Travel Light, Travel Free: How Traveling Carry-On Only Changes Your Travel Experience
- Wood Travel 2017
- Jul 19
- 11 min read
I’ve recently embraced traveling with carry-on only, which makes my upcoming nearly month-long journey across six countries and two continents a true test of packing smart and light.
There’s something incredibly freeing about having all your belongings with you at all times—no trekking to baggage claim, no waiting around for suitcases, and no dealing with the stress of lost or damaged luggage. You also avoid the hassle of dragging heavy bags through crowded airports or uneven streets. For a trip of this scale, traveling with carry-on only doesn’t just streamline the logistics—it genuinely enhances the entire experience.
For years, I’d overpacked, hauling suitcases filled with items I rarely used. I bet I wore half of what I brought! I was normally stressed out about my bags when in transit, as I have had bags lost and damaged. Switching to carry-on only was a game-changer—a chance to travel smarter, lighter, and with more freedom. If you’re considering making 'the leap', here are my top tips for mastering the art of carry-on packing. Each photograph is taken of the exact item I use when I travel.
Choose the Right Carry-On Bag
Investing in a durable, lightweight carry-on with plenty of organizational compartments can really make a difference. Whether it's a backpack or a rolling suitcase that fits airline size limits, it helps you maximize space and move with ease. I've had my fair share of bags that didn't quite work, but I think I've finally found the perfect one for me!
My go-to is a black carry-on roller from Helly Hansen, which goes for $300. I snagged it a couple of years ago from Sport Chek for just $80 when it was on sale. It’s soft-sided, which makes it a bit more flexible when squeezing it into overhead bins. It’s a solid little bag that hits the exact maximum dimensions for a carry-on roller.
The shell is made from 100% polyester with a polyurethane coating, so it is durable It has a 40-liter capacity and is the absolute perfect size. The only minor downside? The wheels are non-directional, but that's a small trade-off for the bag's overall sturdiness and functionality.
Dimensions: Width:36.0cm Depth:23.0cm Length:56.0cm
Select a Great Personal Item
This white bag is an Amazon find, priced at $32. With dimensions of 37 x 22 x 47 cm and weighing only 880 g, it’s incredibly lightweight yet durable. It fits within most airlines' size requirements for a personal item, which makes it super convenient. When I’m in transit, I keep the collapsible base retracted, but when I reach my destination and start moving between places, I extend it so I can pack a bit more freely (i.e., a little messier!).
Remember, airlines usually don't weigh personal items, so you can pack heavier things in this bag without worrying about excess weight! Also, it’s a good idea to store electronics, liquids, and anything you'll need to take out at security in this bag for easy access. Once you’re through security, you can rearrange things if needed, but getting through smoothly is key.
While many people swear by a good backpack, I can’t use one due to having had a latissimus (shoulder) muscle removed. A heavy backpack just isn’t practical for me! This bag has a travel sleeve that slides right over the handle of my roller bag, so I don’t have to carry it at all.
Don't Forget About a Versatile Neck Pillow
I'm going to share a secret to get more items on the plane... Do you use and take a neck pillow with you on flights? I, like most people, take one on all my flight journeys. I have recently found this contraption above for about $13.00. It is soft, pretty large, and I stuff it with clean-anything: P.J.'s, scarves, t-shirts, soft shorts, silk dresses, etc. Anything that won't wrinkle when rolled. And I say clean because you will be sleeping on it! It's a creative way to get more on board, especially when traveling with carry-on only!
NOTE: Most airlines in the USA have wised up and will request that neck pillows be placed inside luggage when you check in at the counter, or even at the gate. So watch for this when traveling on a US Airline and be prepared to stuff it into your bag, pay extra, or check something!
Get a Great Crossbody
My daughter had a crossbody she offered to me for a trip, to test it out. Two words: Game Changer.
I absolutely love the freedom of not carrying a purse while having all my essentials within quick reach! I wear it every day, no matter what I've got on—activewear, business attire, dresses, it’s always with me. I picked this one up for $27, and it has two zippered compartments, which I secure with a small carabiner as an extra safeguard against the zippers accidentally opening. This happened with the crossbody I borrowed from her—there was only one zipper, and more than once, I found it half open for no apparent reason - yikes. I made sure the one I bought had that extra feature to avoid the same issue.
What do I pack in it? I keep enough cash for the day, two credit cards, sunglass wipes, a portable battery pack and cord, insect wipes, a small sunscreen, lip balm, any day passes I will need, Kleenex, and my passport (if I need it!). It sits in front of my chest and through one arm, so I always know where my valuables are. I also keep my luggage keys with me (more on this below in "Tips"!)
