“I love packing,” said no one ever.
After traveling to more than 40 countries around the world, let’s just say I’ve definitely earned my 10,000 hours. At this point, I might even qualify for an honorary PhD… in packing! 😉
I’ve wheeled suitcases over cobblestone streets, sprinted through crowded airports with a carry-on in tow, and packed (and repacked) more times in one trip than I care to admit. So yes—I’ve learned what really works… and what to avoid (usually the hard way).
And let me be clear—packing for trips with checked luggage versus packing in a carry-on only? Two totally different games.
In this post, I’m diving into the art of packing light… in just a carry-on. It might seem impossible, but I promise—it’s absolutely doable. Today, I’m sharing the tried-and-true strategies I’ve learned over decades of travel so you can pack lighter, smarter, and still look incredibly stylish—without the stress.
Okay, ready to become a carry-on queen? Let’s do this!
For a comprehensive guide on packing like a pro for international travel, here’s the blog for you!
how to pack like a pro
1. Master the Second Bag Strategy
You have your carry-on bag of course, but you also get to bring along a personal item. And—it’s your secret weapon. When you’re packing for a huge trip and need as much space as possible, make sure you choose an extra roomy tote or weekender bag. (Keeping in mind it needs to fit under the seat in front of you.)
While I vary my second bag quite a bit, I almost always opt for a large tote bag. On longer trips, a small weekender is the way to go. Another note about your second bag, think about bringing a bag that is both roomy and one that you really want to use on the trip. For example, on a recent summer trip to Europe, I brought a gorgeous raffia tote that I carried throughout my vacation.
Everything I pack in my Second Bag:
✅ Toiletries, with the liquids in a separate clear pouch
✅ iPad, phone, chargers, portable battery, any other tech
✅ Headphones (my favorite: Bose noise-canceling over-ear)
✅ Quince mulberry silk eye mask (comes with a bag to keep it clean and dust-free)
✅ Passport, ID, and slim card holder (vs. wallet)
✅ Snacks, water bottle, hand sanitizer, lipstick
Pro tip: Use mini packing cubes or small pouches inside your personal item to stay organized, so you’re never digging around in the airport or mid-flight.
2. Use Compression Cubes — But Not for Everything!
Compression packing cubes are a game-changer—and the ones from Quince are hands-down the best I’ve ever used (And, I’ve tested a lot). Their genius extra zipper lets you compress your clothes down flat, saving a ton of space.
I recommend organizing by category—pants and bottoms in one cube, tops in another. Just to give you an idea: in one Quince cube, I can fit three pairs of pants, one pair of shorts, and a skirt… and once compressed, it’s practically flat (check out the photo above)!
🔥 Hot take: Don’t pack everything in cubes. For bulkier or wrinkle-prone items like dresses, lay them flat at the bottom of your suitcase—preferably on the non-handle side. Then layer your cubes and/or shoes on top. This not only keeps dresses smoother but also uses every inch of space wisely.
How you pack matters—smart strategy makes all the difference.
Check out more Quince travel essentials here!
3. Interior Compression
The Quince expandable rolling carry-on is designed to be the max carry-on size (22.8″) so you can pack as much as possible—without checking a bag. Inside, it has a built-in compression system: tighten the interior straps after packing, and watch your clothes flatten down even more. It’s practical and oddly satisfying! Lots of suitcases have interior straps, but Quince’s compression is especially effective and makes a major difference.
4. Take Outfit Photos
Before every trip, I create a dedicated iPhone album with photos of every outfit. When choosing what to pack, I always try the outfit on and take a quick mirror selfie. Sometimes I realize that I don’t actually like the outfit as much as I thought, or don’t have the right shoes for that dress…And it’s helpful to look back on during your trip! It takes the decision fatigue out of each day—you just swipe, pick, and go. Bonus: it helps you pack intentionally because you see what actually works together when finalizing your packing list.
5. Choose a Color Story
This is truly the secret to packing light. Pick a thoughtful and strategic color palette and stick to it! Choose base colors like black, brown, white, beige, or navy, and add just one or two pops of color (like a scarf, fun top, or statement accessory).
On longer trips, you’ll likely wash and re-wear items, so make sure everything mixes and matches seamlessly. It keeps your wardrobe versatile—and your suitcase light! Now, you can still bring a special piece to wear on your trip, and I’ll talk more about that one later.
6. Three Pairs of Shoes Only!
Shoes take up the most space, so you have to choose wisely. When you’re packing only a carry-on, you can bring 3. That’s it! For summer travels, I’d suggest a sneaker (that you wear on travel day), a dressy sandal (I usually do a wedge) that you can really walk in, and a pair of flat sandals. For fall and winter, wear sneakers or booties (pack the other pair) and always one pair of flats.
I pack shoes individually in either cloth handbag storage bags or large ziploc bags to to keep clothes clean. I pack them separately because you can be more strategic about placement. Always tuck small items like socks or jewelry inside of your shoes to use every inch of space.
7. Choose Light, Airy Fabrics
Natural, breathable fabrics like silk, cotton poplin, and linen are ideal for carry-on travel. They not only keep you cool and comfortable but also fold down beautifully and add minimal weight. (Just a heads-up: fabrics like cotton gauze look light, but can actually be quite bulky!)
