What To Pack For Carry On Only Travel – Kids & Teens

Are you attempting to travel with carry-on suitcases only for an upcoming trip? And while planning that, are you struggling to know what to pack in a carry-on for a teenager or younger children? As a lifetime overpacker until recently, I have learned the ins and outs of what is truly needed for all lengths of vacations. Near and far, it’s absolutely possible to make a carry-on suitcase work—you just have to be very strategic. 

Just like anything else, the needs of packing will change over time, from when you have younger kids to when you are packing for the teenage years and then again as an adult! I recently discovered the beauty and convenience of carry-on-only travel, and I must say, it has completely changed the way I approach packing and exploring the world. Hopefully the details in this post will help you feel prepared for your next family trip with only a carry-on bag for each person. 

There are plenty of pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to only use a carry-on, but overall, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. Not to be dramatic, but it is your personal preference to limit the amount of luggage you take with you. It also doesn’t need to be all or nothing, which is something I have often struggled with. So just because you are typically an overpacker and want to try this whole carry-on only travel day thing, you don’t have to commit to forever! I still check bags every now and then (for direct flights only!) when I want to bring more than I may need, but for most vacations, you will catch all of my family members with carry-ons only. It’s also much easier to pack with a carry-on for a summer vacation compared to a cold weather trip- so don’t hold yourself to it if it can’t happen! 

Benefits of Carry-On Only Travel

So let’s get into it, what are the benefits of only packing a carry-on? 

Pros of Carry-On Only Travel:

• Convenience: No more waiting at the baggage claim or worrying about lost luggage. With a carry-on, you can simply walk off the plane and start your adventure.
• Cost Savings: Many airlines charge hefty fees for checked bags, so traveling with just a carry-on can save you a significant amount of money by avoiding extra baggage fees. 
• Mobility: Navigating airports and public transportation is much easier when you’re not lugging around a large suitcase.
• Flexibility: You can easily switch flights and avoid the hassle of transferring luggage between planes.
• Stress Management: You don’t have to worry about your bags being lost for a few hours or forever, you always know right where your bags are. 
• Easier To Unpack: When you limit the amount of things to pack, you also limit the amount of things to unpack. Or even if you don’t unpack at your destination, it’s easier to find things when it’s a small amount of space to navigate. 
• Less Space: It takes up less space when you get to your travel destination, whether it’s a hotel room, airbnb, cruise room, etc. Many places don’t have extra space to store large luggage. 

Cons of Carry-On Only Travel:

• Limited Space: It can be challenging to pack everything you need in a small carry-on, especially for longer trips.
• Security Restrictions: Liquids and certain items are subject to TSA regulations, which can make packing a bit more complicated.
• No Room for Souvenirs: If you’re a big shopper or tend to bring back lots of souvenirs, a carry-on may not be sufficient.
• Time In Security: It takes a bit longer to get through TSA when everything you have is with you. I like avoiding the extra TSA stress when I check all of my bags, but the few minutes I would save isn’t always worth it. 

While the lists above may make it seem like carry-on pros far out-weigh the cons, keep in mind your specific family vacation style, where you are going, what you are doing, the season, etc. All of that will mean more than just the items listed above. 

Size Restrictions On Airlines

It’s important to consider the size restrictions for major US airlines when planning to travel with only a carry-on. It’s also helpful to know the allowance of a personal item. Most airlines allow one carry-on and one personal item, but the size restrictions vary. While some airlines don’t adhere to their specified dimensions, it’s important to not test that limit, especially with only one bag. 

Below are the typical limits for a smaller bag and a carry-on bag for the top 10 airlines in the United States: 

• American Airlines: Personal: 18 x 14 x 8 inches / Carry-On: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Delta Air Lines: Personal: not specified but examples provided are a small purse, briefcase, laptop backpacks, etc. that can fit under the seat / Carry-On: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• United Airlines: Personal: 17 x 10 x 9 inches / Carry-On: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Southwest Airlines: Personal: not specified but examples provides are a small purse, briefcase, small backpack, etc. that can fit under the seat  / Carry-On: 24 x 16 x 10 inches
• Jet Blue: Personal: 17 x 13 x 8 inches / Carry-On: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Frontier: Personal: 18 x 14 x 8 inches / Carry-On: 24 x 16 x 10 inches
• Alaska: Personal: not specified but examples provides are a small purse, briefcase, backpack, etc. that can fit under the seat / Carry-On: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Spirit: Personal: 18 x 14 x 8 inches / Carry-On: 22 x 18 x 10 inches
• Breeze: Personal: 17 x 13 x 8 inches / Carry-On: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Allegiant: Personal: 18 x 14 x 8 inches / Carry-On: 22 x 16 x 10 inches

European airlines usually have slightly different restrictions, so be sure to check into your individual airline if you are traveling outside of the ten listed above .

