Pack MORE In Smaller Bags 🧳 Tips for Flying Carry-On Only ✈️ 🎒

🧳 PRODUCTS MENTIONED IN THIS VIDEO 🧳
Here's my current luggage: Osprey Daylite Wheeled Carry-on - osprey.pxf.io/0ZNevN
And my current personal item bag: Knack Bags S2 Medium Expandable Backpack - knack-bags.pxf.io/q44nZy
Here's my video review of it: • Expandable Travel Back...
🎒 Here's the Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack I occasionally travel with - www.avantlink.com/click.php?t...
🎒 Here's the Packable Back I showed, and am currently traveling with: Osprey Stuff Pack 18L - osprey.pxf.io/JzNx7v
Watch my review comparing this pack with their 20L waterproof version: • Osprey Pack Comparison...
🔒 Don't forget to bring along a couple of TSA Locks! Handy for locking your luggage if you have to check it, among other uses - amzn.to/3K8JYAF
🧥If you're going to bring an extra hoodie, bring this one from Aviator (this is the one I brought, which is extra handy on airplanes - aviatorusa.com/collections/me...
👚 Want to see my travel capsule wardrobe for 3-months in Europe in action? Check out this video: • Packing Tips for Europ...
✈️ What Happens When You Fly: • What ACTUALLY Happens ...
Ditch those big, heavy suitcases and master the art of traveling light! 🧳✨ We're talking about flying with just a carry-on with tips and tricks to overcome the challenges along the way.
Discover why those space-saving vacuum bags may be a mistake. Trust me, I've learned the hard way! 😅
We'll explore perks of carry-on travel. Plus, I'll spill the beans on 3 different types of carry-on bags, including my preferred weapon of choice: the mighty wheeled luggage.
We'll also tackle issues like airport security, weight restrictions, and the ultimate battle of fitting your personal item bag under the seat without sacrificing legroom.
I've got some super handy tips to help you gracefully navigate the security checkpoints and avoid carry-on baggage fees. We'll even explore the art of underpacking (yes, it's possible!) and the joy of finding items along the way or intentionally leaving some behind. Less is more! 😉
So, join me on this adventure and let's make packing a carry-on bag a breeze! Get ready to learn and lighten your load. Bon voyage! 🌍✈️🎉
00:00 - Introduction
00:37 - Advantages of Carry-On Travel
01:49 - 3 Types of Carry-On Bags
04:45 - Challenges of Flying With Carry-On Luggage
08:25 - How To Be Ready If You Need to Check Your Bag
09:19 - Keeping Carry-On Luggage Weight Down
11:58 - Airport Security Tips with Carry-On Luggage
12:50 - Top Tip: Staying Organized Throughout Your Trip
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#traveltips #travellife #flying
____________________
Greetings! I'm Nora Dunn, aka The Professional Hobo. I've been a digital nomad since 2006. I help people design their lifestyles and arrange their affairs so they can travel long term while working remotely. (I also have a ton of crazy travel tales to share from almost two decades of lifestyle travel).
For more info, check out: www.theprofessionalhobo.com/
GET YOUR FREE CHECKLIST of 10 Things to Do Before Traveling Long-Term! Learn from my 15+ years of travel and remote work abroad: bit.ly/3iTqIbu
Save luggage space and fees with this FREE Travel Gear and Packing List CHEAT SHEET! bit.ly/3AFfiTq Includes special discount codes up to 25% off the things you need.
☕️ PLEASE SUPPORT ME! Buy me a Coffee: ►►►www.buymeacoffee.com/noradunn
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🔒 TERMS & DISCLOSURE 🔒
This channel uses affiliate links. Clicking on these links supports me at no additional cost to you, allowing me to provide reviews, guides, and valuable content.
I participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, earning fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Free gear disclosure: Some gear is purchased, while others are received for free in exchange for a review. Rest assured that my reviews remain honest and unbiased.
NOTE: This channel is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Video descriptions may include affiliate links.
Thank you for watching! Remember to subscribe for more travel tips and insights. Safe travels! 🌍✈️

[@NoraDunn]

🧳 PRODUCTS MENTIONED IN THIS VIDEO 🧳 Here's my current luggage: Osprey Daylite Wheeled Carry-on - osprey.pxf.io/0ZNevN And my current personal item bag: Knack Bags S2 Medium Expandable Backpack - knack-bags.pxf.io/q44nZy Here's my video review of it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sF6ZhH2Jadeeeqc 🎒 Here's the Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack I occasionally travel with - www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=pl&ti=6105&pw=253893&mi=17145&pt=3&pri=103&ctc=KZbin 🎒 Here's the Packable Back I showed, and am currently traveling with: Osprey Stuff Pack 18L - osprey.pxf.io/JzNx7v Watch my review comparing this pack with their 20L waterproof version: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hqC7ep6Bd5eIf9k 🔒 Don't forget to bring along a couple of TSA Locks! Handy for locking your luggage if you have to check it, among other uses - amzn.to/3K8JYAF 🧥If you're going to bring an extra hoodie, bring this one from Aviator (this is the one I brought, which is extra handy on airplanes - aviatorusa.com/collections/merino-hoodies?aff=112 👚 Want to see my travel capsule wardrobe for 3-months in Europe in action? Check out this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/anqloaenhJqbfbc ✈ What Happens When You Fly: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pZCogXWFgrGSmas

[@rross2764]

I'm the nerd that keeps a spreadsheet with all my stuff listed with its weight, then I just copy the items I think I'm going to pack into a section that adds everything up by category, and I instantly know how much my luggage will weigh. Makes it easy to play with removing and adding items to control the overall weight.

[@NoraDunn]

That's brilliant!

[@kathleenmavity3004]

That puts to shame my spreadsheet listing take-withs by category! I bow to your greatness.

[@megand175]

Impressive!

[@sdophoto1405]

I thought I was the only one who had a spreadsheet. I don't think about weight mind you it's about creating a list. I re use it and adjust it based on new items, new tools, new clothes etc.

[@NoraDunn]

@@sdophoto1405 Spreadsheet for the win! :-)

[@AluminumCloud74]

Love your videos! You mentioned losing out on legroom space when putting your carryon-sized backpack under the seat in front of you. My trick is to (after we’re above 10,000’) set the backpack upright under my knees. Not only does it provide more support for my legs, it frees up all the space under the seat in front of me to stretch out.

[@dammar117]

If the flight attendants don't mind, this is a great idea, indeed. Another reason to not regret not having long legs!

[@NoraDunn]

Ooh - very clever!

[@AluminumCloud74]

@@dammar117 You just can’t have anything around your feet for takeoff and landing or when the flight attendants are securing the cabin for arrival and do their final checks for tray tables seatbacks etc. It’s so comfortable!

[@gg79139]

I had thought of this but didn’t want to be the naughty child the teacher had to explain the rules to…..again! Going north in November for a short 90 min flight. I’ll do this then!

[@NoraDunn]

@@gg79139 Nice!

[@jenniferkern5650]

On a 10 day trip to Europe, my husband and I packed all the old underwear we had been saving for months. Instead of putting the used ones into a dirty clothes bag, we just tossed them gaining a bit of space for souvenirs.

[@NoraDunn]

Great strategy Jennifer!

[@deedsh6280]

We do that too. Always good to have toss-ables. I took three faded, snagged sweaters to Scotland for the days when we were primariliy on the train only, and came back with two new ones/souveniers. Win-win.

[@NoraDunn]

@@deedsh6280 Awesome!

[@esse1900]

We did that for our annual trips to Disney World. Called it our “Florida underwear”.

