17 Travel Hacks for Carry-on-only International Flights

Having family based in Canada, Italy, India, and Australia means that international travel is baked into my lifestyle. And while little has changed in terms of airplane food and my in-flight hobbies, lately, I’m obsessed with avoiding a checked bag. Now that I’m getting ready to travel for the holidays to see family I haven’t seen in a long time, I’m thrilled by the prospect of speed walking right past that dreaded stop at the baggage carousel when I know my loved ones are waiting just one customs line away from me. 

As both a minimalist and shopping editor, I’m extremely picky and choosy about what gets to come with me on my travels. I’m prioritizing high-quality essentials like comfortable, all-weather boots, a cozy Ugg two-piece set, and the most important item: a set of compression packing cubes. Thanks to these genius packing hacks, I still have room to pack a few gifts for my family. Check out some of my favorite travel essentials from Away, Dagne Dover, and more for traveling carry-on-only during the holidays. 

Away The Bigger Carry-on Suitcase

As someone who most likely has glitter blindness, my first impression of this gleaming suitcase was that it could use some more sparkle. After spending some more time with it, I realized it’s just the right fit for my unique style. If there’s one carry-on I could live with my whole life, it’s this Away luggage thanks to its larger-than-average size. It’s lightweight and durable, but my favorite part is the interior compression system that helps me make the most of my space. It comes in 11 other colors if glitter’s not your thing. 

Bagail Compression Packing Cube Set

Speaking of maximizing space, there’s something so magical about these compression packing cubes. The last time I took them with me to visit family in Italy, my aunt was so mesmerized by them that she asked if she could keep some for herself. You’ll be amazed by how many chunky turtleneck sweaters you can pack and then compress into just one of these — I can usually fit four to five in the larger cubes.

Iniu Portable Charger

I’m the kind of person who needs to have a fully-charged phone at all times. I’ve gotten in trouble when I’ve relied on finicky airplane outlets that don’t always work, and at other times, I didn’t have the right international charger to use during my layover. Thanks to this portable charger, I’ve been able to marathon-watch Love Island and catch up on my favorite podcasts with peace of mind during my travels. If you’re anything like me, you’re not spending much time at your hotel when traveling, so keeping one of these in my purse at all times has been helpful, too. 

Dagne Dover Landon Large Neoprene Caryall Duffel

I swapped my old heavyweight leather duffel for this one earlier this year, and I’m never going back. Dagne Dover’s large neoprene duffel is made of the most lightweight fabric I’ve ever felt. It has about a dozen interior pockets and zippers that keep all my go-to belongings more organized than any other duffel ever has, and the luggage sleeve has been a game-changer for avoiding neck and shoulder pain. I actually just bought a brand-new one that I’m packing as a gift to my brother-in-law since he’s complimented mine several times over the years. 

Oribe Signature Style Travel Set

I’ve been writing about beauty for seven years, so I’m extremely finicky about the products I use. To make sure I don’t end up having to borrow my brother’s dreaded three-in-one shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, I always travel with one of Oribe’s travel sets. This one comes complete with my favorite shampoo and conditioner, but I especially love the styling spray which also acts as a heat protectant. I’m a sucker for the heavenly scent it leaves behind, too.  

Birdies Flats

My packing isn’t complete without a versatile pair of black loafers. Top them with an LBD or jeans and a sweater for an easy evening walk or holiday party outfit. These Birdies flats are one of the comfiest shoes I own thanks to the flexible sole, seven layers of cushioned padding, and slip-resistant bottom. The sleek and shiny exterior adds a sophisticated touch to any look.

Good American Good Legs Flare Jeans

After going on a mission to find the perfect pair of jeans three years ago, I tried almost a hundred different styles before I fell in love with this pair from Good American; once I put them on, everything I’d worn before them paled in comparison to their stretchy, soft fabric. The high-waisted silhouette is versatile enough to pair with cropped sweaters, but I especially love the supportive feel. The slight flare is subtle enough to pair with casual items, but the black wash and sexy fit also make these jeans a go-to for nights out.

