Packing for a week-long trip can be a daunting task, especially if you’re trying to travel light. But with a bit of planning and some clever packing strategies, it’s possible to fit everything you need into a carry-on bag. In fact, I managed to fit everything for 11 days in Europe in my carry-on!
In this article, we’ll share our top travel tips for how to pack a carry-on bag for a week, so you can travel with all the essential items you need while avoiding the hassle and potential extra cost of checked bag fees.
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Understanding Your Airline’s Baggage Policy
When packing for a week-long trip with only a carry-on bag, it’s essential to understand your airline’s baggage policy. Each airline has its own rules and regulations regarding carry-on luggage size, weight, and number of bags allowed. Familiarizing yourself with these policies ahead of time can save you from unexpected fees or having to check your bag at the gate.
To find your airline’s baggage policy, simply visit their website or call their customer service line. Here are some common policies to keep in mind:
Size Restrictions: Most airlines have a maximum size limit for carry-on bags, typically around 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches. Make sure your bag fits within these dimensions, including any wheels or handles.
Weight Restrictions: Some airlines also have weight restrictions for carry-on bags, usually around 40 pounds. Check your airline’s policy to avoid any overweight baggage fees.
Number of Bags: Most airlines allow one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag. Make sure your personal item fits within the size restrictions provided by your airline.
It’s also important to note that some airlines may have stricter policies for flights to certain destinations or during peak travel times. Always double-check your airline’s policy before packing to ensure a smooth travel experience.
By understanding your airline’s baggage policy, you can pack efficiently and avoid any unexpected fees or delays at the airport.
Choosing the Right Carry-On Bag
When it comes to packing for a week-long trip, choosing the right carry-on bag is crucial. You want to make sure that your bag is not only the right size but also comfortable to carry and easy to access.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right carry-on bag:
Size: First things first, make sure your carry-on bag meets the size requirements for your airline’s overhead bin space. Most airlines have a limit of around 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but it’s always best to double-check before you start packing.
Comfort: You’ll be carrying your bag around the airport and possibly even running to catch a flight, so it’s important to choose a bag that is comfortable to carry. Look for bags with padded straps and handles, and consider the weight of the bag itself.
Accessibility: You don’t want to be digging through your bag every time you need something, so choose a bag with easy-to-access pockets and compartments. Consider a bag with a front pocket for your passport and boarding pass, and a separate compartment for your laptop.
Durability: Your carry-on bag will be taking a beating as you travel, so choose a bag that is durable and can withstand some wear and tear. Look for bags made from sturdy materials like aluminum, polycarbonate, nylon, leather, or polyester, and consider a bag with reinforced corners and zippers.
Overall, choosing the right carry-on bag can make all the difference when it comes to packing for a week-long trip. Take the time to choose a bag that meets your needs and you’ll be able to pack efficiently and travel comfortably.
Essential Items to Pack: Our Packing List
When packing one bag for a week, it’s important to pack light and only bring the essentials. Here are some items that we consider to be essential when packing for a week-long trip:
Clothing
Well, we hope packing clothing is a give-in. We recommend packing versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits, like a capsule wardrobe. Here are some clothing items that we suggest packing:
2-3 pairs of pants or shorts
5-7 shirts or blouses
1-2 sweaters or jackets (depending on the weather)
1-2 dresses or skirts (for women)
1-2 pairs of comfortable shoes
1 pair of dress shoes (if needed)
1 set of pajamas
undergarments
Toiletries
When packing toiletries, it’s important to remember that you can only bring one quart-size bag full of 3oz or smaller quantities of liquids and gels in a carry-on bag.
Also, consider waiting until you arrive at your destination before you purchase your travel-size toiletries. When I was in Paris, I had a blast picking out some new items to try at the pharmacy. If you like to have everything before your trip, though, here are some essential toiletries to pack:
Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash (if it’s not supplied at your place of lodging)
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Face wash and moisturizer
Small hairbrush
Sunscreen (if needed)
Feminine hygiene products (if needed)
Essential make-up items (less is more)
Contact lens solution (if needed)
Medications and Health Supplies
Having your necessary medications should be at the top of your packing list! Here are the health supplies I almost always include on my packing list:
Prescription medications
Over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, antihistamines, anti-nausea medication, etc.)
Travel-size first-aid kit (bandages, antibiotic ointment, thermometer, etc.)
Hand sanitizer
Eye drops
Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
Electronics
Unless you’re headed on a meditation retreat or an off-grid adventure, you’ll probably need a few electronic items. Here are some essential electronics to pack:
Phone and charger
Laptop or tablet and charger
- Power bank
Headphones
Travel adapters (if traveling internationally)
Other Items
Here are some other essential items to pack:
Passport or ID
Cash and credit cards
Travel pillow and blanket
Sunglasses
Snacks
By packing these essential items, we can ensure that we have everything we need for a comfortable and stress-free week-long trip.