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid structured or heavier materials—they tend to eat up valuable space and add unnecessary weight. Carry-on packing is all about curating—choosing only the most versatile, space-saving pieces for your trip.
Take a silky midi dress, for example. It rolls up to practically nothing and is whisper thin, but can transition effortlessly from day to night. I wore a black silk slip dress to sightsee in Munich layered over a puff sleeve white tee, then for an elegant dinner look—I removed the tee and swapped flats for heels.
When your wardrobe works overtime like that? That’s a true carry-on MVP.
8. Wear Layers on Travel Day
Travel day is your golden opportunity to maximize space and stay comfortable—without sacrificing style.
Layer up in a way that feels intentional and elevated:
👟 Wear your bulkiest shoes—sneakers or boots—so they don’t eat up suitcase space
🧥 Bring a blazer or sweater you’ll want at your destination (and need for chilly planes)
👖 Opt for comfy-chic bottoms you can potentially sleep in like these soft trousers, or stretchy “jeans” that feel like loungewear but look polished
Layering helps you navigate everything from freezing flights to unexpected delays with ease—and lets you walk off the plane looking effortlessly put-together.
Style + function? Always a win.
9. Travel Sized Toiletries
Since I travel so much, I recently stocked a dedicated toiletry bag with travel-size items: mini toothbrush, travel-size hair brush, eyeliner, deodorant, skincare, even a mini toothbrush—everything needs to be travel sized. I wish I’d thought of this grab-and-go idea sooner! It saves time and energy, and when you’re packing, any step that can be simplified really makes all the difference.
All TSA-approved liquids go into a separate clear bag, and then the rest of your toiletries can go in a bag like this. Minimizing your routine whenever possible will also make your life easier too. Just the essentials here!
💡 Pro Tip: Use solid deodorant, and powders vs. aerosols to save space in that limited liquids bag. I love spray dry shampoo, but on trips, I opt for powder instead.
10. Use Small Spaces Smartly
When you’re actually packing your bag, use all the little spaces that you can. After packing your cubes, dresses and shoes you can start filling in every gap:
•Roll up belts (with the buckle inside to protect it) and tuck them into corners
•Pack bras, socks, underwear around cubes and inside shoes
•Let go of the urge to pack everything inside of the packing cubes
Every bit of space really does matter when you’re trying to pack light.
✨ Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget to Pack One WOW Piece!
Even when packing light, I always include a special outfit that makes me feel amazing. Travel is about experiencing new places—and wearing something that feels special adds to the joy (and the photos!). So don’t let the color story prevent you from bringing along that special piece. I’ve been known to plan entire trips around a special dress, so don’t forget to pack that one standout piece you’ll absolutely feel like a goddess wearing!
Space-Saving Skips
Leave the hair dryer, steamer, and umbrella at home. Most hotels or rentals provide them—or you can buy locally if truly needed. I also do not bring haircare products like shampoo, conditioner or styling creams to save space.
Want styled hair for a special dinner? Find a blow-dry bar at your destination. And honestly? Sometimes it feels freeing to embrace your natural hair, especially in humid spots like Vietnam or China. My hair had a mind of its own, and I still had an amazing, action-packed trip without even worrying about styling it!
🧳 FAQ: What Should I Look for in a Great Carry-On?
Q: Is it really worth investing in a quality carry-on suitcase?
A: Absolutely. Your carry-on does a lot of heavy lifting—literally and figuratively. A well-designed piece of luggage can make packing, navigating airports, and unpacking at your destination significantly easier (and less stressful!). That said, it doesn’t have to break the bank. I recently acquired this high-quality carry-on by Quince that is very lightweight and durable.
Q: What features make a carry-on truly functional and travel-friendly?
A: Look for:
Lightweight Think less than 8 pounds. It matters, especially when you carry on and need to lift in overhead bin.
Durable construction (like a polycarbonate shell)
Expandable design for that just-in-case space
Smooth spinner wheels and a comfy handle for easy maneuvering (when it doesn’t roll properly, nightmare!)
Built-in compression system to maximize space
TSA-approved lock for peace of mind
Fits overhead bins on major airlines
These features may sound basic, but when combined, they make a huge difference—especially if you’re trying to travel with just a carry-on.
Q: Which carry-on do you personally use?
A: I’ve been alternating between the Quince and Beis carry-on’s—and I genuinely love both. They check all the boxes without the luxury brand price tag. (Not sponsored – just my honest opinion), both are amazing options if you want performance without overspending. (I also own expensive ones by Tumi, Paraval, Rimowa and they’re great, but not notably better in any way including aesthetics and durability.)
Q: How do I know it’ll fit in overhead bins?
A: Most carry-ons that meet 22″ x 14″ x 9″ dimensions will fit in overhead bins on major U.S. airlines. Always double-check the airline’s website before flying internationally or on budget carriers. I’ve never had an issue and as I mentioned earlier, I’ve traveled all over the world.
✈️ stress-free travels ahead
Packing doesn’t have to be stressful—even if it’s not your favorite part of the journey. With a little planning, thoughtful outfit selections, and luggage that works with you, you’ll be amazed at how much simpler and better the process is.
Traveling lighter means feeling more prepared, more stylish, and more present for what really matters: the adventure ahead.
Try these tips on your next vacation—and have the BEST time on your trip!
For the most amazing, done-for-you packing lists…subscribe to our newsletter here!