Kindle Paperwhite

If you love to read but travel often, a Kindle is practically a necessity. Not only do I take mine with me when I travel, but I always keep it in my purse, too. It’s extremely slim and has plenty of space to hold dozens of books. I plan on buying one for my sister as an impressive, yet easily-packable, gift.

French Connection Cosysoft Long Sleeve Slit Sweater Dress

I’ve only owned this dress for a few weeks, but this may be the ultimate winter LBD: the little slit is alluring yet still elegant enough to wear with some loafers or knee-high boots to the office when I’m not traveling. Aptly named, the dress’s super soft fabric feels just as cozy as my favorite cashmere sweater. 

Anrabess Cable Knit Sweater Dress 

My introduction to sweater dresses was through this cable knit style. The chunky fabric feels super snug but still looks cute, so I look forward to curling up in it on the couch for movie marathons and then pairing it with some tights and boots for a holiday party. It’s so comfy that I’m even debating wearing it with leggings and boots on my 16-hour flight. 

Ugg Gable Two-piece Set

Two-piece sets are my kryptonite, especially if they come in a neutral light brown color. This one is made with Ugg’s signature fluffy fabric that you’ve come to love in its beloved boots, but now you get to wrap your whole body in it. I first bought this set for my sister a few years ago, and she raved about it so much that I had to get one for myself, too. It’s so comfy that I’ll travel in it, but I also love lounging and sleeping in it.  

Vivaia Water-repellent Stretchy Boots

If your go-to black ankle boots are breaking at the seams like mine were when a good friend lovingly gifted me these, it’s time to finally buy a new pair. I wear these boots nearly every day in the winter, and I’ve done so for the three years I’ve owned them. Despite the 2.5-inch heel, they’re some of the comfiest shoes in my winter wardrobe. I almost always wear them on my travel days, and they end up being my go-to everyday shoe once I reach my destination. 

Stojo Collapsible Silicone Bowl

I always pack a salad or mix of fruit and nuts to eat on my flight, just in case I don’t end up liking the in-flight food. This Stojo Collapsible Silicone Bowl is exceptionally lightweight and the perfect size for any meal I want to pack. Once I’m done eating, I simply collapse it for easy packing. I’ve had numerous people on flights compliment me on the bowl when they see me collapse it, too.

Farmacy Skincare Set

I’m a huge skincare nerd and have been a massive fan of Farmacy for years. This compact and all-inclusive set comes complete with a cleanser, lip balm (that I use on my hands and elbows, too), moisturizer, and eye cream — all of which are some of my favorites from the brand. With a focus on nourishing botanical extracts like honey, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants, these products keep my dry skin in check while I travel. 

Ranavat Spiritual Awakening Eau de Parfum

A perfume might be one of the first gifts you think of when you start holiday gift shopping but know that this Ranavat perfume is anything but typical. From a South Asian-owned brand that my mom, sister, and I are all huge fans of, this perfume has a scent that’s inspired by ancient Indian royalty and a bottle complete with chic gilded finishes. I plan on gifting the luxurious saffron, jasmine, and sandalwood-infused scent to my mom and already know she’s going to love it. (And, yes, it’s under the TSA-approved fluid allowance.)  

Splendid Sivan Boucle Long Sleeve Coat

The boucle coat has become a cozy essential for embracing an effortlessly cool style, and Splendid’s Sivan Boucle Long Sleeve Coat nails the perfect balance of comfort and polish. Made from a super plush fabric, this coat offers a weightier feel without being cumbersome — and it’s of course far more comfortable than airplane blankets. Sure, it’s not cheap, but my life changed when I made the decision to invest in a high-quality winter coat. It’s slouchy, sleek, and goes with everything from activewear to evening gowns if I’m a guest at a winter wedding.

Westman Atelier Petite Fête Edition Makeup Set

I tend not to wear a lot of makeup when I’m traveling — especially when I’m going home for a low-key trip during the holidays. This all-inclusive set is all I plan on bringing with me in addition to a concealer. It includes the brand’s iconic highlighter and blush along with a feathery mascara. The buildable formulas can be used for anything from my-skin-but-better looks to high-coverage statement looks. 

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