Mastering Carry-On Travel: Efficient Packing Tips for a Week in Europe
We’ve all been there. We book the flights, secure the PTO, rent the car, and then immediately start curating outfits for the trip in our minds. Not just per day, but per meal, per activity, per event, for the trip, etc. etc.…We pick out 7 bathing suits for a 5 day trip, 10 pairs of shoes and 4 purses. Before we know it, our luggage weighs over 50 lbs, we’re rummaging through it at the ticket counter in the airport to reorganize it, sweating through our new “travel outfit” we bought, and wondering how we got here..
Packing efficiently for a one-week trip anywhere, with just a carry-on, requires careful planning and smart choices. The key is to pack light, versatile, and with multi-purpose items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits for various occasions. Here's a guide on how to (hopefully) do it effectively:
1. Choose the Right Luggage: Opt for a lightweight carry-on suitcase or a durable backpack that meets the airline's size restrictions. Make sure it's spacious enough to fit all your essentials without being bulky.
2. Plan Your Outfits: (possibly the most fun and yet the hardest one on the list?) Select items that are versatile and can be worn in different combinations. Stick to a color scheme to make mixing and matching easier. Pack basics like neutral-colored tops, bottoms, and layers that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. (and remember, you don’t need 5 pairs of jeans).
3. Minimize Shoes: Shoes take up a lot of space, so limit yourself to two or three pairs at most. Choose comfortable walking shoes suitable for exploring cities, a pair of dressier shoes for evenings out, and perhaps sandals or flip-flops if you're traveling to a warmer destination. (I promise you, that’s it. That’s all you need!)
4. Pack Travel-sized Toiletries: Toiletries can add unnecessary weight to your luggage, so opt for travel-sized containers or solid toiletries to save space. Remember to comply with TSA regulations regarding liquids (3.4 oz) and pack them in a clear, resealable bag for easy access during security checks. These days they have so many different options for travel sized containers - so have fun with it!
5. Roll Your Clothes: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space and minimize wrinkles. This packing technique also allows you to fit more items into your carry-on. Use packing cubes or compression bags to further organize and maximize space inside your luggage.
6. Layering is Key: Weather can be unpredictable, so pack lightweight layers that can be easily added or removed as needed. A versatile jacket or sweater that can be paired with different outfits is essential, especially if you're traveling during transitional seasons. Reminder: even if going on a sunny beach vacation, a cool breeze at night can ruin dinners outdoors, so don’t forget to bring a light jacket or sweater!
7. Bring Essential Accessories: Don't forget to pack essential accessories like a travel adapter, portable charger, reusable water bottle, and any necessary medications. These items can make your trip more comfortable and convenient…and save you money from having to purchase at your destination.
8. Consider Laundry Options: If you're staying in accommodations with laundry facilities or don't mind handwashing your clothes, you can pack fewer items and plan to do laundry midway through your trip. This allows you to travel even lighter.
By following these tips and prioritizing essential items, you can pack efficiently for a one-week trip to Europe (or anywhere!) with just a carry-on, ensuring that you have everything you need without the hassle of lugging around heavy luggage. What tips do you have that you would add to this list? Comment below!
—>Stay tuned for an update on this blog - as I’ll be trying to stick to these tips on my own adventure in a few months!
