How to Pack for 7 Days in Just a Carry-On

How to Pack for 7 Days in Just a Carry-On (Challenge)

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Let’s be honest, most of us have been guilty of overpacking. You know the drill—you start with “just the essentials,” and the next thing you know, you’re sitting on your suitcase trying to zip it shut, wondering why you thought three extra pairs of jeans were necessary for a four-day trip. Been there, done that.

But here’s the thing: traveling light is a total game changer. Not only do you skip the baggage fees, but you also get to breeze past the luggage carousel like a VIP while everyone else is still waiting for their giant suitcases. And the best part? You realize you really don’t need half the stuff you usually pack.

That’s where the 1-Week Carry-On Challenge comes in. The question is simple: Can you really survive a full seven days away from home with nothing but one small carry-on suitcase? Spoiler alert—yes, you absolutely can. And in this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to do it without sacrificing style, comfort, or sanity.

Choosing the Right Carry-On

Before we even get to the packing hacks, the most important piece of this puzzle is your carry-on itself. If you’re starting with the wrong bag, the challenge is already stacked against you.

Airline Size Rules (The Boring but Crucial Part)

Most airlines in the US stick to the 22” x 14” x 9” rule for carry-ons. That means if your bag is bigger than this, you might end up gate-checking it (and paying for it). International airlines can be even stricter, so always double-check before flying. Pro tip: stick with bags that are slightly under those dimensions to avoid last-minute headaches.

Hard-Shell vs. Soft-Shell

  • Hard-Shell: Sleek, modern, usually lightweight, and they protect your stuff better. Downside? They’re not as flexible when it comes to stuffing in “just one more thing.”

  • Soft-Shell: These can expand, have more pockets, and are forgiving if you tend to squeeze things in. Downside? They’re not as durable and can look worn out faster.

Personally, I lean hard-shell when I’m traveling for longer trips because it keeps everything compact and safe. But if you’re someone who shops while traveling (guilty 🙋), a soft-shell with expanders might give you more wiggle room.

Spinner Wheels vs. Two-Wheel Rollers

  • 4-Wheel Spinners: Easy to maneuver in airports, you can glide them by your side without much effort.

  • 2-Wheel Rollers: Sturdier on rough surfaces like cobblestones or cracked sidewalks (hello, Europe).

My Top Picks

If you’re looking for a solid carry-on that actually lasts, here are some tried-and-true favorites:

  • Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX Hardside Luggage – Check it on Amazon
    Lightweight, durable, and comes in multiple sizes and colors. Great for people who want something sleek and TSA-approved.

  • Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable Softside Spinner – Check it on Amazon
    This one is a frequent flyer favorite because it’s super light and has tons of compartments.

  • Away Bigger Carry-On – Check it on Amazon
    A modern favorite with a built-in battery for charging your phone. Stylish, but still fits most airline restrictions.

Choosing the right carry-on is like setting the foundation for a house—you want it to be strong, reliable, and able to handle whatever the trip throws at you. Once you’ve nailed that, the rest of the challenge gets so much easier.

The Packing Strategy

Okay, so you’ve got the right bag. Now comes the fun part—figuring out how to fit an entire week’s worth of stuff into it without turning it into a messy black hole. The truth is, most people don’t fail because they don’t have space; they fail because they don’t have a system.

packing checklist

Here’s how to crack the code.

The 5-4-3-2-1 Rule

This little formula is one of the best hacks for minimalist packing. It goes like this:

  • 5 tops (shirts, blouses, or T-shirts)

  • 4 bottoms (pants, shorts, or skirts)

  • 3 dresses or extra outfits (or you can swap in workout gear here)

  • 2 pairs of shoes (comfortable sneakers + one dressier option)

  • 1 jacket (layer-friendly and works for different outfits)

Mix and match these and suddenly you’ve got way more outfit combinations than you’d think. The beauty of it is that it keeps things structured—you won’t pack five random hoodies and no decent shirts.

mixing and matching outfits

Rolling vs. Folding vs. Bundling

Everyone has their own religion when it comes to packing. I’ve tried them all, and here’s the lowdown:

  • Rolling: Great for saving space and avoiding wrinkles. Perfect for T-shirts, jeans, and casual wear.

