Written by Lauren Steele on
These helpful tricks will prevent you from over-or-under packing as you prepare for your next trip.
Even the most masterful of travelers can always learn a thing or two when it comes to packing lighter, smarter, and more efficiently. There are many of us who are chronic over-packers who always are bringing way more clothes and “necessities” than are really necessary, while some of us are under-packers who never seem to bring enough toothpaste or socks to get through a trip.
Luckily, there is a happy medium—and it can be found in a carry on. Forget the long lines and turning carousels at the baggage claim and never be worried that your luggage might not make it to your destination. By packing everything you need in a way that keeps you from losing time (or even your possessions), you will never want to check your luggage again. Here’s what you need to know to pack everything you need for a two-week trip in a carry on.
Wondering what to pack for your trip? Check out our What to Pack for a 2-week Trip Checklist below.
Size Up Your Carry-On
Knowing how much to pack for 2 weeks is crucial, but you should avoid checking a bulky bag. When you check a bag, there's a chance that it may not arrive at your destination. Plus, it adds time to your trip, because you have to wait for it at the baggage claim, and sometimes it even costs extra. So choose a carry-on instead.
First, make sure that your carry-on meets regulations for your airline’s standards. All Eagle creek Creek carry-ons are pre-approved to fit airline sizing standards. It helps if you have a bag that can be used in multiple ways, —such as the Switchback 22. By having a carry-on that you can roll, carry, or strap to your back, you will be able to carry it in the most comfortable way possible since it will probably be a little heavier than your average, iPad-toting carry on. Make sure that you utilize all compartments of your carry-on. Put your chargers and other small items that you will need early and often in any external pockets that are located on the straps or the side of the bag.
Pack Clothing Carefully
When it comes to packing clothes, remember that versatility and layering is key. Pack mostly neutral-colored tops and bottoms so that each item will be interchangeable and match the others. Dresses are also great for women because they are outfits that don't take up a lot of suitcase space. Roll all of your clothing as tightly as possible and put the heaviest fabrics, such as jeans and jackets, on the bottom. It’s best if you can compress your clothing to maximize space.
Stack rolled shirts on top, and tuck rolled underwear and bras along the edges of the your bag. It is best to have two pairs of bottoms (pants, shorts, or skirts) for each week that you’ll be staying. Plan on bringing four shirts per week, and two jackets to layer for warmth (if you're traveling to a cool or cold destination). For a two-week trip, you need four bottoms and eight tops. Pack one or two dresses if you plan on going anywhere fancy, and bring athletic gear if you think you'll hike or exercise. Now you will have clothes for any occasion—from a hike to a dinner out on the town. Be sure to wear your bulkiest clothing items on your travel days. That means your biggest jacket and a pair of sturdy shoes—like boots or tennis shoes—to save the space in your bag.
Add a Personal Item
Treat your carry on just like you would treat a full-sized luggage carrier. Keep it for your travel apparel only so you can get enough clothes and two pairs of shoes in there to last all 14 days. The magic of carry-ons is that besides a carry-on, you are also allowed to bring one personal item on your flight as well. Bring a tote, duffel, or backpack to carry everything that's not clothing: laptop, books, and any important documents (like a passport). It’s also smart and space-savvy to pack your toiletry kit inside your personal item to maximize room for clothing in your carry-on. Use a toiletry kit and TSA-approved travel-sized bottles to store your shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, makeup, and the like.
Having everything that you need with you while you travel is not only efficient, but comforting. Nothing feels better than no longer being the person who over-packed or under-packed—but the one who got it just right.
2-Week Women’s Travel Checklist: FAQs
What items should I include on a 2-week women’s travel checklist?
Understanding what to pack is just as important as figuring out how much to pack for 2 weeks away. A few essentials every woman should include in her packing list for vacation include:
- Clothing: Always have at least two bottoms for every week you plan to stay. So for two weeks, you should have four pairs of bottoms total. Bottoms can include jeans, skirts, and shorts, depending on where you’re going. You should also include various types of tops depending on your planned activities.
- Toiletries: Every woman needs a few toiletries to look and feel her best while away. However, you can purchase some when you land. Therefore, only pack the essentials, such as your favorite makeup, a toothbrush, and toothpaste.
- Important documents: Packing personal items is crucial regardless of where you travel. Always ensure you have your ID and passport stored safely and securely.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Everyone needs comfortable shoes, even if you plan to do more lounging than walking.
- Entertainment: Long flights can get boring, and you’ll need something to do when lounging on the beach or waiting in your hotel room. Entertainment items, such as books, magazines, and tablets, can help you pass the time.
How many outfits should I pack for a 2-week trip?
How many outfits you should pack for a 2-week trip depends on personal preference and the types of events you have planned. However, you should have an outfit for every day, plus extras for the weather. Therefore, you should include at least 14-16 outfits in your packing list. However, that doesn’t mean you must wear completely different clothing each day. For example, if you want to reduce baggage weight and the amount of stuff you have to bring, you can mix and match tops and bottoms to create more outfits with fewer pieces.
Can I bring a carry-on for a 2-week trip?
A carry-on can be large enough to fit all your essentials for a 2-week trip as long as you pack efficiently. Every airline has different carry-on size and weight requirements, so check their guidelines to help you make the right packing decisions.
Of course, there are also different types of carry-ons. If you don’t have luggage, you might wonder, “Can I use my duffel bag as a carry-on?” You can use any bag as a carry-on if you meet the airline's requirements. However, some are better than others, so you should look for something that allows you to organize your items and pack as much as possible.
How can I make the most of the space in my carry-on for a 2-week trip?
Packing efficiently is the best way to save space in your carry-on for a 2-week trip. A few ways to save space in your luggage include folding clothes for travel or using packing cubes. Of course, you should always make a list before packing to ensure you have everything you need. Knowing what to pack on a 2-week trip will make traveling a breeze, so all you have to do is get to your destination and relax.
Related Links (from Eagle Creek blog):
THE ART OF THE DEAL: FIND CHEAP AIRFARES SO YOU CAN TRAVEL MORE
WHAT I DISCOVERED BY QUITTING MY JOB TO TRAVEL THE WORLD
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