You want to move smoothly through airport security which is one good reason to bring a carry-on when traveling. But another smart reason is being able to enjoy a week away without feeling like you're lugging your entire wardrobe with you. While it's nice to have a variety of clothes to choose from, chances are you don't want to feel that bogged down, and luggage fees can also be a real pain. It just makes sense to bring one bag and keep it with you the whole flight.
It's totally possible to go on a seven-day trip and just bring a carry-on. Here are some packing hacks that will help you out.
Make Sure You Can Wear Your Shoes In Different Situations
You have to pack light when backpacking and when you're heading on a week-long vacation with just a carry-on, you definitely have to think the same way.
Wearing shoes in different situations when traveling is a perfect packing hack. Sure, it's nice to have sandals that you can walk around in, along with some sneakers in case it rains and your sandals get totally soaked. And of course, you want some fancier, nicer sandals for a dinner out. And if it rains, it would be helpful to have your trusty rainboots (especially since they're cute and colorful).
Although this would be the dream, it's not practical when you want to bring just one carry-on bag on your trip. Instead, make sure that you can wear your shoes a lot. Maybe wear comfy sneakers on the plane that you can stroll around the city or town in, and then bring one nicer, more sophisticated pair that works for dinners out and other activities like that.
Don't Overpack Clothing And Choose A Few Tops That Match Pants Or Shorts
According to Mom Spark, this is the best way to pack a carry-on: pick one pair of pants or shorts and then bring a few tops that match. She suggests three tops: she writes, "This rule will save you a ton of room in your carry-on too, so try to stick to it. Simplicity is bliss!"
This is such a handy and helpful idea. It's so tempting to just throw a bunch of clothes into your bag and figure that you'll wear all of them while on vacation. It's also easy to plan out outfits ahead of time (and then never wear any of them).
Put Underwear And Socks In Your Second Pair Of Shoes
Since you're going to be wearing one pair of shoes and bringing another, why not follow this travel hack: put underwear and socks in your second pair of shoes. Someone posted on Reddit, "If you are packing extra shoes, shove them full of socks/underwear/small things."
This allows you to bring more underwear (which is always a plus) and a few more pairs of socks. It also allows you to get more clothing into the rest of your suitcase. And that's always good news since there's definitely at least one special new piece of clothing that you want to bring on this trip.
It's totally possible to bring only one carry-on bag for a seven-week trip. These packing tips help you get the most out of that one bag so you can focus on what's important: having the most incredible vacation ever (without lugging a super heavy and full bag around).