  • Folding: Works better for structured clothing like blazers or dress shirts.

  • Bundling: Wrapping clothes around a central item (like a pouch of socks) to form one big bundle. Super efficient, but a bit of a hassle when you need just one piece mid-trip.

My go-to? A combo—roll the basics, fold the structured pieces. That way, you maximize space without making unpacking a nightmare.

Layering is Your Best Friend

Here’s the trick: pack thinner layers instead of chunky items. Three thin sweaters take up less space than one massive hoodie, and you’ll get way more flexibility with outfits.

Packing Cubes (Game Changer)

If you haven’t used packing cubes yet, this is your sign to start. These little zippered bags keep your suitcase organized and make it ridiculously easy to find what you need without tearing everything apart.

packing cubes

A few solid options worth checking out:

They’re cheap, lightweight, and honestly, once you use them you’ll never go back.

Toiletries & TSA Hacks

Packing clothes is one thing, but toiletries? That’s where most people lose the carry-on challenge. Between liquids, bulky bottles, and random extras, it’s easy to waste precious space—or worse, have TSA confiscate half your stuff at security.

Here’s how to keep it simple and stress-free.

The 3-1-1 Rule (TSA’s Favorite)

If you’re flying in the US, TSA has the 3-1-1 rule for liquids:

  • 3.4 oz (100 ml) bottles or smaller for all liquids, gels, or creams

  • 1 quart-sized, clear zip-top bag to hold them

  • 1 bag per passenger

That means your giant shampoo bottle is not coming with you. Instead, grab travel-sized bottles or transfer your products into refillable mini bottles.

Solid Alternatives (Game Changer)

Want to skip the liquids drama? Switch to solids where you can:

  • Solid shampoo & conditioner bars

  • Solid lotion bars

  • Toothpaste tablets

  • Stick deodorant instead of spray

Not only do these save space, but they also eliminate the “oops, my shampoo exploded in my bag” nightmare.

Multi-Tasking Products

The less you pack, the better. Look for products that pull double (or triple) duty:

  • A tinted moisturizer that works as foundation + sunscreen

  • A body wash that doubles as shampoo

  • Coconut oil (works as moisturizer, hair mask, and makeup remover)

TSA-Friendly Kits (Affiliate Section)

Instead of piecing everything together, you can grab pre-made TSA-approved kits that are already sized right:

My Secret Hack: The Hotel Freebie

If you’re staying in hotels, don’t pack what you don’t need. Most decent hotels will provide shampoo, conditioner, soap, and even toothbrushes if you forget. Save that space for things you actually can’t get there.

The Shoe Dilemma

Let’s be real—shoes are the trickiest part of carry-on packing. They take up way too much space, they’re heavy, and yet you can’t exactly spend a week in one pair of flip-flops (unless you’re on a beach trip, in which case, lucky you).

the shoe dilemma

Here’s the golden rule: two pairs max. Wear one, pack one.

Pair #1: The All-Day Comfort Shoe

This is the pair you’ll wear on the plane. Think sneakers or casual shoes that you can walk miles in. They should match most of your outfits and be versatile enough for exploring during the day.

  • Examples: Allbirds Tree Runners (Amazon), Adidas Ultraboost (Amazon)

Pair #2: The “Upgrade” Shoe

This is the one that elevates your look. Could be flats, loafers, lightweight boots, or sandals depending on your trip. Something you can wear to dinner or an event without looking underdressed.

