Travelling with only hand luggage can make a trip much simpler. For example, you won’t have to wait at the baggage carousel, worry about checked bags going missing or pay extra baggage fees. However, it’s also not easy to decide what to pack or to fit everything into a single bag. So, here are some tips to help you make the most of the space you have on a trip with only hand luggage.
Choosing your clothing wisely
Clothes often take up most of the room in your bag, so choose your outfits carefully. Pack versatile pieces that work together instead of outfits you’ll only wear once – for example, you can get away with wearing a slip dress with jewellery and a swanky scarf for a night out, or with sandals and a light jacket for a day spent sightseeing. Ideally, wear your bulkiest shoes or jacket while you travel rather than packing them to free up space in your bag.
The length of your trip will naturally influence how much you pack. A change of clothes for each day may work for a weekend away. For longer trips, pack pieces that mix easily and bring a small bottle of travel detergent so you can wash clothes if needed.
Essential toiletries and medicine
Airline liquid limits make toiletries one of the trickiest parts of packing. If you can, decant products into travel-sized bottles or swap them for solid alternatives such as shampoo bars or toothpaste tablets. Pack prescription medicine in its original packaging and carry a copy of your prescription if you think you may need it. Remember that many hotels offer their own shampoo and soap, so you may not need to bring these with you.
Selecting the right bag
Your bag will affect how easily you can pack and unpack throughout your trip. Choose one with compartments that help you organise your belongings without having to dig through everything to find an item. Compression straps or expandable sections can also help you use the available space more efficiently.
Also think about how you’re getting to and from the airport. If you’re getting an airport transfer, you may not need to worry much about the general comfort of carrying your bag. However, if you’ve got a lot of walking to do, pick a bag you can comfortably carry without too much backache or strap-digging.
Many airlines also allow you to carry a personal item in addition to your cabin bag. Use that extra space for valuables, travel documents or electronics that you’ll want to reach quickly.
Entertainment and comfort
Download films, music or podcasts before you leave in case you lose internet access during the journey. Pack a book or magazine if you prefer reading. Keep your headphones, charger and power bank somewhere you can reach without unpacking your entire bag.
Pack a travel pillow and eye mask if you struggle to sleep while travelling. Clip them to the outside of your bag with a carabiner instead of using valuable space inside.
Snacks and hydration
Carry a few snacks with you, particularly if you’ll spend several hours travelling or have specific dietary requirements. Dried fruit, nuts and cereal bars travel well without taking up much room.
Carry an empty reusable water bottle through airport security, then fill it before you board. You’ll save money and have water available throughout the journey.
Critical travel companions
Pack your passport, tickets, travel insurance details and any other important documents so you can reach them quickly. A pen can save time when you need to complete arrival forms, while a small notebook gives you somewhere to write directions, booking references or other useful information.
Conclusion
Packing everything into hand luggage takes a little planning, but the effort often pays off once you reach the airport. Choose versatile clothes, avoid packing anything you won’t use and make every item earn its place in your bag. Travelling light makes moving around much easier once your trip begins.
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