[@dammar117]

Great hack, but I don't keep ugly underwear. I don't care if no one is going to see it, this wouldn't work for me. 😆

[@user-ni2sl2eo5o]

In my 20’s I bought a beautiful leather backpack, imagining all the amazing places it would go. Small, always carry on. Now in late 60’s and a bit 😉 overweight, am choosing a small (15”) soft, 2 wheely bag after lugging my backpack and watching people not carrying but rolling along with their bags. Haven’t flown since 2016, so am thoroughly enjoying your videos!👍👍

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you so much! Indeed, I also started off with a backpack and a romantic notion of being a backpacker, but once I saw people rolling their luggage, I jumped on and haven't (really) looked back. It depends on the trip, but on the whole, for long term travel I like wheeled luggage.

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for the shout-out, Nora! Super video and so refreshing to hear someone talk about the CONS of carry-on luggage! 😂

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks Megan! As you know, every type of travel/luggage has pros & cons. Which camp are you in? Team carry-on or Team checked?

[@recurse]

I've kind of gone on a different direction with my travel. I used to always bring a carry-on roller suitcase and an over the shoulder bag as a personal item, and a checked bag for longer trips. What I've found is that I *hate* having to lug around a bag in airports. I really hate competing for overhead bin space. Now, I always check a bag and that way I don't have to sweat what I'm bringing with me, and I carry a small backpack as a personal item with (rarely) valuables, an iPad, headphones, a pen, medications, power bank, charging adaptor for the country I'm going to, car mount for my phone in case the rental doesn't have Android Auto or navigation, one change of clothes, and a few basic toiletries. I just accept the risk around the checked bag, since basic survival is handled and I can change my clothes once.

[@NoraDunn]

You know what? I'm starting to think this way as well. Heck - even if I do pack my stuff into a carry-on sized suitcase, I think it may be easier to just check it, especially with airlines cracking down on carry on as they are.

[@chrysvest4746]

I agree, if you’re going to weigh my carry on, weigh the passengers.

[@NoraDunn]

Yep. I understand the pitfalls involved in weighing passengers, but I have also been weighed, so I know it can happen.

[@dammar117]

I know! It doesn't make sense. If I weigh 30 kg less than the other person, why should it matter that my luggage is 1 kg overweight? The other person still has 29 kg on me!

[@NoraDunn]

@@dammar117 Exactly.

[@eclairtreo]

Agreed, and, I too have been weighed. But sheesh.

[@caroledowney6908]

Small regional planes weigh people and luggage. This happened flying from Guadeloupe to Island of Les Sainte.

[@julietarroyo4308]

Another great video - The No. 1 reason I'm going to pack carry on only (a small wheeled cabin bag and a small backpack) for my next trip is for Safety. If for some reason, I can't find a cab, or if the bus dropped me off in the middle of the night in an unfamiliar place and I need to walk a long way to my accomodations or to a hotel, I can do it with carry on only. I can't walk very far with lots of heavy luggage.

[@NoraDunn]

Great point, Julie!

[@user-en2eh1ic3v]

I want to thank you for your informative and extremely helpful videos. My 27 year old daughter and I went on a 21 day trip to England. I watched all of your videos and was convinced I only wanted to use carry on luggage. I did it! My daughter insisted on using her big, checked suitcase. I'll never forget her lugging that case up 4 flights of stairs on a hot day! Now she is a believer too. Your suggestions really work. Happy travels!

[@NoraDunn]

AWESOME!!!! I'm so glad it worked out so well for you, and that your daughter also saw the benefits! Hurrah!

[@dmorales1064]

Working for an airline for 36 years, this video provides some of the BEST ideas for traveling with carry on. Especially if the overhead compartments fill up and you now have to check that rolling carry on, having that lightweight back pack you can pull out quickly is genious. Not to mention if your regular checked luggage is overweight, again pull out that spare collapsible backpack and use that to take care of an expensive overweight fee. Also another tip is try to bring extra zip ties if you don't own a TSA lock because most airlines do not have extra zip ties laying around (it is not a requirement for the airline to provide them) and if your bag is locked up with these zip ties and the bag is overweight, you now have to cut them off, remove or pay for the excess weight if you don't want to open up that bag again. Folks remember that carry on is still 2 items not 3 or 4 small items that you think equal 2. It is an FAA rule that the airline has to enforce but we do hear people trying hard to convince us that the 3 and 4 pieces we see is just an illusion and they really only have 2 🤦🏻‍♀️. Great video 👍🏼

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you so much! GREAT point about the smaller items illusion situation! LOL! I often have an additional small cross-body bag (big enough for my phone & passport basically), but I can totally consolidate it into my larger personal item bag if I need to. Also, packable backpack for the win!

[@joannmiffleton9290]

Definitely join TSA PreCheck! It’s invaluable, especially in busy airports.

[@bretaskinner3143]

Haven't traveled in a while, but do have a "get it there" story. While packing (backpack style carryon, our bodies were much younger) for 3 weeks Germany, Austria, Iceland, I asked hubby, should we take umbrellas? He said no, we'll get ones if needed. It ended up being the wettest spring in several decades, so much so that some train routes were closed due to water over the tracks. We managed the first few days, but when in Munich, we headed to a department store and bought umbrellas. We still use them, and remember the story ;)

[@NoraDunn]

Nice story! And a very usable souvenir that will always remind you of that trip. Bravo!

[@kevinquinn1993]

Hi Nora! I actually had not seen this video until now when I saw it referenced in the Short that you released today. (11-10-23) 😊(so embarrassed...) I am pleased to see that you mentioned many of the things that I had added in the comments to your more recent video: "Experienced Travelers' No Pack List" concerning my tendency to travel carry-on only when possible. The first time I traveled carry-on only overseas was in 1995 when I traveled as part of a charitable organization to Bosnia during the last year of the Serbian Bosnian War. At that time you could check up to two bags (or parcels) per passenger, weighing up to 70 lbs. each, on international flights. We each checked two large parcels of relief provisions (about a dozen of us) and brought all of our personal items carry-on. This means that we were able to take more than 1,500 lbs. of provisions directly into Central Bosnia and supervise their distribution without added cargo costs. On a mission whose primary focus was to make sure that funds got distributed effectively, and those who needed them taken care of, it provided a nice extra layer of assistance where needed. It was an easy sacrifice to make. That trip taught me that traveling without checked baggage is possible. To alleviate any concerns, let me make it clear that each and every one of us paid their own way on that diplomatic Mission of Mercy, so that all money donated (including our own) could go where needed. No, I am not a rich man, but we do what we can. Happy Travels! ☺🛫

[@NoraDunn]

1500 pounds of provisions! That's amazing. I'm pretty sure there aren't any airlines out there that allow checked luggage to weigh 70 pounds per bag any more - ha ha!

[@deniseyoung3738]

I start by telling my self firmly that I am only taking a carryon. I find this gets my mindset in the right place and makes it easier to make the right choices!

[@NoraDunn]

Good one, Denise!

[@mercyp7151]

I have now decided to LIVE like Im travelling with carry on. Because Im just starting out on my own, and having learned from bad past experiences, to whittle down belongings to bare bones so I dont need to store things. This will be my rule of thumb when building my minimal wardrobe minimal due to budget not choice 😂. I think this will serve me very well even though Im not going to be able to travel in the foreseeable future. Now I have to figure out how to fit my minimal belongings, including a comforter and pillow, in one suitcase. I love the backpack you showed! I think I may get one. The convertible wheels are perfect! You're videos have been so helpful thank you! Onward with my new carryon on only lifestyle!

[@NoraDunn]

Good luck in your new minimalist lifestyle!

[@kittykathy9532]

I think washing clothes at your destination is the key to light packing. If you have access to a washer/ dryer, bring eco-friendly dryer sheets and detergent sheets that you can cut into strips for washing. Or if no washer dryer, you can wash in a sink just bring a drain stopper or something to line the sink with. You can hang up most clothing over the shower bar or a light para cord over the shower should do the trick. I am a larger person and I only pack two extra clothing changes and one night shirt to wear for 4 to 5 days. I just make sure I wash my clothes. It’s not a big of a hassle as I might think. That way you can pack less you just have to wash more.🎉 but that’s of course for those that don’t think this is a hassle.😊

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for sharing Kathy! And yes, it's a trade off: if you pack less you have a lighter load, but need to wash more. If you don't want to wash as you go, you have to pack and carry more. To each their own!

