How to pack for a week in carry on luggage

​

---

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.

​Using only carry-on luggage for a long trip requires careful planning and organization. Start by making a packing list of essentials and choosing the right carry-on luggage that fits airline size restrictions. Pack smart by rolling clothes and using packing cubes, wear bulky items on the plane, and utilize the extra space of a personal item if allowed by the airline. Plan your outfits in advance and be mindful of liquids, making sure they are in containers that hold 3.4 ounces or less and stored in a clear, quart-sized bag. By following these tips, you can efficiently pack all the necessary items for your trip in carry-on luggage.

Make a packing list

Making a packing list is an important step in preparing for a trip, especially when traveling with only carry-on luggage. To make a packing list, start by writing down all the items you need to bring, including essentials, clothing, toiletries, and any other items specific to your trip. Prioritize the items on your list and make sure you have everything you need.

​A packing list will help you avoid overpacking and ensure that you don't forget any important items. It is also a good idea to check the weather forecast for your destination and make sure you pack accordingly. By creating a packing list, you can streamline the packing process and make sure you have a stress-free and enjoyable trip.

I have created the image below for you to easily save to your phone or computer. 

​Here is a sample packing list for a week-long trip using only carry-on luggage. I made some of these items clickable links for products that I personally recommend for packing in carry-on luggage. 

Clothing:

• 7 tops (mix of short and long sleeves)
• 3 bottoms (pants, skirts, shorts)
• 1 light sweater or jacket
• 1 pair of shoes (wear your bulkiest pair on the plane)
• 7 sets of underwear and socks
• 1 swimsuit (if applicable)

Toiletries:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Razor and shaving cream
• Deodorant
• Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
• Sunscreen
• Face wash and moisturizer
• Makeup (minimal essentials)

Electronics:

• Phone and charger
• Laptop or tablet and charger
• Camera (if desired) and charger
• Portable battery pack
• Travel adapter (if needed)

Miscellaneous:

• Passport and travel documents
• Money, credit cards, and ID
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Scarf
• Books or magazines
• Snacks
• Water bottle

​Remember to plan your outfits ahead of time and choose clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched. This will help you maximize the space in your carry-on luggage and ensure you have a variety of options for your trip.

Choose the right luggage

Choosing the right size carry-on luggage is crucial when traveling with only a carry-on bag. Airlines have size restrictions for carry-on luggage, so check your airline's specific requirements before purchasing a bag. A good carry-on luggage should fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you and have enough room to store all your essentials for the trip.

Consider purchasing a carry-on with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, and choose a bag with durable materials to protect your belongings during travel. In addition, think about the type of trip you are taking and what items you need to bring with you. By choosing the right size carry-on luggage, you can make sure that your trip is comfortable and stress-free.

Pack smart

Packing smart is essential when traveling with only carry-on luggage for a week or more. To maximize space, consider rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This will help reduce wrinkles and save space in your bag. Utilize packing cubes to organize smaller items, and place heavier items at the bottom of your bag to balance the weight.

​When packing liquids, make sure they are in containers that hold 3.4 ounces or less, and store them in a clear, quart-sized bag in a separate compartment of your carry-on. Wear bulky items, such as a jacket or sneakers, on the plane instead of packing them, and consider bringing a personal item, such as a purse or a small backpack, to have extra space for items you need during the flight. By packing smart, you can ensure that your carry-on luggage is organized and efficient, making your trip more enjoyable.

Wear your bulky items

Wearing your bulky items on the plane is a smart way to save space in your carry-on luggage. When traveling with only a carry-on bag, every inch of space counts, so wearing items such as jackets, sneakers, or even a sweater can free up room in your luggage. Additionally, wearing bulky items can also provide extra comfort during the flight, especially if you tend to get cold on planes.

It's important to consider the climate at your destination, as well as the comfort of your flight when deciding what items to wear. By wearing your bulky items on the plane, you can make the most of your carry-on luggage and have a more comfortable and stress-free trip.

