The number one rule of travel is being a smart packer. With all the new air travel restrictions and common airport hassles, I refuse to check my bags, unless I am going on a two week plus international trip and even then I hesitate. I can fit all my essentials into a regulation carry on bag if I do the following:

1. Choose your foundation clothes, i.e. nice pair of jeans, black or beige skirt/slacks/shorts (whatever your preference), neutral blazer, neutral flats and nice sandals for evenings out.
2. Select multiple T-shirts, 1 white and the others colorful so you can I change up your look each day. T-shirts don’t wrinkle, they wash and dry easily and they’re comfortable.
3. You only need 2-3 pair of undies, 1-2 bra’s, and 2 pair of socks, as these can be washed at night and dry the next day.
4. Accessories can change up your look. Take a couple of bright scarves, costume jewelry for the evenings and hair clips for those updo’s.
5. Swimwear doesn’t take up any space and can be placed in the side compartments of your bag. If you choose to bring a cover-up make it one that can also be worn as a sundress. Duplicate uses, no excuses.
6. Hit the dollar store for travel size vanity items such as; deodorant, toothpaste, mouthwash, sewing kits, mini clear containers for lotions, shampoos, etc…
7. Always save space for those souvenirs and learn to buy small flexible items such as fabric items, jewelry, items that are flat or can be rolled.

Nothing here is rocket science but just by taking these few small steps to pack smarter and lighter, will set you up for a much more enjoyable trip.

Deciding which luggage to purchase can be difficult, with so many types, styles and manufacturers available. Choosing between hard-sided luggage and soft-sided luggage does not need to be difficult. Besides personal preference, there are some things to consider when choosing the correct luggage. Knowing the mode of travel, how often travel is required, and what contents will be transported, should help in determining the correct type of luggage to use.

If carry-on luggage is needed, the 22” inch size luggage is usually the largest size allowed. Airline regulations can be different from one airline to the next. It is best to check with them for their requirements while planning a trip (use the handy airline carry on requirement chart on right for more details). The 22” size luggage is perfect for overnight travel or up to a couple of days.

Benefits of Hardside Carry On Luggage

If it is extremely important that the contents are protected from possible damage, hard-side carry-on luggage would be the best choice. The exterior of hard-sided luggage is very durable and secure. For the protection of the contents, the inside is heavily padded. If delicate items are being transported, such as expensive cameras and equipment, breakable gifts, electronics, or any other critical items, hard-sided luggage would give the best protection from damage occurring. Additionally, hard-sided luggage is more weather resistant and waterproof than soft-sided luggage. If the contents of the luggage are critically important documents, hard-sided luggage would offer the most protection from weather related problems.

Hard-sided luggage can take more abuse from everyday traveling than soft-sided luggage. If traveling is continuous, the best choice is hard-side luggage.

With the wide variety of colors and styles to choose from, it will not be difficult to find the perfect hard-sided carry-on. Today’s luggage is very fashionable, slim, lightweight and trendy. Even though the hard-sided luggage is extremely durable, it is lightweight, with some being lighter than soft-sided luggage.

Benefits of Softside Luggage

Soft-sided luggage is ideal for the traveler that does not travel constantly nor have the extreme need for the protection of contents that the hard-side luggage offers. Although the outside is not as durable as the hard-sided luggage, soft-sided luggage still is very durable. One of the advantages of soft-sided bags is their flexibility. They can be put in the overhead or under the seat of aircraft easier, since they are not as rigid. Soft-sided luggage also comes in a variety of colors and styles to please any traveler. Soft-sided luggage is available with protective padded pockets to carry laptops, electronics and other valuable items.

There are many different types of carry-on luggage to choose. Every color imaginable is available, and they come in a wide array of styles. Choosing the right luggage is important to insure a wonderful traveling experience. The amount of travel, what types of transportation, durability, security and personal preferences will play a major role in choosing the type of luggage required.

Wheeled (Rolling) Carry On
Wheeled luggage makes traveling much easier because of the maneuverability. It is great for anyone that wants the ease of pulling luggage rather than carrying. It is also a great choice for children since it is easy for them to pull. College students with acres of campus grounds to cover between classes, several heavy books and a laptop will enjoy this type of luggage.

Spinner Carry On
Spinners make traveling a breeze. With four wheels that turn 360 degrees, spinners offer the most maneuverability. This is great luggage for anyone that does a lot of traveling. It is important to have control of the spinner when on steep slopes. With four, 360-degree wheels, it can easily get away and roll down hills.

Duffel Bags
Duffel bags are great for both short and extended trips. They can hold a large assortment of clothing and accessories. They are great as a carry on. They are easy to store in the overhead and under the seat of planes. Duffel bags are very durable and can take a lot of abusive handling. They are great for many different types of travelers.

Backpack Carry On
Backpacks come in a variety of styles and colors. Whether traveling for school, sports, or business, they are a favorite choice. They are great for overnight or weekend trips. Because backpacks are made of flexible material, they are easy to store under the seat or in overheads. Backpacks with computer compartments are great for college students and business travelers.

TSA Approved Locks
TSA stands for Transportation Security Administration. This type of lock allows Transportation Security screeners to open locks with a master key. If a TSA lock is not used and the key for the lock is not available, the airport security staff would have to cut the lock. This could cause damage to the baggage and belongings. Using TSA approved locks on baggage assures the traveler of security. The ease of getting through airport security is one of the greatest benefits.

Understanding the different types of carry on luggage available will make the choice easier and more pleasant. Luggage is an investment and with the right choice can bring years of use.