With airlines charging up to $20-25 per checked bag one way these days, it’s worth a little extra planning in what to take on your next trip and converting to a carry-on only traveler. In some cases (especially when you are a family traveling), these fees add up dramatically. Here are some creative ways to pare down the items you take with you on your next business trip or vacation.

1. Familiarize yourself with the rules and limits for carry-on bags. LuggagePoint.com has a general baggage guide list for some of the most popular airlines. However, we encourage you to visit the website of the airline you will be using and get the specific details directly from them.
2. Measure. Once you know what you are allowed to carry onto your plane, you need to ensure that your carry-on bag is within those limits. Airlines use linear inches for their measurements. Most U.S. domestic carriers have limits that are all over 50 linear inches. To find out the total linear inches of your bag, you need to measure the entire length and width of your bag (including handles and wheels if present). As a general rule of thumb, most 19-, 20-, or 21-inch rolling carry-on bags will be fine. Anything above that may be questionable and you might be asked to check your bag.
3. Consider using duffle style luggage. Most travelers have opted for wheeled luggage these days, but sometimes it is a disadvantage. Wheeled luggage is heavier and adds inches to your maximum allowed linear measurement. If you are flying on smaller, commuter type aircraft, almost all wheeled carry-on luggage will have to be checked as it will not fit in overhead storage compartments. After arriving at your destination, if you are traveling by train or bus, it is usually easier to carry a duffle or backpack than to deal with a wheeled carry-on. LuggagePoint.com has a wide selection of duffle bags and backpacks that are perfect carry-on pieces.

• CalPak Galaxy “Lunar” 22″ Multi-Pocket Duffle
• CalPak Galaxy “Crescent” 26″ Multi-Pocket Rolling Duffle
• Floto Torino Duffle
  

4. Pare down your wardrobe. We’re not suggesting that you have to look like a slob while you are traveling…but, do you need two outfits per day? Limit what you take with you. Remember, most hotels have a laundry service or a self-service Laundromat. It’s much cheaper to spend a few dollars on doing a load of laundry than it is to pay the checked baggage fees. Do you really need that jacket while visiting Phoenix in the summer? Limit the shoes you take too. Remember they are bulky and heavy. At most, pack one pair and wear your favorite pair of shoes.
5. Pack carefully. If you pack a pair of shoes, put smaller items in them such as belts or socks. Roll your clothing; it helps prevent wrinkles and is easier to pack too. Put heavier items at the bottom such as jeans and shoes.
6. Remember the 3-1-1 rule for any liquids or gels you are planning to take: 3 oz. bottles or smaller packed in 1 quart-sized clear plastic bag and only 1 bag per passenger. Don’t forget that you will need to pull this plastic bag out of your carry-on and put it on the belt separately. Make sure it easily accessible before going through the security checkpoint. It’s always wise before any trip to familiarize yourself with updated TSA carry-on liquid regulations and restrictions. They can change often. If you can handle it, eliminate as much of this as you can possibly stand. If you are traveling domestically, you can always find a Wal-Mart, Target, or drug store that carries travel size portions of personal hygiene products.
7. Limit Electronics. Is it completely necessary to have your laptop or personal DVD player with you on this trip? These items are heavy and take up a tremendous amount of space. In today’s world with the prevalence of the iPhone, Blackberry, and other smart phones, the need to carry your laptop all of the time is diminishing. You can send and receive email, watch movies, listen to your favorite tunes, and surf the web all from your phone.

These are just a few ways to successfully travel using carry-on luggage only. In the coming months, we will add more tips that will aid you in traveling light. If you are in need of a high quality carry-on suitcase or duffle, please consider one of these excellent products from LuggagePoint.com:

Sample 1
Sample 2
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Sample 4

(Should be two wheeled and two duffle style)