Consider a personal item

Bringing a personal item onto the plane can be a smart way to utilize extra space and make your travel experience more comfortable. Personal items, such as a purse, a laptop bag, or a small backpack, can be a convenient place to store items you need during the flight, such as snacks, a book, or a tablet. Some airlines also allow you to bring a personal item in addition to your carry-on bag, giving you more space for your belongings.

​When choosing a personal item, make sure it meets the size requirements of your airline and can fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. By bringing a personal item onto the plane, you can make the most of your limited space and have a more organized and comfortable trip.

I love bringing a personal item bag, in which I can fit my laptop, iPad, phone, purse, and snacks all in one bag. This helps consolidate what I'm carrying and also allows me to bring more items onto the plane with me, than if I would have tried to carry them separately. 

Plan your outfits

Planning your outfits in advance is a key step in efficiently packing for a trip, especially when traveling with only carry-on luggage. Consider the activities you have planned and the climate at your destination, and pack outfits that can be mixed and matched to maximize the number of outfits you can create with limited items. Aim for versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down and be mindful of the colors you choose, as items that coordinate well can help you get more use out of each piece.

​When packing, lay out each outfit and consider if you need additional items, such as a scarf or a hat, to complete the look. By planning your outfits in advance, you can ensure that you have a variety of options while also maximizing the space in your carry-on luggage.

Be mindful of liquids

Being mindful of liquids is important when packing for a trip, especially when traveling with only carry-on luggage. Airlines have restrictions on the size and amount of liquids you can bring in your carry-on bag, so it's important to be aware of these restrictions. Make sure all liquids, including shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and any other items, are in containers that hold 3.4 ounces or less and store them in a clear, quart-sized bag. This bag should be easily accessible for security screenings. Consider purchasing travel-sized containers for your liquids to save space in your carry-on bag. By being mindful of liquids, you can ensure that you have everything you need for your trip while also following the regulations set by the airline.

I really like these two travel kits, which I have linked below for you. One is geared toward women and the other towards men. You could individually purchase these products, but it is very convenient, and less expensive, to have them all in one toiletry kit. 

Traveling with medication in carry-on luggage

Traveling with medication in carry-on luggage is generally recommended, as it allows the traveler to have quick access to their medication and ensures that the medication is not lost or damaged during transit. However, there are certain guidelines and regulations that must be followed when traveling with medication in carry-on luggage.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific rules regarding medication in carry-on luggage. Medications are allowed in carry-on bags, but they must be screened separately from other items and must be declared to the TSA officer at the security checkpoint. It is also recommended to keep medication in its original packaging with the prescription label intact, as this can help avoid any confusion or questions at the security checkpoint.

Liquid medication, including eye drops, insulin, and cough syrup, is also allowed in carry-on bags, but must be placed in a clear plastic bag and be limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per container. The bag must be taken out of the carry-on bag and placed in a bin for screening.

It is also recommended to carry a doctor's note or prescription for any medications that may be questioned by TSA or customs officials, especially for medications that are not commonly known or may be considered controlled substances. The note should include the name of the medication, the dosage, and the reason for the medication.

When traveling internationally, it is important to research the laws and regulations regarding medication at the destination. Some countries may have restrictions or require additional documentation for certain medications, and it is important to be prepared to avoid any issues at customs.

Traveling with medication in carry-on luggage is generally recommended, but there are specific guidelines and regulations that must be followed. It is important to declare medication to TSA officers, keep medication in its original packaging, and carry a doctor's note or prescription for any medications that may be questioned. When traveling internationally, it is important to research the laws and regulations regarding medication at the destination to avoid any issues at customs.​

Read more about traveling with medications in my article, Traveling with Medication Comprehensive Guide, to learn more tips on medications and travel. 

By following these tips, you should be able to successfully pack for your long trip using only a carry-on luggage.