Stop Overpacking: Here's How I Traveled for 3 Weeks in 5 Countries With a Single Carry-on Bag

"I've learned that no matter where you're heading-whether for one week or one month-there are two foolproof tricks to maximizing your suitcase space: compression packing cubes and a carefully curated packing list. To that end, I've rounded up my must-haves, based on a three-week trip I spent traversing Central Europe-specifically, the cities and remote wine regions in Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic-followed by a rogue, sun-soaked jaunt to the Greek island of Zakynthos."

"Of the dozens of travel products I've tested over the past few years, there's one thing I won't fly without: compression packing cubes. They've revolutionized my packing style, allowing me to fit significantly more clothing into my suitcase while keeping my outfits organized and noticeably less wrinkled. This two-piece set from Thule boasts an ultra-durable compression zipper, which is easy to close even when the cubes are stuffed full."

Living out of a carry-on for nearly two years developed deep expertise in packing for varied climates and occasions, from Italy to the Maldives and an Australian camping wedding. Two primary strategies maximize suitcase capacity: compression packing cubes and a carefully curated packing list. A sample three-week Central Europe itinerary followed by a sun-soaked Greek island stop showcases versatile clothing choices like silk skirts, button-downs, and walking sneakers that compress well and travel easily. The Thule two-piece compression cube set features ultra-durable compression zippers, water-repellent ripstop fabric, semi-sheer panels for visibility, and size options suitable for delicates through more than a week’s worth of garments.

Read at Travel + Leisure