[@christinawilliams6989]

Honestly my biggest trick is everything needs to be hand washable and fast dry if possible. Im plus sized so shopping is difficult abroad. I plan to do laundry on vacation and choose my accomodations to have a laundry facility, and frankly breakfast too if i can help it.

[@NoraDunn]

I'm with you on the laundry machines. On my current trip with a travel capsule wardrobe, it's very handy to have a washer inside my apartment, so I can do multiple smaller loads instead of having to hand wash everything all the time.

[@vanisle9432]

We have been washing our clothes as we go for many years to reduce what we take on a trip. In many places outside North America, we are able to pay to have our laundry washed and dried - the hotel usually knows who provides that service. Baring that we take small packets of laundry detergent so we can wash clothes in a sink and hang in the bathroom to dry. We even wash jeans, but allow two days for them to dry. We also go to thrift stores to buy things we chose not to bring or forgot. At the end of the the trip we donated everything back to a thrift store.

[@leslie-annepepin8927]

I bring a pair of paper booties in my pocket. I absolutely hate the idea of having to go barefoot or sock foot through security, then putting all those germs in my shoes! So I take off shoes and put paper booties on to walk through, and have a sandwich bag to keep them in. Fold them up outside in after each use. I also bring a baggie with a couple of Clorox wipes to wipe down headrest (yes, head lice is a thing), the seatbelt buckle, etc. And a large size freezer bag or plastic grocery bag to line the front pocket with to keep my kindle, water bottle, etc. in. Again, when removing, store outside in. These are all lightweight and minimal in taking up space.

[@NoraDunn]

Great tips! Thanks Leslie!

[@gingereaves4097]

I do the same thing, but I throw the disposable booties away as they are cheap. I wipe down the headrest and put a crip sheet over it and down the back of the seat. I use plastic grocery bags to line the seat pocket, too. I wear disposable gloves when I go to the bathroom and discard in a trash bag when I get back to my seat. I am older with health issues so I try to be careful.

[@NoraDunn]

@@gingereaves4097 - Wow! Super comprehensive and clean! Well done.

[@monikaliebold4225]

Flying tips: 1. Having some bulky stuff in wintertime, for example my beloved woolen cardigan (hand-knitted by my granny), I put it into an empty zip pillow cover. So I have an additional pillow on long flights and it doesn't count as personal item and fits easily between handles of my carry-on suitcase. 2. Checking on international flights weight and size restrictions with all airlines, I fly with. Bc if it's a codeshare flight, weight and size restrictions can be different with operating airline than with booked airline. Once I was at gate at SFO for international flight to Europe, I had to check in my carry-on suitcase due to other weight restrictions on operating airline, although it was okay with booked airline the flight before (same ticket, no separated tickets).

[@NoraDunn]

Great suggestions, Monika! Though beware on the pillow front - some airlines aren't allowing pillows to be extra any more: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r32nq2CqqcaZaJIsi=EbwAsLrJMtQcnBqR

[@monikaliebold4225]

​@@NoraDunn Thank you very much for link, I've just watched. Great advice. 👏

[@MICPG9]

I have worked in Aviation for #47 years and I have to tell you, Your advice and suggestions are right on point, Please keep your videos coming, Thank You 🙏

[@NoraDunn]

Wow - thank you!

[@A_R_C]

Carry on only is the way to go! It's so easy to get standby if I want to get an earlier flight. If there is a flight delay or cancelled flight... I am all set and I don't have to worry about a checked bag. It is the best when traveling Europe!

[@NoraDunn]

I agree! It's very liberating.

[@sylviaescarcega6616]

I also don't use compression bags for the same reason: one tends to pack more, which is important for me not to do, as I often travel with airlines that do weigh bags. But, I was recently able to actually pack clothes for 1 week of conferences and 1 week of traveling in hot and cool weather in Europe, in a 35L carry-on, and still had space for purchases abroad. The key is lightweight clothing. The challenge for me was the personal item, since, as you mentioned, one of the airlines I was traveling with has a ridiculous weight limit (and, by the way, many others include the weight of the personal item along with the weight of the carry-on, so if there is a 10kg weight limit, it means for both). With all the tech stuff we now carry, plus the water bottle and maybe food, and essentials, one could end up with a 7 kg personal item. It has been actually fun learning strategies to lower the weight/size of my personal item :)

[@NoraDunn]

I'm working on lowering my personal item weight with each trip! Once I amass some good tips I'll create a video :-)

[@arlencarlson]

My wife and I had the same problem in Asia, coming back to North America. I personally plan to never use an airline again that insists on weighing personal items!

[@NoraDunn]

@@arlencarlson Good call!

[@Lorna-vz2xq]

Weighing clothing is a great idea. I use a kitchen scale (got this tip from Adventures with Sarah). It is a whole different process when deciding what to bring and you shop for your trip clothing and shoes differently too.

[@NoraDunn]

Fascinating! I think weighing everything and putting it in a spreadsheet and developing a packing list that way is super smart.

[@vtcs1963]

I've been flying with carry on only for ages (not always, but usually, depends where I go). I really like all your tips. One thing I find so strange is when someone is going to pick me up and I tell them "oh I don't have to wait for my luggage." People literally go crazy! I feel like I have to defend myself for not checking a bag! And the funniest part is that I always have good outfits, the right shoes, and even (on this trip) my collapsable hiking poles and a back brace! It puts people over the edge!

[@NoraDunn]

Ha ha! Funny that people go crazy when you say that.

[@bcloetta]

I'm surprised your hiking poles made it through security. They won't always--and that is the ONLY reason I have checked a bag in the last 10 years :)

[@vtcs1963]

@@bcloetta I had no problem! They didn’t even ask!

[@cullensistah]

@bcloetta They are listed on the TSA website as acceptable. I just took mine through 4 European countries and 2 domestic ones.

[@polarwealth]

Loved your video on this topic. I am a chronic over packer. My sister is a flight attendant, she just rolls her eyes at me. She refers to my check-in bags as "Body Bags" . I was attempting to pack in carryon since I was pass traveling...but for 12 days and 2 different climates... and a formal event I could not get there. The retired old rolling under seat bag (did not fit under seat) wheel disintegrated during the trip. It held a lot; specifically, my jewelry, laptop and headset (valuables). While in Denver, I needed to replace it (not enough time to get wheels fixed at the time). Luckily there are great gear and luggage stores in Denver, so I found an expert at a great luggage store. Dave at Paradise Luggage. I wanted a bag that if they took my rolling 4-wheel carry on, I could manage. I am older and have a disability that slows me down. I focused on an item that would fit -FOR SURE- on most airlines and aircraft, under the seat. And if my roller carry-on was taken to be checked at the gate, I could manage without st. I wanted to be able to gain easy access into it under the seat, without having to pull the entire bag out. I ended up with a BACH backpack 30L. It opens up like a Doctors bag. I tried it for the first time just yesterday. It slipped easily over my roller handles and when they took my roller (it was a small plane) and I was able wear as a backpack. While I was on a 3 hour flight and I had easy access to all the contents in my bag. It was great. Maybe you might take a look at this bag and be compelled to review it. BACH Dr Backpacks I love the Osprey, which I could have gotten, but I the Doctor bag opening on the bag I got is what sold me. Just a Note: Some of the new roller carry-ons like the Victorinox, the piece that opens in the front of the hard side roller has a zipper that gives you access to entire interior of the bag or you can remove it. Totally cool but pricey. I have been watching your video while I am UN-packing my bags from my trip. Saying Oh Sh.t not again. Love them. Now, I am going online to find a Home Inventory spreadsheet as I am down sizing for time of life reasons. Swedish Death Cleaning 🤪 Thank you for the great videos.

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you so much for sharing! I'll have a look at that bag. (I love your sister's "body bag" joke - funny)!

