On my trip to Jamaica, I was able to go completely #TeamCarryOn! This was my first time not checking a bag for an international trip. Listen in to the Outdoorsy Diva Podcast to hear the 3 packing tips to have you traveling like a pro.
Secret Weapon of Travel Pros
Packing cubes are the secret weapon of frequent travelers. The cubes allow you to separate your items into individual compartments. The compartments allow you to fit way more clothes into your luggage than you could without them.
It also helps you stay organized and neat since it separates your items. Trust me it’s really useful when you’re looking for something to not have to dig through the suitcase.
What to Look For in Carry-On Luggage
The best carry-on luggage will have the following characteristics:
- 360 degree spinner wheels
- Hard shell cover
- Double sided with zip divider
- Pockets and compartments for shoes and miscellaneous items
- Expandable capability
Carry-on backpacks should have cushion straps, and compartments for easy organization and to make it easy to take items in and out. If your bag or backpack will be your personal items then you want something compact enough to fit under your seat since many airlines only permit one item in the overhead bin.
Tips for Traveling With Duty-Free
You are permitted to make duty-free purchases at many international destinations in the airport terminal after you have cleared security. Super convenient right? If you’re not checking a bag you can still bring your duty free alcohol purchases onboard. This is perfect as long as you have a direct flight back home.
However, if you have a connecting flight it throws a wrench into your plans of only having a carry-on. Once you arrive and come through US Customs you will have to go through airport security in order to catch your connecting flight. You won’t be able to bring your duty free alcohol through security if larger than 3 oz. and that means you will need to carefully pack your alcohol and check your luggage at the ticket counter.
A wine sleeve is a great way to make sure your purchase doesn’t get broken inside of your suitcase or leak. Trust me, I’ve opened up my bag and everything smelled like rum and it is no fun! A protector for packing duty free alcohol is clutch. Invest in a few and just take them with you just in case.
It takes a bit of practice but you can join #TeamCarryOn too with these packing tips.
Have your own favorite packing tips? Share in the comments below.
Love it? Pin It!
11 Comments
Mimi Green
June 22, 2018 at 10:05 pmI have the perfect hard shell 360 spinner carry on suitcase. I do need to purchase some packing cubes. That would be a huge help.
Lauren
June 25, 2018 at 2:42 pmI’m telling you the packing cubes will change your life. You’ll be like how did I function without these before now?!
Crystal Nicole
June 23, 2018 at 12:11 pmSo many great tips. I’ll be doing some traveling this summer and I’m loving all the helpful travel tips. Thank you!
Kim
June 24, 2018 at 8:41 pmThese are great tips. I actually need to get a new carry-on. You’re right, packing cubes are amazing!
Dominique
June 24, 2018 at 9:52 pmThis is super helpful as I’ll be jetting off to New Zealand later this year. The last time I overpacked, I strained a rib hauling my suitcase off a conveyor belt at the airport. That was possibly the most painful injury ever!
Lauren
June 25, 2018 at 2:41 pmOuch!! But yay for going to New Zealand. That’s a destination high on my bucketlist.
Kita
June 25, 2018 at 7:29 amKeeping all these tips for when I take my first plane ride ever. I love the packing cubes. I use those now for road trips.
Lauren
June 25, 2018 at 2:40 pmWhen is your first plane ride?? And where to?
Stacie
June 25, 2018 at 11:04 amGood to know! I honestly don’t travel much but I’m amazed to see all the new gadgets and things to make it easier.
Sheena
June 26, 2018 at 2:33 amI defintely need to get some packing cubes. Everything in my purse is separated in pouches so I know I’d love packing cubes for my luggage.
Lauren
June 26, 2018 at 4:35 pmWow I should probably use this tip about pouches in my purse. That never occurred to me other than a makeup bag. Genius!