How to Pack a Suitcase or Carry-On: The Complete Guide

At Away, we're obsessed with travel and designing products that make every journey easier. We believe the easier travel is, the more we do it, and the better we all become. Designed by travelers, for travelers like you our products ensure that when it's time to pack up and head out, you do it right.

 Whether you're packing a carry-on for a weekend trip or a checked suitcase for a longer journey, how you pack makes all the difference. A great carry-on suitcase helps you breeze through the airport and save on luggage fees. It also saves you from shedding tears over lost luggage and keeps everything you could ever need for your trip right there with you. Plus, it streamlines your packing list since there's only so much room in an overhead bin.

But knowing how to pack a suitcase or carry-on isn't always as easy as it sounds. Limited space means you need to pack smart and use bags that work smart. At Away, we specialize in making travel more enjoyable. Our products, from our Carry-On suitcases to our Packing Cubes and Toiletry Bags, are designed to make sure every trip is as seamless as possible. Let's dive into how to find the right suitcase for your trip, pack smart, and transform your travels into unforgettable adventures.

 

Choosing Your Carry-On Companion

Suitcase? Backpack? Duffle bag? So many options for carry-on luggage, so little time! Let's go over the details so you can find the right travel bag for you.

Suitcases: Lightweight and effortless, especially with 360° wheels that glide like a dream. Away's Carry-On and Bigger Carry-On are award-winning and beloved by millions for good reason not just for their custom 360 wheels but for their durable exteriors that withstand whatever the world throws at them. Away's Carry-Ons also come in polycarbonate hard shell and Softside to give you the perfect match.

Backpacks: For those who love hands-free adventures, a good backpack is a must. Of course, it also means you'll feel every extra ounce on your back, so the lighter, the better. Look for lightweight, water-resistant fabric and comfy, padded straps like ours. Away's backpacks also come with trolley sleeves and padded device pockets for the ultimate convenience. You'll thank us later.

Duffle bags: Day trip? Overnight? Weekender? With plenty of sizes and shapes to choose from, you can pick a duffle for any adventure. They're lightweight, collapsible, and fit into tight spaces, making them ideal for those spontaneous weekend getaways on a plane or to a cabin or lakeside retreat.

Size Matters

You've picked your perfect carry-on item. Now, let's be sure it meets your airline's size requirements (because no one wants to find out at the gate that their bag is too big). Every airline is different, so check the guidelines beforehand to be certain your bag will fit.  See our full airline carry-on size comparison guide for exact dimensions by airline. However, most major domestic airlines like United, Delta, or American Airlines offer a little more wiggle room than international airlines, which typically have slightly smaller limits.

Away's Carry-On and The Bigger Carry-On are designed to fit these standards. The Carry-On measures 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches, while the Bigger Carry-On is 22.7 x 15.4 x 9.6 inches, ensuring you're good to go no matter where your travels take you.

Here's some insider news just for you: We've tested our bags at JFK, EWR, LHR, and LGW to be absolutely sure you've got the right fit. Cue sigh of relief: Away bags get the all-clear!

For domestic or international planes with smaller limits, opt for our Carry-On or a duffle to guarantee your luggage fits. The Carry-On should fit most European and Asian airlines, but check the specific airline's website before heading out.

How to Pack a Checked Suitcase

Not everything fits in a carry-on, and sometimes you simply need more room. Here's how to pack a checked suitcase efficiently so you arrive organized, and nothing gets damaged in transit.

What Goes in a Checked Bag vs. Carry-On?

The general rule: liquids over 3.4 oz, sharp items, and bulky shoes go in your checked bag. Valuables, medications, electronics, and anything you'd hate to lose go in your carry-on. 

Checked Bag Packing Tips

• Place heavy items (shoes, jeans, jackets) at the bottom near the wheels. This keeps the suitcase balanced when upright.

• Use packing cubes to section off outfits, so unpacking at the hotel takes minutes, not twenty.

• Roll softer items like t-shirts and underwear; fold structured pieces like blazers and trousers flat.

• Fill shoes with socks to save space and protect the shoe's shape.

• Use Away's compression straps to lock everything down, so there's no more avalanche when you open the lid.

• Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on just in case. Checked bags get delayed. It happens.