[@polarwealth]

I watch packing & suitcase review videos all the time. She says it doesn't help me. What's up with that. I really enjoyed your videos. I have subscribed and look forward to watching your videos in the future. I will tell you my favorite travel hack...it's using contact lens cases for moisturizer, sunscreen, and makeup etc.! @@NoraDunn

[@NoraDunn]

@@polarwealth That's a fantastic hack!

[@suzatlarge]

Wow. First, I love your sister's "body bag" joke. Next: I also struggle with carry-on only, and have not achieved it for overseas trips. However, on some trips I've used as my checked bag, a 22-inch roller bag which is only slightly larger than the allowable carry-on size these days. That's helped when handling my bags on the ground, on trains, etc. Just because it's checked doesn't mean it has to be huge. And finally: I'm delighted to see the shout-out for Dave at Paradise Baggage! I'm in Denver. A few months ago Dave helped me choose a new checked bag for a 3 week trip taking trains around the UK. My first checked-bag sized spinner, for which my shoulder joints thanked me, because it's less stressful to guide a four-wheeled bag along than to push or pull a two wheeler. BTW that bag isn't huge, more like 23 or 24 inches and skinnier than the typical checked bag. I got it on/off trains without assistance.

[@NoraDunn]

@@suzatlarge Great point about the slightly-larger-than-carry-on sized checked bags! Just a bit more room but not so big that it's too heavy to carry around.

[@Kingnome]

While in the military, I was redeploying to another location. I did the rucksack on the back and carryon backpack on the front to get the military aircraft. It took two people to get them on and off me😆. My other hands were holding my chemical gear bag and issued gear. Now as a civilian looking back, one checked bag and one carryon is LOT easier to deal with.

[@NoraDunn]

Great point! That sounds like quite a load you were carrying!

[@bcloetta]

I love your videos and your approach to travel, and agree 100% with your advice. Maybe because I have honed skills shaving weight backpacking, I find travel much easier these days. I use solid anything and everything (deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, soap sheets, etc.) and reload my "kit" after every trip so that I know it is ready. Short trips, my handy little hardsided roller bag is all i need with my purse. Longer trips (Europe/Asia), I will supplement with a 30L travel backpack. I only put clothing and electronics in it to keep it light. My packing rule is everything except underwear gets worn 3x. There is always a dress and 2 shirts, a scarf and uberlight bag for shopping if my purse is small :)

[@NoraDunn]

Great strategy and tips - thanks for sharing!

[@kryssygee4814]

What a fabulous video!!! Sharing your years of travel experience really educates us all!!!! Thank you!!

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you so much!

[@LynnStAubin-od5qe]

Excellent, concise information. I’m going to Scotland/Ireland soon and this is just what I needed. Thanks.

[@NoraDunn]

Awesome! Thanks :-)

[@generator6946]

Amen! Thank you!

[@BruceM8]

I appreciated your video, Nora, and agree with many of your tips. I always check a suitcase when traveling, but my suitcase is carry-on size and weighs typically 20-25 pounds when packed, so it's not that hard to handle or lift during travel. Then I take a medium backpack on the plane and recently bought a small foldable backpack to pack in it or use separately, as the situation calls for. I thank you that, even though you are a strong proponent of carry-on only, you didn't choose to ridicule those of us who prefer the other way of traveling. To me, checking a bag is just simpler, less stressful, and more comfortable. I travel several times a year and have only had a checked bag that was delayed on two occasions in 30 years, and I have never had one that was lost. My last case of a delayed bag was last summer, when the bag took 5 or 6 days to arrive. You know, I marveled at how unproblematic the lack of the checked bag was. I bought some underwear, a couple shirts, and a few toiletries, and I did just fine.

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks Bruce! And no shame in checking a bag - at all! I did it for years, and in certain situations I still do.

[@suzatlarge]

Thanks for sharing this. I've also checked carry-on sized bags. A checked bag doesn't have to be big and heavy! I always have some clothing in my carry-on - underwear, socks, shirt, at a minimum - to ease the impact of a lost/delayed checked bag on arrival.

[@NoraDunn]

@@suzatlarge Great point! I have a friend who is a full-time traveler and she travels with two rolling carry-ons; she checks one and takes on the other.

[@bcloetta]

My biggest issue with checking bags is that it does not allow me the flexibility to change flights when the inevitable delays and cancellations occur. If you have all of your stuff with you--most often you can whiz to the gate and ask to be put on standby. If your luggage is loaded on another flight, that is not possible. There have been at least 3 times in the last 2 years that I have utilized this tactic.

[@NoraDunn]

@@bcloetta Totally! I agree with you on this.

[@arthurhogge6325]

Nora, I just discovered you and have watched quite a few of your videos already. All have been very insightful and helpful. Glad I found you!! Thanks a lot for all your information and suggestions. Art

[@NoraDunn]

Wow - thank you Art!

[@tplayspiano]

Thank you. I rarely get to travel, but I enjoy these videos for those wonderful moments when I do.

[@NoraDunn]

Thank you!

[@elena_a-2023]

Thank you so much Nora for these amazing traveling tips. I like packing cubes a lot because it keeps things organize and neat. I am going to Oahu for 2 weeks at the end of September and I really don’t want to overpack! So, I am going to start my packing list right away. Thanks again!

[@NoraDunn]

Woohoo - happy travel planning!

[@delausa]

🎯 everything except the backpack/roller divide. I’ve got at least five separate reasons for preferring the backpack, but I would never ever carry a backpack with roller wheels. Aside from being bulky and clunky, and making the suspension on the backpack torturous, those wheels weigh something when every ounce is at a premium. My personal favorite pack is the Osprey Fairview 55 with the zip-off personal bag. I have the older generation in an extra small, and I’ve only had to check the 40 L main bag once, and that was because I stupidly failed to zip off the backpack before trying to check in. 40 L bag in the overhead 15 L bag as my personal item. I can carry 25 pounds total due to this particular bag’s high quality suspension, although I usually try to keep it at 22. I find it much easier and much safer to carry that weight on my back than to try to twist and drag, or heave and lift that same weight on wheels. Incidentally, they have slightly redesigned the Osprey bag (Farpoint/Fairview 55) so that it is now carry-on in all sizes and genders. The bag itself is also quite light, so you’re not wasting a lot of your weight on the bag itself.

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for sharing! Osprey makes great luggage and their suspensions are amazing, so if you're inclined to use a backpack, Osprey is a great choice.

[@estheronajourneytocontentm1097]

Yes, agree as I have the Osprey farpoint 40 litre which is a great size and easy to carry but unfortunately travelling from Australia and back from Bali (being my next trip soon) the airline only allows 7kilo carryon which includes your personal item, and yes they do weigh both, sometimes multiple checks. Real killer as I always take my own snacks to reduce costs & the junk food tummy bloating….but of course the food weighs a bit …I’ll definitely doing checked baggage unfortunately with multiple accomodation/location changes over the 7.5 weeks.

[@kerfuffle9312]

👏👏👍👍Well done! I’ve picked up numerous valuable tips from your channel☺️. Thank you for sharing👏 🇨🇦

[@NoraDunn]

Awesome - Great to hear!

[@alisonarthurs4317]

Thanks for your videos! The one thing I needed and could not find at my destination was Dove soap in France. I have a lot of allergies, so I always bring my own soap, shampoo, and washcloth. I forgot soap when I went to the French countryside. I would have had to pay for transport to Paris to find Dove. Thankfully, a friend was meeting me from the US. She kindly bought me soap and took it to France for me. This would not be an issue for lower maintenance people. :) Another note is that when I am doing home stays, I have host gifts in my luggage. Once doled out, this makes space for my souvenirs! Generally souvenirs for me mean something I can wear like jewelry or a scarf, and possibly a non-fragile Christmas ornament. These are things I can enjoy and remember my trip with, and I don’t have to find a place to display them in my home. Happy traveling, everyone!

