- My suitcases have gotten lost on several trips, so I never check a bag if I can help it.
- I save space in my carry-on by wearing my bulkiest items on the plane and doing laundry on my trips.
After one too many lost-luggage incidents, I never check a bag if I can help it. My trusty carry-on suitcase and backpack have served me well through numerous trips abroad, including Scotland, New Zealand, and Iceland.
Here are three ways I save space in my carry-on luggage for long trips.
I wear my bulkiest items on the plane
On a recent trip to Iceland, I wore my coat and waterproof boots to the airport so that they didn't take up precious space in my suitcase. My puffy jacket functioned as a makeshift pillow and blanket during my red-eye, and my boots easily slid on and off to help me get comfortable.
I pack a few basics and do laundry at my destination
When I stop and think about it, I only wear a fraction of the clothes I own regularly anyway. While planning my outfits for a longer trip, I try to stick to a few basics that I know I like and can mix and match. As tempting as it is to throw in a few more outfits "just in case," I find that I rarely wear those last-minute additions.
Having laundry access where I'll be staying also helps me pack light.
I bring travel-size toiletries and replenish as needed
My 3-ounce toiletry bottles can last me a week or so. Instead of bringing heavier, larger bottles and being forced to check a bag, I usually swing by a pharmacy during my travels to buy additional travel-size bottles to get me through the rest of my trip — and pick up some local snacks while I'm at it.