A professional packer has unveiled her secrets for fitting a full two weeks' worth of clothing into a single piece of carry-on luggage. The expert advice promises to streamline the packing process and help travellers avoid costly checked baggage fees.
The Essential Kit for Efficient Packing
Lydia Mansel, founder of the specialist packing website Just Packed, provided her top recommendations for maximising space. Writing for Travel and Leisure, Mansel explained that while she often uses a free checked bag, there are many trips where travelling light with just a small suitcase is the smarter choice. She stated that this approach can work for journeys lasting several weeks, though a full month might be a challenge.
Her first crucial tip is to invest in the right cabin suitcase. The Daily Mail's team of expert reviewers have tested numerous options and identified the Kapten & Son Heathrow Cabin as the best overall. They praised its neat, high-quality interior with organisational compartments and a secure zip. Weighing just 3.12kg and priced at £250, it offers good value, though its 23cm depth may exceed some airlines' strictest regulations.
For those with a larger budget, the experts also recommend the Briggs & Riley Essential 56cm Carry-On Expandable Spinner Suitcase. Its key feature is an expansion system that provides 25 per cent more space, a significant bonus for longer trips. It comes with numerous premium features including internal pockets, robust wheels, and a personalised leather nameplate.
Maximising Your Personal Item Allowance
Mansel's next strategy involves making full use of your personal item allowance. On UK flights, passengers are typically permitted one overhead cabin bag plus a smaller personal item that fits under the seat, but rules vary. Budget airlines like easyJet often charge for larger bags, whereas full-service carriers like British Airways usually include a more generous allowance.
A personal item is usually a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack. Sizes differ by airline; for example, TUI allows an extra bag measuring up to 40x30x20cm. The Daily Mail's review team highlighted several bags that meet standard dimensions, including those for Ryanair's 'small bag' policy.
Their top pick is the Decathlon Sports Bag, costing just £5.99. It is super lightweight, foldable, and can be carried by hand or over the shoulder. Reviewers also loved the Cabin Max Vela 20L holdall, which proved spacious enough for a work laptop, a change of trousers, several tops, a gym kit, and a full washbag.
Space-Saving Travel Essentials
No efficient packing list is complete without packing cubes. Mansel emphasised their importance, saying: 'There’s a reason most frequent fliers, myself included, never travel without packing cubes: They’re the secret to an organised suitcase.' She specifically recommends compression cubes for saving space and flattening clothes.
A set like the Lumesner 8-Set Compression Packing Cubes can make packing far easier by compressing clothes and keeping items separate. Made from durable polyester and mesh, they are built to last.
Another of Mansel's recommended essentials is a packable travel pillow. The Daily Mail Travel team named the TRAVELREST Ultimate Inflatable Pillow as the best for side sleepers. It inflates with a few puffs, straps around the body like a messenger bag, and is easy to store when not in use.
Finally, the packing expert advises paring down your wardrobe to key, versatile pieces. This includes bringing just one pair of do-it-all shoes, an oversized leather jacket suitable for multiple occasions, and one pair of perfect, dependable jeans. By combining these items with smart luggage choices, travellers can enjoy extended trips without the burden of heavy, checked bags.