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for sharing, Alison! I also bring gifts if I'm staying with people, and I also get wearable/usable small souvenirs.

[@suzatlarge]

I agree about souvenirs. Recently I came home from three weeks traveling around the UK with: a scarf, a coaster, and a couple of fridge magnets. I also like to bring back dish towels, but on this trip I didn't see any that called to me. I enjoy using my dish towels from my travels - they are def used and not put in a drawer. Sometimes when I am using one of them, It will prompt a memory of a trip and make me smile.

[@NoraDunn]

@@suzatlarge I love the dish towels strategy!

[@SMElder-iy6fl]

I often pick up kitchen items when I travel. I love my wooden spoon from the Christmas market in Salzburg and use it frequently. I also collect little animals for my Nativity set, which brings back lovely memories when I set it up at Christmas.

[@NoraDunn]

@@SMElder-iy6fl Nice one!

[@sdophoto1405]

Great video. I I use to use a carry on backpack by a major brand and a shoulder bag with camera and laptop etc..... I found it getting to be too heavy as I have gotten older. I have switched to a roller bag and I LOVE it. I also always pack my personal item with the things that I do not want to get checked! I use a lot of those tips

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for sharing!

[@johnscramling1653]

You mentioned one thing that I often do and that is take clothes that I don't plan on bringing back. I don't bring ripped clothes or terribly stained clothes, but older clothes that have seen their better days. If I have to leave something behind because of a purchase, it is easily doable.

[@NoraDunn]

Exactly! If I take all my "best clothes" with me from the start, then it's much harder/impossible to leave something behind.

[@gingereaves4097]

I have a friend who traveled to Europe with her husband for a month each summer for years. They would go to thrift stores and buy most of their clothes to take and donate most of them to make room for purchases to take home. The clothes they got at thrift stores were in good condition.

[@NoraDunn]

@@gingereaves4097 That's a great strategy!

[@billdanger756]

Thank you times 10 Nora. I feel so much better about my trip, because I haven’t flown in about 10 years with all the changes. I think I will be ok from now on.

[@NoraDunn]

Awesome! Thanks Bill - and happy travels!

[@peteradrian9466]

I can pre-load my personal item (20 liter packable knapsack) with the cabin essentials, then slip it into the front pocket of my main carry-on (E-Bag Mother Lode). At the gate or on the plane, presto! I'm ready to divide and conquer.

[@NoraDunn]

Awesome!

[@sdeutscher]

I'm also a big fan of compression packs. Solid cosmetics is also a good hack. I also use versatile/multipurpose clothes like long pants with zippered legs

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@granthanham9082]

Another great video Nora. I recently purchased the Osprey Daylite 40l. wheeled backpack on your recommendation. Can't wait to try carry-on only on my next trip. I have always previously overpacked.

[@NoraDunn]

Woohoo! I hope you love it. Let us know here once you've had a chance to use it!

[@cullensistah]

I got the 46L Osprey porter, which opens like a suitcase, so you don't have to pull everything out. I mistakenly thought I got the rolling type. After 3 weeks of wearing that through many hotel changes and airports, busses, trams, trains, underground and ferry, I can honestly say, never again. 😅

[@NoraDunn]

@@cullensistah Oh no! Yeah, I hear you on lugging backpacks around. Too bad about that. Osprey does have a rolling version similar to that pack I believe.

[@cullensistah]

@@NoraDunn I'm going to buy one and sell the other!

[@NoraDunn]

@@cullensistah ooh! Clever.

[@sabrinalavdisarnold825]

On our last flight, I noticed that Delta airlines made almost everyone check their carryons. It was a maneuever to get everyone boarded quickly. I saw tons of overhead bin space as I boarded. I get that the crew wants to leave on time but dont lie and say there's no overhead bin space.

[@NoraDunn]

Interesting! Was it a smaller plane, into which some larger carry-on bags might not have fit?

[@sabrinalavdisarnold825]

@NoraDunn No. Orlando to Minneapolis. We were heading home but we purposely packed carryon only to avoid the checked bagged issues airlines were having...

[@NoraDunn]

@@sabrinalavdisarnold825 Interesting. I would have thought it would take longer to gate-check everything rather than just load everybody (and their stuff) on to the plane.

[@AnnaBanana-rq9vh]

They do this, imho, to avoid drama once people are boarded. British Airways didn’t gate check anyone’s bags, it was a 777, and they ran out of overhead space. Drama ensued, which wasted time.

[@NoraDunn]

@@AnnaBanana-rq9vh Interesting. Thinking about it, I'll bet they gate-check because once everybody is checked in, the airline knows how many passengers have checked bags, and can realistically estimate how many are carrying bags on; at which point they can figure out whether bin space is going to be a problem. If they think space will run out, they ask people to gate check. (In the case of the BA flight you were on, they didn't do that, and like you say, drama ensued).

[@cullensistah]

I wear a pullover hoodie with the larger single pocket. (Good if you get cold.) I have room to put my wallet, passport, phone with the screenshot of my boarding pass open and a small ziplock baggie with my jewelry inside (sometimes they ask you to remove earrings etc...best to be proactive 😢imo). I pull these out and place them in a bin. I rarely have liquids anymore. I do have quite a few medications, so pills in one baggie and liquids/gels in another. Once my belongings are scanned I put them back in my pocket until I get to the gate. I can calmly put my items in my personal bag there, plus put my jewelry on without being rushed, especially as many TSA lines don't have tables or seats. Also, if you still have to go through customs and immigration you will need your passport again. Oh, and many lines ask you to put your laptop in it's own bin.

[@NoraDunn]

Great tips - thank you!

[@dianespizzirri8140]

My tip is not to bring good,expensive clothes. I was given a tip to even bring resale shop clothes that you can leave behind after they have been worn alot. Then you also have more room for souvenirs or new purchases

[@NoraDunn]

Great tip, Diane. Indeed sometimes I regret having nice stuff with me when I find something I want to get on the road but I can only get it if it replaces something currently in my bag...

[@patlsmith404]

I’m with you always keep a stow away backpack Justin case. I keep one even in my backpack. 😂 As always great info. I do believe they need to weigh the person, too. I agree with charging the individual for 2 seats. Not trying to be discriminatory….just for safety. Safe travels!💥🛬😎

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for sharing Pat!

[@nnyl3013]

I travel with a lot of camera gear--2 bodies, multiple lenses and accessories. When I can, I take a carryon size camera backpack and a small duffle. When I have bush flights, with smaller carryon allotments, I have a messenger camera bag and the duffle that I sometimes have check on a bush plane. On a regular airplane, I don't care if I have to check my dirty laundry on a return flight, I have a packable daypack I can use as a carryon with my camera bag as the personal item. Except for when I got married in my hometown and had my dress as my carryon, I haven't checked a bag outbound for 30 years. My tip, depending on where you are traveling is to ship stuff home. Sometimes I ship purchases (didgeridoo, sheepskin rug, Alaska birch sauces in 10 oz bottles), sometimes the day before my return flight, I ship my dirty laundry and use my carryon for my purchases. Wheeled bags are great, but they add weight when when your connecting flight has a 12 kg limit for carryon, you need to cut somewhere.

[@NoraDunn]

Great packing/checking strategies! And you're right about wheels adding weight to luggage.

[@lauralinkoff3776]

Great video with Lots of practical and valuable information. I tend to overpack with clothes and I am also the “what if I need this” person. Hate to spend time at destination hunting for things. I’ve never been able to pack for cruises with just carryon and personal bag. It’s my ultimate challenge to use 22” carryon vs 24/25” checked luggage bag…😊

[@NoraDunn]

Luckily getting down to 22" from 24/25" is much easier than from 27/28" which is a more common checked bag size! You're halfway there! Ha ha. But indeed, packing carry-on for cruises is a bit more difficult, especially if you like to dress up for dinners.

