How I Pack for Carry-On Only Travel (1+ Month Trip)
Welcome to my little home on wheels! After traveling for years with only carry-on luggage, I have mastered the art of traveling light. In this video, I give you an inside look into my backpack, camera gear bag, toiletries and everything else I have found to be essential during my travels around the world! Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to live comfortably out of a carry-on suitcase for months at a time. You'll just need to make regular trip to the laundry mat.
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Chapters:
0:00 Carry-On Philosophy
1:34 How to Pack a Backpack
3:49 Camera Gear and Electronics
4:10 Backpack Essentials
7:02 How to Pack a Carry-On
9:06 Best Clothes for Travel
10:26 Travel Sized Steamer
10:53 Back Up Electronics
11:53 Packing a Suitcase Pocket
12:30 Clothing and Shoes for Travel
16:31 Toiletries Bag
19:10 Subscribe!
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I wasn't into packing cubes until the TSA agent had to open my bag and 2 pairs of my underwear got flipped out of my suitcase and onto his boots. 🙀😑 never again, lol
Hahaha good story 🤣
Lol 😂😂😂😂...
onto his boots?!?!?!?!?! i would’ve canceled my trip😂
at least they were clean 😳
😂 Hilarious!
My biggest pet peeve is when people have a carry-on roller and a "personal" bag that they shove in the overhead compartment with their roller, when it "should" go under the seat. Making it a possibility of hearing that dreaded "We may not have enough overheard room so some passengers may need to check their carry-on" announcement. That's my rant for the evening, I just got done flying a lot so the trauma is fresh in my mind. lol.
One tip with the toiletries: put all of your liquids in small ziploc bags inside a larger toiletry bag; that way if one lid/cap opens, the liquid won’t spill all over your other items in the bag
Can't bring liquids onto the plane genius.
@@Darkest_Soul_187 travel size liquids wise guy
But is your larger toiletry bag see through? Also i'veheard that they want all the liquids in 1 ziplock bag size of 1 liter instead of many small ziplocks
@@Mira-dx7gd yes in some cases, but they provide you the bags. They're even putting your liquids into see- threw bags themselves. Don't worry 😀
Try using plastic wrap over the bottle opening and then screw on the cap.
I found your channel not long ago and I’ve been binge watching you ever since. I am 45 years old and you have reignited my love for travel. Great content! 💚✈️🌎
I think packing cubes are A MUST if you have a large, top-opening or j-zip backpack to be able to pull things out easier and organise the bag easier. However, if you have a clam-opening backpack or suitcase then they're not essential but I still like them and it stops me over packing 🥰🎒
Compressing packing cubes are amazing, my clothes are 2/3 or the half in my suitcase 🤩 I like them for the organization and hygiene as well. I recommend some shoe bags, too. Shoes are so dirty, your shoes without anything give me anxiety 🙈
It's really cool that you travel with only carry-on bags too! Once I started doing that several years ago, I have never gone back to checking a bag unless I run into a situation where I am forced to. This video was good timing too because I am getting ready to pack up for a trip!
In my opinion, should carry a small and loaded first aid kit, empty water bottle, and a plastic bag = lifesavers.
Lexie is not only an inspiring traveller but a great human being, just so lovely vlog and amazing vibes all the way loved it ❤️❤️
I am a packing cube gal, however I REALLY love compression cubes. They do buy me some extra space. They are not for everything, but they do help with regular clothing.
i love my packing cubes! i feel like they allow me to fit more. im totally with you on the cargo pants though!
I have one rule when travelling: you can never have too many Sarongs. They can be used for ANYTHING! No curtains? Use a sarong. Blanket too warm? Use a sarong. Need a coverup? Use a sarong. Towel too heavy? Use a sarong. I always carry a minimum of 2 sarongs with me when travelling. Often more if its a roadtrip.
What is a Sarong?
I have never had a blanket be too warm, especially while traveling.
@@monabiehl6213 Sarong is in Malay culture name, a lot people from other continents also use this Sarong but with different name and same purpose. It can used to wrap any part of your body. Basically it is a one piece of one sheet of cloth or a plain of fabric. I'm usually travelling with one kind of Sarong that called "Kain Pelekat/ Kain Batik". It can used it as blanket, towel, sleeping mat or to wrap my hair with it. Because Sarong usually a thin fabrics so it easy to dry. You can go to google search and find the keywords of Sarong, Sari, Kain Pelekat, Kain batik, Kain Songket, Kain tudung and Tudung Bawal.
