My suitcase is the iFly Prestige Carry-On -- it's super lightweight and has so many compartments that I actually use. It also expands in case you pack a little bit too much...which neverrrr happens to me ha! I also really like to use the straps to secure my clothing in place. It helps prevent wrinkling and keeps you more organized. Alright, let's get into these packing tips!
Most airlines let you bring on one carry-on and one personal item. Choose your personal item wisely -- it doesn't have to be a purse. I usually carry a large tote bag as my personal item and last minute throw my handbag inside of that tote. This allows me to keep the items I want to have on me during the flight close while putting my carry-on in the overhead bin. To see everything I pack in my carry-on, watch my video on it here.
Pack in the order of what you'll use first. Depending on the time of my flight, my plans, etc. I will pack my suitcase accordingly. For example, if I'm landing really late at night and will be going to bed almost immediately, I make sure my pjs and nighttime toiletries are on top.
Use pouches to organize similar items. I'm a huge fan of pouches, they are such an easy way to keep your bags organized. I have a few in my handbag as well. Using pouches also makes packing your suitcase much easier and keeps it more organized.
Group items by function. This goes along with using pouches. I have separate pouches for my tech accessories, makeup, skincare, shower toiletries, etc. That way when I go to charge my phone, I know exactly where to look.
Pack based on one main neutral color. I like to style my outfits based either on brown or on black. If all of your outfits are based around brown tones, you can bring a couple of pairs of shoes in that family and not worry about needing black options as well. This is the easiest way to cut down on the overpacking. Everything pictured is based on a black palette.
Eliminate as much as you can. If I go away for a weekend, I won't bring shampoo and conditioner, instead I'll just bring my favorite dry shampoo. I never bring a blow dryer because most hotels have one. Also, if you're traveling with other people and staying at the same place, you can coordinate who will bring the curling/flat iron, shampoo/conditioner, etc.
Pack outfits. I'm the first one to admit I like to have options. I don't like being locked into wearing something I chose last week, BUT there's a huge benefit to packing in outfits instead of pieces. It cuts down on overpacking and it a surefire way to have full outfits instead of 30 options with no real outfits that go together.
Bring an empty bag. I like to bring a garbage bag or plastic shopping bag in the bottom of my suitcase. This is an easy way to keep my dirty clothing separated from my unworn pieces. A lot of times I won't wear every single thing I bring and I also don't like my sweaty workout clothes to be hanging out with my other articles of clothing. You'll get home and be able to throw the entire contents of the bag in the washer -- easy peasy!
Wear your heaviest layers on the plane. By wearing your coat, sweats, or sneakers on the flight you're freeing up more space in your luggage for the things that matter.
Pack pieces that can be mixed and matched. This seems like common sense, but this is how I am able to have options without overpacking. Bring pieces like a jacket, scarf, or poncho that can be worn over any of the outfits you pack that way you have choices depending on your mood the day of! All of the accessories pictured can be paired with each other depending on what mood I'm in!
I hope these packing tips helped you so you'll your most organized self on your next trip! If you're in the market for new luggage, check out iFly -- this carry-on suitcase is only $59 and is super adorable which is a win in my book!
xoxo,
Sarah
Thank you to iFly Luggage for providing the suitcase featured in this post!