I used to travel once a year to Los Angeles to attend the International Makeup Artist Trade Show (IMATS), and each year I always managed to pack more than what I actually needed. I always tell myself, “I may need this.” Spoiler alert, I never do. Because of overweight luggage fees, I’ve always made it a conscious effort to always travel light. I’m talking just my carry on and handbag. Nothing more. Here’s how I do it.
First, you’ll need a bag that’s going to work. It needs to be big enough to fit everything you need while meeting the criteria of being a carry on bag. The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (22 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm). This includes handles and wheels.
The Core 2.0 Daily Duffel
I’m enjoying The Core 2.0 Daily Duffel ($149). This light weight medium sized duffel provides “inspired form and intuitive function thanks to its sleek solution-oriented sleek design.” Even if you pack it up completely, it’s still a comfortable bag to carry because of how light weight it is. Not to mention the long strap makes it even easier to carry it around.
The Core 2.0 works when you want to workout in the morning, but have to head to work right after, or you’re looking for a weekend getaway. You have enough space to fit the essentials! This is pricey for a duffel bag, but if you want a quality product that’s going to last, it’s worth spending that extra money. As someone who used to travel a lot to attend blogger and beauty events in Los Angeles, this is by far the best duffel bag/carry-on bag that I’ve used. Honestly, it just makes everything easier for me. And we all know how stressful traveling can be.
Pack Only What You Need
Yes, this sounds easier said than done, but it’s the only way you’re going to pack light. Going away for a long weekend? You only really need a couple tops, a few pairs of pants or shorts, and a nice outfit if you plan on going out for a nice dinner. For shoes, bring three pairs, sandals (if you’re going somewhere more), comfortable walking shoes, and a dress pair if you’re going out somewhere nice. Your walking shoes or sandals will be what you’re wearing on the plane, so you won’t have to worry about squeezing three pairs of shoes in a carry-on.
Bring Travel-Sized Products
Sometimes it’s best to buy travel-sized products. They don’t take up much space and you’ll end up finishing the products and throwing them out before you head back home. A bonus, you won’t have to worry about air port security tossing your products away because they’re over the size limit.
Leave Your Makeup Collection At Home
When it comes to makeup, it’s similar to clothes. I always say, “what if I want to use this bronzer that I haven’t worn in months?” For makeup, I bring a tinted moisturizer, a 4-pan eye shadow palette, a gloss or two, and a lipstick. Plus my mascara. I never leave home without it!
Airplane Necessities
While on the plane I’ll either bring one book or a couple of magazines that I can recycle when I get to the hotel. Those are usually in a bag from my airport purchase of a pop and some snacks. Since I only buy paperback books, they’re easy to fit into my handbag or carryon luggage.
Sometimes it’s hard not to over pack, but hopefully, I’m able to help you to pack lightly… even if it’s just a little bit less than what you normally pack. If you’re an over packer, what items are you packing too many of?
This bag looks perfect for travel. i never seem to be able to find begs I love.
There are a lot of great tips in this post. I am especially guilty of overpacking makeup and hair styling items. I guess I feel like I am going to want to dress up more away from home, but I rarely use most of what I lug with me.
That duffel looks absolutely perfect for short trips. Wow.
I am all for the duffle. It’s lightweight so its easy to carry and lift into the overhead bin. And it will hold everything i need. I ‘m going to get one!
This looks like a great bag and the article was very interesting. I am always an over packer!
This is definitely useful info for traveling! Thanks
I always over pack, hard habit to break. Looks like a good travel bag.
This should do the trick for packing!
I am definitely an over packer, I pack for every unexpected event.
Stephanie, great tips and very informational. I have always really sucked at packing. I have learned to only pack what I need for each day. I like the look of this bag as well, so that’s a plus too!
Thank you for sharing. It has plenty of room.
What a nice bag. Great to have.
NO on over packing.. Learned years ago to take as little as possible and if I needed something I could always buy it.
I am a over packer for sure. I like this travel bag!