As someone who’s experienced the headache of losing checked in luggage one too many times, I now swear by travelling light with only hand luggage. In this post, I’m sharing my top hand luggage essentials that will help you travel stress-free. From space-saving packing cubes to multi-purpose items, these essentials will help you pack efficiently and enjoy a hassle-free trip. Let’s get started!
Why travel with hand luggage only
As a frequent traveller, I’ve learned the hard way that checking in luggage can lead to lost or delayed bags, which can ruin a trip before it even starts. That’s why I started traveling with hand luggage only wherever possible, and I never looked back.
Aside from avoiding the stress of lost bags, there are plenty of other benefits to traveling with only a carry-on. For one, it saves time at the airport – you can skip the baggage drop and pick-up queues, and head straight to security and the departure gate. It also forces you to pack light, which means less weight to lug around and more freedom to move and explore.
I’m all about sharing tips and tricks for hassle-free travel, whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time adventurer, travelling with hand luggage can be a game-changer. Not only does it make for smoother trips, it also allows you to focus on the destination and the experiences you’ll have there, rather than worrying about your stuff.
I’m sharing below some of my top hand luggage essentials for stress-free trips. From packing hacks to entertainment options, these tips will help you make the most of your carry-on space, and enjoy your travels to the fullest. So pack light, pack smart, and get ready to discover some amazing hidden gems on your next adventure!
Choosing the right carry-on luggage
When it comes to travelling with hand luggage only, choosing the right carry-on luggage is crucial. It’s important to find a bag that is the right size for the airline’s requirements, durable enough to withstand the journey, and lightweight enough to make carrying it around a breeze.
Personally, I prefer to use a small suitcase with four wheels as my carry-on luggage, and I make sure to choose one which is sturdy and has a comfortable handle. When shopping for carry-on luggage, it’s also worth considering features such as compartments and pockets for easy organisation. Some bags even come with built-in chargers or convertible straps for versatility.
I’ve had my fair share of luggage mishaps while travelling, which is why I started this travel blog to share my tips and tricks for stress-free trips. Whether you’re heading off on a weekend getaway or a long-haul flight, choosing the right carry-on luggage can make all the difference. So do your research, invest in a quality bag, and travel with peace of mind.
Packing essentials for clothing and shoes
I try to keep my packing list simple and versatile when it comes to clothing and shoes. Here are my top packing essentials for stress-free hand luggage only travel:
- Comfortable shoes – Whether you’re planning on walking a lot or just need comfortable shoes for the flight, investing in a good pair of trainers is always worth it. They’re also great for activities like hiking or visiting tourist attractions.
- Layering clothes – When it comes to clothing, I always pack layers, such as t-shirts, light jackets, and scarves. This way, you can adjust to the changing weather conditions and avoid overpacking. Plus, you can mix and match these items to create different outfits.
- Neutral colours – Opting for neutral colours like black, white, and grey can make it easier to mix and match your outfits. You can always add pops of colour with accessories like jewellery or a scarf.
- Quick-dry clothing – If you’re going to be on the go, packing quick-dry clothing is a game-changer. Not only do they dry quickly, but they’re also lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for warm climates.
- Comfortable and stylish dress – Having one dress that you can dress up or down can come in handy for any unexpected outings, from a fancy dinner to a museum visit.
When it comes to packing for travel, remember that less is often more. Stick to versatile clothing and shoes that can work for a variety of occasions.
Tips for efficient packing
Packing efficiently can be a real challenge, but it’s absolutely essential if you want to travel light and stress-free. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently for your next trip:
- Plan ahead: Before you start packing, take some time to plan your outfits and activities for your trip. This will help you pack only what you need and avoid overpacking.
- Use packing cubes: Packing cubes are a great way to keep your clothes organized and easy to find in your carry-on. Use different cubes for different types of clothing (e.g. one for tops, one for underwear etc) to keep things tidy.
- Roll, don’t fold: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them takes up less space in your luggage and can help prevent wrinkles.
- Wear your bulkiest items: If you’re travelling with a heavy coat, boots, or other bulky items, wear them on the plane to save space in your luggage.
- Pack versatile clothing: Choose clothing items that can be worn in multiple ways and for different occasions. This will help you pack less and still have plenty of outfit options.
- Avoid overpacking toiletries: Only bring the essentials when it comes to toiletries. Try to pack travel-sized products or decant your favourite products into smaller containers.
- Use vacuum-sealed bags: If you’re really struggling to fit everything into your carry-on, consider using vacuum-sealed bags. These will compress your clothing and free up space in your luggage.
