Carry-on only: the basics that make it work

Travelling with one small bag is mostly about decisions you make before you pack.

Travelling with only a cabin bag saves time at both ends of a flight and removes the risk of a lost suitcase. It works when you plan around limits.

Start with the airline, not the bag

Cabin allowances differ a lot. Some carriers allow 10 kg, many low-cost carriers allow 7 kg, and a few weigh bags at the gate. Check the rule for every leg of your trip.

Pack for a week, whatever the length

A week of clothes plus one laundry stop covers a month. Choose items that all go together so each one earns its place.

Weight hides in small things

• Chargers and cables: carry one multi-port charger.
• Toiletries: buy liquids on arrival.
• Shoes: wear the heaviest pair on the plane.

Know the battery rules

Power banks belong in the cabin, never in checked luggage. Airlines publish their own limits, so read them before you fly.