how i fit everything for a trip in one carry-on
I used to think I needed a big suitcase for every trip, but my husband convinced me that paying extra for checked luggage is just throwing money away. So, I challenged myself to fit everything I need—yes, even all my toiletries and makeup—into one cabin bag. It took some trial and error, but now I’m a pro at it.
For toiletries, I ditched liquid shampoo and shower gel for a Dove bar soap and a solid shampoo bar. I even found a solid deodorant that actually works! For toothpaste, I buy a travel-sized tube that’s big enough for both of us, and it comes with a tiny toothbrush. I use little travel pots for mouthwash, face wash, sunscreen, and conditioner—because with my curly hair, skipping conditioner isn’t an option. I just let my hair air dry, so no need to pack a hairdryer or straightener. For skincare, I bring single-dose pods of hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C, and niacinamide. They’re tiny and fit right in my liquids bag, though I’m never sure if TSA will count them as liquids or not.
Makeup was tricky. I bought stackable mini pots for foundation, SPF 50 face cream, night cream, and primer—they last me two weeks, no problem. I found a face palette that covers blush, bronzer, eyeshadow, and highlighter all in one. I take a mini mascara, lipstick, and eyebrow pencil, plus a set of mini brushes in a travel pouch. I even have a tiny perfume atomizer I can refill. The best part? My husband barely uses his liquid allowance, so I sneak a few extra things into his bag. If I couldn’t, I’d just buy toothpaste and sunscreen at my destination, but there’s no way I’m skipping my conditioner—hotel stuff never works for my hair.
Clothes are where I get creative. I pack two matching sets (crop tops, skirt, shorts), a pair of trousers, a black and white tee, and a dress that works for day or night. That’s 13 outfit combos! I travel in gym clothes so I can hit the hotel gym, and I pack two lightweight nighties and a satin robe for pajamas. I bring two white bras, two black bras, seven pairs of underwear, a cute lingerie set, two swimsuits (one to wear, one to wash), a swimsuit cover, and even a thin beach towel. Laundry detergent sheets are a lifesaver for hand-washing—no liquid, no mess.
Shoes are always a struggle, but I narrowed it down to three: a pair of flatform sandals that go with everything (and won’t kill my feet on cobblestones), hiking sandals for long walks, and flip-flops for the beach and hotel. I even squeezed in a waterproof phone case so I don’t have to leave my phone or cash unattended at the pool.
Before the trip, I laminate and tint my brows and lashes so I look put together without makeup—perfect for lazy pool days. I also get a manicure and pedicure so I don’t have to worry about my nails.
On the flight, I bring a face mask, foot mask, my iPad loaded with Netflix movies, headphones, and a book. That way, I’m entertained and arrive with fresh skin and feet.
I honestly can’t believe I used to lug around a giant suitcase. Now, I have everything I need in one carry-on, and I save the extra money for fun stuff on the trip. But I have to ask—does anyone else feel like they’re playing Tetris every time they pack? And am I the only one who thinks hotel toiletries are a joke, especially for curly hair?
#travelhacks #carryononly #packinglight #Travel
