These Simple Tips Will Make Traveling With Just One Carry-On Bag Even Easier

With extra bag fees looming and the additional time it takes to check a bag before heading to the lengthy airport security line, having check-in luggage definitely makes for a less-than-enjoyable travel experience. Of course, the fun does not stop there. Once all your bags are checked, and you finish the TSA "Hokey Pokey" with your shoes and other things in your one allowed personal item, you are left to wonder if your luggage will arrive at your intended destination.

As lost luggage becomes more commonplace and the extended time it takes to collect your belongings (if they do arrive) increases, there is no denying that there has to be a better way. Thankfully, you can bypass most of these travel hiccups by mastering the art of packing just one carry-on or a single piece of cabin luggage. Yet with limited space in addition to strict rules and regulations, packing your smallest (under 22 x 14 x 9 inch) suitcase can initially seem challenging. But, with these simple carry-on-only packing tips, backed by frequent flyers, packing a carry-on bag just got a whole lot easier.

Before selecting just any old small travel bag you have, it is in your best interest to figure out if it is indeed the right carry-on bag. Having a durable and appropriately sized suitcase is really only half of the battle. Thus, travelers will likely be in the market for new cabin luggage, but the good news is that most carry-on luggage is reasonably priced. So when shopping for a new bag, look at things like the material since both soft and hard-shell suitcases have pros and cons (via Pure Wow).

Whether your roller suitcase has any outside pockets, non-removable spinner wheels, or expands also needs to be considered. Surprisingly, the weight of your bag matters too — some airports will weigh your carry-on, and if it is too heavy, they will check it planeside. So, ideally, you want a bag that allows for all, if not the bulk of, your must-have belongings. While, at the same time, still fitting in the overhead compartments and being somewhat easy to carry around or roll about town. Remember, your chosen carry-on bag should not be overly heavy or bulky before or after packing — and the same goes for your backpack or personal item.

Once you have completed the prep work mentioned above, it is time to get your hands dirty. Most frequent flyers typically aim to pack for a week, no matter the length of their trip. Since a week's worth of clothing easily fits in most carry-on luggage, this should also be your goal. Of course, there are several ways, clothing countdowns, and recommended approaches that travelers can rely on to accomplish only packing for one week (per Her Packing List).

Still, the most popular methods that seem to get the job done for cabin luggage are packing versatile items (that you can easily mix and match) and creating a limited number of outfits (in advance) that can be used for multiple occasions. These specific packing methods complement one another, so you can pack for a single week with ease if you opt to use them both. Plus, when they are paired with the right hacks, smart tips, travel organizers, and pack-friendly accessories, you will be done packing in no time at all.

Compression cubes and space-saver bags are packing hacks that are carry-on-only game changers. In fact, when packing light, either option is a must. If you are a traveler who normally does not use cubes or bags, then now is the time to invest in some high-quality ones. Both of these packing organizers come in a variety of sizes and are budget-friendly. Compression cubes make packing your easy-to-layer clothing more streamlined, and you can spend a little more for the cubes that come with labels to stay organized from start to finish.

Likewise, space-saver or vacuum-sealed bags are worth the investment, especially when traveling to colder destinations. These clear, waterproof bags are easy to use and do not require a vacuum or another accessory — you simply squeeze the air out while closing the bag. Once properly sealed, you have almost double the extra space in your carry-on bag, luggage, or backpack, making it much easier to have all your must-have vacation attire.

For many travelers having at least one formal look is essential, if not necessary. But sometimes, there is not enough room in your luggage for extravagant statement pieces and ensembles. Limiting your dressy outfits is better if this is one of those times. One of the best ways to look chic without overdoing it on the packing side is to rely on those versatile pieces and pre-planned outfits you have already packed (per Solo Sophie).

Often travelers are too busy with their scheduled tours, events, and sightseeing, and then some run back to their hotel for a full costume change before dinner, drinks, or other impromptu fun. So seriously, please do not overdo it here. By sticking to looks that work well during the day yet can be seamlessly transformed into night attire with a few accessories, you can save much-needed space in your carry-on bag (via Thrifty Traveler).

Along those same lines, if you cannot find what you need in bar form or wipes, you can always buy them when you arrive. This will save space in your carry-on and allow you to still have everything you need without checking a bag. Travelers who choose this convenient option can add a few must-have travel-sized products to their allotted personal items if they have a long flight ahead. But again, if it is something you can get in non-liquid form, then solid toiletries are still the most sensible way to go. Not only will you be able to get through airport security faster, but you will also prevent any unfortunate spillage in your bags (via Blue Gray Gal).

Still, from an economic standpoint, buying the products you need when you reach your destination is often a lot cheaper than purchasing travel-sized toiletries before your flight for some reason, which is a little odd. Moreover, even when you do your best to follow the rules, accidents happen — your beloved lotion is an ounce or two over the limit, and you are hoping no one notices — well, this is typically when they notice. So, instead, avoid the added stress and potential loss of property by simply buying when you arrive.

Travel essentials like hats, compact rain jackets, mini travel umbrellas, passport cases, travel wallets, and collapsible water bottles can all fit in your daypack or personal item. In contrast, accessories and essentials such as travel or neck pillows, compression socks, eye masks, earplugs, and blankets should be attached to your daypack, not in it (ideally, all these things can be stored together within your travel pillow). There is no reason to take up precious real estate in your backpack when the airlines and TSA are okay with you clipping your travel pillow to your allotted personal item (via The Professional Hobo).

Chargers and other tech are also must-haves for travelers (make sure to charge all your tech before you head to the airport). Of course, you will likely have to remove tech items when going through security so use or invest in a separate, easy-to-pull-out case for all your electronics. On the other hand, cable and cord organizers are not necessarily essential, but it does not hurt to have such an organizer, so cords are not just anywhere in your backpack (per In Search Of Sarah).

After slimming down both bags, there is really nothing left to do besides prepare in other ways for your departure date. Still, once you are all packed and ready to go, you can still ensure that your airport check-in process goes smoothly. There are quite a few check-in hacks that will make your entire travel experience more pleasant (per Plan Ready Go).

The top frequent flyer tips and tricks to keep in mind when navigating the airports with your cabin luggage then include checking in online before heading to the airport so that you can go right to the security checkpoint. Travelers should also wear TSA-approved clothing and sign up for programs (Clear, TSA PreCheck, and Global Entry) to make it easier to get through security. Lastly, layer up where you can, use a zip-up travel pillow for additional storage (preferably for in-flight essentials), and add a name tag to your carry-on so mix-ups do not occur on the way to your gate or onboard (via Get Lost).