How to pack carry-on only: bag sizes, liquids rules and a capsule wardrobe

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Travelling with only a cabin bag means no queue at the check-in desk, no wait at the carousel and no lost luggage. It takes a little planning the first time, and after that it becomes the easiest way to travel. Here is how to make everything fit, and get it through the gate.

Check your airline's bag limits first

There is no single international cabin bag size. Every airline sets its own limits for dimensions and weight, and low-cost carriers often distinguish between a small personal item that fits under the seat and a larger cabin bag that may cost extra.

Look up the exact dimensions on the airline's own website for your fare, not a general list online. The rules can differ between fare types on the same airline.
Check whether wheels and handles count towards the size. They usually do.
If you have several flights on different airlines, pack to the strictest limit.
Some airlines weigh cabin bags at the gate. A light bag gives you more of the allowance for what goes inside it.

Build a capsule wardrobe

The trick to packing light is clothes that all work together.

Pick two or three colours that match each other, so every top goes with every bottom.
For a week, a common starting point is three or four tops, two bottoms, one layer for warmth, a set of nightwear, and underwear and socks for about half the trip. Plan to wash things in a sink or a launderette.
Choose fabrics that dry quickly and do not crease badly, such as merino wool or synthetic blends.
Take at most two pairs of shoes, and wear the bulkiest pair on the plane.
Wear your heaviest layer and jacket while travelling rather than packing them.

Liquids: the rules are changing, so check

For years the standard rule at airport security has been that liquids, gels, pastes and aerosols in your cabin bag must be in containers of 100 ml or less, all fitting in one small, clear, resealable bag. In the US the TSA still applies this as its 3-1-1 rule. Newer CT scanners at some airports let passengers leave liquids in their bags, and a few airports, including several in the UK, now allow larger containers through security. But the rollout is uneven, rules differ between countries and even between terminals, and the airport you fly home from may still use the old limit. Pack to the 100 ml rule unless you have checked the official security page for every airport on your trip. Ways to cut down on liquids:

Solid shampoo, conditioner and soap bars avoid the question entirely.
Decant favourites into small refillable bottles.
Buy sun cream and other bulky toiletries when you arrive.
Medicines and baby food are usually allowed in larger amounts, but you may need to declare them.

Packing cubes and how to fill the bag

Packing cubes keep things organised and compress clothes slightly. One for tops, one for bottoms and one for underwear works well.
Roll soft items and fold structured ones. Rolling is not always smaller, but it reduces creases and lets you fill gaps.
Stuff socks and chargers into shoes.
Put the liquids bag and electronics at the top, where you can take them out quickly at security.
Keep a foldable tote inside for shopping on the way home.

What to leave behind

"Just in case" outfits. If you have not planned when you will wear something, leave it.
Full-size toiletries, a hairdryer (most hotels have one) and more than one book; an e-reader or phone will do.
Towels, unless you are staying somewhere that does not provide them.
Heavy guidebooks and anything you can easily buy at your destination.

Before you leave

Pack everything a day or two before and live without what is left on the bed.
Measure and weigh the packed bag.
Check the security rules for every airport you will pass through.
Photograph your liquids bag for reference so repacking at security is quick.

What is your best trick for travelling with only a cabin bag, or which airport surprised you with its liquids rules? Share it in the comments.