Packing Tips

Carry-on or check my bag?

Generally, I try and only fly with a carry-on when I’m able to. But sometimes a trip is long enough or special enough to warrant the slog through bag check with a larger suitcase. Depending on what other bags you’re bringing along, it might be worth it. Here are a few things to consider:

  • How much time do I have on each end of my flight? Meaning, are you getting off the plane and having to rush to an appointment, meeting, or event? Before your flight, do you have the time to leave 45 minutes earlier than you might have otherwise? If you’re feeling the time crunch, do yourself a favor and do your best to get all of your belongings in that carry-on.

  • Does baggage claim give you hives? Not literally (although also if it literally gives you hives please avoid at all costs), but baggage claim can be like the Wild West. 1-5 plane’s worth of tired, anxious passengers all looking out for the same navy blue Away suitcase. Personally, I treat it as a treasure hunt and feel a small thrill whenever I see my bag rolling towards me.

  • What is your flight’s bag check policy/do you have status? On some airlines or flights, you actually have to pay to check even one bag. Generally if your flight is international, you’ll get the first bag fee waived. But if you’re flying on a more budget airline or the flight time is less than three hours, it’s worth double checking. Additionally, if you have a credit card that is associated with an airline, sometimes one of the card benefits is waived bag fees. I’m a pretty loyal Delta flier and have their Platinum AmEx card (check out their options here), which gives me my first checked bag free. If you have status on any airline, many times this will be one of your perks as well.

  • What’s you destination? Consider the terrain of where you’ll be going. New York City? Easy sidewalks but the majority of subway stations are only accessible by stairs. Santorini? You’re going to be walking on the literal cliff of a caldera (aka lots of stairs). Italy? Cobblestone central. LA? You’re good, you won’t be walking anywhere.

  • Budget? When I was first traveling on my own - and on a shoestring budget - one thing I would always forget about was travel to and from the airport. Public transportation will always be the cheapest option, but it’s also most likely going to mean lugging your bag a decent amount. I’m 5’2” and my wingspan is laughable and I can do it, but I would be lying if I said it was pleasant. If you’re planning to take Ubers or taxis everywhere and avoid heavy lifting, having a larger suitcase won’t be much of an issue.

Your Personal Item

I never used to think much about this - grab a big tote and go. But if you are needing to be strategic about your space, I would recommend taking a bit of time to think about what type of bag makes the most sense for you.

Backpack

If you’re going to need to be hands-free and a bit more mobile, this is a good option. It may not be as “stylish” but these days you can also find some really cute options, especially if your backpack doesn’t need to be that large. Maybe it’s just the 30s hitting me hard, but I also care a lot less about how I look at the airport with my bag vs how comfortable I am, especially when traveling abroad. Head over to the Luggage Ideas page for some options.

Tote Bag

Ah, the tried and true tote. There are plenty of cute options, they can carry a lot, and they will definitely make your posture worse. For years, my bag of choice was le classic: the large Longchamp Le Pliage (go with the Néo for extra strength nylon). I think they’re an elevated look, though you will absolutely lose something inside of it at one point or another. ANYWAYS! Everything I said is true, but again, keep in mind what your other bags are. Some totes don’t have the trolly sleeve either, and handle length can be an issue for carrying it on top of your suitcase. I’ve been eyeing these luggage belts from Cincha to avoid that exact problem (along with exacerbating back muscle tweaks). Whatever tote you choose, just make sure that it’s got a zipper or sturdy snap situation - trying to collect an entire bag’s worth of items bent over in an economy plane seat is an anxiety dream of mine. Head over to the Luggage Ideas page for some options.