I'm a Pro Packer, and I Still Use These 12 Old-school Tricks to Fit Everything in a Carry-on

"While there are certainly some exceptions to the rule-like longer trips or journeys where you'll be carrying larger-sized liquids- traveling with just a carry-on is typically the best way to go. When you're not lugging a checked suitcase around, you don't have to worry about arriving at the airport before the bag check-in cut-off. Plus, the chances of your luggage getting lost or left behind decrease, and maneuvering up and down stairs or along cobbled streets is significantly easier."

"Of course, packing lightly is easier said than done, especially if you're prone to packing as much as humanly possible. As a recovered overpacker myself-and someone who now writes a packing list newsletter -I've found that there are several tried-and-true tricks you can employ to ensure you never have to check a bag. Below, I rounded up 12 old-school packing tricks to use whenever you travel, and most of them are on sale."

"Use Compression Packing Cubes Packing cubes, in some form, have been used for decades. Eagle Creek is often credited as the first brand to launch or popularize modern packing cubes in the 1990s, and there's a reason they've continued to stick around. Packing cubes, and compression packing cubes in particular, are a great way to organize your belongings and cut down on bulk."

Traveling with just a carry-on reduces the need to arrive early for bag check-in, lowers the chance of lost luggage, and makes navigating stairs and cobbled streets easier. Packing lightly can be difficult for habitual overpackers, but specific strategies can prevent checked bags. High-quality carry-on suitcases with expandable, durable designs improve success. Compression packing cubes organize belongings and reduce bulk; Eagle Creek popularized them in the 1990s. Limiting footwear to three pairs and stuffing shoes with items maximizes space and efficiency when packing.

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