How to Pack for a Week in One Bag

A week's worth of clothes in a carry-on is absolutely doable with the right approach. Here's the Away method:

The 5-4-3-2-1 Framework

A reliable starting point for a 7-day trip:

• 5 pairs of socks and underwear (wash mid-trip if needed)

• 4 tops (mix of casual and one elevated option)

• 3 bottoms (one can double as sleepwear)

• 2 shoes maximum (one versatile, one activity-specific)

• 1 jacket or layer that works across multiple outfits

The key is choosing pieces that mix and match. A white tee goes with everything. A blazer elevates any outfit. Neutral bottoms go with any top. Think in outfits, not individual pieces.

Fold vs. Roll: What Actually Works

You've heard the advice to roll your clothes. But is it always right? Here's the honest answer:

 

The real winner: packing cubes. They keep both rolled and folded items compressed and in place regardless of the technique used. Use one cube per category: tops, bottoms, and underwear, and you'll never dig through a jumbled bag again. 

Let's Talk Tech Compartments

Whether going off the grid on your next trip or working remotely from Mexico City, chances are you're bringing some form of technology with you. Enter tech pockets. They keep your devices nearby when it matters most and give you easy access to alleviating airport boredom.

No one likes to be that person at the airport rummaging to find their phone in the security line or unzipping their carry-on to locate their laptop. That's why we make sure our suitcases and bags have all the interior and exterior pockets you need to house your tech essentials like charging cables, phones, tablets, power banks, and more.

We're All About Compression

You've packed everything, but the zipper won't close. Here's our favorite carry-on packing tip: Away's signature compression system. These interior compression straps compact your belongings and push out the air, giving you more room when you need it most.

When you simply can't choose between the two outfits, go ahead and pack both. Our patented interior compression pad system will maximize space so you can fit it all in.

Making Sure You're TSA-Approved

Make it easy on yourself and travel security. With a TSA-approved toiletry bag and combination lock, you can get through the security line quickly and easily. We've got some of the best TSA-approved toiletry bags with multiple interior compartments to keep all your products organized and at the ready. Plus, each of our rolling Carry-On suitcases includes a TSA-approved combination lock to help you keep your belongings secure while adhering to travel regulations.

On the topic of regulations, you'll have a few more things to consider if you're traveling internationally. Be sure to check that country's airport security for their specific requirements. They may be different from your own, so it's always good to be prepared for any changes you'll need to make.

Now, what can you pack in carry-on luggage? Traveling with just a carry-on means you'll have to think carefully about what you can and can't pack. Luckily, most of the everyday items you use are allowed to go in your carry-on, making it easy to get through airport security without delay.

However, some things aren't allowed. According to the TSA, here are some of the travel-related items you can't put in a carry-on: Aerosol insecticide, bear or pepper spray, flares, hiking poles, shoe spikes, scissors/knives/other sharp implements.

You should also follow the liquids rule for carry-ons. Known as 3-1-1, it requires that any liquids, creams, or gels you pack must be 3.4 ounces or less and fit into one 1-quart bag. Common products include all those cleansing and beauty essentials: shampoo, liquid soap, toothpaste, lotion, and other personal toiletries. To avoid the crime-scene-level mess of shampoo and foundation spilling all over your clothing, get yourself a handy TSA-approved toiletry case that meets security regulations while keeping your products organized and contained.

How To Pack Your Carry-On

Whether you're layering up for Stockholm's chilly streets or keeping it light for a sunny Cyprus getaway, your clothing choices define your travel comfort. Seasons, destinations, occasions, and lengths of trips all shape our packing lists.

Keeping Outfits Versatile

Even when traveling to colder destinations, you should always try to pack as light as you can. One of the best ways is to keep your outfits versatile. Make it easy to mix and match your clothing by bringing plenty of choice without the bulky weight. Plus, mixing and matching can be a fun way to use your wardrobe in ways you never thought possible.

You should also create a carry-on packing list that details how many tops, bottoms, socks, underwear, and other clothing you plan to take. In general, you'll want twice as many socks and underwear as tops and bottoms. Remember: You might be able to buy some clothing at your destination too.

Make sure your packing list includes other essentials like medication and glasses. You might also want to add items to keep you occupied during airport travel. Set the list aside and look at it a few hours later with a critical eye. Does it seem reasonable and complete? Adjust the list until you're comfortable with it.