  • Examples: Rothy’s Women’s Flats (Amazon), Cole Haan Men’s Grand Crosscourt II (Amazon)

Packing Shoes Without Wasting Space

  • Stuff Them: Don’t let empty shoe space go to waste. Fill them with socks, belts, or even chargers.

  • Use Shoe Bags: Keeps your clothes clean and makes packing easier.

  • Place Strategically: Pack them at the bottom of your bag, near the wheels (if it’s a roller) to balance weight.

What Not to Do

  • Don’t pack heels unless you know you’ll need them.

  • Don’t pack hiking boots unless your trip requires them.

  • Don’t bring “just in case” shoes—you won’t wear them.

Trust me, once you nail the 2-pair strategy, you’ll wonder why you ever lugged around a suitcase with four different pairs.

Tech & Essentials

Now, this is where carry-on packing can get messy. Between laptops, chargers, headphones, and travel documents, things can quickly snowball into a tangled nightmare of cords and random gadgets. But with a little planning, you can keep it compact and stress-free.

The Essentials You Actually Need

  • Phone & Charger (obviously)

  • Laptop or Tablet (if you’re working or streaming on the go)

  • Universal Adapter if you’re traveling internationally

  • Headphones or Earbuds (noise-canceling is worth it)

  • Power Bank (so your phone doesn’t die in the middle of navigation)

Organize With Pouches

Cables are the #1 space-wasters if you just toss them in. Use a slim electronics organizer or even just zip pouches to keep things tidy.

Travel Documents & Wallet

Instead of shoving boarding passes, passports, and hotel papers in random places, keep them in one travel wallet.

The Minimalist Tech Kit

If you really want to slim it down:

  • Skip the laptop if a tablet/phone can handle your needs

  • Use wireless headphones instead of bulky over-ear ones

  • Carry a 2-in-1 charging cable (USB-C + Lightning) instead of multiple cords

My Favorite Hack

Always pack a foldable tote bag. Not tech, but it’s a lifesaver. Whether you’re bringing souvenirs back or need a quick day bag, it takes up no space and saves you when you least expect it.

Packing Strategy & Space-Saving Hacks

Here’s where the real magic happens. Even with the right clothes and gear, it all comes down to how you pack. A good strategy can literally double the space in your carry-on.

Rolling vs. Folding

  • Rolling clothes saves space and prevents wrinkles (especially for t-shirts, jeans, casual wear).

  • Folding neatly works better for structured pieces like blazers or button-downs.

  • My method: roll 80% of items, fold the few that need structure.

The Power of Packing Cubes

If you haven’t tried them yet, you’re missing out. These things keep your bag organized and stop everything from becoming a jumbled mess.

Pro tip: Use different cubes for tops, bottoms, and underwear so you don’t have to unpack everything to find one t-shirt.

Compression Bags for Bulky Items

If you’re packing a sweater or jacket, use compression bags. Just roll the air out—no vacuum needed.

Fill Every Inch

  • Shoes = perfect for socks, belts, or small chargers

  • Side pockets = great for snacks or travel documents

  • Between handles (in rolling carry-ons) = tuck in a flat item like a book or scarf

Layer Like a Pro

Think of your bag in layers:

  1. Bottom: shoes + heaviest items

  2. Middle: rolled clothes in cubes

  3. Top: lightweight stuff you’ll need first (toiletries, sweater, tech pouch)

My Sneaky Trick

Wear your bulkiest items (sneakers, hoodie, or jacket) on the plane. Planes are cold anyway, and you save tons of space in your carry-on.

Laundry on the Go & Staying Fresh

Here’s the secret sauce for making a 7-day carry-on trip actually work: you don’t need to pack 7 full outfits. Instead, you just need a smart system for keeping things fresh and doing a little laundry along the way.

Quick Hotel or Airbnb Laundry Tricks

  • Sink Wash Method: Fill the sink with warm water, add a bit of travel detergent, and wash small items like socks, underwear, or t-shirts. Hang to dry overnight.

