The Step-by-Step Guide to Build The Perfect Carry On
Despite the long lines at the airport, we’re here to admit it: our wanderlust has been at an all-time high this summer. It’s not an understatement to say we’re always itching to get away. The key is being ready to leave at a moment’s notice for the next great adventure, so we’re all about easy packing. An organized carry-on is a must, and making the most of limited space ensures you have everything you need. Here are our best tips for packing yours. And since getting there is half the fun, we’ve included some tips to make your journey a more enjoyable one.
##Step 1: Get the Right Luggage
Not all carry-on luggage is created equal, and investing in a great piece will make your travel life much easier. First, make sure it’s sized to fit most airline requirements as a carry-on, because there’s nothing quite as frustrating as rolling up with a bag that’s an inch too wide and facing a checked-bag fee. Next, make sure it’s unique: This Roam carry on doesn’t just feature a brilliant design for maximized space, it’s also customizable at no extra cost. Choose your color scheme down to the wheels, and don’t forget your monogram. Not flying? Great. The expandable version opens up to give you even more room.
##Step 2: Organize With Cubes
Packing cubes are so absolutely genius that it’s hard to know how or why we never thought of them before. These space-savers will keep your items organized and serve to compress your clothing to give you even more space. You can cube up your outfits by days or by planned activities, even toiletries—or however you like. Not sure where to start? TikTok has great ideas to get you going.
##Step 3: Roll ‘Em Up
One way to save even more space in your packing cubes: Roll your clothes instead of folding, and keep outfits together—top, bottom, underwear, socks.
##Step 4: Think Small
Keep your toiletry bag packed and ready for action with small, travel-sized versions of your favorite skincare and makeup. Make it work for your space with an organizer—we love this one from Dagne Dover, with compartments for every little tube and pot. The bonus? The smart and beautiful bag is made from recycled bottles.
##Step 5: Make It Personal
In addition to a carry-on, most airlines will also allow a personal item. If you need extra space, this Weekender bag from Beis fits the bill: The zip-on bottom compartment is perfect for shoes, and the zipper on the side converts to a “trolley sleeve” that slips easily over the handle of your roller suitcase, so they stack neatly for easy movement through busy airports.
##Step 6: Enjoy The Ride
The anticipation of your arrival is made even better by an enjoyable journey, so be prepared.
- Stay hydrated in the air and you’ll feel better at wheels down: Since you can’t bring water through security, pack your favorite water bottle and sticks of your favorite flavor Hydration Multiplier (we recommend the quintessential summer-y kick of Tropical Punch). When you get to your gate, fill up your reusable bottle then—tear, pour, shake, and sip.
- Try some sky-high skincare. We all know how recycled airplane air can dry you out, so use this opportunity to relax with your favorite skin mask or undereye patches.
- Stay entertained. Short trips rarely offer in-flight entertainment these days, so make sure to bring your own. There are so many great podcasts out there right now, including the buzzworthy _Normal Gossip _and the riveting Sorry About The Kid—a shorter series you can likely finish by the end of your return flight. If you’re a reader looking for a page-turner, try The Lifeguards by Amanda Eyre Wood. If you’re into thrillers, you’ll love the slow-build of suspense in Michelle Hart’s We Do What We Do In The Dark. For more serious fare, try Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow.
- Keep kids entertained. Flights can be a bit boring, so bring along some old-school entertainment for kiddos. Story Cubes- Voyages is a game that inspires them to get creative with storytelling. Or, try the truly addictive Spot It—fun for the whole family.
- Catch some zzzs. The plane is the perfect time to rest up for all the fun you’re about to have (or for proper recovery when homebound). Be sure to bring a travel pillow for easy sleep, compression socks for total air-travel comfort, and a lightweight blanket that folds compactly to fit in your bag.