The Carry-On Packing Guide

A well-packed carry-on means never waiting at baggage claim — and never being at the mercy of a lost bag. Start with the essentials: one pair of shoes worn, one packed. Three to four outfits you can mix and match, chosen in a similar colour palette so everything works together. Toiletries in a clear, compliant pouch, with any liquids under 100ml. Use packing cubes to separate categories and compress volume — this alone can free up 30-40% of your case. Keep a small day bag for the plane itself: passport, phone, headphones, a layer for the cabin. The goal isn't minimalism for its own sake — it's knowing exactly where everything is, without digging.