Pick a softshell suitcase for a little more flexibility and space (especially if you’re planning on buying souvenirs). Choose a hard suitcase for more protection. Most airlines won’t require you to check a 22-inch (56 cm) bag on domestic flights, but international flights may require your carry-on to be 21-inches (53 cm) or less. Carry-ons are usually referred to by their height. For instance, a 22-inch (56 cm) bag is typically 22 inches (56 cm) tall, 14 inches (35. 5 cm) wide, and 9 inches (23 cm) deep.
5 shirts 2-3 pairs of pants, shorts, or skirts 1-2 dressy pieces of clothing 1 sweater or jacket (add more layers for colder weather) 1 pair of sneakers 1 pair of dressier shoes 1 pair of flip flops or sandals (for beach vacations and warmer weather) 1 bathing suit 1 set of workout clothes (bump up this number if you’re a gym fiend) 1-2 pairs of pajamas 5-7 pairs of socks 5-7 pairs of underwear Accessories (scarves, gloves, hats, jewelry)
For instance, you could pack a pair of black pants or dark denim, a white tee-shirt, and a jean jacket.
Some “just in case” items are still important. For instance, don’t skimp on bringing raincoats and umbrellas if there’s a chance it’ll rain.
Pack your phone chargers and cords all in one cube or bag so you can easily find them.
This method’s best for synthetic materials like polyester and lycra, since those won’t wrinkle as easily as natural materials like cotton or linen. Fold up bulkier clothes and sweaters, especially items made from wool. [10] X Research source You should also fold (not roll) clothes that are prone to wrinkling, like dress shirts and linen clothes. [11] X Research source Feel free to combine this rolling method with using packing cubes. You can even put rolled clothes inside packing cubes to squeeze more into the cubes.
Now that your shoes are individually wrapped, you can pack them toe-to-heel with the insteps facing each other. This is the most efficient way to pack your shoes![15] X Trustworthy Source Consumer Reports Nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source
For instance, if you’re going on an outdoorsy trip, wear your heavy hiking boots on the plane.
If you’re a frequent traveler, invest in travel-sized bottles so you can refill your own without having to buy mini versions of your favorite shampoo, etc. Want to travel ultralight? If you’re staying at a hotel, you might be able to get away with relying on their shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Hotel hairdryers are often one of the dirtiest items in the room. Consider letting your hair air dry or invest in a small travel hairdryer. [20] X Research source
Consider swapping your big camera out for your phone camera to reduce the number of cables and devices you have to bring. See if you can load up all your e-books onto your computer, tablet, or phone, rather than bringing an extra e-reader and its charger. In a pinch, use a bubble-wrap mailing envelope for a DIY laptop sleeve. Bring country-specific power outlet adapters if you’re traveling abroad. If any of your devices have lithium-ion batteries, you have to carry them on–you can’t check them due to flammability concerns.
Bring an empty reusable water bottle. You can fill it up after you get through airport security. Pick a reusable water bottle with a carabiner hook or handle. That way, you can clip the empty bottle to the outside of your bag so it won’t take up space.