@@monabiehl6213 a sarong is a piece of fabric that originates in south east asia (im pretty sure). Im not that aware of the cultural meaning, but many use it as a cover-up when visiting temples. In my family we just use sarongs for everything. I have 5 sarongs, 3 from thailand, 2 from bali. My moms sarongs (she has like 20) are all from thailand.
@@monabiehl6213 basically a very large scarf.
This was so helpful + perfect timing. I'm about to pack for a 2-month trip tomorrow. I'm a carry-on roller suitcase + backpack girl, too (Gear inclusive )😅 Safe travels, Lexie!
Okay I signed up for the newsletter and the video was cool. I wanted to travel the world too at your age but alas, didn't happen so I'm happy to live through travel vloggers! The tip that I give people is to NEVER pack anything that if lost or stolen, would ruin you or your trip. My longer trips to Europe have always been with new clothes that I had no attachment to, and each piece must go with two others at least, and be prepared to leave your stuff behind if you have to, except for papers, id, and medicines.
Very informative video; thank you for sharing!! Also, loved the integration of humour throughout the video, haha. Thanks for inspiring me as I prepare for some travel journeys ahead! Keep up the great work! 🙌🏽
Just about to travel again for the first time, and while I have a lot in my life, was definetly stressing about what to bring! Thanks for the video, was quite helpful, and just interesting to see what you pack to travel around the world!
BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LEXIE !!
I use packing tubes since I love the organization. You pack very well for carryon only!
I used to be die hard carry on only, but since becoming a full time digital nomad, I have one checked bag. I'm hoping that as I travel more I can figure out how to trim down, but especially traveling for different weather it's difficult to fit it all in since my backpack is, like you, my gear bag! I love watching how you organize it though and it's inspiring me to try and pare down!
7:36 - Been using packing cubes for 3 years now approximately, but also, I've been OneBagging for years - I don't just use Packing Cubes but *_COMPRESSION_* cubes - the ones I have can compress by a whopping 67%!!! That's a lot of room I can save! They are then stored in my expendable Travel Compartment on my backpack that adds 12L when expanded, and when I arrive at my accommodations, I simply remove them and convert my backpack from 35L down to a 22L Daypack (unexpanded) 8:30 - Cargo Pants squad REPRESENT! Very useful, and typically made of solid materials that offer breathability, comfort, elasticity and quick drying. 11:03 - Yeah, I feel your pain! I've long adapted to USB-C cable *_ONLY_* so all my electronics, including laptop, can be charged through a USB-C cable - I simply have to carry 1 contingency set of cables, USB tip adapter (USB-A to USB-C ot Micro-USB to USB-C) and charger. One is in a packing cube that I leave at my accommodation, and I also have a daily carry electronics kit in my daypack. What is your steamer brand/model? I've been travelling with *one bag* _(OneBaggin)_ for years now, I can never go back! - Makes everything I bring hold value - No more checking bags - No more losing luggage - No more waiting to retrieve checked luggage - I carry _everything_ with me - _(when I arrive at hotels I simply unpack my packing cubes and convert my backpack into a daypack)_ ✈ Been to Europe _(Belgium, Germany, The Netherlands, France, Switzerland)_ for months with one bag, and also Haiti, Japan for several weeks and everything _can_ fit. If you can pack 3-5 days worth of clothes, you can travel indefinitely if you handwash and hang to dry overnight. 20-30L is more than enough for clothing and essentials *_OneBagging is the way to go_* 🎒 For seasons or greatly changing weather, *_LAYERING_* works wonders! Windbreakers, Rainproof layer, extra insulation - layering is very versatile without the bulk of huge coats and jackets
What brand of compression cubes do tou use?
@@joelj.9075 I was gifted a whole set (backpack, cubes, accessories) from the brand *_KNACK BAGS_* - I have 3 medium and 1 large Knack Bags Packing Cube - I use them interchangeably. I can use 1 medium, 1 large and 1 extra pair of shoes in my expanded travel compartment, they fit perfectly well!
