How to pack a carry-on for a weeklong trip
Why bother with the hassle of checked luggage when it's possible to travel to any destination with only a carry-on? At least that's what Anne McAlpin, a packing expert and the author of the book "Pack It Up: Travel Smart, Pack Light," thinks.
McAlpin never checks luggage, and says that traveling is much more convenient as a result.
Below, she shares her tips.
Go for a soft bag: "If you're trying to get your bag into an overhead plane compartment, a soft one will bend a little to fit, but a hard one won't so you may be forced to check it in," McAlpin said.
Pare down the toiletries: "Take all your favorite products, but you don't need large quantities of them for a week away," McAlpin said. A clear quart-size plastic bag can hold the bulk of your liquids, such as shampoo, conditioner and body lotion, and for liquids that you need a small amount of, like face cream, she suggests using a contact lens container. She also relies on the growing number of travel-friendly nonliquid toiletries that are now readily sold online (drugstore.com has a wide range) and at your local drugstore.
The magic number for shoes: Wear a pair of stylish and comfortable walking shoes on your flight, and pack two more. Men should take a dressier loafer to wear in the evenings, while women need a pair of strappy sandals or low heels that can go from day to night. Both sexes can also take along sneakers, preferably a fashionable pair that can be used both as day shoes and to work out in, and a pair of flip-flops — because they take up minimal space, McAlpin said.
Choose a color theme: McAlpin recommends going for a dark shade such as black or navy, because it looks more chic than a lighter hue, and packing no more than nine tops and three bottoms around this tone. "The number of looks you can put together with these pieces is endless," she said.
A pair of fitted jeans looks sharp. Women should also pack a pair of capris or pants, a skirt or dress that can be dressed up or down, a mix of long- and short-sleeved tops and a tank top. Men should take a pair of slacks, a tailored button-down shirt, a zip sweater, a few polo shirts, a shirt with a fun pattern (like a colorful plaid) and a sports coat (wear this on the plane). Bathing suits take up little room, so feel free to pack two.
