I’m hopping a flight for a girls’ weekend and want to live the “carry-on” life!
If you’re naturally a light packer, this may sound simple. As a fashion stylist and a mom, minimalism isn’t my thing. It’s my job to be prepared for every activity, temperature shift, social scenario, and just-in-case moment—with backups. Add tech devices, chargers, meds, and my deep fear of fitting all liquids into one tiny zip bag, and you can see why this keeps me up at night.
But the opportunity to travel solo, with the promise of breezing through security and skipping baggage claim, was enough to make it happen without looking like Joey from Friends wearing all his clothes at once!
1. Choose the Right Carry-On Bags
The secret is maximizing what airlines already allow. Most flights allow one personal item (under the seat) and one carry-on (in the overhead bin). Always check your airline’s size rules first, as they vary.
My personal bag
Allowed size: 18 x 14 x 8 inches
I found a backpack designed to fit exactly under the seat. It’s basically a structured rectangle, which means zero wasted space. Bonus: built-in compartments that keep everything organized. I wish I had found this miracle bag sooner!
My carry-on roller
Allowed size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
My roller bag fits these dimensions perfectly, which is great. Disclaimer: There is an option to expand if I find some must-have souvenirs to take home. I’m only human!
2. Check the Weather
Warm trips are always easier to pack for, but this one is a mix. Daytime temps in the 50s, nighttime lows in the 30s—right when I plan to wear my cutest party tops. Translation: pack layers for versatility!
3. Map Out the Activities
There’s talk of hiking…which for me could translate to shopping. Add in nice dinners, nightlife, and dancing, and suddenly the outfits are adding up.
4. Pick a Color Scheme
This is where carry-on magic happens. I’m building a mini capsule wardrobe with black as the base color. Everything mixes, matches, and works overtime.
5. Plan Outfits by Day
Instead of packing “options,” I plan actual outfits for each day and night. This alleviates stress and unworn items.
6. Travel Storage Cubes Are a Packers’ Delight!
They save space, keep outfits together, and make unpacking way less chaotic. Once you use them, there’s no going back.
Bonus win: Our rental has a washer and dryer so that I can wash and re-wear. Huge.
What I Packed
Friday
Travel: black washed sweats, black sneakers, black jacket, black/tan wool wrap scarf (perfect for layering!)
Evening: black stretch cords, black asymmetrical off-the-shoulder sweater, black boots
Bed: pajamas, slippers
Saturday
Day: leggings, sweatshirt (worn the day before), lightweight nylon (waterproof) jacket, sneakers
Evening: jeans, black sparkly tank with attached wrap cardigan, black jacket, boots
Bed: pajamas, slippers
Sunday
Day: jeans, t-shirt, black cardigan, sneakers
Evening: black jeans, black button-down, black jacket, black boots
Bed: pajamas, slippers
Monday
Travel: black washed sweats, black sneakers, black jacket, black/tan wool wrap scarf
The Essentials
- ID and wallet
- Toiletries and cosmetics
- Tech and chargers
- Hair dryer and diffuser
- Underwear (4)
- Bras (2)
- Hosiery (6)
- Day to evening bag
- Black belt
- Tank top for layering
- Thin cashmere base layer top for warmth (can be worn alone)
And that’s how a chronic over-packer officially gets it Done! Done! Done! (Sorry, I hope my fellow moms can forgive that one!)
