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| image credit: pixabay |
Travel can be equal parts taxing
and relaxing, though there's no denying that the stress quotient rises as
journeys become more complicated. One of the easiest ways to enjoy not just the
destination but also the journey, is simplification. And the first step in
traveling simply is packing purposefully, whether that means packing more of
what you need in your carry-on or forgoing checked bags altogether.
Downsizing to a single carry-on for domestic and international travel isn't
just about enjoyment, however. More airlines are charging for all checked luggage, and thanks to
vigorous behind the scenes bag checks, more travelers want to keep their
valuables close at hand. Sure, a lot of travelers prefer to take a number of
shorter trips throughout the year (so packing light is a no-brainer), but it's
also entirely possible to travel the world with nothing more than a carry-on
bag.
Whether you're going away for the
weekend or setting off on an epic round-the-world voyage, here are smart tips
for stress-free carry-on packing.
Find a Do-It-All Bag
Cute carry-on bags are a dime a
dozen – what's much rarer is a carry-on bag that is comfortable, durable and
light. Structured rolling bags may be convenient but soft bags have give, which
means if you accidentally over pack you can still stuff them in the overhead
compartments.
This weekender by Henri Bendel has a bottom zippered compartment
that's the perfect spot for a pair of flats when you're traveling extra light.
But for longer trips, try the large weekender from
LeSportsac. Just don't forget to check the size and weight requirements of the
airline you’ll be flying! Skip this step and your carry-on could end up in the
luggage hold.
Pare Down Toiletries to the Bare Essentials
Thanks to TSA restrictions, most of us are
used to bringing travel size bottles but if you're feeling adventurous,
consider packing only those cosmetics, lotions and cleansers you absolutely
can't live without. Plan to stop by a supermarket or drug store for the basics
once you arrive, or just use whatever your hotel provides. Don't forget that
any and all liquids still need to be packed separately. While you could just
use a plastic zipper bag, a clear TSA-compliant AirQuart
travel bag will let
you fly through security stylishly.Design a Capsule Wardrobe
Packing an outfit for every day and every night is old school. A modern capsule wardrobe that is based around a dark color like navy or black with a few light accent pieces and accessories can be put together in dozens of ways. Always bring a classic pair of sunglasses (to make napping easier and hide jet-lagged eyes), and a statement watch. Choose tops and bottoms to mix and match, and try to find a pair of shoes that works for everything you plan to do. Surprisingly, Crocs (if you can believe it) makes ballet flats and wedges that are amazingly comfortable for long days of sightseeing and look nothing like gardening shoes.
Lay out Everything You'll Need
Do a packing test run to make
sure your carry-on bag will comfortably hold everything you'll need en route or
for your entire trip. Don't forget:
·
Your flight
documents
·
Wallet, ID
and passport
·
Phone,
tablet and laptop plus chargers and headphones
·
Clothes (or
an extra set of clothing in case your checked bag is lost)
·
Makeup for
touch-ups on arrival and other must-have toiletries
·
Medications
you might need while traveling
·
A light
sweater because it gets chilly in the air!
Pack What You Don't Need First
If your carry-on bag will be the
entirety of your luggage, it makes sense to layer your extra clothes on the
very bottom. That way, you're not digging through socks and undies to find your
allergy medicine and your clothing acts like a cushion to keep fragile things
like your laptop safe and sound.
Don't Forget Your One Personal Item
Though a few airlines no longer
allow passengers one personal item in addition to the allotted carry-on bag,
most still do. What that means is that you can stash everything you'll need
on-hand (e.g., tickets, wallet, phone, book, snacks, etc.) in a purse or small
backpack and everything else in a weekender that stays in the overhead
compartment for the duration of your flight.
Beyond these tips, packing is
something every traveler needs to figure out for herself. The guidelines above
will help you find your own carry-on packing style, so thoughts of lost luggage
never stop you from setting out on that next great adventure!
