Baggage savings are part of the overall budget — read how to save money while traveling and check totals in the budget calculator. Compare budget airline fares before locking dates. If you stitch flights yourself, see our airport self-transfer guide for layover buffers.
Clothing (capsule approach)
- Core pieces (3 tops per 1 bottom: everything mixes by color and style).
- Bulkiest items on your body (wear jacket, jeans, and heaviest shoes on the plane).
- Clothes rolled or packed in compression cubes (saves up to 30% of space).
- Minimal shoes: 1 pair of sneakers (on you) + 1 pair of light sandals in the bag.
Toiletries and liquids (strict rules)
- All liquids decanted into containers of 100 ml or less.
- All containers in one clear bag (about 20×20 cm, 1 liter max).
- Liquid shampoo and gel swapped for solid bars (solid shampoo is not counted as a liquid).
Tech and documents in the cabin
- Power bank in carry-on (not allowed in checked baggage).
- Laptop / tablet at the back of the bag for quick removal at security.
- Documents in an easy-access zip pocket — verify against the documents checklist.
For a road trip with more luggage, see the road trip car checklist and the road trip planning guide.