Packing Lists 

List of travel essentials for every trip for older kids (11-18) (some are specific to teenage girls)

Personal Item 

• Cell phone 
• Cell phone charger
• Any other electronic devices (laptop, iPad, Kindle, Switch) 
• Electronic chargers 
• Headphones 
• Water bottle 
• Lip balm
• Hand cream 
• Light jacket or sweatshirt 
• Hair ties 
• Snacks
• Travel journal 
• External charger/power banks

List of essentials for every trip for younger kids (3-10)

Personal Item

• Hands-On Entertainment: New books, small toys like dolls or figures, crayons, deck of cards. We love this card game!
• Entertainment to Watch: We are all about screen time when we need to be, so downloading shows or movies is ideal! 
• Headphones: I like to have a Bluetooth option and a corded option for littles 
• Blanket 
• Snacks
• Sleeping mask 
• Waterbottle
• Light jacket or sweatshirt 
• Hair ties 

Other things to consider for the entire family if you have luggage space

• Travel pillow
• First aid kit (just the basics! Advil, Motrin, anti-nausea medication, band-aids) 
• Extra plastic bags 
• Extra portable chargers 
• A phone holder for the tray table (I LOVE this one) 
• Umbrella 

Packing List for Weekend Trips

Packing List for Kids (Ages 3-10):

• 2-4 sets of tops and bottoms or dresses that can be mix and matched 
• 1 pair of pants 
• 1 pairs of pajamas
• Bathing suit 
• Cover up 
• Sandals 
• A pair of comfortable walking shoes 
• Undergarments  
• Beach towel if needed. I highly recommend a Turkish towel since they fold up nicely and dry quickly. 
• Snacks: Non-perishable, easy-to-pack options like granola bars, crackers, and dried fruit. I like to bring a few extra in the carry-on in additional to those in each personal bag. 
• Entertainment: Coloring books, small toys, and a tablet with headphones. Same as above, a few extra things to play with when you get to your destination and for on the way home. We also bring a small notebook for coloring and journaling. 
• Toiletries: Travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen, and soap. Plus, any other toiletries that would be helpful for your child. 

Packing List for Teens (Ages 11-18):

• 2-4 sets of tops and bottoms or dresses 
• 1 pair of long pants 
• 1 pairs of pajamas
• Bathing suit 
• Cover up 
• Sandals 
• A pair of comfortable walking shoes 
• Undergarments  
• Beach towel if needed. I highly recommend a Turkish towel since they fold up nicely and dry quickly. 
• Snacks: Non-perishable, easy-to-pack options like granola bars, crackers, and dried fruit. I like to bring a few extra in the carry-on in additional to those in each personal bag. 
• Entertainment: Coloring books, small toys, and a tablet with headphones. Same as above, a few extra things to play with when you get to your destination and for on the way home. 
• Toiletries: Travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Plus, any other toiletries that the teen uses on a regular basis- razors, menstrual items, etc

Packing List for A Week+ Vacations

Packing List for Kids (Ages 3-10):

• 5-7 sets of tops and bottoms or dresses that can be mix and matched 
• 3 pair of long pants or jeans 
• 3 pairs of pajamas
• 2 fleeces, sweatshirts or sweaters
• 2 bathing suits
• Cover up
• 1 nicer outfit or dress 
• Sandals 
• A pair of comfortable walking shoes 
• Undergarments  
• Snacks: Non-perishable, easy-to-pack options like granola bars, crackers, and dried fruit. I like to bring a few extra in the carry-on in additional to those in each personal bag. 
• Entertainment: Coloring books, small toys, and a tablet with headphones. Same as above, a few extra things to play with when you get to your destination and for on the way home. 
• Toiletries: Travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap. Plus, any other toiletries that would be helpful for your child. 

