A week fits in a carry-on if you plan to wash something once, or re-wear a few items. Here is a list to adapt.
Clothes (mix and match)
- 4 to 5 tops
- 2 to 3 bottoms
- 1 to 2 layers (sweater, light jacket)
- 5 to 7 sets of underwear and socks, or fewer if you will wash
- 1 sleep outfit
- Swimwear if your trip needs it
- 2 pairs of shoes, one worn on the plane
Toiletries
Liquids in travel-size containers in one clear quart bag; see the liquids rule guide. Keep dry items in a separate pouch.
Tech and documents
- Phone, charger, adapter if needed
- Passport or ID, tickets, insurance details
- Medicines in original packaging
Plan for one wash
With a mid-trip wash (sink, hotel laundry or laundromat), 4 days of clothes can cover 7. Pack a small laundry bag or a cube for worn clothes.
Organize it
- Cubes: one for tops, one for bottoms, one for underwear and socks, one for laundry. 7-Piece Packing Cube Set
- Bulky items: 3-Piece Compression Cubes can compress soft items. They may save space but not weight, and may increase wrinkles. The manufacturer does not list piece sizes.
- Hotel stays: Hanging Suitcase Shelves (19.8 x 14.6 x 9 in open, manufacturer's figure) for a room with a closet rail.
- Small items: Mini Jewelry Case, about 3.9 × 3.9 × 2 in (10 × 10 × 5 cm).
Honest limits
Airlines set their own carry-on size and weight limits and some weigh bags, so check yours before you fly. This list does not cover special gear, formal events or cold-weather trips. Our products ship tracked in 8–14 business days with free US shipping.
FAQ
Can I fit a week in a carry-on?
Some travelers do, especially by planning one wash and wearing the bulkiest items on the plane.
How many shoes?
Two pairs is a simple starting point: one worn, one packed.
Are compression cubes worth it?
They help with bulky soft items. See cubes vs compression cubes.
Related: Weekend trip checklist