This summer, I am excited to visit Portugal and England for an entire month with my partner and a friend. The challenging part? I am only bringing a carry-on and a backpack. In this post, I will share my travel packing list, and as a bonus, provide a Google spreadsheet that you can use to help you stay organized!
Why Travel With Only a Carry-On?
When traveling on a budget, I am constantly looking to find ways to save on extra costs, like luggage fees. Avoiding these fees for flights to and from Portugal and to England can save me about $400. By packing efficiently, I can carry everything I need in a carry-on suitcase and a personal item (in my case, a backpack). Compression packing cubes are lifesavers! You can fit SO MUCH in such a small space. I fit two in my backpack leaving plenty of space in my carry-on to bring back gifts and souvenirs.
Packing Strategy: Capsule Wardrobe
My key strategy for packing light is creating a capsule wardrobe. This means selecting pieces of clothing that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. Additionally, I have the luxury of laundry machines in each of my accommodations, allowing me to pack fewer items. If you don’t have access to laundry, you can use compact laundry detergent sheets and wash your clothes in the sink.
Check With Your Accommodations
Check with your hotel or AirBnB to see what they supply. Your accommodations may provide things like toiletries and towels, allowing you to save space while packing.
Packing Liquids
Remember when packing liquids, you are allowed liquid items under 3.4 ounces or 100mL that fill one quart-sized bag. I have a clear toiletries bag, similar to this one, that I use when traveling. This includes things like moisturizers, sunscreens, liquid foundations, etc. This is why I opt for solid shampoo, conditioner, and deodorant when traveling to save on liquid items. If you want to pack perfume, but only have a large bottle, I use these mini refillable perfume bottles.
My Travel Packing List
Carry-On (using packing cubes):
- 5 Bottoms (1 linen pants, 1 athletic short, 1 linen short, 1 jean short, 1 jeans)
- 5 Tops (2 neutral plain t-shirts, 2 dressier tops, 1 graphic tee)
- 2 Tank Tops (neutral colours: black and brown)
- 1 Linen Shirt (can be worn alone or paired with a top/tank)
- 2 Sets of Pajamas
- 1 Pair of Flip Flops
- Socks and undergarments (a weeks worth)
- 2 Swimsuit
Personal Item (Backpack):
- Toiletries: deodorant, sunscreen, toothbrush/paste, shampoo bar, skincare, brush, perfume, hair ties, feminine hygiene products
- Medications
- Makeup Bag: Essentials including blush, mascara, powder
- Small Purse
- Passport & Documents
- Pen
- Headphones
- Chargers & Adapters (Unsure about adapters? Check out this post.)
- Jewelry: necklace, rings, earrings, bracelets
- Waterbottle
- Sunglasses
- Neck Pillow (for evening flights)
What is on My Person when Traveling:
- Sweatpants
- Zip-up Hoodie
- T-shirt
- Running Shoes
- Glasses
- Phone
- Wallet: money, cards, ID
- Watch
- Hat
Am I missing anything?
If you think I might be missing anything on my list, please leave a comment and let me know. My goal is to successfully travel with only a carry-on. After my trip, I will provide an update on how well this packing strategy worked!
Need to keep track of your travel packing list? Make a copy of this Google Sheets template we created to stay organized!
Not sure what backpack or luggage to buy? We’ve got options in our 10 Must-Have Travel Items list.
If you need tips for after you land, make sure to look at our extensive list of resources for your travels. We cover rentals & insurance, tour guides, booking attractions, SIM/eSIM cards, currency exchange, and much more.
Stay tuned for my post-trip update, and happy packing!
Vanessa
Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon affiliate links, and we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through these links. However, please note that this does not affect the price you pay for the products. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps us continue to provide valuable content. Thank you for your support!
Wow! Thanks for the tips!