Packing Tips

By planning ahead, choosing travel-ready clothing, and following these other packing tips, you can start your trip with confidence.

Carry-on luggage gets stowed away in the overhead compartment, while a personal item is a smaller bag that stays under the seat in front of you.

Weight limits for carry-on luggage can range from 11 to 40 lbs, depending on the airline. Do your homework to make sure your bag isn’t overweight.

Airline carry-on size limits are generally 22 x 14 x 9 inches for domestic flights or 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 inches for international flights, but it’s a good idea to check with your specific airline.

Backpacks are popular with frequent travelers for their hands-free convenience, but is a backpack a personal item? The long answer is more complicated.

Measuring your luggage beforehand is the best way to be sure your bags fit the airline limits. It isn’t even that hard.

Using packing cubes, stuffing socks inside your shoes, and simply bringing less stuff are a few of the packing techniques get the most out of the space in your suitcase.

Having the right approach, the right supplies, and a healthy amount of patience goes a long way toward making your grimy suitcase look like new.

The secret to traveling light is simple: ditch the giant suitcase for a carry-on backpack. Then, pack smart to make the most of the smaller space.