Get off the plane and get where you need to go faster.

There is something so freeing about stepping off the plane and heading straight for your ride, your transfer, or your next adventure without stopping at baggage claim.

While everyone else is waiting and watching the carousel, hoping their suitcase made it, you could already be on your way.

Checking in for flights can be simpler.

When you are not checking a bag, you can often check in online and head straight to security when you arrive at the airport.

Now, this is not always the case. Some destinations may still require you to check in at the airport, show your identification, or verify travel documents before you receive your boarding pass.

But in many cases, not having checked luggage removes one more line, one more step, and one more thing to think about.

Worry less about lost luggage.

There’s nothing quite like standing around the luggage carousel … and your bag isn’t there.

When your luggage stays with you, there is a lot less wondering where it is, when it will arrive, or whether it accidentally went on a different vacation than you did.

Yes, there are times when you may still be asked to gate check a carry-on, especially on smaller aircraft or very full flights. But most of the time, your carry-on and personal item stay much closer to you than a checked bag would.

Just make sure you check your airline’s size and weight requirements before you travel. Every airline is a little different, and this is one of those details that is much better to know before you get to the airport.

You could save money.

Checked bag fees can add up quickly, especially when you are traveling as a family or taking more than one flight.

Avoiding those fees can be one more good reason to simplify your packing. Some airlines do charge for carry-on bags, so this is not a guarantee for every trip, but for many travelers, packing lighter can help avoid extra costs.

1. Start with a great piece of luggage.

This matters more than people think.

A poorly designed carry-on can make packing feel frustrating before you even begin. If possible, try to look at luggage in person before buying it. Roll it around, check the compartments, open it fully, and make sure it feels practical for how you travel.

If you are ordering online, read the reviews carefully and pay close attention to the actual dimensions, not just the words “carry-on approved.”

2. Pack a capsule wardrobe.

A carry-on becomes much easier when your clothes work together.

Choose items that fit your destination, the weather, and your planned activities, but try to avoid packing a completely different outfit for every single day.

Start with a base color like black or navy, then build from there. When your tops, bottoms, layers, and shoes can mix and match, you suddenly have a lot more outfit options without needing a lot more space.

3. Roll clothes and use packing cubes.

Rolling your clothes can help reduce wrinkles and make better use of the space in your bag.

Packing cubes are also a great way to keep things organized, especially if you are moving between hotels, sharing luggage space, or trying to avoid digging through your whole suitcase every time you need one thing.

And do not forget the space inside your shoes. Socks, small accessories, or other soft items can often be tucked inside.

4. Plan on doing laundry.

I know. Laundry is not exactly the glamorous part of vacation.

But if laundry is an option on your trip, it can make packing so much easier.

Some resorts, cruise lines, and destinations make self-serve laundry pretty convenient. Walt Disney World Resorts and Disney Cruise Line are good examples. You can also look into laundry services before you travel, especially for longer trips.

A few detergent sheets or small laundry supplies take up very little room, and they may save you from packing several extra outfits.

5. Wear your bulkiest items.

If you are bringing a jacket, hoodie, bulky sweater, or larger shoes, wear them on travel day.

Not only can layers come in handy on a chilly plane, but wearing those bulkier pieces also frees up valuable space inside your carry-on.

Your suitcase will thank you.

6. Be smart about toiletries.

Toiletries are one of the easiest places to overpack.

Before you start filling little bottles, think about what will already be available where you are staying. Does the resort provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash, or lotion? Are you comfortable using those for a few days? Can something be purchased after arrival if needed?

For the items you do need to bring, remember the TSA liquid rules for carry-on bags and plan accordingly.

For some destinations, you may even be able to order a delivery of larger toiletries or other essentials once you arrive.

7. Choose a great personal item.

Carry-on-only travel does not just depend on the suitcase. Your personal item matters too.

This may take some trial and error because different trips call for different bags. A backpack may be perfect for one trip, while a wheeled under-seat bag, messenger bag, diaper bag, or tote may work better for another.

Think about what you need easy access to during travel. Think about whether you will need to carry the bag through a large airport, onto a cruise ship, or around with kids.

If you also carry a purse, crossbody bag, or belt bag, plan to tuck it inside your carry-on or personal item until you are through boarding. Airlines can be strict about the number of items you bring onboard.

And one more important reminder: keep your travel documents and proper identification easy to access.