Packing Hacks for the Minimalist Traveler

Sooner or later, you’re going to get fed-up. Tired of paying exorbitant fees for checking your suitcase. Sick of waiting at the baggage carousel. You’ll probably hit the end of the line when the airline loses your luggage (again) and you’ve spent three days in a foreign city with only a toothbrush and ill-fitting underwear. Sooner or later, you’re going to move to carry-on only.

The thought of packing your entire life into a box that barely reaches your knee may seem daunting, but you’ll be surprised at how much you can get in there – and how much you don’t need. Here are a few basic tips to help ease your transition to check-free travel.
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1. Pick the Right Bag - Start by checking the size limitations of your airline. Budget carriers have greater restrictions so don’t assume that if the sticker says “carry-on” they’ll take it. Don’t cheat by stuffing the outside pockets of a backpack because it won’t fit in the overhead if the front and sides are bulging. Some airlines let you drop your bag at the door of the plane if it technically qualifies as a carry-on, and you can pick it up again when you disembark. It’s free. Do it.
2. Mix and Match - Choose clothing with solid colors and pieces that go with everything else in your bag. Two pants and three tops should equal 6 outfits. Go for layers and leave the bulky sweaters at home. No, you don’t have to wash your underwear in the sink every night, but expect to re-wear your bras. Wear whatever takes up the most room, even if it means an extra sweater that you have to take off for the flight.
3. Maximize the Personal Bag - In addition to your carry-on, you’re usually allowed one personal item. Make it count. Choose a messenger bag or tote, just make sure it will fit under the seat. Use it for your electronics, anything that’s bulky and awkward to pack or that you need to access easily on your flight. That’s also where you’re going to want to keep any toiletries to present at security.
4. Ditch the Potions - All your liquids and gels need to fit in a zip-lock bag and be less than 3 oz each. Stick to the bare essentials that you can’t get at the hotel or borrow from your hosts. At worst, plan to purchase things like shampoo and soap when you arrive. It’s still cheaper than checking a bag, cuts down on weight, and you don’t have to worry about spills.
5. Pack for a Week - It doesn’t matter whether you’re going away for a week or a month, pack for a 7-day trip. After that, you can find a laundry, use the washing machine at the hostel, or hand-wash in the sink. If it can’t be easily cleaned with a little soap and water, don’t bring it.
6. Don’t be a Nervous Packer - Packing a carry-on is about paring down. There’s no such thing as a “just in case” essential. It’s the stuff you throw in for good measure that you’re least likely to use, so don’t start inventing problems for yourself. If you have an unexpected emergency or find that you’ve left something behind, remember that other cities and countries have stores too.
7. Try a Few Packing Cubes - If you’re still having a hard time getting it all in there, consider using packing cubes. They’re zippered bags that help you organize your stuff, and because you can squeeze out the air, you’ll be able to get more in your bag.
8. Simplify Your Footwear - Shoes can be monsters when it comes to packing a carry-on, so keep it simple. Wear your runners or walking shoes. Pack a pair of sandals and flats or ballet slippers for dressing up. That’s it.
9. No Paper - Books and magazines are bulky, heavy, and a nightmare to lug around. If you can’t stand reading on an electronic device, buy a book at the airport and leave it behind when it’s time to come home. A cheap paperback is still going to pass the time, and you may even discover the guilty pleasures of reading something completely frivolous.
10. Pile Before You Pack - Lay everything on the bed before you start packing. You’ll get a better sense of what matches, how much you’re planning to take, and which items you really don’t need. Leave the room and come back in half an hour. If you’re still happy with your choices, you’re good to go.

You’re going to love the freedom of breezing through the airport, taking public transportation, and having everything you need at hand without lugging a big suitcase around. Just remember to pack your Brave Era travel sheet. There’s a reason it packs up to the size of a cell phone and weighs less than 6 oz. Happy travels.