[@lauralinkoff3776]

@@NoraDunn yes, that’s it exactly! Daytime ensembles and dinner ensembles. The cruise coming up is 10 days too…

[@NoraDunn]

@@lauralinkoff3776 Happy travels!

[@morethanmeetstheeye1355]

Oh my gosh, yes! I am the “what if I need it” brain. I am going to travel for 30 days using a carry on only. I have unpacked and repacked three times to get down to where my shoes even fit!! I’ll be doing it yet again once I decide my toiletries(gotta love those rice water solid shampoo and conditioner bars - they even have them for colored hair! I have a huge pile of clothes to wear on my 8 hour flight. I’m going to look like an oompa-loompa, but that’s what layers are for, right?!

[@NoraDunn]

@@morethanmeetstheeye1355 ha ha! I just got a visual of an oompa loompa wearing an untold amount of clothing on a flight! Thanks for the giggle.

[@brendawyber6556]

Love your videos, especially since I believe you are Canadian, and love supporting Canadian. The one small challenge to carry on, and I do try to do it whenever possible, is if u r plus size, then it can be challenging to find things at your destination. Asia is a bust (no pun intended) and even Europe can be challenging. It is not the end of the world, but better to not count on it. I still do my best, and fortunately I am a warm person so can get by without too many layers. Keep the videos coming, and ask Unbound Merino to expand their size range😂😂😂

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks Brenda! (And yep, I'm Canadian). Thanks also for the tip about finding stuff (or not!) abroad if you're plus-sized. I've already shared this feedback with Unbound Merino too as it came from a few people!

[@janetj471]

I have found this as well. Especially when the weather is warmer than expected in the shoulder season. Once the cool thing that fit me was a linen maternity top.!

[@AtmosJourney]

If your wheeled carry-on is not water resistant, it is best you have some sort of waterproof packing bag to store your clothing and other electronic gadgets before placing it into your luggage. Always be safe rather than be sorry 😅

[@NoraDunn]

Absolutely! Though admittedly I don't tend to keep many electronics in my carry-on luggage; I keep that stuff fin my personal item bag.

[@AtmosJourney]

@NoraDunn I use Osprey Ozone wheeled bag and I managed to stuff 2 bottles of Spanish wines wrapped with my thick clothing and checked in. Who says soft shell wheely luggage can't accommodate fragile stuff 🙂

[@NoraDunn]

@@AtmosJourney Ha ha - yes! If you wrap/protect accordingly, anything is possible :-)

[@zhirsr]

Great video! I find backpacks limit the amount I carry therefore limit the weight. Backpacks allow my hands to be free which is super important. I find wheels take up too much room and are noisy. Some places are now not allowing wheeled bags in the inter cities.

[@NoraDunn]

Wow - that's interesting about wheeled bags not being allowed! Where is that happening?

[@delausa]

Yuh. They chew up old cobblestone and stairs. Italy has banned them in some historic places. They also suck in mud or gravel.

[@NoraDunn]

@@delausa Interesting about Italy. Yep, wheeling around off-road is a pain!

[@kellymeredithdc7436]

I’m a really good bag packer. I can really pack a lot in the bag. The problem is getting that heavy bag up in the overhead.

[@NoraDunn]

Yes, this can be tricky. I've also noticed that depending on the ergonomics of the bag itself (and the existence/absence of side handles for example), it can be more/less difficult to haul it up.

[@bigtime911]

Nora what are your favorite wheeled luggage, carryon, and big personal bag? Good video❤ do you like lactote bags for security?

[@NoraDunn]

I have links in the description & first comment with my current luggage/personal bag entourage, and I'm pretty pleased with it. I'm not familiar with Lactote...

[@KerryGoldP]

As a family of 4, we took a road trip through Croatia this summer with carryon luggage. We flew on 2 different budget airlines and hired a VW T-cross. We stayed in 7 different places and got packing the boot down to an art. As well as our 4 carryon cases, hubby carried an insulated cool backpack for his personal item, I carried two totes inside each other as mine and a foldable grocery bag (as our daughter has allergies and we bought and carried a lot of food round with us for the 2 weeks). Having those 2 extra bags worked out brilliantly and none of our friends can believe we did it! Final tip was we bought things like sun screen at the airport AFTER security. We headed out to a remote island the day we arrived and all the shops were shut so we needed to take those things with us and couldn't rely on buying on arrival. Don't know if we'll go back to checking a bag again. The game changer for us has been thay youngest is now big enough to just use an inflatable booster carseat that rolls up and she carries herself (a Bubblebum), so we are no longer having to hoik to 2 size carseats with us on our travels anymore!

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for sharing your experiences, Kerry!

[@donfatale]

I have a rollable backpack(Eagle Creek). It's great having the option to have it on my back for short periods to make me more agile on city streets. Perhaps it helps being a big chap as I can carry more weight than most.

[@NoraDunn]

Yep! For larger luggage, I really appreciate the wheeled backpack option.

[@mercyp7151]

Hey Nora, I love the cowlneck sweater you're wearing in the thumbnail! I would love to get one like it, what brand it is if I say ask? I love your wardrobe color scheme too !The greens, blues and purple are just my jam!

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks Mercy! Unfortunately the sweater was a no-name that I bought many years ago.

[@susanjoy1501]

When I travel long haul I usually pack stuff that I will leave behind eventually like white T. shirts that I've had for a while I never pack clothes that can be ruined in the wash each journey you take you gain experience

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for sharing, Susan! I have indeed ruined one or two things in washing machines I couldn't quite decipher - ha! These days I hand wash if I'm in doubt.

[@janiceross5134]

I also travel with a wheeled backpack and a Loveook backpack as a personal item. I pack in the carryon as if I am going to have to check it, that way, if it happens I am not rifling through it at the gate.

[@NoraDunn]

Very clever!

[@erinlikesacornishpasty4703]

My husband and I moved to the UK with two of the largest full sized suitcases, two carryon suitcases, and two school sized backpacks. We had to take two flights, several trains, and a bus to get to our destination...and walk for miles. It was pure hell. If I could do it again, I'd move with only a carry on sized suitcase and a backpack. We bought much of what we needed at our destination anyway. We had to move back to the US, so we had to schlep all our stuff BACK also. Most of what we took was clothes, and we really should only have packed enough for two weeks. We got caught up because we believed we needed to pack clothes for all seasons, but we pretty much dress the same for all the seasons and the UK and where we live in the US have very similar weather. We know now and never bring full sized suitcases for anything ever.

[@NoraDunn]

It's so easy to get caught up in the idea that we need to pack for contingencies - especially if you're full-on moving! I'm sorry you had to do all that schlepping, only to schlep it all back again.

[@Vromiaris778]

I hated the “double backpack” hack too… but on a recent trip to NYC, taking train from EWR to Penn Station, I am seriously glad I did it! It has it’s place… but if I know there is a shuttle bus or a taxi or a rental… I won’t be doing the double backpack.

[@NoraDunn]

Yep - although I usually take public transportation to/from the airport, if I know it's going to be crowded or complicated, I just go for an Uber to keep it simple and secure.

[@Vromiaris778]

@@NoraDunn Any other city in North America and I do the same - NYC, especially Manhattan, I avoid taking any car in there because it’s just not practical or reliable - worked out great, though!

[@NoraDunn]

@@Vromiaris778 True. Any time I've flown into/out of NYC I've taken the train.

[@ezompanti1]

Learned my lesson. Years ago. Wife, apparently needs the biggest luggage size for her stuff. Traveled also with two daughters with similarly sized luggage. High speed train in Italy from 'Mestre' (Venice) to Rome. Got on, no room for my wife's luggage in the luggage racks on the train. Solution... I hauled the luggage on to my train seat, and I stood next to it in the aisle the full 4 hour train ride to Rome... The person in the next seat wasn't too thrilled... oh well... Carry on all the way now... for me... Has my Wife learned a lesson from that... we'll see...

[@cathya8488]

You are a saint of a husband.

