How to Travel with Just a Carry-On: The Art of Packing Light in Style

Here are the core principles to turn you into a seasoned pro traveller:

1. Pack your carry-on for a maximum ten-day window. 

Do laundry within that. If travelling for fewer than ten days, reduce the number of undergarments to 1 set per day for the duration of your trip. 

2. Pick versatile garments that will see you through from day to evening. 

Think about about colours that combine with everything – navy, beige, black, all great choices. Default to slightly smarter & dressier choices than normal, as these are much more flexible than being too casual. 

Think about temperature bands as well, and pack appropriately.

For both men & women, a white button up shirt or blouse is always a great choice to have available, whether it's for a date, evening out, a business meeting, or just looking the part in London or Paris. 

For both men and women, having a blazer to wear goes a long way in terms of some warmth as needed, and another level of smartness if needed. 

And for men, having a single necktie handy in your bag just in case will open doors when you least expect it. 

Ballerina flats for ladies are your friend. You can wear them with chinos or jeans, you can wear them with your evening dresses. 

Likewise, for men, a couple of pairs of loafers—wear one pair in suede, pack a pair in calfskin—will serve you very well, and can be worn all day in considerable comfort. 

If you are attending a formal event (meaning a suit for men, or an evening gown for women), you're best served taking a garment bag. Drape this over your bag in the airport, and you are unlikely to have any grief with the airline staff. 

If you need an overcoat, wear it, or if too warm at your departure, toss it over your arm. In no airline in the world is a coat considered an additional baggage item, though it surely would fill one of your bags if packed. 

4. Don't forget to use your personal item.

A handbag for ladies, or a briefcase or camerabag for men, depending on whether you need a laptop. There's plenty of space here to add in sunglasses/glasses, contacts, a bit of spf cream, a notebook, and some simple medications—and some excellent ear defenders or ear plugs. 

5. Remember to leave some space.

Even if travelling by train (one of my favourite journies is Berlin to Vienna) where liquids rules & carry-on rules don't apply, you'll have to carry your bag sooner or later, and you'll probably want room to buy something. You can always buy a cheap duffel and check it on the way back home.

SUMMARY

That's it.

Most people overestimate what they'll need, and end up hauling it around, having the airline lose it, and then not having space to bring back the fun stuff they inevitably find.

I've made lists for women (covering women's more complicated needs), vetted by several very well-travelled friends who always turn up looking extremely chic.

I've also made a list for men, based on my own experiences, and those of friends & colleauges. 

Before you know it, you'll be travelling like a seasoned pro.