Great advice. Thank u for sharing
Great video. I did a lot of research before I took a 2 month RTW solo trip three years ago, and I had two backpacks; a 40 liter Osprey (without wheels) , and an 18 liter REI ruckpack. I had all of the toiletries and medicines in a medium packing tube, with many ziplock bags, and could pull them out if asked. I had a few collared shirts and tshirts, both long and short sleeve, and I only had one pair of hiking boots and some water shoes. Two of my cargo pants could be converted to shorts, and I did laundry about every week, a lot cheaper than I had expected. I had a foldable hat and a jacket that I would wear on the planes. I had a big ziplock bag with all electronics including chargers. I had copies of all of my documents, my itinerary, and accommodation or expedition reservations, on my phone and/or on a tablet that I took. You could always mail souvenirs home, but it usually cost more to mail than to buy them. I could roll all my clothes and fit them in a packing tube or the side of my bags, but I wore the thicker ones on the plane. Being an older guy means that I don't need all of the things that ladies do, but I am impressed how you showed how to handle that--some items can have many functions.
You are so pretty inside & out! I love your energy ✨️ You definitely have bestfriend qualities! 💛 I love packing content, so I'm glad I found this channel. ☺️
You are super cute and I love your style. You remind me of my daughter ☺ Grounded, down to earth, pragmatic and no nonsense. I love your backpack and thanks to someone who commented I know which one it is!! 🤗 Thank you for a very helpful video. I need a new carry on and I've been watching tons and you really stand out as an experienced traveler.
I like compression packing cubes. It gives you more space.
Traveling carry-on only is the best way to travel! And comfort over style 🙌🏾
Im a huge fan of packing cubes! A real life saver if they have to search your bag in security and take everything out. I also like when I get to wherever I'm staying to take them out and have things sorted by tops, bottoms, undergarments, etc. I have the two-sided packing cubes so i can put wet/dirty clothes in one side and clean in the other!!
I love that leave in conditioner , smells amazing!
I don’t use packing cubes either because I feel like they take up more space. I do however use a drawstring bag for sneakers to keep them off clean clothes, an extra bag for dirty laundry and sometimes I’ll use a tiny packing cube for delicates and swimsuits…etc
Nice video, Lexie. Lot's of good information. Thank for sharing.
I have the tevas too. They are the best thing and they last you so long! I have mine now for 5years and they still look great!
Packing cubes - just organization, but compression packing cubes - there are videos showing them saving you like 30% space. Thanks for the video!
For packing cubes - I tend to throw stuff back in (despite trying not to) so at the end of a trip I have to refold it anyways. Using packing cubes I can only grab the cube full of shirts so it's a sorted contained mess if it becomes messy.
Moving to Banff for 6 months with just carry on bag needed this lol love the Moncler bag!
OMG I have that same toiletries bag! Bought it somewhere else, came as a set of three. Nice!
Really helpful video lovely Lexie!!! 💖
I really like packing cubes lately - I’m a convert! I got some colorful ones that say “ciao” and it’s just nice to have all my clothes in one big cube, so that when I’m digging around my suitcase for let’s say, my charger, I can just remove the cube of clothes and find it easier :D
So helpful oh my god! Such a sweetheart you are ❤
I love packing cubes. I put all my undies and bras in the small one and it is easy to just grab it . The med. one I use for my tops and tank tops. The large one is for shorts, pants 👖 and a dress. I just love them
Omg I love your packing vlog so much. The Tevas part 😂 I totally relate, I’m a functional packer. Then when I’m at home and have more than 10 articles of clothing, I panic! Life is better while traveling :D
Thank you, I learned so much from you. I travel a lot and needed this
When I went to WDW in 2014 in my travel bag, I did have a small book (180 pages or so) which was useful when I was waiting for fireworks displays and at Wilderness Lodge when I was waiting for my evening meal Oh god sunglasses! That also reminds me of when I went to Canada and I went through three pairs in a single trip! Pair Number One got lost on top of the CN Tower in Toronto and Pair Number Two I dropped down a ravine! Pair Number Three survived the rest of the trip thankfully
I have the same Tumi backpack, it is absolutely awesome and holds a lot more than you'd think. It's perfect just by itself for short trips (3/4 days).
What's the Tumi backpack called please
@@BlackQWARN I've used both the Osborn and the London Overnight rolltop.