NOTE: When it comes to U.S. discount airlines, they're keeping an eye on this. They might require you to pack it before proceeding. Their mindset is simple: Every. Single. Dollar. Counts.
Pack Versatile Clothing
Bring clothes that can mix and match easily. Neutral colors and layers work best. Think lightweight fabrics that dry quickly and can serve multiple purposes—from city strolls to evening dinners. I wear a lot of active wear and light (silk) dresses, and these roll up perfectly and travel well.
Packing a capsule wardrobe in a carry-on is all about versatility and simplicity. Stick to a neutral color palette—think black, white, navy, and grey—to make it easy to mix and match items. Aim for 3-4 tops, including a couple of short-sleeve shirts, one long-sleeve option, and a sweater or cardigan. For bottoms, pack 2-3 items: jeans, leggings, and maybe a versatile skirt or pair of shorts. Add one dress that can be dressed up or down, and a jacket or coat depending on the weather. Shoes should be kept to a minimum with 2 pairs: comfortable walking shoes and something that can be dressed up if needed.
To keep everything organized, pack just 4-5 pairs of underwear, 2-3 bras, and a few accessories like scarves or lightweight shawls to change up outfits. For toiletries, choose travel-sized essentials and store them in a clear bag to save space and stay compliant with airport regulations. When it comes to tech, only bring what you need—phone, charger, and maybe one small extra gadget like a tablet. Rolling clothes helps minimize wrinkles and maximizes space, making it easier to fit everything into a carry-on while still having enough options for your trip.
Limit Shoes
Shoes take up the most room, so stick to two pairs: one super comfortable walking pair, preferably white, and one dressier option or sandals, depending on your destination’s climate. As much as I love a nice pair of heels, I would rather take more clothing options, as I feel no one is going to care what's on my feet! You have to gauge what's important to you - what you cannot travel without and what you can leave behind. It ultimately is a personal choice in the end.
Use Packing Cubes
These are a lifesaver!!! Packing cubes help compress clothes and keep your bag organized so you can find what you need without digging. There are two ways you can use these: pack according to days or according to clothing items. I prefer to pack several days in one, going through my itinerary and consciously choosing items I feel will work for that day. You can slip a label inside with a note on contents.
Packing cubes allow you to take more with you, as your bag will be much more dense. Keep in mind weight restrictions for your baggage! Airlines typically don't weigh personal items, but they do check the size and may weigh carry-on luggage. While most airlines focus on size for personal items, ensuring they fit under the seat in front of you, they may also check the weight of carry-on bags, particularly if they appear excessively heavy.
Be Conscious of Liquids (& Creative!)
It’s pretty tough to keep to the 1 litre maximum, and this is the area I struggle with. Your travel-size deodorant aerosols, creme make-ups, mascara, eye shadows, etc. will all need to fit and must be travel size (no larger than 100 ml each), not regular size.
**Don't tell... I have another tip for you... Did you know that medications do not count toward your liquids allowance? Let your mind wander for a minute on that. I'm just saying...... "You're Welcome!"
Be sure to pack all medications together in another bag for inspection, as well as electronics. Anything with a battery will need to be sent through separately and possibly inspected.
Minimize Toiletries
This compact case is a wonderful way to see your items while not using every inch of counter space in your bathroom! With separate compartments for hair ties, makeup, a disposable shaver, travel shampoo and conditioner, and other hygiene items, it's a great way to see it all.
Carry travel-size toiletries or switch to solid shampoo bars and soap bars to save space and avoid liquid restrictions. I now leave my large spray cans of sunscreen and insect repellent at home, choosing to take a travel-sized bug spray and solid sunscreen sticks. I normally purchase a large sunscreen at my destination as I'm a 'burner', so I do need lots!
Wear Bulky Items
While this is an extreme example, I have seen odd 'outfits' at the airport! My advice to you would be that if you’re bringing a jacket, hat, or boots, wear them on the plane to save room in your bag. It also helps when the temperatures plunge to -70 degrees at 30,000 feet, and an airline blanket won't cut it!
And you know those little slippers you get at resorts, or can find on Amazon for $2? Next time, slip them into your bag as they weigh nothing and take up such little room. They come in handy for long flights where you can kick off your boots or runners and let your feet be comfy for a little while!
