How to Travel With Carry-On Only? 6 Essential Tips and Helpful Tricks

Are you tired of feeling like a packed mule every time you travel? Well, it’s time to ditch oversized suitcases and start traveling with a 40-liter Backpack! Trust me, it’s a game-changer.

Picture this: no more waiting in never-ending lines at baggage claim, no more anxiously watching as everyone else’s bags appear while yours is nowhere to be found. Instead, you’ll be breezing through airports like a ninja, with all your essentials in a compact 40-liter backpack.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. How on earth is it possible to fit everything you need in such a small bag? Don’t worry! I am about to reveal the secrets of efficient packing that will blow your mind. But let’s uncover the two main reasons on how to travel with carry-on only!

Money. Yes, that’s right. By avoiding checked baggage fees, you’ll be saving enough cash to treat yourself to a fancy dinner. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you’re not contributing to the ever-growing mountain of lost luggage.

Another aspect is time. While others are anxiously waiting for their suitcases to appear, you’ll be strolling out of the airport, ready to embark on your next adventure!

So, let’s buckle up (or should I say, backpack up? 😃) because we’re about to embark on a journey of efficient packing and stress-free travel. Let’s answer the question ‚How to Travel With Carry-On Only?‘

Now, allow me to introduce you to your new best friend: the 40 liter backpack. You’ll be amazed at how much you can fit inside while still keeping everything organized and easily accessible. But which aspects are important when choosing the right backpack for YOU?

First, practicality is key. This size strikes the perfect balance between space and weight, allowing you to pack all your travel essentials without feeling like you’re carrying a small elephant on your back.

Comfort is another top priority when it comes to exploring the world with hand luggage. A well-designed 40 liter backpack will have padded shoulder straps and a supportive back panel, ensuring that you can comfortably carry your belongings for hours on end without feeling like you’re being punished by an ancient torture device.

Mobility: With a waterproof backpack, you’ll be able to navigate through crowded markets, climb ancient ruins, and hop on and off trains at any weather condition. No more awkwardly maneuvering through narrow streets or getting stuck in turnstiles.

Organization: A backpack with multiple compartments is an absolute game-changer. Imagine being able to easily find your favorite dress or sunglasses without having to unpack your entire bag. You can find the link to a similar travel backpack than mine here since mine is not available anymore.

2. How to pack carry-on luggage for your world trip

Instead of folding, roll your clothes tightly to maximize space and minimize wrinkles. Not only will this save space, but it also makes it easier to find specific items without creating a chaotic mess inside your backpack.

These bags are a game-changer when it comes to maximizing space. Simply place your clothes inside, seal the bag, and then roll or squeeze out the excess air. Voila! You’ll be amazed at how much space you can save by compressing your clothes.

These organizers are like Tetris for your luggage. Not only do they keep your clothes organized, but they also create more space by efficiently filling every nook and cranny. It’s like a puzzle where everything fits perfectly, leaving you with extra space for that souvenir you just can’t resist.

I, personally, use packing cubes as I prefer them instead of a compression system which my boyfriend uses. Both options are extremely helpful to stay organized on your travels.

Looking for cool stuff to do on your trip? Check out Viator, they’ve got tons of tours and fun things that’ll fit just what you’re into. Find your next adventure easy and start making memories!

Instead of packing those heavier items like jackets or boots, why not wear them during your journey? Not only does this free up precious space in your 40 liter backpack, but it also keeps you warm and cozy during those chilly airport layovers. Plus, you’ll arrive at your destination looking effortlessly stylish and ready for any weather.

Before you embark on your adventure, make sure to weigh your luggage to meet airline requirements. This will ensure you avoid any unpleasant surprises at the check-in counter. If you find yourself exceeding the weight limit, it’s time to prioritize. Assess the essential items you urgently need versus those you can live without. It’s a tough decision, but trust me, it’s worth it to avoid extra fees and unnecessary weight.

