How to pack a carry-on bag step by step, without a wrestle

Packing a carry-on is a sequence, not a squeeze. Do the steps in order and the bag closes. Do them in a rush and it fights back.

This guide covers how to pack a carry-on bag step by step. Airlines set their own limits for size and weight, so check yours before you start.

The decision rule

Heavy at the base, soft in the middle, airport items on top.

Step 1: lay it out

Put everything on a bed. Group it: clothes, shoes, toiletries, tech, documents. Count clothes with a formula such as the one in how many clothes to pack for a trip.

Step 2: cut a third

Remove one third of what you laid out. It sounds severe. It is usually right, as overpacking is a fear problem explains.

Step 3: load the base

Put the heaviest items against the back of the bag, near the wheels if it has them. This keeps the bag upright and stops it tipping.

• Shoes in bags, soles outward
• Toiletries in a sealed pouch
• Laptop in its sleeve, or in your personal item

Step 4: pack the clothes

Choose one method: roll, fold flat or cubes. See packing cubes vs rolling clothes. Fill gaps with socks and underwear.

Step 5: top layer

Put things you need at the airport on top.

• A jacket if you are not wearing it
• Documents in a pouch
• Chargers and a power bank (check battery rules)
• A clear liquids bag

Step 6: weigh and test

Weigh the bag at home. Lift it. If it is hard to lift, remove something. Try closing the zip without sitting on it.

What goes on your body

The bulkiest items: jacket, shoes, thickest trousers. They are free space.

Leave at home

• Full-size shampoo
• A third pair of shoes
• Towels
• "Just in case" outfits

If it goes wrong

• Bag will not close. Remove an item, not squash harder.
• Overweight at the airport. Put heavy things in your coat pockets and personal item.
• Gate check. Keep medication, documents, valuables in a small bag.

Measure your bag with carry-on bag size limits.