[@NoraDunn]

Wow - you stood while her luggage got a seat. That's gallant!

[@ClintHollingsworth]

I just went for a week to Texas (hot!) carrying only a 35 liter backpack and a small murse (man-purse) for my Ipad mini, cords, meds and spare wallet. I WAS going to carry it all on, but every time I see that TSA line, I get stressed. I checked the backpack both ways and just went through TSA with my tiny bag. Seemed to work well. But... that WAS a domestic flight.

[@NoraDunn]

Totally valid! It's much nicer going through security and on the other side when you don't have luggage.

[@JanKowalski-hj9gb]

Oh great, from Warsaw to Bucharest on LOT ... I'll be flying from Chopin airport so this is a valuable information for me.

[@NoraDunn]

That's the one! So now you know...don't crowd the gate ;-)

[@leslie-annepepin8927]

Whether we are traveling by air/train/cruise, or going camping in our Roadtrek, we use packing cubes. Socks and underwear in one, short sleeve tops in another, shorts, leggings in another. Shower items in another. Keeps us organized and we know exactly where everything is! And even easier, different colour cubes to identify even quicker!

[@NoraDunn]

Great strategy!

[@danandkiko]

Backpack comments: YUP. Just did that. Learned a lot. Good points! OMG, You're saying everything I just experienced! LOL.

[@NoraDunn]

Ha ha!

[@alexandramccarthy4648]

Thank you, Nora for more insights. What is your strategy for souvenirs and gifts if you pick those up along the way? I always struggled with having enough space for that on the way back.

[@sylviaescarcega6616]

I am sure Nora will have good ideas, especially because she goes away for long periods of time, but I'll venture mine: I always have space in my carry-on/personal item, but, granted, it might not be enough. I try to buy not bulky, heavy stuff until the last few days when all I have left in terms of traveling is my flight back, and I put all the heavy stuff in my carry-on which I check. I then use my personal item and a small foldable bag as my second article on the plane. This has worked really well. If, for some reason, I buy things in the middle of the trip that I don't want to be carrying around, I drop them in the post office and send them to myself (if the country's postal service is reliable). It is not exactly cheap, but it is cheaper than what airlines charge you for extra luggage or extra weight.

[@alexandramccarthy4648]

@@sylviaescarcega6616 Thank you, yes, shipping things can be expensive and somewhat unpredictable. I've lost wonderful marble chess set this way sent from india. So, I'm thinking that if I leave some space in the carry-on for the "carry-backs" by using vacuum bags and filling only half the case with my stuff, I can have it as checked in bag on my way home instead, filled to the brim with gifts. 🤔

[@NoraDunn]

Fantastic strategy, Sylvia! And Alexandra I like your idea to use Vacuum bags for the way home to create extra space.

[@davidj7516]

Thank you for your time and posting. Great job as always. :) I'm looking at the ebag Mother Lode Jr., a 45 Linear bag. At 13:04, you (someone) is folding her shirt. Are we supposed to fold stuff?? :)

[@NoraDunn]

Ha ha! you can fold or roll ( or just cram), as you wish! ;-)

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for the tips. Weight restrictions are my biggest concern. Most of the airlines we fly allow 7kg per person (carry on, plus personal item). I could pack so much more if weight wasn't an issue! That rolling suitcase looks nice, but even 6 lbs is too heavy, when I can only bring 15 lbs total. 🌺Heidi

[@NoraDunn]

Yeah, in these cases, if there's no way to increase the luggage allowance, then I just check the bag. I can't possibly get down to 7kg for both my carry-on and personal item (I travel long-term with carry-on only and I work online with a ton of tech gear), so I won't stress about it.

[@DSC800]

Who is doing 7kg now? I'm flying TAP (Portugal) next month and they are listing 10kg and 8kg in different places so I assume they are about to lower it. It's getting rediculous.

[@NoraDunn]

@@DSC800 Some budget European and Asian and even Australian airlines have 7kg limits. Crazy, huh?

[@KenshoQuest]

It's often a 7kg limit in SE Asia and Japan (Air Asia, Peach Airlines, etc). @@DSC800

[@clareholgate8718]

All Australian budget airlines that I know of are 7kg@@NoraDunn

[@user-tw2bs4bf9l]

Did a 2 week trip to Europe with my 14 yo carry on only this summer; while challenging figuring out clothing and toiletries we both really appreciated our small wheeled carry on bags on the 4 flights, and numerous bus and train journeys, and just the walking to/from our accommodations; everyone didn’t think we could do it but it was so satisfying knowing we could

[@NoraDunn]

That's great! So freeing to have lighter luggage.

[@DSC800]

We've went carry-on only a few years ago but it's been a challenge with the airlines. Last year we did Berlin/Amsterdam/Paris for three weeks. We wore some cloths we could throw away and did laundry mid-trip. Next month we are going to Italy/Portugal for 5 weeks BUT with an even smaller carry-on (42L) and personal item (15L) due to the airline "cash grab" downsizing. My only disagreement is regarding the backpack with wheels. Our new 42L straps maybe take up .5L of space (no hip belt). I think backpacking my bag and carrying my wife's up stairs and over cobble stones will be easier than just having two rollers. Also, the new bags have compression straps and a pull out cover for the dirty wheels. We'll see how it goes.

[@NoraDunn]

Thanks for sharing! You're right - depending on the bag, the straps take up minimal space. Let us know here how your trip goes!

[@AnnaBanana-rq9vh]

AeroMexico will 1000% weigh every bag you are taking. Spirit pulled that once, too.

[@NoraDunn]

Good to know.

[@vickiamundsen2933]

as an older person I'm looking at having a carryon that weighs no more than 15 lbs-- otherwise I'll never be able to get it in the overhead bin, let alone do I want to schlep it all over creation. Fortunately, over the years i've become comfortable with wearing wrinkled, handwashed clothes, so my carryon will only contain a pair of leggings, 4 tee shirts, a sweatshirt and a spare pair of shoes.

[@NoraDunn]

Wow - great ultralight wardrobe! Good for you.

[@busho12official93]

Wow

[@lentilpaff7864]

8:28 Beware, even going carry-on only can end up with your bag checked at the gate, and then NOT boarded into cargo. This happened to us flying from US to Mexico, and we had to wait 2 days for our carry-on bags to be delivered to our hotel. We couldn't believe they lost our bag between the gate and the hold, and it happened to EVERYONE whose bags were checked on that flight. 😮

[@NoraDunn]

Holy moly that's crazy!

[@missmayflower]

I always pack with the idea that my rollie may need to be gate checked. I always keep my electronics, medications and a change of clothes in my personal item. I would have a panic attack if I had to remove that stuff in front of everyone. I wear a jacket with pockets for all my little stuff, so I just have to take off the jacket and put it in the tray rather than have to empty my pockets.

[@NoraDunn]

Good strategy!

[@anniekingsbury6842]

A Standup comedian told how his girlfriend could take off what she was wearing and it would roll up into a ball in her hand so small and sheer were the clothes. Inspired, I take layers of very thin light clothes in a synthetic haversack. In Australia our budget airline Jetstar only allows 7kg carry on (That is the sum of your roll on and handbag together). For a week in Melbourne (in winter) my pack was 3.2kg and handbag 1.4kg. Proud

[@NoraDunn]

You should be proud, Annie! That's amazing - especially in winter!

[@davidfreeman8863]

Alas men’s clothes tend to be on the heavier side; I’m envious of how light my wife’s clothes are!

[@mountbeckworth1]

When going to 3rd world countries I often pack oldish tee shirts etc and leave them with the hotel cleaners, who can wash and keep them. Charity shops often have cheap goretex type jackets that pack down to a small size. Really appreciated in countries like Nepal.

[@NoraDunn]

Nice strategy!

[@karlamoraes5611]

I'm going to Europe next month and I really want to be abble to do it with a carry on and personal iten only. Hope a I can do it!!