Packing Your Clothing and Accessories
When it comes to packing for a week-long trip in a carry-on suitcase, less is more. This is especially true when planning your outfits! Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently and effectively.
Determining the Essentials
Before packing, it’s important to determine the essentials. This means thinking about the activities you’ll be doing, the weather, and any dress codes you may need to follow. Once you have a good idea of what you’ll need, you can start to select your clothing.
A great way to pack efficiently is to stick to a color scheme. If you pack items that are all in the same color family, you can mix and match to create different outfits. For example, if you pack all black and white items, you can create multiple looks by pairing different pieces together. Think capsule wardrobe!
Packing Techniques
When it comes to packing clothing, a few techniques can help you save space:
Rolling
Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can help reduce wrinkles and save space. To do it, simply fold garments in half lengthwise and roll them tightly from one end to the other. This method works particularly well for casual items like t-shirts, jeans, and underwear.
Compression Packing Cubes
You can also use packing cubes to keep your clothing organized and compact. I love these compression packing cubes from Well-Traveled!
These packing cubes offer a smart solution for organized travel. The 8-piece set includes various sizes to accommodate different packing needs. The standout feature is their compression design, which helps you fit more into your luggage. Made with durable twill fabric, a patented HybridMax double-capacity design, and heavy-duty 2-way zippers, they’re built to last. The cubes come in several different colors and designs. And did I mention that they’re washer and dryer safe? With a lifetime guarantee, they’re a solid choice for frequent travelers looking to streamline their packing process. Overall, these cubes provide a practical way to keep your belongings tidy and maximize suitcase space, potentially making your trips smoother and more enjoyable.
Rewear Clothes
Another tip is to pack items that can be worn multiple times. For example, a pair of jeans or a sweater can be worn more than once, whereas a silky blouse may only be worn once before needing to be washed.
And while summertime clothing typically takes up less space, cooler weather requires bulkier items. In this case, I usually bring a cardigan or button-down shirt that can be layered over various tanks or tees.
Shoes and Accessories
Shoes and accessories can take up a lot of space in your carry-on bag, so it’s important to be strategic. We recommend packing no more than three pairs of shoes: one for walking, one for dressier occasions, and one for working out.
Accessories can be a great way to change up your outfits without taking up too much space. Scarves, jewelry, and hats can all be packed easily and can add a pop of color or style to any outfit.
By following these tips, you can pack efficiently and effectively for a week-long trip in your carry-on bag.
Packing Toiletries and Personal Items
When it comes to packing toiletries and personal items for a week-long trip, it’s important to pack light and only bring the essentials. Here are some tips on what to pack and how to pack them efficiently.
Travel-Size Essentials
To save space in your carry-on bag, opt for travel-size toiletries. Most drugstores carry travel-size versions of popular products, or you can purchase reusable travel bottles to fill with your favorite products.
Remember to follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids, gels, and aerosols: all containers must be 3.4 ounces or less and fit into a quart-sized clear plastic bag. I prefer to carry my liquids in my personal item bag, to save space in my carry-on and avoid the chance of any leakage.
Medications and Health Supplies
If you take prescription medications, make sure you have enough to last your entire trip, plus a day or two extra in case of any flight cancellations or other travel delays. It’s also a good idea to bring over-the-counter medications on your flight or in the car, in case of headaches, upset stomachs, or allergies. Here are the health supplies I almost always include on my packing list:
Prescription medications
Over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, antihistamines, anti-nausea medication, etc.)
Travel-size first-aid kit (bandages, antibiotic ointment, etc.)
Hand sanitizer
Eye drops
Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
And please, remember to pack all medications and health supplies in your personal item bag or carry-on bag in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed.
Electronics and Entertainment
When packing a carry-on bag for a week, it’s important to bring along the necessary gadgets and entertainment to keep us occupied during the flight and downtime at our destination. Here are some essential items to consider:
Essential Gadgets
Phone charger: Keep your phone charged and ready to use by packing a portable charger or a charging cable in your carry-on bag.
Headphones: Noise-cancelling headphones are a game-changer when it comes to long flights. You can also pack earbuds for a more compact option.
Tablet or e-reader: A tablet or e-reader is a great way to carry multiple books, magazines, and movies without taking up too much space in your bag.
Camera: If you’re planning on taking photos during your trip, don’t forget to pack your camera and any necessary accessories like memory cards and batteries.
Books and Entertainment
Books: Save space with an r e-reader or download e-books or audiobooks onto your tablet or phone.
Movies and TV shows: Download movies and TV shows onto your tablet or phone before the flight for entertainment on the go.
