How to pack a single carry on for longer trips

Heavy suitcases often become a physical burden during the most important parts of a trip. Luggage is most difficult to manage when moving between transport hubs, climbing stairs in older hotels, or walking from a train station to an accommodation. Carrying a single bag that fits in an overhead compartment or under a seat removes the stress of waiting at baggage carousels and the risk of lost belongings.

The difficulty is not just the weight, but the volume. Most people pack for the person they wish they were, rather than the person they actually are. This leads to a bag filled with "just in case" items that remain at the bottom of the suitcase for the entire trip.

Use the layering principle for clothing

The most common mistake is packing heavy, bulky items like thick jumpers or heavy coats as standalone pieces. Instead, think about how layers work together to regulate body temperature. A single high-quality waterproof shell can replace a heavy raincoat, and a lightweight wool layer can provide warmth without the bulk of a fleece.

Focus on a cohesive colour palette. If every item of clothing can be worn with every other item, the number of outfits increases exponentially without adding more weight. This means you can pack five tops and three bottoms to create several different looks.

Natural fibres like merino wool are particularly useful for this approach. They are thin, lightweight, and have natural properties that help manage moisture and odours. This allows for wearing items more than once before they need washing, which is essential when you are limited by bag size.

Organise with compression and modularity

Once the selection of items is made, the way they sit in the bag determines how much space remains. Rolling clothes tightly can save more space than folding them, as it removes the air trapped between layers. However, for maximum efficiency, compression packing cubes are a more reliable method.

These small, lightweight fabric pouches allow you to group items by category, such as socks and underwear, or shirts and trousers. Many versions include an extra zip that compresses the contents, squeezing out excess air. This turns a loose pile of clothes into a solid, manageable block.

Modular packing also makes accessing items easier. Instead of digging through a large suitcase to find a single pair of socks, you can simply pull out the specific cube containing them. This keeps the rest of the bag organised and prevents the contents from becoming a jumbled mess halfway through a trip.

Prioritise multi-use tools and liquids

Every item in a bag should ideally serve more than one purpose. A large scarf can act as a blanket on a cold plane, a head covering for sun protection, or an extra layer of warmth. A lightweight towel that dries quickly can serve as a beach towel or a gym towel.

The approach to toiletries is where most people add unnecessary weight. Large bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash are rarely needed. Instead, use small, reusable containers that meet the requirements for carry-on luggage in your specific destination.

Check the local regulations for liquid limits before you head to the airport, as rules regarding volume and container types vary between countries and airlines. Many travellers find that solid versions of products, such as bar soap or solid shampoo, are even better because they do not count towards liquid limits and cannot leak in the bag.

Manage weight through a strict audit

Before closing the bag, perform a final audit. Pick up the bag and feel the weight. If it feels heavy now, it will feel much heavier after two days of walking. Remove anything that is purely for a hypothetical scenario.

If you are worried about being underdressed for a specific event, consider if there is a way to borrow an item or buy something inexpensive once you arrive. It is almost always better to arrive with too little and buy a necessity than to arrive with too much and struggle with the weight.

Always remember to check the specific baggage dimensions and weight limits for your airline or transport provider. Some budget carriers have very strict rules regarding the size of the bag and the weight allowed in the cabin. Always consult official government sources for entry rules, visa requirements, and safety advice before you travel.

Things to try this week

• Lay out every item you intend to pack on a bed and remove one third of it.
• Practise rolling your clothes tightly to see how much space it saves compared to folding.
• Test your current toiletry kit by transferring everything into small, travel-sized containers.
• Weigh your current suitcase on a bathroom scale to establish a baseline.