Traveling on a budget can come with some sacrifices. Study abroad students are acutely aware to the struggle of being limited to the one free carry on bag that comes with a discount airline or train ticket. However, with some intentionality and creativity, this approximately 40 x 20 x 25 cm bag can fit everything you need.
Backpack Vs. Luggage
First, you need to pick the bag thats right for you. Roller bags tend to only have one large compartment. This makes them much harder to efficiently pack than a multi-pocket backpack. Additionally, odds are that your budget flight will be in the early morning and your hostel or AirBnb check-in time won’t be until later that afternoon. Backpacks give you more freedom to explore the walkable streets of Europe without being constrained to a bag on wheels.
If you are worried your bag may not fit the size requirements, Upgraded Points has a helpful chart of carry-on dimensions for 64 major airlines..
Maximizing Your Space
With the size limits imposed on your carry on, every square inch counts. Don’t be afraid to rearrange your items in unexpected ways! Rolling clothes takes up less space than folding. Travel size toiletries can be stuffed in between larger items. Shoes can be tied to the outside of your bag. Try and wear your bulkiest clothes on your travel day so they don’t take up valuable space. If at first you don’t succeed, try try again. Sometimes you have to rearrange multiple times before all your things fit comfortably.
Efficient packing can help you avoid fashion emergencies: Study abroad student Mary Schaefer once took the metro home from the airport in a flannel pajama set and Doc Marten boots because she couldn’t fit everything in her bag.
What Goes Inside?
Now that you know HOW to pack, you still may be asking WHAT to pack. Basic clothes and layers are your best friend. Try and create a capsule wardrobe for your trip. In a smaller front pocket, pack your portable chargers, deodorant, snacks, and other non clothing items. Putting your phone, passport, wallet, and other necessities in a fanny pack around your chest helps to keep you from zipping and unzipping your strategically packed main bag too often throughout your travel day. Study abroad student Emily Timm said “a neck pillow is an absolute need.” Her roommate Nora Sullivan countered that headphones may be even more important.