The Away Carry-On Packing Checklist

Use this before every trip. Check off as you go:

Clothes

• Tops (aim for versatile, mix-and-match pieces)

• Bottoms (one per 2–3 days, or fewer if you'll do laundry)

• Underwear (one per day + one spare)

• Socks (one per day + one spare)

• Pajamas or a top that doubles as sleepwear

• One jacket or layer

• Shoes (max 2 pairs   wear the bulkier pair on the plane)

Toiletries

• TSA-compliant toiletry bag (liquids 3.4 oz or less)

• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash (travel size)

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Skincare essentials (SPF, moisturizer)

• Any prescription medications   always in carry-on, never checked

Documents & Valuables

• Passport or ID

• Boarding pass (downloaded or printed)

• Travel insurance info

• Cards and cash

Tech

• Phone + charger

• Laptop or tablet (if needed)

• Headphones

• Power bank

• Universal adapter (for international travel)

Fitting It All In

Many of us have heard the packing tip to roll our clothes instead of folding them to maximize space and organization. But what have you heard about packing cubes?

Packing cubes are perfect for separating your clothing, toiletries, and gadgets. Away offers Packing Cubes and other packing organizers like our Shoe Cube, designed to keep your essentials neat and accessible from the mountains to the Maldives.

Using Packing Cubes & Organizers

If you want to take your packing to even greater heights, consider packing cubes for carry-on luggage. Each one acts as a self-contained case, helping you streamline packing before and during your travels. They also help you separate your belongings, so there's no rummaging through everything to find one item.

Packing organizers come in many types and suit different use cases. You might like them for toiletries or tech gear, or maybe you want to keep your shoes away from clean clothes.

Away has some of the best TSA-approved toiletry bags and packing cubes to keep you organized.

Using Packing Cubes & Organizers 

If you want to take your packing to even greater heights, consider packing cubes for carry-on luggage. Each one acts as a self-contained case, helping you streamline packing before and during your travels. They also help you separate your belongings, so there’s no rummaging through everything to find one item. 

Packing organizers come in many types and suit different use cases. You might like them for toiletries or tech gear, or maybe you want to keep your shoes away from clean clothes. These organizers can also work for other belongings like sunglasses, spare batteries, or travel adapters. 

Away has some of the best TSA-approved toiletry bags and packing cubes to keep you organized. Even if you’re a travel newbie, you'll become a pro in no time with cases designed for wanderlust travel. 

• Packing cubes: Our Packing Cube Set features four cubes with mesh tops and secure zippers.
• Toiletry bags: Our Toiletry Bag has a clamshell opening with two see-through compartments for storing makeup and other toiletries. 
• Tech cases: Our Tech Case’s zippered compartments, sleeves, and elastic loops keep your tech gear secure and organized. 
• Shoe cubes: Our Shoe Cube’s dual-sided compartments are big enough for one pair of sneakers or two pairs of flats or sandals.

 

Let’s Add a Personal Item 

In addition to your carry-on, airlines typically allow a personal item—such as our Everywhere Tote, Everywhere Zip Backpack, Everyday Crossbody, or even a pet carrier—that must fit under the seat in front of you.

Our backpacks, totes, bags, and other personal items are designed not just for style but for security. Equipped with trolley sleeves that effortlessly slide over the handle of your rolling carry-on, they provide safe storage for your most important belongings and flawlessly become a part of your travel uniform.

Keep these essentials secure and safely within reach: Passports, credit cards, glasses, electronics, medicine.

Depending on its size, your personal item might hold other creature comforts, too: Headphones or earbuds, water bottle, snacks, neck pillow, book, travel blanket.

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Time To See the World

Now that you've mastered the art of packing your carry-on, it's time to plan your next trip. Picture yourself breezing through airport security—organized, stress-free, and ready for whatever the journey ahead brings.

Browse our collections to discover your perfect travel companions. Whether you're eyeing some packing cubes, TSA-approved toiletry bags, or our versatile carry-on suitcases, you’ll find products with superior craftsmanship and the ultimate in sensible yet stylish designs. Each product is designed to help you travel more—and travel better (no matter how far you go).

We'll see you out there.