Pack only clothing pieces that are easy to combine with each other to have multiple outfits. Think of items like a classic white shirt, a pair of well-fitting pants, or a versatile dress that can be dressed up or down. By selecting clothing items that can be mixed and matched, you’ll be able to create different looks without overpacking.

Neutral shades like black, white, gray, or beige are not only timeless but also incredibly versatile. Plus, they are less likely to show dirt or stains (except for white pieces of course), which is always a bonus when you’re on the go.

When it comes to traveling with hand luggage, it’s all about maximizing space and efficiency. Here are some must-have items that will make your journey easier!!

Don’t waste precious space on unnecessary gadgets. Invest in a universal travel charger and adapter that can work with multiple devices and plug types. This way, you can charge all your electronics without carrying multiple chargers.

Save space by opting for foldable essentials. A daypack that can be easily packed away when not in use is a great addition to your hand luggage. Similarly, pack a compact rain jacket that can protect you from unexpected showers without taking up too much space. And don’t forget microfiber towels, which are not only space-efficient but also quick-drying.

Traditional toiletry bottles can be bulky and take up unnecessary space in your bag. Instead, use solid toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel. These compact bars are not only sustainable but also space-efficient. Remember to pack essentials like a solid deodorant as well.

Instead of carrying physical copies of your important documents, store them on your phone and in the cloud. This saves space and ensures that you have access to your documents even if you misplace the physical copies. Additionally, take advantage of technology by using apps like Notion to stay organized. Not only can you store critical information, but you can also use it as a travel diary, eliminating the need to carry a separate notebook.

While it’s tempting to pack every tech gadget you own, it’s essential to be selective. In most cases, a smartphone with a good camera is sufficient for capturing memories.

Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your journey. Look for collapsible or foldable options that occupy minimal space when not in use. I, personally, use an insulated water bottle rather, but I can also recommend foldable water bottles which I usually use for festivals, for example.

Use washing facilities when available, or carry your travel laundry detergent to wash clothes in emergencies. Check local laundromats for prices to avoid unpleasant surprises. If you decide to do laundry on your own, it might be helpful to carry a portable clothes line with you.

Always keep your backpack closed to keep unwanted guests away. When staying in places with the potential of bugs running around, place your backpack on elevated surfaces to ensure they can’t get in. Also, make sure to close it every single time!

Place heavier items at the bottom of your backpack to maintain balance. Lighter items can be placed on top for comfortable carrying.

Keep your belongings secure with travel locks for your luggage. Look for TSA-approved locks for stress-free security checks. This also keeps your belongings safe if you are staying at a hostel or leaving your luggage in storage places while exploring a new place.

Make your travels smoother by using eSIM cards. You can get them before your trip, so you’re ready to go as soon as you arrive. With Airalo, plans start at only $5. It’s an easy and cheap way to keep in touch!

Our article on how to travel with carry-on only wouldn’t be complete without answering some of the most asked questions about this topic. I bet some of you came up with these while reading the article:

We now answered all the questions regarding how to travel with carry-on only and hopefully helped you a lot!

All in all, a 40-liter backpack gives you a more worry-free travel experience. Of course, it’s not for everyone, but it’s worth a try. It is also recommended to test this way of traveling step by step. For example, I started to go on city trips within Europe only with hand luggage, as it annoyed me to pay 30€ for a return flight to Athens, but 150€ with luggage included.

The next step was a 10-day trip to Morocco and finally, I realized that on longer trips you usually need clothes for 10 days anyway. As you can see, I didn’t decide overnight to go on a trip around the world with hand luggage.

So what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip with carry-on luggage and experience the world in a whole new way. Whether it’s a trip around the world or a short trip, traveling with light luggage will change your perspective and create unforgettable memories.

Do not forget to follow me on my socials to stay updated on our adventurous world trip and get some more travel inspiration! If you want to know which places we traveled to with our backpack, follow this link.

I hope to see you again soon on this blog. Do not forget to share this How to travel with carry-on guide with your friends and family too 🙂