Having a great hand luggage packing list can be the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful trip. Whether you’re heading away for a weekend city break, a bit of time in the countryside, or a few days in the sunshine, packing your cabin bag means you’ll have everything you need close at hand and can save you money on your airfare.
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I keep a list of everything that I need to take with me in my phone’s notes to help make sure I don’t forget anything and to help me make the most of the space available.
From essential travel documents to clothes that work extra hard, knowing what to pack in your carry on bag helps you to stay organised and prepared.
In this ultimate hand luggage packing list, you’ll find a checklist covering all the essentials you’ll need for your holiday. Use it as your go-to guide before every trip to make sure nothing important gets left behind.
Choosing the right hand luggage bag
The first thing that you need to get right when you’re packing for a hand luggage only trip is your bag. You’ll need something roomy that fits a lot in but also adheres to your airline’s size requirements.
The guidelines can vary depending on who you’re flying with. Be sure to check these before you travel to avoid having to pay fees at the gate.
It’s a good idea to get a bag with multiple compartments to make it easy to store and find your different items. I love bags with zip pockets for my laptop and my passport.
I absolutely love this cabin bag from IT Luggage. It’s so stylish and fits so much in it.
Clothing and shoes
When you’re packing light, it’s essential to choose clothing that you can wear in various weathers and that you can mix and match to get more wear.
Clothing for travelling with hand luggage only:
- Co-ords
- A white shirt
- Multi-purpose coat
- Comfortable shoes
- A warm layer
Co-ords
My favourite items for easy wear while travelling are co ord sets and jumpsuits. They’re so versatile so can be worn for anything and you don’t need to think about mixing and matching different items together.
A white shirt
I love a white shirt as they can be worn as a top, or an extra layer over the top of a vest top. Try a linen one for summer or a more structured one for a city break.
Multi-purpose coat
I like to be prepared for all weathers when I travel so I’ll usually take a waterproof coat with me. When you’re travelling light, it’s a good idea to take a coat that you can wear for both day and night and that will keep you warm and dry.
Comfortable shoes
Bring shoes with you that are comfortable for walking round – chances are you’ll probably be doing quite a few steps, no matter what type of trip you’re on. Trainers can go from day to night as can a nice pair of sandals.
You’ll also probably be able to fit another pair into your hand luggage anyway, so I would travel in trainers and bring some ballet flats or flip flops with me, depending on the season. I love these ones from FitFlop that I got from Very.
A warm layer
Even if you’re travelling in the height of summer you might need a warm layer for the evening. I like a button up cardigan that you can throw on over any outfit.
My new favourite cardigan has statement buttons in gold that are shaped like sea shells and creatures. It’s perfect for beach holidays.
Accessories
As well as clothes, you’ll need some accessories for your trip.
Accessories to take with you when you’re travelling with just a carry on:
- Bumbag – you can pop your essentials like your phone and passport in here when you travel
- Sunglasses
- Hat (either cap or bobble hat, depending on the weather at your destination)
- Jewellery and watch (I like to wear what I can for the journey to save space)
- Umbrella
Toiletries
When you’re travelling with hand luggage only, choosing the right toiletries is all about packing the essentials while making the most of the limited space available. Travel-sized products and multi-purpose toiletries can help you stay fresh throughout your trip without taking up valuable room in your cabin bag.
Toiletries to pack in your hand luggage:
- Make up
- Skincare
- Deodorant
- Shower gel
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Suncream
- Lip balm (SPF if travelling in summer)
- Razor
- Toothpaste and mouthwash
- Contact lenses and solution
Remember, liquids must be under 100ml. You no longer need to separate out your liquids from your bag in most airports so you don’t have to try and fit everything in a plastic bag, however, be sure to check this before you travel as it hasn’t been rolled out to all airports.
If you’re staying in a hotel, check before you leave if toiletries are provided. If they are, you can leave your shower gel and shampoo at home, saving you space.
Travel documents and essentials
As well as your passport, local currency, and travel documents like your hotel reservation or boarding pass (if you don’t have them on your phone), there are some essential electronics that you’ll want to take with you.
Electronics to pack:
- Laptop
- Kindle
- Phone
- Chargers for all items
- Plug adapters (if travelling abroad)
Travelling with hand luggage only doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. With a well-planned hand luggage packing list, you can stay organised, make the most of your cabin bag space and have everything you need for a smooth, stress-free trip.
Before you travel, check your airline’s baggage size and liquid restrictions, then use this checklist to pack with confidence for your next adventure.