[@NoraDunn]

Good luck! Let us know here how it goes :-)

[@sdeutscher]

Very good points, I agree with everything you said. I'm curious about your experience with fanny packs/waist packs. In theory it should not count as luggage, it's considered part of your body. It's one of my hacks and also an easy way to empty my pockets in a safe way when going through security. But I'm still working to confirm from more experiences. Your video is another confirmation about the backpack with wheels as the best alternative 🙂

[@NoraDunn]

I mention the waist pack strategy in another video! Although it used to be considered apparel rather than a personal item, with their increased popularity sometimes they get clocked as a personal item. When that happens, you need to be able to fit it into your (other?) personal item bag.

[@obragg1]

On a recent flight, the desk staff said over the intercom that if it has a strap or handles, it counts as a personal item. Consolidate.

[@sdeutscher]

@@obragg1 It's good to hear about different experiences. Maybe they just come with their own definitions? Because I'm thinking if I have a camera on a strap hanging on my neck.....they would count that as personal item?

[@NoraDunn]

@@obragg1 Interesting criteria!

[@obragg1]

@@sdeutscher lol. Who knows? As usual, it’s up to the airline staff.

[@skotty1962]

Most Australian carriers only allow 7kg (15lb) for carry on. Even on international flights. Which kinda sucks.

[@NoraDunn]

Yep - it's crazy. That's when I just check my carry-on luggage and bring my personal item bag on board as my "carry on".

[@mariasullivan577]

Fellow Aussie here … def a have OS carry-on envy … can only manage a 2-3 night overnight local trip with carry-on only with 7kg …

[@rachelle4014]

I agree with your weight comments because, I’ve been on flights where they did in fact weigh the bags and the passengers - I can tell you the women were not happy about getting on that scale!

[@NoraDunn]

Ha ha! Truth.

[@dammar117]

I'm traveling with my brother who has Silver status and is entitled to two checked bags. I will pack a foldable duffel bag which he can bring back for me! 😃 (We don't live in the same city, so I will pack it with stuff I won't need right away when I get home.)

[@NoraDunn]

Great strategy!

[@tinakastner8662]

Hi Nora, what are your thoughts on the Osprey Ozone 2-Wheel Carry-On 40L/21.5" vs the daylite bag?

[@NoraDunn]

Great question Tina! Two big differences (a pro for each bag): PRO for Ozone: Has a side handle. (I didn't realize how much I'd miss one until I got the Daylite) PRO for Daylite: Has backpack straps that zip away (and also detach completely if you don't want to bring them). This adds functionality if you anticipate going on a trip where it will be easier to strap it on at times.

[@joanv8190]

Soo true I never crowd the gate becuz my seat is assigned

[@NoraDunn]

Exactly!

[@MsBackstager]

I bring along worn-out undies that I will toss out as I travel. I also divide my clothing by 1/2 of the number of days that I will be there. I wash clothing along the way.

[@NoraDunn]

Great strategy!

[@renferal5290]

I have been lucky that my carry on has never been weighed. I also have had to check my carry on and only once did it get lost. Thankfully, I got it back the next day.

[@NoraDunn]

Glad you got it back!

[@sdeutscher]

On a side note, how was Romania? I was born there and I'm curious about your take, especially with your travel experience

[@NoraDunn]

I was only passing through Bucharest for a few days, so it's hard to say - but I enjoyed the short time I had there, very much!

[@missarthemis]

Good video. The airlines dirty secrets ( always travel carry on) . I worked for a major airline for 10 years, and never checked a single bag. Not worth the risk and the inconvenience

[@NoraDunn]

Funny thing is, with the carry-on restrictions getting increasingly worse, I'm considering checking my luggage more often now - even if it's carry-on sized!

[@mercyp7151]

Wondering if you know if there are those stretchy covers for suitcases, if those are available for knackpacks and rolling backpacks that you showed? I hate it when my luggage gets dirty and they aren't hardshell so things can be wiped down. Definitely prefer non hardshell for carry on but would love to be able to keep them clean.

[@NoraDunn]

Good call on the luggage covers for soft-sided luggage! I've not heard of or seen them before, but perhaps a hardshell luggage cover could be adapted accordingly...

[@gingereaves4097]

There are covers for suitcases and backpacks.

[@ksmargol]

Any suggestions for older, short people. I'm afraid to take a carry-on on the plane because I can't lift it over my head.

[@NoraDunn]

I would say there is usually somebody who can help you.

[@coziii.1829]

I mail my souvenirs back home before I leave and they are at home when we arrive home

[@NoraDunn]

Great tip!

[@mercyp7151]

Hi Nora, I got a question. I have a laptop thats essentially broken - doesnt turn on, doesnt charge. But I need to take it with me on my one way trip bc of the data thats on it, so I can try and fix it. Given that I remove the lithium battery, can I put this laptop in my checked bag? Its not really valuable but its got pictures Id love to retrieve for memory sake.

[@NoraDunn]

I think as long as you remove your battery you should be fine!

[@ota924]

How do you go from Lisbon to Ho Chi Minh by train? Can you give some details

[@NoraDunn]

There's no easy way! Here's a summary post I wrote a out the experience with links to various elements and videos: www.theprofessionalhobo.com/29-trains-in-30-days-the-ultimate-train-challenge-finishes/

[@AVIONBLANC]

As always, a great video. Ha, I’m that guy who has his backpack and an under seat bag strapped on my back and front respectively. We’re traveling to Egypt in Oct./Nov. Our flight from Aswan to Alexandria will allow only 17lbs. Cary-on. For carry-on I usually weigh in at 22lbs. And my wife at 27lbs. If nothing else this will force us to be more economical with our packing.

[@NoraDunn]

Ooh - good luck keeping to 17lbs! Indeed a fun packing experiment if nothing else.

[@clarkanyan8508]

Where do you put your personal item bag when seated in a bulkhead seat ?

[@NoraDunn]

I try to avoid bulkhead seats, because there's no choice but to put it in the overhead compartment.

[@andreaault6215]

Would it help to buy a hand weigh scale to pack everything beforehand and then check the weight?

[@NoraDunn]

I think it's a great strategy. I've never bought a hand scale but I'm considering one.

[@AnnaBanana-rq9vh]

We have a small one we haul along, way better than popping your suitcase open at the airport and holding everyone up. Sometimes the hotel will have one but it’s easier to waste the 6 ounces and have our own.

[@TinaLee2042]

Plus size people can’t really shop at destination! And in Europe anyone wearing anything over a size L in the US is plus size.

[@NoraDunn]

Ooh - true. Sorry for that oversight.

[@akbj2779]

I agree completely. I've become larger than I used to be, (which I hate). I rarely travel so it's an event when I do. I realized after watching many "travel with carryon only" videos that many of the people in them are quite small in size. My clothing is larger sized. I've read books & watched videos on packing small but am unable to figure it out. I also have physical limitations which mean I have to travel as light as I can even if I bring a 25 inch case. I have to keep the weight down to what I can handle on my own yet need to check my bag. Mostly I just wish I'd traveled a lot when I was much younger, lighter & fitter.

[@NoraDunn]

@@akbj2779 There's no shame in traveling with a checked bag! But also, if you don't need to carry a lot of tech (as I do), that would free up a lot of space for other stuff.

[@TinaLee2042]

@@NoraDunn I do have an Italian toothbrush due to oversight- lol.

[@Elle-kr8od]

@@akbj2779 I use a 22" roller bag but always check it. That way I don't have to wrestle with it on the plane. That plus a carry-on item (messenger bag with cross-body strap) that I can wear onto the plane does the trick as long as I limit my clothing and bring only one pair of shoes in addition to the ones I wear on the plane. I wish I had traveled more when I was younger and fitter too! (At least we're more clever now :))

[@tekeco]

What about frontier airline . Do you get a personal item bag and 1 carry on bag

[@NoraDunn]

Not sure. You'd have to check the class of fare and their terms. If it's not included in the base fare, I'm sure you can pay for it.