Person getting into a van with a light blue JanSport duffle

How To Travel With Just A Carry On For A Weekend Getaway With Friends

Charli Moore Jan 27, 2023

Traveling light has many advantages, like being able to breeze through baggage claim without waiting for a checked bag.

However, for some, the thought of jetting off on vacation with minimal outfit changes is unfathomable, especially for a weekend getaway with friends.

Not convinced you’d survive a weekend break with just carry-on? Here are some travel packing tips that might just change your mind.

 

Carry-on packing tips that will help you travel light

 

Choose the right carry-on bag

The ideal carry-on bag is something with a large capacity, made from lightweight materials, and easily packable so that you can stow it when not in use.

Our Away Duffel fits the bill perfectly. With one large main compartment suited to stashing compression sacks and packing cubes, easy access U-shape opening, a front utility pocket, and side and top grab handles, it’s well equipped for every travel style.

 

Use compression sacks and packing cubes

While rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space when packing, the best way to maximize the capacity of your weekend bag is to use compression sacks and packing cubes. 

Top tip: split out your electronics and charging cables into a large accessory pouch for easy access when you’re on the go.

 

Pack separates that you can mix and match

One of the best ways to pack light is to opt for clothing that you can layer up and mix and match to create different outfits. Simplify your color palette, I always opt for neutrals, and plan your outfits so that you can easily go from day to evening by simply adding or changing up your accessories.

 

Pack a limited number of pairs of shoes

Shoes are bulky and hard to pack so limit the number of pairs you take.

 

Coordinate with your mates

If you’re checking into a hotel or Airbnb with your mates, it’s worth coordinating with them to minimize the number of the same essential items (toiletries, hairbrush, power bank) you bring. 

 

Take advantage of the airline’s personal item allowance

Depending on the kind of airline you’re traveling with, you may be entitled to pack up to 23kg into a cabin bag and take a personal bag such as a waist pack or laptop backpack onto the plane with you. Check the airline’s website for details of approved cabin bag weight and size and be sure to weigh your carry-on bag before leaving home.

 

Wear heavy and bulky items of clothing to travel in

Choose to wear heavy or bulky items like hiking boots, winter coats, or thick wool sweaters to travel in rather than trying to pack them. Especially if you’re traveling during cooler months or to a colder climate.

 

Buy toiletries at your destination

If you can, leave your toiletries at home and buy replacements at your destination. If you’re staying with your mates reduce waste by buying things everyone can use.

 

Still not sure how to pack a carry-on bag with everything you need? Start by writing a packing list, then decide which items are essential, which ones you can share with your travel buddies, and which ones you can live without for the weekend. 

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