The carry-on only packing list for a four-day city break
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Short answer: pick one colour palette, bring clothes that all work together, wear your heaviest items on the plane, and check your airline's cabin bag size and weight limit before you pack, because they vary.
The formula
- Tops: 4 to 5, in colours that match each other.
- Bottoms: 2, plus one pair you wear on the plane.
- Layer: 1 knit or light jacket for evenings.
- Outer layer: 1 coat or waterproof, worn on the plane.
- Shoes: 2 pairs. Wear the bulkier pair travelling.
- Underwear and socks: one per day, plus one spare.
Lay out every outfit on the bed first. If a piece only works with one other item, it stays at home.
Toiletries
Liquids in carry-on bags are limited to small containers, usually 100ml each, in one clear bag. Some airports have newer scanners with different rules, so check your departure airport before you go. Decant what you need into small bottles, or buy solid versions of shampoo and cleanser.
Tech and documents
- Power banks and spare batteries go in your cabin bag, not the hold.
- Passport: check it is valid for your destination and when it expires.
- Chargers: one multi-port charger beats three separate ones.
- Adapter: check which plug type your destination uses.
The packing method
Roll soft items and fold structured ones. Packing cubes keep things sorted and make it easier to take out only what you need. Leave a little space for things you buy, and pack an empty reusable bottle to fill after security.