It sounds a lot sexier than it really is... After several short trips this year and one big one (more about this in a later post), I have become a pro at packing light. Several friends have questioned my sanity at only taking a carry-on for a two week trip across the sea. In reality, I just despise waiting for luggage at baggage claim, but I'll take the credit anyway. Here's how not to go cray cray before your vacay.
First, make sure your carry-on is the right dimensions for the airline you're taking in order to be a carry-on. This website will help with that, but generally 22 inch tall roller bag works for most major airlines. Check your airline's website to be sure on carry-on baggage measurements.
Next, how the heck do you decide what to take with you? My method involves tracking weather in my destination and then narrowing down to the essentials for that climate. Then add/subtract based on activities/events you plan on doing when you're there. Central America for a June vacation is going to be a lot different than New England for a winter wedding.
The 5,4,3,2,1 Guide has helped me so much. Here's how it works: 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 dresses and 3 pairs of shoes, 2 bathing suits and 2 bags and 1 watch, pair of sunglasses, and a hat or scarf. This should get you through about two weeks of travel. I start by listing out these categories and filling in the gaps with clothes I know I want to bring.
Mix and match, be comfortable, and depending on your destination, layer up! I did not come up with this genius guide but found it in my travel research prior to a big trip. This little formula is magic, but don't be so strict that it stresses you out. If you really need to bring 3 scarves, you bring them. It's only a guide.
Packing all these items can be a challenge. I have recently fallen in love with compression cubes. They squish all your clothes so you *could* fit more in your luggage. Roll every piece and place in the cubes. You may even have enough room to pack those cute new boots. Here are the cubes that I have and love. There are of course many options and other brands. Find something that works for you. In addition to keeping your things organized, if you choose to unpack at your destination, just remove the cubes and put them in the drawers. Easy peasy.
In addition to your carry-on, on most airlines you also get a "personal item." This is an important one as this is where you keep everything you may need in-flight. I keep everything in it! iPad, kindle, chargers, sound-cancelling headphones, notebook, pen, passport, wallet, sunglasses, snacks, water bottle, and chapstick, cause you know flying just dries you out. This is the one I use for international trips because it has a pocket for everything and keeps me super organized while on the go. I would really love to not lose my passport in a foreign country and staying organized helps. No fumbling for ID when you get to the front of the security line for this girl. If it's a domestic flight, I tend to use a little duffle bag that has some stretch to it in case I need to stuff another scarf in there. I like scarves.
We have travelled to Nicaragua, Mexico, and Singapore in the past three years as well as a dozen domestic flights to see family, friends and the occasional professional event. These tricks have never let me down.