Games: Pack a deck of cards to play with friends or family during downtime at your destination.
If you want easy access to your electronics during your flight, opt for stashing them in a personal item bag that can go under your seat. There’s. nothing like a long line of passengers waiting to board and someone holding up the line because they’re digging through their carry-on bag to get stuff out for the flight. Don’t be that person. Think ahead when packing your electronic devices.
Food and Snacks
When it comes to packing food and snacks for a week-long trip in a carry-on bag, we need to be mindful of the TSA regulations. Solid food items are allowed in both checked and carry-on bags, but liquids and gels, like apple sauce pouches or yogurt, are restricted to 3.4 ounces or less per container and must be placed in a quart-sized bag. We recommend packing easy snacks that don’t require refrigeration, like granola bars, trail mix, and fruit snacks.
Another great option is to bring your own empty water bottle and fill it up after passing through security. You won’t have to spend $5 on a bottle of airport water and you’re also helping reduce plastic waste. Double win!
Overall, it’s important to pack food and snacks that are easy to eat, won’t make a mess, and won’t take up too much space in your carry-on bag. By following these tips, we can have a stress-free and enjoyable flight without worrying about hunger pangs.
Packing for Different Climates
When packing for a week-long trip, it’s important to consider the different climates you’ll encounter. Whether you’re heading to a beach destination or a mountain retreat, packing the right clothing and accessories is key to a comfortable and stress-free trip. Here are some tips for packing for different climates:
Layering is Key
One of the most important things to keep in mind when packing for different climates is layering. Instead of packing bulky sweaters or jackets, opt for lightweight layers that you can easily add or remove as needed. This will help you stay comfortable in a variety of temperatures and weather conditions.
Check the Weather
Before you start packing, be sure to check the weather forecast for your destination. This will help you get a sense of what to expect and what types of clothing to pack. Keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to pack a few extra layers just in case.
Choose Versatile Pieces
When packing for different climates, it’s important to choose versatile pieces that can be worn in a variety of ways. For example, a lightweight scarf can be worn as a fashion accessory or used as a wrap on cooler evenings. A pair of comfortable sneakers can be worn for sightseeing or dressed up with a cute dress.
Pack for the Activities
Finally, when packing for different climates, it’s important to consider the activities you’ll be doing on your trip. If you’re planning on hiking or spending time outdoors, be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear. By packing for the activities you have planned, you’ll be sure to have everything you need for a fun and comfortable trip.
Overall, packing for different climates can be a challenge, but with a little bit of planning and preparation, you can be sure to have everything you need for a great trip.
Double Checking Your Bag
Before we zip up our carry-on bag, we always double-check to make sure we have everything we need. Here are a few things we do to make sure we don’t forget anything important:
Make a list: Before we even start packing, we make a list of EVERYTHING we need to bring. This helps us stay organized and ensures that we don’t forget anything important. We check off each item as we pack it, and then double-check the list before we leave to make sure we haven’t missed anything.
Check the weather: We always check the weather forecast for our destination before we start packing. Then recheck the day you leave! This helps us pack the right clothes and accessories for the trip. a hat.
Check the airline’s carry-on restrictions: We always double-check the airline’s carry-on restrictions before we start packing. This helps us avoid any surprises at the airport and ensures that our bag meets the size and weight requirements. We also make sure to pack any liquids in a clear plastic bag and to follow the 3-1-1 rule.
Double-check for essentials: We always double-check to make sure we have all of our essential items, such as our passports, wallet, medication, phone, and chargers before walking out the door. We also make sure to pack any medications we need and to bring a copy of our itinerary.
By following these simple steps, we can help ensure that we have everything we need for our trip and won’t be scrambling at the airport or once we reach our destination.
Wrapping-Up: How to Pack a Carry-On For a Week
Packing for a week-long trip in a carry-on bag is definitely doable with some planning and organization. By following the packing tips and tricks we’ve discussed, you can avoid the hassle of checked baggage and save time and money in the process.
Remember to evaluate what you need, leave non-essential products behind, and repurpose and clean while away. Use creative organization techniques such as packing cubes and rolling your clothes to maximize space. Stick to a color scheme and mix and match your outfits to reduce the amount of clothing you need to bring.
Invest in a quality carry-on bag that fits your needs and is comfortable to carry. And when it comes to packing, prioritize the essentials such as toiletries, medications, and important documents. Pack clothes for a week and re-wear items as needed. Don’t forget to pack a small bag for dirty laundry to keep your clean clothes separate.
Overall, packing just a carry-on bag for a week-long trip requires some effort and planning, but it’s totally doable! You’ll avoid the stress and expense of checked baggage, and have everything you need right at your fingertips, and be proud of yourself for being a master packer!
