# Carry-On Only Packing List

URL: https://emptvl.vercel.app/packing-lists/carry-on-only
Publisher: Empyrean Travel (https://emptvl.vercel.app/)
Last reviewed: 2026-10-19

A carry-on only packing list: the TSA 3-1-1 liquids rule, airline size limits, a capsule wardrobe that mixes and matches, and what to wear on the plane.

**Quick answer:** To travel carry-on only, use a bag that meets your airline’s size limit, often about 22 x 14 x 9 inches on U.S. airlines including wheels and handles, and pack a capsule wardrobe in one color palette. Liquids follow TSA’s 3-1-1 rule: containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less in one quart-size bag. Wear your bulkiest items on the plane and plan to do laundry.

- Bag: Carry-on (often 22 x 14 x 9 in. in the U.S.) plus a personal item
- Climate: Any; layer rather than pack bulky pieces
- Dress code: One color palette so everything matches
- Don’t forget: Quart-size liquids bag, packed on top

## Checklist

**Bags & organization:** Carry-on that meets each airline’s size limit; Personal item that fits under the seat; Compression packing cubes; Clear quart-size liquids bag; Foldable tote for souvenirs; Laundry bag; Luggage tag with contact details; Bluetooth tracker tag

**Clothing (7-day capsule):** Two bottoms in neutral colors; Four or five tops that mix and match; One warm layer (sweater or fleece); Packable jacket, worn on the plane; Underwear for 4–5 days (wash midweek); Socks for 4–5 days; Sleepwear that doubles as loungewear; Swimsuit (packs flat); Bulkiest shoes, worn on the plane; One versatile second pair of shoes; Scarf or accessory to dress outfits up

**Toiletries (3-1-1):** Liquids in 3.4 oz (100 ml) containers; All liquids in one quart-size bag; Shampoo and conditioner bars; Solid deodorant; Toothbrush and toothpaste tablets or travel tube; Stick or solid sunscreen; Disposable razor; Prescription medications (declare liquid ones); Contact lenses and travel-size solution; Mini hairbrush and hair ties

**Tech:** Phone and charging cable; Power bank (cabin only, never checked); Compact multi-port USB-C charger; Universal plug adapter; Earbuds; E-reader instead of books; Laptop or tablet, if needed; Spare lithium batteries (cabin only)

**Documents & valuables:** Passport or REAL ID–compliant ID; Boarding passes (mobile plus a screenshot); Credit cards and a little cash; Medications in original containers; Jewelry and valuables; Travel insurance details; Digital copy of your passport; Known Traveler Number saved in airline profiles

**In-flight comfort:** Empty water bottle to refill after security; Solid snacks; Eye mask and earplugs; Compression socks; Neck pillow that clips to your bag; Light scarf or wrap as a blanket; Travel-size hand sanitizer; Lip balm

## What size carry-on bag can you bring?

There’s no universal size. Many U.S. airlines allow a carry-on of about 22 x 14 x 9 inches including wheels and handles, plus a personal item that fits under the seat, but some international and low-cost carriers set smaller dimensions or a weight limit, sometimes as low as 7–8 kg (15–18 lb). Check every airline on your itinerary, including partner and regional flights.

Your fare matters too. Some basic economy and ultra-low-cost fares include only a personal item, so read the fare rules before you buy; our basic economy guide explains the trade-offs.

## How does the TSA 3-1-1 liquids rule work?

As of 2026, TSA’s 3-1-1 rule limits liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes in your carry-on to containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, all fitting in one quart-size bag per passenger. Medications and infant formula or food are exempt in reasonable quantities but need separate screening. Rules can change, so check TSA’s liquids page before you fly.

Solid toiletries stretch the quart bag: shampoo and conditioner bars, solid deodorant, toothpaste tablets and stick sunscreen. Most other countries apply a similar 100 ml limit at airport security, so the same kit generally works abroad.

## How do you fit a week of clothes in a carry-on?

Build a capsule wardrobe in one color family: two bottoms, four or five tops, one warm layer, and one pair of shoes besides the pair you wear. Every top should work with every bottom, so a week of outfits comes from a handful of pieces. Compression packing cubes keep the bag small and organized for security.

Wear your heaviest shoes and jacket on the plane, roll soft items, and plan one sink or hotel laundry session. Keep power banks and spare lithium batteries with you in the cabin; if your carry-on is checked at the gate, take them out first. Our business trip packing list applies the same approach to work travel.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: What is the TSA 3-1-1 rule?**
A: The 3-1-1 rule covers liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes in carry-on bags: containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, all fitting in one quart-size bag, one bag per passenger. Larger containers go in checked luggage. Medications and infant formula or food are exempt in reasonable quantities but are screened separately. Rules can change, so check TSA’s website before you fly.

**Q: What can’t I pack in a carry-on?**
A: Commonly prohibited items include knives, firearms, most tools longer than seven inches, sporting goods such as bats, and liquids over 3.4 ounces. Lithium batteries are the reverse: spare batteries and power banks must travel in the cabin, not in checked bags. TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool lists specific items. On international trips, also check the departure country’s security rules.

**Q: Is carry-on only worth it for international trips?**
A: For most trips of up to two weeks, yes. You avoid lost or delayed bags, move faster through connections and customs, and can rebook more easily if a flight is cancelled. The trade-offs are tighter liquid limits, weight caps on some international airlines and fewer outfit choices. Our guides to lost luggage and connecting flights show why it helps.

**Q: How does TSA PreCheck help carry-on travelers?**
A: With TSA PreCheck, you typically leave laptops and your 3-1-1 liquids bag inside your carry-on and keep on shoes, belts and light jackets, so screening is quicker and you repack less. The liquid limits themselves still apply. Membership lasts five years. See our TSA PreCheck guide for how to enroll and add your Known Traveler Number to bookings.

## Sources

- [TSA Liquids Rule](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/liquids-aerosols-gels-rule)
- [TSA: What Can I Bring?](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all)
- [FAA PackSafe: Lithium Batteries](https://www.faa.gov/hazmat/packsafe/lithium-batteries)