Packing List for Teens (Ages 11-18):

• 5-7 sets of tops and bottoms or dresses that can be mix and matched 
• 3 pair of long pants or jeans 
• 3 pairs of pajamas
• 2 fleeces, sweatshirts or sweaters
• 2 bathing suits
• Cover up
• 1 nicer outfit or dress 
• Sandals 
• A pair of comfortable walking shoes 
• Undergarments  
• Snacks: Non-perishable, easy-to-pack options like granola bars, crackers, and dried fruit. I like to bring a few extra in the carry-on in additional to those in each personal bag. 
• Entertainment: Nitendo switch, travel journal, and a tablet or laptop with headphones. Same as above, a few extra things to play with when you get to your destination and for on the way home. 
• Toiletries: Travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Plus, any other toiletries that the teen uses on a regular basis- razors, menstrual items, etc. 

Finding The Right Bags

What to look for when deciding on the right carry-on luggage

• Size and dimensions: Ensure that the carry-on bag meets the size restrictions of the airlines you frequently travel with.
• Weight: Look for a lightweight carry-on bag to maximize the weight allowance for your belongings.
• Durability: Consider the material and construction of the bag to ensure it can withstand the rigors of travel.
• Compartments and organization: Opt for a carry-on bag with multiple compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.
• TSA-friendly features: Look for a carry-on bag with features like a TSA-approved lock or a laptop compartment for convenient security checks.
• Comfort: For a suitcase, ensure the handle adjusts to a good height for you. If you are using a bag, ensure it has padded straps or handles for comfortable carrying, especially for longer walks through airports.
• Expandability: Consider a carry-on bag with expandable features to accommodate any additional items you may acquire during your travels.
• Style: Choose a carry-on bag that reflects your personal style and preferences while still meeting practical needs. Personally, I use a light purple carry-on, my daughter uses pink and my husband uses grey. 
• Reviews and recommendations: Research and read reviews from other travelers to get insights into the quality and performance of different carry-on bags.
• Check for warranties: There are many brands with suitcases now that come with a warranty, which is great! If anything happens to your suitcase you may be able to get a replacement for no charge. 

We have a few favorite suitcases that fit the bill for all of the above!

purple carry on suitcase / white carry-on with phone and cup holder / white carry on suitcase with laptop sleeve / black suitcase / blue suitcase

What to expect with the perfect personal items

Similar to a carry-on, you want to find a personal item that will last and give you the convenience of easy travel. 

• Size: Ensure the bag meets the airline’s personal item size restrictions.
• Durability: Look for sturdy materials like nylon or polyester to withstand travel conditions.
• Lots of pockets. The last thing anyone wants to do while traveling is dig through a bottomless pit to find what they are looking for. 
• Comfort: Consider padded straps or handles for comfortable carrying.
• Security: Look for zippers or closures that are secure and reliable.
• Weight: Choose a lightweight bag to avoid adding unnecessary weight. 
• Design: Opt for a design that suits your style and preferences. I always go for a backpack. 
• Compatibility: Ensure the bag fits easily under the seat in front of you for easy access during the flight.

cream backpack / brown backpack / mint bag / cream bag

General Travel Tips & Packing Tips

• Use packing cubes! We have the standard type with just a zip and also compression bags, we use both options depending on the length of the trip and the logistics involved. 
• Roll your clothes. My husband and I have different methods of packing (I like packing cubes and he doesn’t) but we can both agree that rolling your clothes helps with space! 
• Wear comfortable clothing on the plane, especially for long flights! We have had many travel experiences when my daughter was adamant about wearing something we knew she wouldn’t be happy in, so sweatpants and a sweater saved the day when the plane was freezing! 
• Print your travel documents. I’m still a fan of paper copies for everything, which I keep in my personal bag for the entire family. 
• Check the weather forecast. We have had many vacations where the weather *should* have been either hot or cold and it ends up the opposite. Checking even a few days before is extremely helpful! 
• Don’t forget medications any member of the party may need. 
• Use a fanny pack / hip pouch and leave room in your personal bag to stuff it in before the flight. I like to have as easy as possible access to our travel documents in a crossbody bag, and then put it into my backpack before boarding the plane to meet requirements of only two bags. 
• Teach your kids how to pack their own bags! Which is easier when it’s limited to a carry on amount of clothing. 

I hope reading through this post was helpful to understand the benefits and challenges of traveling with carry-on suitcases only for your teenager or children. It emphasizes the convenience, cost savings, mobility, and stress management benefits of carry-on only travel. Additionally, I hope you found helpful tips on what to pack especially in a carry-on for trips with teenagers or younger children. Overall, the post aims to help readers feel prepared for their next family trip with only a carry-on bag for each person.