How to pack for your family vacation without checking a bag
“I could never pack in just a carry on” is something that I hear a lot of people say. And I’ll be honest, I used to be one of them once upon a time ago. In 2015 I traveled to Europe with just a hiking backpack, and I’m convinced I’ll never go back to checking a bag.
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So, how do I do it? I’m glad you asked.
Liquids: Anything 3.4 ounces or less is TSA approved for your carry on. That might not sound like much, but if you pack smart- those little bottles can go far! Don’t take product you don’t use every day. You can purchase TSA approved travel sets like this one.
2. Get a good carry-on bag. Everyone has different needs, but I love my Monos Carry On.
3. Try on your clothes before you pack. No sense packing an outfit you think you’ll like but hate on. Only bring what you know you’ll wear. Bonus points if it’s dual purpose. Have a super cute new pair of shoes that doesn’t match anything but ONE outfit? Leave them home.
4. Wear your heaviest clothes. Traveling somewhere cold? Instead of packing your boots wear them!
5. Use packing cubes. I know this doesn’t seem like it would help, but believe me- quality packing cubes DO make a difference. I can fit an entire weeks worth of clothes for an all-inclusive resort in one compression bag. We love these.
6. Pack quality shampoo and conditioner bars rather than liquid. This will save you space in your liquids bag and are small enough to pack without taking up extra space anywhere else. My favorite is from Kitsch, check out these links for the Shampoo and Conditioner.
This gets easier every time I pack. The first time was a doozie, but I have it down to an art at this point and find myself asking “Do I really need this?” Or “Will I really use this?” If the answer isn’t a swift “yes,” then leave it home.
“But I’m traveling with kids…”
If your kids are under the age of 3, I agree it can be tough. But if your kids are old enough to push their own suitcase and carry their own backpack, then you can do it!
We traveled to Jamaica as a family with ONLY carry-on luggage. And both of the kids still have lots of space left in their luggage- even after packing their own life jackets and sand toys. We have these suitcases for the kids.
Traveling with a baby? Your stroller and/or car seat don’t count as an item. Most airlines will gate check those at no cost. Buy your diapers at your destination, and make a grocery store run for baby food and snacks when you arrive. You’ve got this, mamas! And if you’d rather have hands free at the airport and want to check a bag, there’s no shame in that! You do you! Especially if you are traveling alone with your little one and don’t have extra help or extra hands.
What are your packing tips? Let us know in the comments!