A Travel Agent Rated My Packing List-and She Told Me My Carry-on Was Missing These 12 Essentials, From $6

"A lot of travelers worry about strict overhead bin rules because they don't want to check a bag. I recommend getting a carry-on that meets smaller overhead bin restrictions of 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, like this Samsonite bag. While it may be smaller, this compact bag still fits plenty of items, and is even expandable up to one inch."

"Cucco spent five years as a travel agent in New York City, booking dream trips from cruises to holiday getaways and even weddings. She booked just about every experience you can think of and designed travel itineraries for all types of travelers, including herself. When it comes to packing, she's tested hundreds of pieces of luggage from duffel bags to checked suitcases, as well as hundreds of pairs of shoes."

Packing for travel requires knowledge of weather conditions and local recommendations that travel agents can provide. Jackie Cucco, a former travel agent turned Travel and Leisure senior testing editor, offers expert packing advice based on five years of experience booking diverse travel experiences and testing hundreds of luggage pieces and accessories. She emphasizes selecting a compact carry-on meeting standard overhead bin restrictions of 22 by 14 by 9 inches to avoid checked baggage fees. Cucco recommends space-saving solutions like hanging toiletry bags for cramped hotel bathrooms. Her curated list of essential packing items are available at Amazon for as low as six dollars, making quality travel gear accessible to all travelers.

Read at Travel + Leisure