With news that the multitude of baggage fees put in place by major airlines over the past year has essentially saved their butts, it looks like we’re going to have to begin packing lighter. The fees aren’t going anywhere, but hopefully you and your family are! So in order to avoid up to $25 per bag, we suggest a move towards carrying on when possible.
Sure, you may be thinking “when possible” applies to weekend trips only, but would you believe some people use a single carry on bag and one personal bag for up to ten days of travel? That may be extreme, but with the right packing habits and the right pieces, one week- one bag can be done. Doug Dymont, author of OneBag.com has been promoting this idea since 1996, long before baggage fees came into play.
Fees aside, carrying on your belongings saves time and eliminates the lost luggage nightmare. The Luggage Blog is here to help. For today, we’ve compiled a quick list of packing tips gathered from here and there… a few from over there too. Stay tuned for carry on luggage suggestions as well!
1.Pack only what you need: This may be difficult, for say, someone who has a bag just for their shoes. But if you’re smart you gave that habit up years ago. This becomes easier when you pack entire outfits- planned in advance - which also makes for less time getting ready and more time to enjoy your trip.
2. Color coordinate: Pick a color scheme for your trip and stick to it. This will eliminate the need for several belts, shoes and handbags.
3. Accessorize: You can essentially wear them same suit if you switch up your tie, cuff links, jewelry or scarf. The same goes for casual gear. A classic, crisp white tee worn under a cardigan by day, can be dressed with with a statement necklace and clutch by night. These small accessories take up far less space than an additional garment would.
4. Use packing cubes: Many travelers swear by Eagle Creek Pack-It cubes. If you’re a generally organized person, they may work for you as well. Available in several styles and sizes, they maximize space and simplify packing. Great for T-shirts, jeans, underwear or socks, they make rolling up and stashing items a snap.
Think your packing tips are better than ours? Share them with us below!
by Brooke Dowd Sacco Assistant Buyer & Blogger · May 14th, 2009 
3 responses so far ↓
When packing your carry on, remember to pack
your EXOFFICIO underwear.
17 Counties. 6 weeks. and one pair of underwear.
Quick drying,odor resistant,lightweight.
With all the restrictions these days, I have learned to take much less when traveling. Especially since I just loveeeee my shoes and handbags… but now I usually just take one handbag(black) so that it matches everything and I try to stick with black shoes too. Maybe black pumps, a pair of sneaks and flip flops or flats…but that’s it!
With limited space in your carry on be sure to use ALL the extra space. Such as stuff your shoes with socks, underwear, belt or phone charger. Also be sure to use the dented spot where the frame or wheel well is in your carry on bag. Good place for a rolled sweater, tee-shirt or umbrella.
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