Carry-on travel starts with the right bag: 40–45 litres max, soft sides for overhead flexibility, and wheels that survive cobblestones. Weigh it empty — every gram counts when European low-cost carriers enforce 7–10 kg limits strictly.
Build a capsule around one colour palette. Merino tees, a packable down layer, and convertible trousers cover city breaks and mild hiking. Roll clothes tightly; use packing cubes for organisation and compression.
Liquids stay under 100 ml each in a clear quart bag. Solid toiletries — shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets — save space and leak risk. Wear bulkiest shoes and jacket on travel day.
A digital boarding pass, power bank, universal adapter, and photocopies of documents live in your personal item. Check airline dimensions before SnagAFlight checkout — sizes vary between Ryanair, Lufthansa, and British Airways.