I love traveling – going somewhere I’ve never been, seeing new cities, trying something new for the first time, learning about new cultures, trying new foods – I love it all.
If someone said to me, “Pack your bags, our flight is in 4 hours,” I’d be there. Partially because I have packing down to a T (or is it tee?). My backpack sits on my carry-on (just like the picture below) – with all the essentials inside – cosmetic case, packing cubes and all the Travel Organization Must Haves – ready to go at all times.
If there are four main items you need when it comes to carry-on luggage it’s these –
- Backpack or Weekender Tote – We want something that can be closed or zipped. We have two non-negotiables when it comes to backpacks / totes: (1) They must have a laptop sleeve and (2) They must have a sleeve that slips over the handle of your carry-on. The days of trying to hold your backpack handle and your carry-on handle at once as your backpack falls to the left and right are over. Simply slide your backpack or tote right onto the handles and feel like the pro traveler that you are.
- Carry-On Suitcase – Must be a 4-wheeled ‘Spinner’ (ie all 4 wheels must spin 360°) and ideally open from the middle. No need for a million compartments – we have packing cubes for that.
- Cosmetic Case – Clear. Clear. Clear. When we can see what we own, we use what we own.
- Packing Cubes – If you have not heard of these, prepare for a whole new ballgame. I swear by these, and you soon will too. Pro Tip: Get one set for each suitcase and/or one set for each family member.
Like anything in life, luggage is an investment. But I am a big believer in quality > quantity. I’d rather invest in one suitcase and use it for 10+ years than purchase 4-5 suitcases over that same period of time. I have had my Tumi backpack and carry-on since 2017 and they are still going strong, even after traveling every week for work, 2 flights per week, for 3+ years.
One last point – if you’re going to invest in luggage, go for a neutral color (think white, black, tan) so it stands the test of time. We want timeless, which explains why we are team #neutraleverything. Whether you invest in luggage now or in the near future, remember quality > quantity and #neutraleverything.
Packing no longer has to be a source of stress. Stay organized with the essentials below and forever look forward to your next adventure.
Enjoy our top picks below and reach out with any questions. I want you to love, and most importantly use, whatever you invest in.
That’s a wrap!
As always, reach out with any questions via @modernvilla__ or schedule a consult here.
Cheers!
Courtney
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