Why We Almost Always Travel Carry-On Only (and You Should Too)
If you’ve ever watched the baggage carousel spin for what feels like forever after a long flight, you’ll understand why we started traveling carry-on only. At first, it was about saving time. But after years of traveling this way through airports big and small, on trains, ferries, and buses, it’s become about something more: freedom.
When you travel light, you move through the world differently.
The Freedom Factor of Carry-On Only Travel
There’s something deeply satisfying about being able to step off a plane and go. No waiting, no worrying about lost bags, no juggling heavy suitcases on cobblestone streets or metro stairs. We’ve walked from train stations to hotels in the rain, hopped on buses last minute, and rerouted trips entirely—all without giving a thought to where our luggage might be.
For childfree travelers, that freedom hits differently. We don’t need to plan around nap schedules or diaper bags, so why weigh ourselves down with excess stuff? Traveling light keeps things flexible, spontaneous, and stress-free—the way we like it.
Practical Tips for Traveling Carry-On Only
Flying carry-on only isn’t about suffering or minimalism for the sake of it. It’s about being intentional. Airlines have gotten stricter, but with the right setup, it’s easy to fit everything you need into a personal item and small roller bag or backpack.
Here’s what makes it work for us:
Versatile pieces: Every item of clothing mixes and matches. Neutrals, layers, and quick-dry fabrics are our go-tos.
Compact essentials: We skip “just in case” items and stick to travel-sized toiletries or solids.
Laundry breaks: Doing a quick load mid-trip (when possible) beats dragging around twice as much clothing.
You don’t need to look like you’re living out of a backpack either. We’ve packed for city stays, winter getaways, and international trips all within a carry-on—and still had room for souvenirs.
The Budget Bonus
Checked bag fees add up fast, especially on budget airlines or multi-leg trips. But even more valuable is what you save in time and energy. There’s no waiting in baggage claim lines, no stressing about delayed luggage, and no surprise overweight charges. That’s money (and patience) better spent on a great meal or a spontaneous day trip.
The Hidden Benefit: Mindset
When you travel light, you pack with intention, and that mindset spills over into the trip itself. You realize how little you actually need to enjoy yourself. Every piece you bring earns its place, and that simplicity makes the whole experience feel calmer and more focused.
When We Don’t Travel Carry-On Only
All of this said, we’re not zealots about it. If we’re bringing trekking poles, bulky winter gear, or something special home, we’ll check a bag. But it’s rare. Most of the time, we prefer to keep our hands free and our options open.
Because for us, travel isn’t about managing stuff, it’s about experiencing the world. And the less we bring, the more room we have for that.
What about you? Have you tried traveling carry-on only? Share your tips, struggles, or favorite packing hacks in the comments below!