  • Travel Laundry Kits: You can grab a kit that includes detergent sheets and a clothesline you can hang anywhere.

Choosing Quick-Dry Fabrics

Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, or merino wool dry super fast and don’t hold odor the way cotton does. A merino wool t-shirt can be worn multiple times without smelling gross.

Dealing with Wrinkles

  • A travel-sized wrinkle spray can freshen up clothes instantly.

  • Or, just hang wrinkled clothes in the bathroom while you shower — steam works wonders.

Keeping Clothes Fresh Without Washing

  • Dryer Sheets: Toss a couple into your bag. They keep everything smelling fresh.

  • Fabric Fresh Spray: Works like a mini Febreze for your clothes.

  • Air Things Out: Hang worn clothes overnight by a window to reduce odors.

My Go-To System

  • Pack 4–5 days worth of clothes.

  • Do a quick laundry load or sink wash mid-trip.

  • Rotate and re-wear items with layering to stretch outfits.

This way, you’re never hauling around 10kg of clothes you don’t even wear.

Real-Life Packing Example (What’s in My 1-Week Carry-On)

It’s one thing to talk theory, but let’s get real. Here’s an actual packing list I’ve used for a week-long trip with nothing but a carry-on and a personal item. Tweak it based on your style, but this will give you a clear starting point.

Clothing

  • 4 t-shirts (mix of neutral and one bright for variety)

  • 2 pairs of pants (1 jeans, 1 lightweight chinos)

  • 1 pair of shorts

  • 1 hoodie or sweater (neutral color)

  • 1 lightweight jacket (windbreaker or packable down)

  • 1 dress shirt or blouse (for dinners or meetings)

  • 7 pairs of underwear (lightweight, quick-dry if possible)

  • 5 pairs of socks (mix in athletic and casual)

  • 1 pair of sleepwear

Shoes

  • Sneakers (comfortable for walking)

  • Lightweight slip-ons or sandals (depending on destination)

Toiletries (TSA-approved bag)

  • Travel toothbrush & toothpaste tablets

  • Deodorant stick

  • Mini face wash + moisturizer with SPF

  • Shampoo/conditioner bar

  • Razor

  • Small first-aid kit

Electronics & Essentials

  • Phone + charger

  • Portable power bank

  • Travel adapter (if going international)

  • Kindle or small book

  • Headphones

  • Laptop or tablet (if needed for work)

Extras That Save Me Every Time

  • Collapsible water bottle

  • Travel laundry detergent sheets

  • Wrinkle-release spray

  • Snacks (protein bars, trail mix)

  • Packable tote bag (for laundry or souvenirs)

How It All Fits

  • Carry-On Roller or Backpack: Clothes, shoes, toiletries, extra gear

  • Personal Item (Backpack or Tote): Laptop, chargers, snacks, water bottle, travel docs

👉 The trick is versatility. A hoodie works for planes, nights out, and layering. Sneakers go with everything. Neutral t-shirts can be swapped around. You don’t need to reinvent your look every day — just mix, match, and re-wear smartly.

Conclusion: Ready to Take the Challenge?

So there you have it — a full game plan to live out of just a carry-on for a week. It might feel impossible at first, but once you realize how little you actually need, it becomes kind of freeing. No more waiting at baggage claim. No more stressing over overweight fees. And honestly, there’s something empowering about knowing you can travel light and still have everything you need.

The secret is smart choices. A versatile wardrobe. The right carry-on. A little creativity with laundry. And some handy space-saving tricks. Once you nail those, it’s smooth sailing.

And hey, worst case? You forget something. Guess what — they sell toothpaste, socks, and even cheap shirts everywhere in the world. You won’t die without that extra pair of jeans you were stressing about packing.

So next time you’re heading out, I dare you: try the 1-week carry-on challenge. Pack lighter, move freer, and see how much better travel feels when your bag doesn’t weigh you down. Who knows — you might never go back to checked luggage again.

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