5 Mistakes Everyone Makes When Packing a Carry-On

No one wants to be stopped at airport security, so we have compiled a list of the 5 most common mistakes travelers make when packing their carry-on so you can avoid TSA delays and enjoy a smooth travel experience.

Everyone knows this rule, but it continues to be a common mistake made among travelers. It is a sad sight when your favorite shampoo, hair gel, or toothpaste is whisked, and there is nothing you can do about it. According to TSA, all of your liquids and gels must be in 3.4-ounce bottles or less and placed 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag. Not only will this protect your belongings from spillage, but also it will streamline your airport security process. This rule will save you time and money, time and time again. We find that travel size samples from our favorite brands often work well.  Roam's Travel Pouch Set is a perfect way to keep your small toiletries safely packed away.

2. Wrapped Gifts

We all want our gifts to look beautifully wrapped for our loved ones, but be sure to wrap them when you arrive at your destination. Your wrapping paper could become wrinkled in your carry-on, or worse, you will have to watch TSA rip apart your beautifully wrapped gift for security screening. 

These days most everyone travels with their laptop. It is important to pack your laptop securely to avoid damage, but don’t pack it at the bottom of your suitcase. Many travelers forget that when you go through airport security (unless with TSA PreCheck), you are required to take your laptops and tablets out of your carry-on bags to be screened individually. Be an efficient traveler and pack your laptop on top of your clothing, or just hold it until you are through security. 

4. Overpacking

Everyone likes to be prepared when they are going on a trip, but it is one thing to be prepared and another to be overpacked. Dealing with a carry-on that won’t shut or is too heavy to carry through the airport is very frustrating. When you are packing, be sure to wear your bulky shoes on the flight and limit yourself to one additional pair of shoes that won’t take up too much room in your carry-on. Try to pre-plan your outfits for each day of your trip and plan on layering to reuse clothing for cooler days.   

Looking at a carry-on bag and wondering how in the world you are possibly going to fit everything can be intimidating. Not to fear - there are many tricks you can use to maximize your bag space. It is important to pack only travel size toiletries and to consider rolling your clothing to create more room in your bag.

Also, make sure to pack your largest items such as shoes and belts at the bottom of your bag and fill in the rest of the space with your lightweight clothing items.

If you still find yourself struggling to fit all of your items, The Large Carry On should be perfect for you. This carry-on size offers two extra inches of width make it easier to pack! Check out these pieces and many more at Roam Luggage.

Whether you are taking a short flight back to your hometown or visiting a country around the world, you are going to need durable lightweight luggage for your travels. Be sure to check out all the luggage sizes from Roam for the perfect suitcases for your travel needs. 

BONUS TIP: Customize Your Luggage

Looking for a suitcase to match your personality? Customize your own only at Roam Luggage. We offer 4 sizes: The Carry On, The Large Carry On, The Check In, and The Large Check In.