How to Travel with Hand Luggage Only

Travelling with hand luggage only is mostly a decision, not a technique. Once the bigger bag is not an option, the packing solves itself.

Packing1 min readAugust 12, 2026Priya Nair

In short

Check your specific airline. Cabin bag allowances vary far more between airlines than between countries.
The 100ml rule shapes toiletries. Solid alternatives — shampoo bars, solid deodorant — sidestep the liquid limit entirely and save the most space.
Plan to do laundry. A week in hand luggage assumes one sink wash.

Travelling with hand luggage only is mostly a decision, not a technique. Once the bigger bag is not an option, the packing solves itself.

Cabin bag allowances vary far more between airlines than between countries. Measure your bag against the actual airline, not a general rule.

Solid alternatives — shampoo bars, solid deodorant — sidestep the liquid limit entirely and save the most space.

A week in hand luggage assumes one sink wash. Accepting that removes about a third of the clothing.

Can I travel for two weeks with hand luggage?

Yes, if you plan one or two sink washes. The clothing for one week and two weeks is nearly identical.

What are the cabin bag size limits?

They vary by airline and change regularly. Check yours before every trip — assuming a standard size is how people end up paying at the gate.