Carry-on Packing Tips

It’s vacation time again!

Let’s pack our bags and head someplace tropical! Whenever I plan on traveling by airplane, I always pack everything in a carry-on suitcase. Most airlines give you 1 carry-on item and a personal item. A small suitcase that can be placed in the overhead bin and either a purse or backpack that can be stored under the seats in front of you. This usually ends up being plenty of space and I can skip checking luggage, which I usually dread anyways.

Why you might ask? I tend to have horrible flight anxiety as is (bring on the Lavender oil!) On top of that, add in the fear of my checked luggage getting lost…I can be a hot mess. Can you imagine arriving at your destination without all those beautiful outfits and shoes you packed? Yeah, it gives me nightmares too. I always feel more comfortable knowing that all my personal items are within my reach. Plus, this makes it much easier departing from the plane and heading straight out of the airport. I mean really who wants to wait another twenty or more minutes to really begin their vacation!

Want to know how to pack for your trip in just a carry-on? Check out some tips below!

• Clothing: always check the weather of your travel destination so you can plan your outfits accordingly. Your clothing items may differ depending on climate. Make sure to pack clothing you can mix and match to create multiple outfits (mini capsule wardrobe). If an item doesn’t work in different outfit combinations, leave it at home. Look for lightweight items (tank-tops, sundresses, shorts). Pack at least 3 bathing suits but skip the beach towels. Resorts usually provide them. If you are traveling for a special event, such as a wedding pack one formal outfit. As the plane ride tends to be chilly, dress accordingly in leggings and a sweatshirt in tow.
• Shoes: I always wear my sneakers on the plane and save the lightweight sandals for the suitcase. Bring a pair of heels for any special occasions or for a night out on the town.
• Medications: bring enough of your prescriptions/supplements that you will need while away. This can easily be stored in your purse or backpack, saving more room in your suitcase.
• Extra contact lenses or glasses: for those unexpected times when we have any breaks or rips in lenses.
• Make-up: try and limit to just the essentials. (Eyeliner, mascara, foundation, concealer, eyeshadow palette, lipstick/gloss, powder)
• Travel size: toothbrush/paste, deodorant, shampoo/conditioners, contact solution, lotion/sunscreen.
• Where my curly haired girls at!? I cannot travel anywhere without my curl creams and conditioners. Especially to a hot, humid beach climate. My hair creams are my lifeline. If you don’t want your hair looking a hot mess, utilize 3oz travel size containers to store your go-to creams. I typically bring my leave in conditioner, hydrating cream and curl sealer gel. Don’t forget extra hair ties/clips and your comb or brush!

• Travel Documents: passport, airline tickets, hotel accommodations. Make sure these are easily accessible.
• Large Ziplock bags: to hold dirty, wet, clothes or bathing suits on your way back home.

There ya have it. Packing light and in a carry-on makes traveling so much easier. Now sit back and get ready to enjoy your trip! Comment below with some of your favorite packing tips.