@@JohnDoe-sr1dd any recommendations for good flight cabin suitcases
@@BlackQWARN I've used the standard Travelpro 17" wheelie for years, it's never let me down. But haven't really tried anything else so probably not the best person to ask. :)
I’m packing for two months in the UK and Europe. I agree that carryon is the only way to go but I have an international sized soft-sided bag with wheels because of my bodgy back. I’m 58 and I can’t handle a huge bag up and down stairs and on and off trains all over Europe so my carryon is a lifesaver and back saver! My other bag is a cross-body bag. I’ve upsized it a little this year to carry masks, sanitizer, wipes etc. my iPad is essential for keeping in touch with friends and family, booking hotels and flights along the way and entertainment. It is loaded up with ore than enough books to keep me going for a while. I actually love packing cubes because they keep my bag organised and I know where everything is. Most of my clothes are very neutral, all navy and black but I will also pack my signature green pants and bright blue blouse because I can’t live without colour! I pack predominantly functional, practical and casual clothing but I always have a couple of dresses that can be dressed up and down with jewellery or a scarf. I always have a light, gauzy cardigan to use as a coverup or for warmth on breezy evenings. All in all my packing list is similar to yours but I have linen pants rather than shorts and mostly t-shirts rather than tanks, thanks for a great video!
I'm currently packing for ONE YEAR, and your video reminded me that I might need less, than I thought.
thanks lexie for sharing this.. usually when i travel, i used to carry first aid kit in case i get minor injury, burn, scars etc..👍
Hello Lexi, thank you so much for this video
My setup pretty close to yours, but I put small gear in clear bags for organizational and because sometimes the security people want to see what all those wires are and it makes it easier to put it all back together. I agree about second phone and will add I use Google Fi service for phone as it works in nearly every county. One thing not sure of is how you get by with so much liquid it looks like more than would fit in the quart bag. If someone is a USA citizen get Global Entry for entry back in USA as you can be from plane to curb in 10 minutes with it.
I travel with a 35L Duffel only. It fits everything I could possibly need for temperatures from 30C to -10C plus my KZhead gear. Nothing better than not having to queue for check in and drop off your bag or waiting for your bag when you land. Just breeze in and out of airports! The only downside is that sometimes customs will find it suspicious that you only have a small carry-on. I got interrogated for nearly an hour in Morocco but in the end they let me go.
You can use a travel hairbrush that folds into half that size and usually has mirror attached... So much better and less bulky than your traditional hairbrush.
Traveling to London at the end of the month thanks for these tips
Going to Europe for 3 weeks next month, so this came at the right time!
so you have all necessary traveling équipements ,that give us an idea what we need carring during the trips , yah i have reason when i say to you know more than others,thanks for all these further informations might that very helpeful how to manage your travel life "have a good trip"
Just found your channel. Great content and travels. You have some neat items there. The spare electronics bag is hard pill to swallow but sage advice. Especially interested in any links to the leather backpacks, Shoes you were wearing and cargo pants. Thanks again and will subscribe.
This was actually super helpful!
Great video ☺️ Really helpful for pack my stuff. Thanks ❤️
I love that you leave in the bloopers. So good lol.
Probably the best packing video 👌
I empty interior clothes and interior shirts in the hotels so that go on packing cubes. Tine showed me a 50-50 packing cubes “freestyle” clothes is mostly the best.
Always helpful!!!!
Now that was really helpful for me as well being a Boy. Thank You Lexie. :)))))
❤ Loved it!
Nice organization! I've tried to travel with only a carry on but rarely manage... All the things you pack seem like they would be overweight, too much liquid or even oversize in most places outside North America but since you be been everywhere, how did you manage? I even found some airlines that didn't allow a personal item and carryon limit down to 5kg... Including the suitcase itself that is usually close to 2kg for a roller, so I've almost never traveled with one.
Your way of explaining is amazing. I follow all your tips..... LOL MEANS lexie only lexie🤗😍❤💚⚘🥳
thanks for this. i always pack carryon only and love to get new ideas. i do have questions though: some of the products in your toiletries kit are larger than 3.4 oz (eg, the detangler is 4oz); how does that fly doing carryon? also, do you have a reusable liquids bag to get through security at the airport?
I also don't use packing cubes. Way easier to just roll up your clothing and put them in rows so they are easy to access and easy to see what is there. Big fan of fleece jackets for carry-on travel. Super comfy on chilly days but on warm days it weighs nothing and can be squeezed into your backpack or tied around your waist.
Very helpful overview of carry on packing tips! What brand of suitcase and backpack do you use? I am in the market for a new backpack, and I love how many pockets are in the one you are using.
The brand of the backpack is tumi :)
Great video Lexie! I'll use those tips the next time I travel somewhere. Will you be able to vlog about your adventures in other countries in 'Lexie's Adventures' soon? 🙂👍🏽🧳🗺️✈️🛅🎥
Hey,Lexie Alford,excellent in how God made you.I,m praying for you always .Plz visit us in Kenya in your program.
Love your videos!!! What is the name of the backpack and suitcase you use? I love the packing cubes! Keep my clothes organized. Totally agree that you should dress nice when traveling.
