4 In Lifestyle

How to Pack a Carry-On So You Don’t Have to Check a Bag

You know what? I miss flying with a suitcase. Ever since airlines started charging for checked luggage, I’ve been hesitant to do it out of sheer principle. There’s something unsettling about the entire experience of flying — from overpaying for coach tickets to being herded and prodded like cattle — that, by jove, I will NOT suffer the indignity of paying for my suitcase!

Unfortunately this means I’ve had to learn tricks to squish my belongings into a single carry-on. Goodbye, outfit choices. Goodbye, multiple shoes. This also means that I must deal with the reality that I will make a drugstore stop at my destination to buy razors and shaving cream.

But after a few trial and errors, I have the essentials down.

1. Versatile clothes and shoes. If I can’t plan at least three outfits with an item, it doesn’t find a spot in my backpack. No more than three pairs of shoes, including the ones I wear to the airport, and one being comfortable walking shoes.
2. One thin T-shirt and yoga pants. Sleeping attire. Small, practically weightless, sleeping attire.
3. Underwear. No way to fudge that.
4. A tiny vanity bag of toiletries. Toothbrush, travel shampoo, body wash, toothpaste. Solid perfume. The bare essentials.
5. Another tiny bag of jewelry and makeup. This also gets the three-outfit test. Two pairs of earrings, two or three necklaces. Tops. For makeup, I bring a compact and lip gloss. Very, very simple.
6. Reading material. Two magazines or one book, tops.
7. Technology. This, unfortunately, is where I get weighed down. Camera, cellphone, iPod, plus all the accompanying cords. Hey, at least I don’t bring my laptop anymore!
8. Snacks. A granola bar or handful of nuts. No need to pay $5 for the same thing on the plane or in the airport.
9. Handbag. Used as my “personal item.” This is where I keep my wallet, important papers and tissue. I consider tissue a Very Important Thing when flying.
10. Luxury item. Like on “Survivor,” I believe I should have one thing that is completely frivolous on my travels. It’s different every time. And it rarely comes in handy. But it is important nonetheless.