It’s the question every traveler asks before going on vacation: “Should I go with checked baggage or should I carry on?” If you need help figuring out what bag to bring on your next flight, here’s what to consider.
Travel planning can be stressful enough without adding baggage woes to the equation, so make your life a little simpler and choose the carry-on or checked luggage option that’s ideally suited to your trip.
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Deciding between checked baggage and a carry-on depends on your travel style, trip length, weather, fees, and how much gear you need. Carry-on only works best for short trips, lightweight travel, avoiding checked-bag fees, and keeping your belongings with you, while checked luggage makes more sense for longer trips, family travel, varied climates, bulky gear like winter clothes or sports equipment, and when you need extra capacity. Weigh these pros and cons based on your itinerary, airline rules, and packing needs to choose the option that makes your journey easier and more efficient.
Checked Baggage vs. Carry-On: What to Consider
Ask yourselves these questions before deciding which suitcase to pack for your next vacation.
How long will I be traveling?
Naturally, shorter trips lend themselves to smaller bags, while longer ones may require extra packing.
What’s the weather where I’m going?
Typically, clothing choices for hot destinations are smaller and thinner than wardrobes for colder weather. This could drastically affect the size bag you need.
What are the fees associated with both checked baggage and carry-ons?
If you’re flying on a basic economy fare, you might not even be allowed to bring a carry-on, in which case you might want to check a bag. Conversely, some airlines charge for checked bags—see if you can pack minimally and carry on to avoid paying additional fees.
Does it matter whether or not my suitcase makes it to my destination right away?
Checked baggage is more likely to get lost than carry-on luggage, so think about whether or not you can deal without your things for a day at your destination. (For instance, you might want to carry-on one way, go shopping on your trip, then check your heavier bag on the way back home.) Also factor in connecting flights—if you have a short layover, there’s always a small chance your bag won’t make the connection.
When to Travel Carry-On
When you pack everything into one carry-on bag, you can reduce your carbon footprint, limit the amount you have to carry, and save on checked baggage fees. Here are the best times to travel carry-on only.
Spring Break
Whether you’re heading south to warmer climes or hitting the trails in search of adventure, when traveling for spring break you’ll have one major priority; enjoying unforgettable experiences with your mates. One thing you won’t want is to be weighed down with excess luggage, so my advice is to travel light. My detailed spring break packing list will ensure you have all the essentials and organize everything into a compact, functional carry-on bag that you can easily manage on public transport.
Flying with an Economy Airline
Bagged yourself a deal on a cheap flight to your destination? I’m guessing you probably won’t want to shell out for checked baggage fees, so consider flying with carry-on only. The Gear Warrior XE Convertible Carry-On transforms between a backpack and wheeled pull-along; ideal for transitioning between the airport and overland transport.
A Beach Break
If you’re anything like me you relish a beach break to the Caribbean because it means your packing list is a minimalist dream. Fabrics are lightweight and, to be honest, other than a selection of beach-wear, you’ll only need a handful of outfit options. Save yourself the hassle of carting 23kg across the sand and limit your luggage as much as possible.
Weekend Escapes
For a weekend break, layering is the key to minimal luggage. Depending on your itinerary, you may be able to get away with packing just two outfits and some basic toiletries; don’t forget to check whether your hotel provides shampoo and shower gel. Traveling light with a sleek carry-on is also heaven for anyone who loves to make the most of duty-free shopping opportunities at the airport because your luggage won’t hinder you as you peruse the aisles, and you may even have space to stock up on a few little luxuries before you fly.
Long-Term Travel
This may surprise some who struggle to travel light, however reducing the number of belongings you lug around the world is a sensible option; particularly when backpacking. After you’ve been on the road for more than just a few weeks, the novelty of carrying everything you own on your back will soon wear thin and you’ll be grateful for a well-made carry-on backpack like the Tour Travel Pack 55L. Trust me, I spent seven years living out of a 65L backpack. Pack a few natural fabrics, some quick-dry layers, and the tech you can’t live without into lightweight packing cubes, and don’t forget that you will likely be able to buy anything you find you’ve forgotten or can’t live without when required.
When to Travel with Checked Luggage
Maximize your capacity and streamline your carry-on by checking your luggage before you fly. Here’s when it makes more sense to travel with checked baggage versus carry-on bags
Family Travel
There’s no doubt that parents require a lot more ‘stuff’ when traveling with children. With the extra clothes for ‘what if’ scenarios and selection of toys and games to provide entertainment during long journeys, young families struggle to travel light. Optimizing your checked luggage allowance is key under such circumstances, and if you’re clever you can limit yourself to one instead of two or three heavy bags. Consider a spacious and durable duffel like the Cargo Hauler 110L Wheeled Duffel Bag that will handle all that family life throws at it.
Multi-Stop and Multi-Season Trips
If you’re planning to visit a number of destinations and need to pack for varied climates, you’ll struggle to travel with anything less than 50 pounds. Fact: Winter coats are big and bulky and if you need more than two pairs of shoes, you’ll need the additional space offered by a larger pack or case. Remember that layering is your friend and ensures that you can mix and match the clothing options in your large wheeled bag. In this situation, it’s better to maximize your capacity and have everything that you need to comfortably transition between locations.
An Active Winter Break
If you’re planning an active winter break and want to travel with your own snowboard/skis, review the regulations of your airline with regard to what they classify as sporting equipment and the costs for checking these items. Packing for a winter break means negotiating bulky layers and chunky shoes, therefore the addition of space-saving packing cubes are the ideal combo for a trip of this nature; especially if you’ll have to bundle your bags into a hotel transfer once you arrive at the resort.
Luxe Travel
Taking a break from adventure travel and treating yourself to a luxury vacation? Ditch the minimalist approach and make the most of the opportunity to travel in style. If you’re flying premium, you’ll likely have two bags of up to 50 pounds included in your ticket price so max out your allowance and pack an outfit for every occasion!
Whether you choose to carry-on or check your luggage, start your travel prep by reading our ultimate travel packing checklist and ensure you travel efficiently with everything you need to make some epic memories.
