Packing Hacks: How To Travel Carry-On-Only In Winter

Now that many airlines are charging a premium to check luggage, more travellers than ever are going carry-on-only – which is not such a challenge during swimsuit season, when lightweight linen and Lycra reign, but winter travel means stuffing your suitcase with bulky sweaters, clunky boots, thick scarves and socks galore. It can be a daunting prospect, even for the most experienced traveller. That’s why we’ve done our research and found the top tried-and-true tips for packing light(er) when the temperatures plummet at your chosen destination. 

1. Dress For Success

The number one tip avid travellers agree on: suit up for the flight. Pile on a few layers, wear (or carry) your heaviest coat, your bulkiest boots and your chunkiest scarf. This frees up space in your bag for more layers and even an optional second jacket. A thick scarf can also come in handy during night flights as a stand-in for a blanket or neck pillow. 

2. Match Game 

When it comes to wintertime accessories, coordination is key, so choose wisely. Bring one hat-scarf-glove set in matching colours or prints that work with your coat and as much of your wardrobe as possible. This is by no means a reason to stick to neutrals or all black, however: pack what you love to wear. Just remember you won’t have a closet full of options to choose from when it’s time to bundle up. 

3. Keep It Tight

Trousers and jeans may be your go-to in cold weather, but there are plenty more ways to keep your legs warm. Cashmere or fleece-lined tights and a sweater dress make for a cosy-chic look, especially when paired with tall boots or a classic combat boot, or even layered with over-the-knee socks. Leggings are also lighter and far less voluminous than trousers; wear them with a long, flowy sweater and a scarf for effortless style and comfort. 

4. Invest In Insulation

Whisper-light, moisture wicking fabrics can be fashionable off the ski slopes, too. Brands like Uniqlo, Icebreaker and SmartWool make everything from socks to everyday tops and variations on athleisure, as well as streamlined high-necked sweaters with attractive zip-front designs to keep you covered or show a little skin, as needed. Look for cashmere blends and merino wool, both of which provide maximum warmth and minimal bulk. 

5. Push Boundaries Onboard

Standard carry-on rules allow passengers one personal item in addition to their luggage. This may have originally referred to a briefcase or a handbag, but when push comes to shove, opt for a more capacious carry-all or tote. Do, however, mind the airline’s size restrictions for personal items, and know that – depending on how full your flight is – it may have to sit at your feet. But a couple of cramped hours is a small price to pay if it means stashing one more pair of shoes or a few extra-warm accessories.

6. Shop On-Site

Though new technology promises to eventually free us from the 100ml limit on liquids and creams, it won’t happen in time for this winter’s travel season, so we must continue to go mini for our flights. Whereas some travel-size products like mouthwash, face wash and shampoo may last up to a week, other staples like body lotion and miniature tubes of toothpaste run out fast. Do your research in advance. If there’s a drugstore in the vicinity of your accommodations, save space in your bag and grab your toiletries upon landing. 

7. Amen For Amenities

Another case for doing research: saving space on amenities your hotel might provide. Check which items, like personal hygiene sets, emergency sewing kits and shower caps, might be provided by your hotel or vacation rental, and also consider availing yourself of their laundry facilities. Check prices and timing in advance, of course, but the turnover time is rarely longer than 24-hours for hotel laundry services. Why pack extra when you can simply re-wear your favourites, fresh, clean and pressed?

8. Use All Available Resources

When travelling in a group or even just with a partner, attack your packing session strategically. Can one bag be dedicated to cumbersome boots and coats, and the other to clothing and accessories? If you’re travelling to meet someone in their cold city, why not arrange to borrow some essential outerwear for the duration of your stay? Worried about the rain? There’s bound to be an umbrella available for your use wherever you are staying. If not, you’ve still saved money by carrying-on, so the nominal price of an emergency umbrella is forgivable.

You might even consider renting some of your duds – after all, we rent ski gear to avoid travelling with it, why not do the same for clothing? On that note, see if you can change your shipping address temporarily for clothing rental services like Rent the Runway and Armoire. Just be sure there’s a secure drop-off location where you can return your items before you depart… and don’t forget to actually return them.

9. Remain Realistic

One of the main reasons for overpacking is that we tend to plan for an aspirational version of ourselves on vacation – the one who’s going to squeeze in regular workouts before breakfast or finally wear those stilettos to a club. But be honest with yourself: are you really going to do those things? There’s no shame in pursuing an active lifestyle, but if you’re not already in the middle of a dedicated exercise routine, you’ll likely not start on holiday; to stay fit, try opting for lower impact sports instead, like walking and yoga that require no extra gear. As for the stilettos, vacation is no time to break in new shoes – or break an ankle for that matter. Should you find yourself truly craving some going-out glam on location, treat yourself. It’s vacation after all. You can always check your bag on the way back. 

10. Know When to Admit Defeat

Packing for a much-anticipated trip ought to be part of the fun. If the slicing and dicing is causing you stress, suck it up and use a full-size suitcase. There’s no shame in spending a little extra to check a bag if it means you’ll spend a week-long ski holiday with warm, fresh layers and an extra set of shoes, should the slush get the better of your first pair. Plus, overpacking can also be a valuable learning experience. Take note of what you wear and what you could have left at home. You’ll be better for it on your next adventure.