This post from 2016 is one of my most re-pinned images on Pinterest. It continues to generate interest and comments – including so many doubters in disbelief the above pieces actually fit in a carry-on! The pictured items are exactly what I packed in a carry-on for a week long trip to Amsterdam. Long time readers know that even though I’m an efficient packer, my method would be useless without the use of a generous tote. It’s the key piece that makes this system feasible. I’ve used this simple, nondescript Baseline model from Briggs & Riley for years. It’s super spacious and securely slides on to the handles of my suitcase.
The original post is here and I still follow many of the same principles. I lay everything out I’m considering then heavily edit. Thin cashmere knits make the cut over any bulky sweaters. Scarves and patterned shirts in an assortment of colors keep daily looks fresh. Layering additional compact down pieces for extra warmth takes care of any issues with cold weather. Multiple walking shoes to rotate are essential too. If I’m in and out of multiple hotels, I’ll use packing cubes to stay organized.
Keep in mind that the heaviest jacket, bulkiest boots, a pair of jeans and one sweater are being worn on the plane. Everything else quite easily fits in the carry-on. All toiletries, a slim handbag, an oversized scarf, and hat are stored in the tote. I’m so accustomed to traveling carry-on that packing anything larger for less than a week seems unnecessary.
Many of the above pieces are no longer in stock but the general theme of what I’d pack today are the same. New links to the key categories are below.
Read my other posts on packing here.
Packing a Carry-On For Spring Travel
Winter Travel in a Carry-On
Packing a Carry-On for a Week in Cold Weather
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Sarah
I don’t know if this would appeal to you but a video or Instagram story of you showing us how you pack would be informative and fun!!
Kim
Karima, I had to laugh when I pulled up your blog yesterday and saw this post. One of my own favorite pins is what you packed for your trip to Sedona. So many great, timeless items there. Other packing tips that I find helpful are to roll things and also make sure to utilize as many inside pockets as possible
Lauren
This is exactly how I travel, and I never ever check a bag. The Rimowa cabin plus is great (it’s a smidge larger than standard carryon size but they don’t check, especially if you’re a frequent flyer) and I use an LV duffel as my second piece. A wallet on a chain is perfect for walking through airports or going to dinner at your destination, and it fits into the tote easily so it doesn’t count as a third bag. I can travel this way for business too so long as I don’t take too many jackets, as those are the bulkiest things in my wardrobe – I try to wear one on the plane and put one in the carry-on. Knitted jackets work better than woven ones for this purpose. Great post!
Karima
True! Agree with everything you said!
Jones
The number of items looks high, how do you pack them all in one bag?
Karima
It’s all about editing and selecting pieces that pack well. Sweaters without bulk, blouses that can be rolled into a ball, things that lie flat. Then putting all toiletries in the tote. It’s possible and once you’ve done it a few times, the process makes packing very easy.
Moira
You are a model packer! I just came back from 3 weeks and did not check a bag. I may be wearing 2 sweaters on the plane…
Karima
Like a pro! Impressive.