I Logged 78 Flights Last Year-These Are the 10 Travel Essentials I Refuse to Fly Without, Starting at $6

"When it comes to travel, I'm proud to be a carry-on-only gal. It doesn't matter if I'm gone for a few days or a few weeks-traveling with my bag as light as possible is crucial for me, not only for peace of mind, but for constant movement, different forms of transportation, and ease. I also find that the more you travel, the less you need."

"As a carry-on-only traveler, these compression packing cubes are the first thing I grab to keep my bag organized and lightweight. The durable nylon and compression zippers make them feel much sturdier than standard packing cubes, and they actually squeeze down the air to free up serious space. I use the larger cube for bulkier items like jeans or sweaters, and the smaller one for tees and dresses."

"Nothing feels messier than cords tangled at the bottom of your bag mid-travel day, which is why this smart tech organizer never leaves my suitcase. It has elastic loops for chargers, mesh pockets for adapters, and just enough padding to keep everything safe without being bulky. I keep mine pre-packed with an extra phone charger, travel adapter, and other cords so I can grab and go."

Carry-on-only travel prioritizes a light, organized bag to enable constant movement across different forms of transportation. Years of frequent travel and 78 logged flights in 2025 have narrowed essentials to items that remain packed and ready. Compression packing cubes made of durable nylon with compression zippers reduce air volume and organize bulkier clothing like jeans and sweaters separately from tees and dresses. A flat tech organizer with elastic loops, mesh pockets, and light padding keeps chargers, adapters, and cords untangled and grab-and-go ready. These core items save space, streamline packing, and support efficient travel routines.

Read at Travel + Leisure