I'm a Former Overpacker Who Finally Went Carry-on-only-These 13 Essentials Made It Possible

"Waiting at baggage claim felt like wasted time, and I couldn't ignore the fact that I was wearing only half of what I packed. That's when I decided it was time to become a carry-on-only traveler. Since then, I've flown dozens of times with just my 22-inch carry-on suitcase, and I truly don't miss checking a bag."

"I'm more intentional about what I bring, planning my outfits ahead of time and sticking to versatile pieces I can mix and match and rewear throughout my itinerary. I also invested in space-saving packing essentials, like compression packing cubes, multi-use clothing, packable totes, and compact tech, that completely changed the way I pack."

"I swapped my rigid hardside luggage for an expandable softside suitcase that lets me pack a little more while still adhering to airline size restrictions. Its flexible fabric compresses easily and offers more 'give' than my old hardshell suitcases, which makes fitting everything inside far less stressful. It's also lighter, giving me a bit more weight allowance for my essentials."

After 30 years of checking bags on nearly every trip, the author transitioned to carry-on-only travel to save time at baggage claim and reduce unnecessary luggage. The shift required rethinking packing habits by planning outfits in advance, selecting versatile pieces that mix and match, and rewearing items throughout trips. Key investments included an expandable softside carry-on suitcase, compression packing cubes, multi-use clothing, packable totes, and compact tech accessories. An expandable softside suitcase replaced rigid hardside luggage, offering flexibility to pack more while staying within airline size restrictions, lighter weight for more allowance, and convenient exterior pockets for mid-travel access.

Read at Travel + Leisure