Every international or long domestic trip, I would always bring a checked roller bag. After all, I need my proper outfits, shoes, accessories, and any larger items with room to spare in case I wanted to go shopping.
After a while, it felt… unoptimized. I found myself not properly using all the space in my bag, and when I would tell myself that I would “unpack” my roller bag once I reached my destination, it ended up not happening for one reason or another. On top of that, I had to pay exorbitant baggage fees for the airline to check my large bags. In short, it was chaotic.
However, it doesn’t always have to be this way. I recently went on a trip with a single backpack, including all my clothes, toiletries, entertainment — EVERYTHING in it. And it was perfect. Not only do you avoid baggage fees, but it forces you to stay organized and compact — something I would fail to do with a checked bag regardless.
Of course, in certain situations you may have no choice to bring larger bags. But be sure to review your luggage needs and requirements before your trip. Here are a few reasons why bringing a medium-sized backpack or smaller suitcase is the way to go:
Fewer Baggage Fees
We know airlines will do almost anything and everything to squeeze more fees out of you. With just a single carry-on, you can avoid this entirely
Dropping-off and picking up your bags are a hassle
Has anyone ever enjoyed lining up early at the airport to drop-off your bags at the desk, and then again when you disembark your plane and stand around a conveyer belt? Avoiding this song-and-dance entirely could save you so much time and pain.
More luggage = more pain
The more bags you have, the more you will have to look after them, potentially roll them over uneven pathways, and haul them around. It doesn’t get much easier than a medium-sized backpack or suitcase.
Leaning towards just a carry-on now? Fantastic. Now, here are some tips to help you pack lightly:
Clothes
Consider your outfits. If you are bringing a shirt that doesn’t really go with anything else you are bringing, then maybe consider a shirt that will be more versatile. Same goes with pants, shoes, etc. In an ideal scenario, you are bringing both clothes that will allow you to dress up for certain occasions, and down for others.
We would also recommend packing smart. Start with your shoes – the biggest items. Then, roll each item of clothing very neatly to avoid major wrinkles. Then, place your toiletries and any other items on top, to make sure they are the first items you can get when you open your bag.
Do NOT pack any unnecessary shoes — these are the bulkiest items.
Toiletries
Never take more than you absolutely need — but also don’t skimp or think you can go without on what you do need. You do not want to go out and buy something at the pharmacy at your destination when you could have easily packed it yourself, so make sure your necessities and things like tweezers and a small first-aid kit are included. Be sure to buy travel-sized items, such as small containers for any soap, shampoo, or whatever type of liquid that is TSA-compliant.
Appliances
The biggest thing here is condensing your electronics and chargers. If you can help it, try not to bring 16 different charging cords for 16 different devices. Buy a travel-friendly all-in-one charging pack. If you can, use the same charger for multiple devices. Also, ditch all the physical books for an e-reader.
