Behind the Scenes | Packing a Carry-On
To continue with my HUTTON|B “Behind the Scenes” series, I’ve created a practical guide you can use to efficiently pack a carry-on bag. My tips are applicable whether you’re headed out on a weekend trip or a global tour. Ironically, I must admit, I’m writing this after lugging an over-sized suitcase to the NC mountains for a 5 day trip. Those darn coats and bulky sweaters – ha! But don’t forget, I did bring just one international carry-on bag for our nearly 3 month trip this past summer, so I’d say I’m still worthy of sharing these tips!
HUTTON|B’s Carry-on bag packing tips:
- It may seem obvious, but it all starts with the right bag. For domestic and business trips I bring my hard shell Tumi (1) and for international trips I use my inexpensive eBag (2). H|B tip: Regardless of brand, your bag should be lightweight, comply with international dimension rules and have 2 wheels that don’t take up significant space inside the bag. Steer away from 4 wheel bags that can’t handle tougher terrain
- Packing cubes (3) are truly the way to go. I purchased this 5-piece set and used the 2 smallest cubes for undergarments, the slim one for bikinis, one large cube for tops/dresses and one large cube for bottoms/workout gear. H|B tip: Roll your garments to keep your cubes organized
- Pack versatile, low maintenance clothing (4) you don’t need to iron or steam and ensure your color palette mixes and matches well
- Don’t forget that a few scarves (5) and statement jewelry pieces (6) change up any outfit
- Get smart and simplify your shoe routine (7). Pack sandals first and then squeeze other shoes in between and around your packing cubes. For my world tour, I brought a total of 4 pairs: tennis shoes, Converse, sandals and Chacos and it worked out really well!
- Do your research to understand what is culturally appropriate to wear in your destination. Keeping this in mind, pack according to the latest weather forecast
- For a longer trip, it sounds silly, but practice packing a few weeks before takeoff. H|B tip: Once packed, remove 3-4 garments to leave room for vacation purchases
I hope you found my tips helpful!
XO, HUTTON B.
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- My carry-on and backpack for my world tour
Hutton, It is Sara Bould. I have been meaning to email you since you got your new sight up and running! I love it! Great info, great photos, and great videos!
Stanley and I went to China in September and I wanted to thank you because I used some of your suggestions for Beijing and Hong Kong. We ended up going to Beijing, Xian, Guilian/Yangshou, Chengdu, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Hangzhou. You might say we “checked China off our list.” Although, we did love it! We stayed at Opposite House in Beijing and The Temple House in Chengdu, and went to Grey Bar on top of Upper House in Hong Kong! This hotel group is currently about to finish another hotel in Shanghai- Middle House. I was soo impressed with these hotels. The managers were over the top nice, areas were all great. I think the Temple House in Chengdu was one of the coolest hotels I’ve ever stayed in! I also loved Chengdu as a city- known for their Giant Pandas.
Hong Kong was cool too as you know. Really proud of you. Keep up the good work. I just added my email in so I’ll get your updates. We are off to the Galapagos over Christmas, should be an experience! xoxo
One more thing- in your behind the scenes- Packing a carry on- what is the bag you use for international? #2- I like that it is 2 wheel. Do you use your Tumi just for domestic because it’s less stress on your bag? Thanks!!! xoxox