The carry-on challenge

Travelling has enough complications to deal with beyond having to worry just how much airlines are going to charge you for your checked luggage. Some companies are great and don’t charge for the first piece of checked luggage, but sometimes the hassle of standing in line, weighing it, checking it, etc. outweighs the benefits. Which brings us to your next travel challenge: The Carry-On Challenge. Essentially, we are challenging you to pack light every time you challenge, not just for weekend trips.

You may be thinking we are crazy, but it’s not only doable but a much less stressful way to travel. Imagine avoiding all the baggage fees, not worrying about lost luggage, not having to wait for luggage to get going, and not having to lug heavy and cumbersome bags around with you as you navigate a new airport and new city. Sounds a lot like travelling freedom to us. That isn’t to say there aren’t a few tricky packing situations that exist, so we’ve put some advice together to help you successfully complete the Carry-On Challenge, no matter where or how long you are travelling this year.

But, I’m taking a long trip in multiple climates!

Maybe you are headed to Argentina for two weeks and travelling the whole length of the country and its countless landscapes and climates. How the heck will you pack for the whole two weeks with just a carry-on? The first thing you need to realize is that you will be doing laundry at some point during your holiday, and think of how happy your back will be when you don’t have to lug 14 days’ worth of clothing around the whole time.

This is also a time when dual-purpose travel garments are worth the money—think pants that can zip off into shorts or jackets with zip-in layers and pockets. Also think about how a simple cotton t-shirt can work as an outfit in warm areas and a base layer once you are in colder climes. It’s all about layering and keeping your heaviest items of clothes out of your pack and on your body (i.e., don’t stuff your suitcase with a big jacket; wear it on the plane and use it as a blanket/pillow).

But, I’ll be on a cruise ship for a whole week!

We all know the tricks about bringing a few lightweight pieces and bathing suits that can mix and match as you travel, but when you’re on a cruise there is the tricky business of the formal night when men are expected to wear tuxedos and women don ball gowns to cruise in style for the night. How are you going to fit something like that into a carry-on…in addition to your normal cruise-wear?

The clearest option is to skip formal night and stick to the buffet or room service instead. If you are insistent on going, however, if you know you will be going consider renting a tux on the ship (it’s a real service!) or for women, bringing a little black dress. If there is more than one formal night, wear the same dress but mix up your look with accessories like scarves, jewellery and more.

But, I’m travelling for work!

This is tough because you have two real challenges to face. You will have to look professional with the fewest number of garments and accessories. Believe it or not, you can usually get away with a single neutral-coloured suit. Just by mixing the suit with different colour/styled shirts you can create a completely different (and still professional) look for as long as you are on the business meeting. The same goes for shoes—if you stick with neutral coloured shoes, they will work with every possible outfit combination you bring.

No matter what travel plans you make, there is a way for you to travel without checking a bag and without being stuck sans important clothes and belongings. Use our tips above to tackle and successfully complete the Carry-On Challenge and get ready to be liberated from your heavy, annoying luggage on all future trips. Count on youGo to protect your holiday plans and belongings from unexpected problems.