I bow to your packing genius! I can never pack light 🤣 also you are stunnninggg! Such lovely eyes 🙌
How do you manage with period during travel? Do you prefer pads,tampons or menstrual cup?
I saw some tampons in the toiletries bag she didn't mention....
@@dimitrabir.4177 That definitely seems like a missed opportunity to mention something like this. Maybe she plans to film a video about it? There's likely enough content to cover to do that. I just realized I'll likely be cramping on my 10 hour flight to Brazil next month... how fun, which reminds me, did she mention much regarding first aid either? A small container with some emergency items and some pain reliever is essential on my packing list.
@@TheShauNanigans she did mention about painkillers and bite spray but nothing more. Maybe she has discovered through traveling she doesn't need more that these. I always travel with some sort anti-inflammatory pill for my stomach. Each person has different needs I guess. Oh I HATE traveling when on my period! Good luck to you!
@@dimitrabir.4177 I agree that not everyone needs to bring a pharmacy or things they really won't use, but a first aid kit is not something you're ever going to foresee needing, but you'll be glad if you have one. There are plenty of small versions with the basics that will get you by if you need to disenfect/bandage something right away. It doesn't have to be a large item that takes too much space. I find it's good to at least have bandages in case I get blisters from walking everywhere, for instance.
I'm old enough that I don't have to worry about that. Before I used my birth control pills.
I got packing cubes for my snowboard bag so that everything can go on there for a ski trip without having to also bring a suitcase, even carryon. just the snowboard bag and a backpack
Have a great weekend everyone! 👍
Many people over pack for trips. Whenever possible, I just take a carry on back-pack, it holds all I need.
Your video popped up on a search for travel! It’s awesome 👏🏼 would love to know what is your backpack brand/link
I found your Ramadan video not long ago and know it’s Ramadan and I’m fasting I would’ve to say Ramadan Mubarak ☪️ those who whose fasting. God bless you.
I agree about not using packing cubes. Most of the KZheadrs that use them seem to also sell them. Large Ziplocks work for me.
Very very helpful thank you. Plus i liked how you take a scarf with you so in case you visit a mosque you wear it there. Thank you
Great back pack and all inclusive 🤺
I’d love to know the brands of clothes/suitcases/bags you use! :)
Meanwhile plane carry on rules: combined weight of 7kg :( I always have plenty of space but the weight it always a problem
Great video, thank you so much!
Advance happy birthday alford one think u touch my heart...and one more think best women in my life staysafe ur journey.
Packing cubes - you said it. Dont use unless you are a naturally disorganized person. Thats exacly why i use them😁
Hi Lexie, I have just found your channel. Out of curiosity what is the weight for your carry on case and your carry on backpack. You mentioned that the backpack is heavy. I am in Australia and they are very strict with weight allowances for carry on.
love love love it, we pack so similarly and omg WHERE ARE THOSE BEIGE CARGO PANTS FROM?????? i need a pair asap
Hi Lexie... is your carry-on case the Paravel Aviator "Carry-On" or the "Carry-On PLUS"... Thanks for the AMAZING videos xxx
Could have used this a week ago before starting a 3 month EU trip…but I also hate doing laundry so checked suitcase it is 😂
Useful tips!
How do you work with the batteries when you carry them to the airport ?! What is the cap on the Power Bank ? like 10,000 mAH etc .! Do you always discharge them , inform security before checking / that you are carrying extra Li-ion batteries in a separate zip lock bags etc ?! . Very very helpful video. Awesome & Thanks :)
Love your video, would be great to have links to purchase what you are showing, like the steamer 😀
I'm not even an instagram person but I pack way more for photos, .. learned the hard way when I was dragging suitcases in hilly Cappadocia, 5min walk felt like an eternity. 🤣
Nice for summer but would be struggling for mixedclimate as asthmatic and dont support cold easily.. plus need to take big meds stock for longterm..
Lol! Like the moves! I like to move it move it! I like to move it 👌🏼🎵
I'm really confused how you get those huge bottles through security.
Love your channel and Thanks for all the tips - question about the steamer. Is it safe to use with an adapter in Europe? In other words, it’s not like a hair dryer or shaver that will blow the circuit?
They make compression packing cubes!
Thanks for sharing
What do you do where the airline limits your carry on to just 15 pounds. Do you use check-in for those circumstances,
Waiting for her to tell us where to get those green cargo pants !! I neeeeed them!!