The art of travel is ever-evolving, and for those of us with a case of wanderlust, the challenge of jet-setting without the burden of heavy luggage is becoming increasingly appealing. Gone are the days when travellers were easily identified abroad by their towering suitcases.
Today, the trend is shifting towards the sleek and efficient: travelling with just carry-on luggage. But is this minimalist approach to packing feasible for an overseas trip? Absolutely, and we’re here to show you how.
The recent announcement by Qantas to increase the size of its overhead lockers by 50 percent on its 737 aircraft has sparked a renewed interest in the possibility of travelling light. While Australian airlines have traditionally imposed stricter weight limits on cabin luggage compared to some international carriers, savvy travellers are finding ways to circumvent these restrictions and embrace the freedom of carry-on only travel.
Take Lise Carlaw, for example, whose family’s five-week European adventure with only carry-on bags caught the attention of travellers worldwide.
Carlaw’s strategy was meticulous planning and a firm resolve not to be ‘anyone’s slave’ to luggage during their holiday. She ditched the wheeled suitcases, which can weigh up to three kilograms empty, in favour of lightweight backpacks with plenty of compartments.
The key to Carlaw’s success was a trifecta of criteria for each item packed: ‘function, fit, and flair.’ She embraced the concept of a capsule wardrobe, where a limited selection of clothing items can be mixed and matched to create various looks.
‘I created looks and I took photos of my looks on my phone before I left,’ she revealed.
To keep her outfits fresh, she relied on small, interchangeable accessories like scarves, sunglasses, and jewellery, which don’t take up much space but make a significant impact.
Adaptability is another cornerstone of carry-on travel. Carlaw, for instance, opted for a versatile pashmina instead of a bulky jumper, which served multiple purposes, including keeping her son warm when needed.
Interiors stylist and frequent flyer Jono Fleming echoes this sentiment, emphasising the transformative power of accessories. He suggests that items like sunglasses and belts can refresh an outfit without the need for additional clothing.
Fleming’s advice is particularly relevant for trips to warmer climates, where lighter garments can be layered for different occasions.
He explains, ‘In warmer climates it’s lighter shirts and dresses, things you can layer and use to change up your outfit. You don’t have to have separate outfits to freshen up for dinner, you can just change your shirt or put a shirt over your T-shirt.’
Natural fibres that are lightweight, easy to wash, and quick to dry are also recommended for those looking to pack light.
Checking average temperatures at your destination can also help refine your clothing choices, ensuring you bring only what’s necessary for the weather conditions.
Seasoned travellers like Carlaw and Fleming also swear by packing cubes, which not only organise clothes but also maximise space efficiency. Likewise, travel writer Carolin Pilligrath considers packing cubes a lifesaver for light travellers.
Pilligrath has also embraced solid toiletries like shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets, and stick deodorants, which are not only space-savers but also help avoid the hassles of liquid restrictions.
For those inspired to try carry-on only travel, the benefits are clear: less time spent waiting at baggage carousels, fewer fees for checked luggage, and greater mobility. Once you’ve experienced the liberation of travelling with just a backpack or a small suitcase, it could be hard to go back to the old ways of overpacking.
At YourLifeChoices, we understand that the idea of travelling with minimal luggage can be daunting, especially for those accustomed to preparing for every possible scenario. However, with careful planning and a focus on essentials, you can enjoy your travels with less weight on your shoulders—literally.
We invite you to share your own experiences with carry-on only travel in the comments below. Have you found it liberating, or do you prefer the security of a larger suitcase? Discuss the pros and cons with your fellow readers and perhaps inspire each other to travel smarter, not harder.
Also read: Travel budget killers: The top five holiday money traps you can avoid
