Hi Reader,

Unfortunately, we don't have footage of the time Amanda literally face planted in Amsterdam, because she was trying to be a good friend and push Kayla's massive checked bag while Kayla pushed the stroller. But Kayla still feels guilty about it and has joined Amanda in traveling carry-on only ever since.

🤔 Why switch to carry-on only?

No checking boards to see what carousel your luggage was sent to.

No waiting anxiously at baggage claim worrying about your bags being lost.

No airlines losing your luggage.

No stress whatsoever as you bypass all the people waiting to see their luggage again.

Because your carry-on bag never left your sight.

👀 But how do you actually travel with *just* a carry-on?

The first time you travel with carry-on only can be daunting. It was for both of us! But after some practice, we were quickly able to learn how to pack for 2 weeks in Europe using a carry-on (even during the rainiest or coldest of months!).

Here's how to make the transition:

🧳 Choose the right bag with practical bells and whistles.

Compression straps, lots of compartments, and spinner wheels are all things we look for in carry-on bags to maximize space and ease of travel.

If you prefer a backpack style, make sure it has plenty of room, like the Mother Lode Travel Backpack (it's our fav carry-on backpack!).

Traveling with kids? You can still do carry-on only. Get a stackable system that includes a carry-on for you and an underseater that your child can use for their suitcase. This will free up one hand to still hold your kid's hand or push the stroller. You can see Kayla's setup for when she travels with her daughter in the pic below!

👕 Use packing cubes.

​Packing cubes are 100% worth the hype. We would not be able to travel carry-on only without them!

Not only will they help you maximize space in your bag, they will also help you stay organized! It's so convenient to get to your hotel and just take out your packing cube, unzip it, and stick the whole packing cube in a drawer.

📦 Don't overpack.

We know, we know. Easier said than done. But aim to pack outfits that you can mix and match. For our upcoming trip to Egypt, Kayla has 6 outfits in her carry-on that she will re-wear or mix and match to last for our 9 day trip.

​Tide sink packets are a life saver for washing outfits in your room (and they will hardly take up any space in your carry-on!).

🎒 Don't forget you get a personal item!

Not confident in getting everything to fit in just a carry-on? Don't forget you get a personal item too. Take a backpack or small duffel for your personal item and stick any extra belongings in it! Amanda likes this duffel from Bagsmart and Kayla likes this cute backpack that can double as a purse from Amazon!

From our suitcase to yours,

Kayla & Amanda

​The Stickered Suitcase​

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