Remember, the key to efficient packing is to only bring what you need and avoid overpacking. With these tips, you’ll be able to pack smart and travel light for your next adventure.
Toiletry essentials to pack
When packing your toiletries for a trip, it’s important to keep it light and compact. Here are my top toiletry essentials to pack in your carry-on luggage:
- Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash – Opt for 3-in-1 or 2-in-1 products to save space.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste – A travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste are essential for maintaining oral hygiene on the go.
- Deodorant – Choose a roll-on or stick deodorant that’s small enough to fit in your toiletry bag.
- Face wash and moisturizer – Pack travel-sized face wash and moisturizer to keep your skin clean and hydrated while on the go.
- Sunscreen – Always pack sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, especially if you’re heading to a sunny destination.
- Hand sanitiser – Keep your hands clean and germ-free with a travel-sized hand sanitiser.
- Feminine hygiene products – If you need them, pack your preferred feminine hygiene products in a small pouch.
- Medications – Pack any prescription medications or over-the-counter medications that you might need during your trip.
- First aid kit – Pack a small first aid kit that includes band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relief medication.
Remember to pack your liquids in a clear, plastic, airport approved bag and have it easily accessible for security checks. Keep in mind that some airports have strict rules when it comes to carrying liquids, so make sure you’re aware of the restrictions before you pack your toiletries.
Entertainment and tech essentials for long flights
Let’s be real – long flights can be a bit of a drag. Luckily, there are plenty of entertainment and tech essentials that can help make the journey more enjoyable.
First and foremost, don’t forget your headphones! Whether you prefer noise-cancelling or simple earbuds, having a pair of headphones can help drown out the noise of the plane and let you focus on your favourite movies, music or podcasts.
Speaking of movies and TV shows, having a tablet or e-reader is a great way to stay entertained on a long flight. Load up your device with your favourite movies or shows, or download a few books to pass the time.
For those who like to stay connected while in the air, a portable charger is an absolute must. You don’t want to run out of battery mid-flight and be left without your device. Many affordable and compact chargers on the market can easily fit into your carry-on.
And lastly, if you’re someone who struggles to fall asleep on planes, consider bringing a sleep aid. Whether it’s a simple eye mask or some melatonin tablets, having a way to help you sleep can make a big difference in how you feel upon arrival.
Remember, when packing your tech essentials, always make sure to check the airline’s rules and regulations regarding the use of electronics on board. And as always, pack light and only bring what you need for a stress-free journey.
Snacks and drinks to pack for the flight
One of the most essential items you can pack in your hand luggage for any flight is snacks and drinks. Not only do they help keep you satiated during long-haul flights, but they can also help stave off hunger pangs when you’re travelling to a new destination. Here are a few of my top picks for snacks and drinks to pack for your next flight.
- Trail mix: This is a great option as it is filling and packed with nutrients. Mix together a combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and granola for a snack that will keep you going for hours.
- Protein bars: Protein bars are a great option as they’re easy to pack and won’t get squished in your luggage. Look for bars that are low in sugar and high in protein to keep you full for longer.
- Fresh fruit: Apples, bananas, and oranges are easy to pack and will provide a quick energy boost during the flight.
- Popcorn: Air-popped popcorn is a healthy and low-calorie snack that’s easy to pack and fun to munch on during the flight.
- Water: Hydration is key during any flight, so be sure to pack a refillable water bottle or buy one at the airport before boarding.
- Tea bags: Pack a few tea bags of your favourite blend to enjoy during the flight. Most airlines will provide hot water to make your tea.
- Coconut water: This natural electrolyte-rich drink is a great alternative to sugary sports drinks and is packed with health benefits.
- Herbal drinks: Pack some sachets of your favourite herbal drinks such as peppermint, chamomile, or ginger for a soothing drink to enjoy on board.
By packing a selection of healthy snacks and drinks, you’ll be able to resist the temptation of high-calorie, processed airline food and drinks. Plus, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and energized, ready to start exploring your new surroundings.
Final thoughts and recommendations
Travelling light with only hand luggage can be a game-changer for your next adventure. Not only does it save you money, but it also saves you time and the headache of waiting for your checked-in luggage. Plus, it makes it easier to navigate through busy airports and public transport.
When packing for your trip, make sure to choose the right carry-on luggage that fits the airline’s requirements. Don’t forget to pack essential clothing items, versatile shoes, and travel-sized toiletries. Remember to pack efficiently and utilize space-saving techniques, such as rolling your clothes instead of folding them.
Long flights can be tedious, but bringing entertainment and tech essentials can make it more enjoyable. Don’t forget to pack snacks and drinks to keep you energized during the flight.