Plan for Laundry
On longer trips, pack a small laundry kit and plan to wash clothes mid-trip. Many accommodations offer laundry services, or nearby laundromats make it easy to refresh your wardrobe, but I do not want to spend time in laundromats abroad. I pack sheets of laundry soap, tearing off what I need to wash items in my sink. I use a towel to roll the item to ensure it is as dry as it can be, then hang it on a hanger to dry overnight. I found a great article on how to do more intensive laundry, which can be found HERE.
Other Travel tIPS:
*You may think that you do not need luggage locks now, but please buy two locks: one for each of your bags when left in your hotel, and carry keys in your crossbody. No need to worry anymore about theft or leaving valuables behind in room safes. All hotel employees have access to their hotel safe, so consider this tip as additional peace of mind for you when you are out exploring!
*If you don't already have one, go through the Nexus application. It will significantly reduce the time you spend waiting in airport lines in both Canada and the U.S.!
*Take your jacket and shoes off - if you’re wearing sandals, bring socks OR rock the dad look of socks and sandals throughout because those carpets cannot be trusted.
*Keep the AirTag! I leave it in my larger bag as a simple hack to help me find my way back to the hotel.
*I always travel with a water bottle - something inexpensive and lightweight. I make sure the bottle has either a built-in clip or a hook where I can use a carabiner to secure it to my luggage. **Remember: dump out any water in your water bottle while you’re in line at security or when you arrive at the airport.
*I always - I mean always - handle my own luggage when I travel. I am not a princess, and my arms are not broken. I live by the old rule " if you pack it - you carry it!". Actually, for me, it's more of knowing where my belongings are and who is handling them. Second to that, I am not a super patient person when time is ticking and I am still waiting for my bags to be delivered! I want to get showered and out the door to explore! I will handle my own bags, thank you very much though!
Pros and Cons
✈️ Carry-On Only
✅ Pros:
Travel Light – Forces minimalist packing and smarter outfit choices.
Faster Airport Experience – No check-in desk or baggage carousel waits.
Lower Costs – Avoid checked bag fees, especially with budget or U.S. airlines.
Less Risk of Lost Luggage – You have everything with you.
Greater Mobility – Easier to navigate buses, ferries, stairs, and narrow streets.
Easier Handling During Delays – If flights are delayed or missed, you still have all your essentials.
Keep Valuables Close – Laptops, cameras, meds, and other must-haves are always in reach.
❌ Cons:
Severely Limited Packing Space – Minimal clothing, shoes, and no room for extras.
Strict Security Rules – Liquids, sharp objects, batteries all restricted.
TSA Delays – A fully packed carry-on may attract longer security checks.
Repeat Outfits Often – Limited wardrobe means hand-washing and rewearing.
Can't Bring Back Much – Souvenirs and gifts are tough to fit in.
Limited Tech – Larger camera gear, drones, or laptops may not fit.
Risk of Forced Gate Check – Overhead bins fill fast; late boarders may have to check anyway.
🧳 Checked Baggage
✅ Pros:
Pack More – Extra clothes, shoes, accessories, toiletries, and gear.
Great for Long Trips – More variety, especially for trips over a month.
Tech & Equipment Friendly – Space for camera gear, tripods, drones, or scuba gear.
Room for Shopping – You can buy things at your destination and bring them back.
No Toiletry Limits – Full-size shampoos, conditioners, and other liquids allowed.
Less Daily Packing Stress – No need to cram or Tetris your bag every move.
❌ Cons:
Extra Cost – Fees for checked bags are common on most airlines.
Longer Airport Waits – Time spent checking in and waiting at baggage claim.
Risk of Lost Luggage – While rare, delayed or lost bags do happen.
Security Can Open Bags – Padlocks might be cut or items shifted.
Heavier Load to Carry – More weight means more strain on your back/shoulders.
Inconvenient on Public Transport – Bigger bags can be hard to manage on trains/buses.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with carry-on only isn’t just about saving space — it’s about reclaiming your time and energy. I found myself breezing through airports, stepping off planes ready to explore immediately, and enjoying the peace of knowing I had everything I needed right by my side. At first, it felt like I was forgetting a step at the airport, but that’s because I didn’t need to check in at the counter or wait around at the luggage carousel. It’s incredibly time-saving and, honestly, freeing. If you’re ready to simplify your travel routine and embrace freedom on the go, try packing light on your next adventure. Your spirit — and your back — will thank you.
Oh... and if you are in the market for some nice suitcases that have hardly been used, get a hold of me as there are a few in my basement now that will make their way to thrift in the spring!
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