Packing List for Carry On Only

Yes, I know. When I mentioned to everyone that I was travelling with only carry-on luggage, for an undecided number of months to an undecided number of countries, everyone said I was crazy.

Maybe it will work, maybe it won’t. But I will definitely learn either way.

So with only 7kg + handbag, here’s the initial list:

• 1 x Samsonite suitcase (weighing 1.5kg)
• 1 x jacket (lightweight)
• 1 x hoodie (lightweight)
• 1 x jeans
• 1 x long pants (lightweight)
• 1 x short shorts
• 2 x skirts
• 1 x casual dress
• 3 x long sleeve tops
• 1 x long sleeve shirt
• 1 x leggings
• 6 x short sleeve tops
• 8 x undies
• 4 x bras
• 3 x anklet socks
• 1 x light scarf
• 1 x bikini
• 1 x sandals
• 1 x walking shoes
• toiletries (all under 100ml) – crystal deodorant, magnesium oil spray, magnesium cream, aromatherapy mist, day moisturiser, cc cream, muscle balm, olive oil hand/ body moisturiser, roll on sunscreen, roll on moov insect repellent, lip balm, translucent powder and mini kabuki brush, mini mascara, 3 lipsticks, paw paw ointment, bicarb toothpase, bamboo toothbrush.
• supplements – magnesium, immune defense, herbal stress relief.
• 1 x Microsoft Surface 3 + keyboard
• 1 x Samsung S5
• Chargers, universal adapter, mini portable speaker
• eye mask, inflatable neck pillow, ear plugs, car charger
• microfibre towel
• notebook and pen
• small padlock
• digital luggage scale (very handy)

Some things I learned while packing:

• Buy lightweight clothes.  I got a great super-light jacket from Kathmandu. Avoid heavy wools, and cottons. Opt for polyesters
• I don’t need an umbrella, or travel underwear (that takes the same time to dry as other underwear)
• Lightweight shoes tend to be VERY bad for your feet, so this is a tough area to pack for, especially if you need arch support.
• Avoid packing cubes, and just use plastic zip lock bags for toiletries.  If you don’t have a lot of things, you don’t need “packing cubes” to organise them.
• Don’t pack shampoo or soap.  You can find/ buy as you go.