How to Pack Only a Carry On for Winter Travel

Bringing only a carry on for winter travel is a skill. Long weekend trips away are how many of us like to spend our colder months. With less activities going on it’s fun to getaway for a change of scenery or to visit friends. The only thing that’s not so fun is trying to pack for several days into a tiny carry on.

Would you believe me if I told you my first week long trip to Europe was in the winter and I had only a carry on for winter travel? Fast forward two years later and I returned for the same amount of time with a massive suitcase and was miserable lugging it around! So what was the difference? For one trip I used my packing checklist and followed these tips. For the other trip I just threw everything I might want to wear and didn’t end up using half of it!

I am NOT, I REPEAT AM NOT a style blogger. Although my image is a part of the brand, me wearing various clothing, encouraging people to buy them, and how to style them is not my main focus. The only time that clothes are the focus is if they relate to my top to cornerstone topics (travel/fitness). So when I share things I like you know it’s sincere! It’s important for me to pack light especially because I travel with my dog and my travel blog equipment.

1. Plan your outfits ahead. Whether you consider yourself a planner or not, this is one of the most crucial steps. The more you know about what kinds of activities you’ll be doing on the trip the better you can assess what you need to bring. You can also download my Pack Light Clothing Check List
2. Coordinate a color scheme. This next tip may sound kinda strange but hear me out. I’m not advising that you wear only one color the whole trip (people may start wondering if you’re in a gang or cult if you do that). But do try to have a color palette of complementary and or coordinating colors. Personally, I wear a lot of neutral colors so most of my wardrobe falls into this, but especially when I’m traveling. This allows you to bring less accessories like shoes, jackets, and hats (which is especially helpful in the winter months) and disposable Slippers (in case your hotel or accommodation doesn’t provide something to wear on those cold floors)!
3. Roll with the flow. For as long as you can remember you’ve probably been taught to fold your clothes. BUT… When it comes to packing a suitcase it’s much better to roll your clothes. Rolled outfits (think shirt on top of pants then rolled together) take up less room and reduce wrinkles.
4. Last but not least, don’t forget the essentials! Below are a few items I bring on EVERY TRIP!