When preparing for a trip, one of the first decisions travelers face is: carry-on vs checked luggage. Should you pack light and breeze through the airport, or check a larger bag to bring more of what you need? Each option comes with its own benefits and challenges, depending on your destination, airline policies, and personal travel habits. In this guide, we’ll explore how to pack smarter by weighing the pros and cons of both choices — so you can travel efficiently, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer international journey.
Why travel with hand luggage only?
I am a big fan of traveling with only hand luggage. No long queues at the baggage carousel, no risk of lost suitcases and you are often faster outside the airport. Especially for short trips, hand luggage is ideal. But, it does require smart packing!
Pros:
✔️ No extra costs for checked baggage
✔️ Faster check-in and check-out
✔️ No risk of lost luggage
✔️ You learn to pack minimalist
Cons:
❌ Limited amount of liquids (max. 100 ml per package)
❌ Less space for clothes or souvenirs
❌ You have to choose carefully what you take with you
Smart carry-on tips:
- Use packing cubes to keep your belongings compact and organized.
- Wear your heaviest items during the flight (like a jacket or sneakers).
- Opt for travel-sized toiletries or fill refillable bottles with your favorite products.
- Bring a lightweight backpack or extra bag that you can place under the seat for extra space.
“During a weekend trip to Barcelona, I only took my new vacuum backpack with me. Such a backpack is really recommended if you make a lot of short trips. Thanks to clever packing skills, everything fit in it, including an extra pair of shoes. No lugging around a heavy suitcase and I walked straight into the city!”
When do you choose checked baggage?
For longer trips or destinations with varying weather conditions, checked baggage may be a better option. Sometimes you just want to have more choice in outfits, take sports gear or have room for souvenirs.
Pros:
✔️ More space for clothes, shoes and accessories
✔️ No stress about fluid restrictions
✔️ Handy for longer or multi-faceted trips
Cons:
❌ Extra check-in fees
❌ Waiting for your suitcase at the baggage carousel
❌ Chance of lost luggage
Smart tips for checked baggage:
- Use a sturdy suitcase with a TSA lock for extra security.
- Roll your clothes to save space and prevent wrinkles.
- Always put fragile or valuable items in your hand luggage.
- Label your suitcase well with your name and phone number in case it gets lost.
“On a trip to Japan, I opted for a checked suitcase because I knew I would be buying a lot of souvenirs. I even took an extra foldable bag for the way back – best decision ever!”
What suits your travel style?
Do you prefer carry-on or checked luggage? Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- How long are you going away for? Shorter trips = carry-on, longer trips = checked luggage.
- Do you need any special items? Think winter clothing, sports gear or equipment.
- Can you pack minimalist? If so, carry-on is your best friend!
Whatever you choose, packing smart always makes a difference. Hopefully these tips will help you on your next trip!
