! There’s literally nothing worse than traveling for hours just to arrive at your destination without your luggage. It can totally derail your entire itinerary and budget. Carry-on only eliminates that problem. 

How?

After five years in the packing light game, I wanted to share some of the tips and tricks I have learned over the years. I hope they help you to travel a bit lighter on your next trip.  

Tip #1: Purchase the largest and lightest carry-on suitcase possible. For most major airlines, you will be allowed to board with a 22-inch carry-on roller suitcase. When you’re only traveling with a carry-on every bit of space counts. A lightweight suitcase is generally under 10 pounds. However, you can find “ultralight” options that are seven pounds and less. Currently, I have a 22-inch, hard-shell roller from Quince and it’s the perfect size and weight.

Tip #2: Use your “personal item” wisely. In addition to a carry-on bag, most airlines will also allow a personal item such as a purse, backpack, or laptop bag. I generally carry a large tote that can easily fit under the seat in front of me. In my tote, I usually have a reusable water bottle, eye mask, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, snacks, electronics chargers (and travel adapter), iPad, headphones, any important travel documents, and a smaller bag (i.e. a clutch, fanny pack, or crossbody) if needed.

Tip #3: Wear your bulkiest items on the flight. For example, when traveling during the winter, wear your winter boots on the plane. Yes, it’s annoying to get through security but it frees up a ton of space in your carry-on. Do the same thing with oversized sweaters and hoodies. And of course, wear your warm coat.

Tip #4: Pack items that can be mixed and matched to create a number of different outfits. Start by selecting one main color palette, such as black. Then pack items that can be re-styled in several different ways. I like to lay out the items on my bed, put together the different outfits, then photograph each combination. Extra, I know. But it ensures that I don’t waste time putting together outfits later or realizing that I left behind a key item. Also, keep your jewelry minimal. I only pack one pair of diamond studs, one pair of gold hoops, one pair of silver hoops, and a gold and silver watch that can be worn with all three pairs of earrings.  If you need a "special outfit," then purchase it at your destination. Clothing is always a great souvenir! 

Tip #5: Be selective with your shoes. Shoes can take up a lot of space. Especially, if you wear a size 10 like I do. In general, a pair (or two) of neutral sandals, a nice pair of comfortable flats, heels that can be dressed up or down (a pointed heel or wedges), and a pair of sneakers (for walking or working out) can get you through just about anything. If it’s winter, I generally opt for a fashionable hiking boot (worn on the plane, of course) and one pair of heeled booties for evening.

Tip #6: Consider getting packing cubes. Cubes help you stay organized. For example, I organize my cubes by type of clothing items. All shirts and tops, bottoms, sweaters, etc. are divided into their own respective cubes. Also, some packing cube sets come with a dirty laundry bag, which is helpful to keep your clean clothes separate from the dirty clothes. But a regular plastic shopping bag can be used for this too.

Tip #7: Place heavier items near the bottom of your suitcase (where the wheels are). It’s easier to roll a suitcase when the weight is concentrated at the bottom of the suitcase. Consider putting shoes and toiletries there.

Tip #8: Only pack the essential toiletries. If you don’t need a particular product or brand, then consider only packing the essential toiletries and picking up the rest at your destination. Personally, I love trying new products when I travel, especially in Europe. I tend to find micellar waters, shower gels, etc. are much better than the ones available in the U.S. And things like razors can be located easily and cheaply. However, I always pack my own toothbrush (in toothbrush cover), toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, and face moisturizers. And remember, with a carry-on, all liquids and gels must be 3.4 ounces or smaller and placed in a quart sized bag.

Tip #9: Use a packing list! Again, extra. But the key to packing light is preparation and organization. A packing list ensures that you stay focused on the essentials. There are tons of examples you can find on Pinterest and other websites. But here is a general packing list that should cover most weeklong trips, domestic or international. 

Paperwork 

• Passport 

• ID 

• Copy of itinerary 

• Copies of important documents (always have a color copy of your passport!) 

• Travel friendly debit and credit cards 

Toiletries 

• Pack only the necessities 

• Make sure all liquids and gels are 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller 

• Put all liquids and gels in 1 clear, quart sized zip top bag (double bag to prevent leaks) 

Electronics 

• Smartphone with international plan, or unlocked for a local SIM 

• Charging cords and base 

• Portable charger 

• Headphones 

• Travel adapter 

• Laptop or tablet 

Clothing 

• 2-3 pairs of pants or skirts 

• 7-10 pairs of underwear (I always pack extra underwear, just in case!)

• 7 pairs of socks 

• 4 tops 

• 2 dresses 

• 2 pair of shorts 

• 1 scarf  

• 3 pair of shoes (sneakers, flats or sandals, and heels for evening) 

• 2 bras 

• 1 swimsuit 

• 1-2 swimsuit coverups  

• 1 hat 

• 1 pair of sunglasses 

Miscellaneous 

• Luggage lock 

• Packing cubes 

• Water bottle 

• Earplugs 

• Eye mask