Packing for a trip to a cold weather destination ― like a ski mountain, where you’ll need sweaters and jackets ― or a lengthy vacation where you won’t have much access to laundry, can make fitting everything you’ll need into a carry-on a bit tricky. The struggle is real.
We spoke to organization and packing experts for tips and tricks to help you fit even the bulkiest of items into your carry-on. And while we can’t promise you won’t still have to sit on your suitcase to get it closed (yes, we do, too!), this can make the process of packing less stressful.
Check the weather where you’re going.
You won’t even know where to start if you don’t know whether it will be hot, cold, muggy, rainy, etc., where you’re traveling. Be sure to check the weather as a first step.
“Next make a list of the activities and plan what you need per activity,” said Anne McAlpin, travel expert and author of ”Pack It Up! The Essential Guide to Organized Travel,” who traveled 21 days around the world with just a carry-on.
“Plan to layer your clothes for warmth instead of trying to pack numerous large bulky items. Puffer vests and coats pack down to nothing in compression bags, yet add warmth and comfort, and can double as a pillow on the plane,” McAlpin told HuffPost.
Write out a list of everything you want to pack.
Make a list, and check it twice! Be sure it includes all the travel essentials that you’ll need.
“Then lay everything out and categorize by the type of item to get a complete look at how many items you have for each category,” said Marie Kondo, tidying expert and founder of the KonMari Method.
Narrow down your list — especially toiletries.
Don’t just bring things because they’re travel sized. “A mistake I often see is my clients packing way too many toiletries when they travel,” said Drea Montali, owner of Dream Organization and ShelfGenie West Brooklyn. “They find traveling as an excuse to bring every single sample item they have gotten from department stores, and still do not end up using them, so my first pro tip is to be strategic and realistic when you are packing these items.”
Montali told HuffPost she recommends using labeled pouches for items like toiletries, hair dryers, curlers, etc., to keep items organized and easy to find. “I also recommend investing in travel size/friendly hair tools like a hair dryer brush if that works for your hair type because they take up way less space than your average blow…
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