The Carry-On: One Bag, Any Destination

One system, endless destinations. Here's how to build a carry-on that works whether you're headed to the mountains or the coast.

1. Start with a core neutral base

Build your carry-on around a small set of neutrals (black, white, navy, tan) that mix freely. Every piece you add on top of this base should coordinate with everything already in the bag, not just one other item.

2. Run the three-way test

Before anything goes in the bag, it has to pass one test: can you wear it at least three different ways, in three different settings? If it only works for one specific outfit or occasion, leave it home.

3. Pack for layering, not for climates

Instead of packing separate outfits for hot days and cold nights, pack layers you can add or remove: a light base layer, a mid layer, and one packable outer layer. It flexes with the weather instead of trying to predict it.

4. Tailor your wardrobe to your trip

Every trip has one thing that needs a specific wardrobe for the occasion or activity, whether that's a swimsuit, a nicer outfit for a dinner reservation, or hiking gear. Pick one destination-specific piece and build the rest of your wardrobe to support it.

5. Use packing cubes to multiply your space

Sorting your clothes into cubes by category (tops, bottoms, undergarments) keeps one bag feeling like several smaller ones, and makes it far easier to see everything you've packed at a glance.

6. Plan on doing laundry once

You don't need a lot of clothes for the whole trip if you're willing to do a sink wash or find a laundromat partway through. Packing for half the trip and washing once frees up serious space.

7. Make your tech and toiletries multi-use

One universal charger and an e-reader instead of physical books all shrink your bag without cutting anything you actually need.

Bonus: A Berry Caye® tote as your personal item

Use a tote as your under-the-seat personal item to hold what you need mid-flight, then fold it flat inside your carry-on once you land, so it's ready whenever you need a little extra room.