I'm a Professional Packer, and These Are 12 Genius Hacks for Making Your Carry-on Bag Lighter-From $7

"Whenever I'm packing-whether it's for a weekend getaway or a month-long trip-I always approach the process the same way. It's like a puzzle that requires both concentration and creativity. I first think critically about every piece that will go into my suitcase: What core clothing items will I be wearing? What toiletries are absolute must-haves? Once I gather the essentials, I can start organizing them (usually into packing cubes) and figuring out what else I may have room for in my luggage."

"Though it may seem like a hassle to spend so much time and energy packing, it's always worth it because when you're thoughtful about what you're bringing, you're more likely to successfully fit everything into just a carry-on -allowing you to avoid unwieldy checked bags and any accompanying luggage fees. There are also a few more packing tricks and best practices I've learned over my years as a travel writer and former overpacker."

Packing should begin by thinking critically about each item to bring, focusing on core clothing and essential toiletries. Organize gathered essentials into packing cubes to define what fits and to maximize space. Start with a relatively lightweight suitcase and check its dimensions and weight when researching options. Comparing product weights can reveal meaningful differences between brands. Thoughtful selection of items increases the likelihood of fitting all belongings into a single carry-on, which avoids checked bags and associated fees. Experience yields additional packing tricks and best practices for keeping carry-on loads light and efficient.

Read at Travel + Leisure