Checked baggage fees range from 30 to 80 euros per trip depending on the airline. For a round trip, this quickly adds up to 160 euros. Traveling with only carry-on luggage is the simplest solution to avoid this expense. Here's how to do it, even for a week-long stay.
Carry-on dimensions to respect depending on the airline
Each airline sets its own rules. Most accept a bag measuring a maximum of 55 x 40 x 20 cm. Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air are the strictest. Always check the dimensions on your airline's website before you leave. An oversized bag may be refused at boarding.
Choosing the right clothes: the basis of everything
The choice of clothes determines 80% of your ability to travel light. Opt for wrinkle-free materials: jersey, microfiber, merino wool. Choose neutral colors that are easy to combine. Limit yourself to one extra pair of shoes. Wear your heaviest clothes on the plane.
The pros' rule: 5 tops, 3 bottoms, 4 underwear, 2 pairs of shoes. That's enough for a week by mixing and matching outfits.
The compression bag: the tool that changes everything
Even with a minimalist list, clothes take up space. The BagSlim compression bag reduces their volume by 50% in less than 30 seconds. No vacuum cleaner, no external pump or vacuum cleaner. You press the button, the pump does the rest in 5 seconds, you store. That's it.
Concretely, this means that a week's worth of clothes fits in a standard carry-on bag. You save up to 100 euros in checked baggage fees per flight.
Organizing your carry-on luggage efficiently
The loading order matters. Place the compression bag at the bottom. Slide your shoes on the sides, stuffed with socks. Put liquids in a regulated transparent bag of 1 liter maximum. Keep documents and chargers in the outer pocket, easily accessible.
How much can you really save?
On a round trip with EasyJet, checked luggage costs an average of 60 euros. With 4 trips per year, this represents 240 euros saved. With Ryanair on international flights, it easily goes up to 400 euros per year. The compression bag pays for itself from the first trip.
FAQ: traveling with carry-on luggage
Is it possible to go for a week with only one carry-on bag?
Yes, provided you use a compression bag and choose versatile clothes. Many travelers go for 7 days with a 40-liter bag thanks to this method.
What to do if my luggage is refused at boarding?
Always check the dimensions before you leave. If your luggage is slightly too large, compress your clothes more with the BagSlim bag to reduce the overall volume.
Are liquids allowed in carry-on luggage?
Yes, in containers of 100 ml maximum, grouped in a transparent 1-liter bag. Opt for solid products (shampoo, soap) to avoid this constraint.
To check the security rules in force at French airports, consult the website of the Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civile.
Stop paying for your luggage on your next flight
The BagSlim compression bag allows you to travel for a week with only carry-on luggage. Waterproof, reusable, no vacuum cleaner needed.
Discover the BagSlim bag