What is it?
“One-bagging,” also known as one-bag travel, is a minimalist travel style where a traveler brings only one carry-on bag for the entire trip—no checked luggage, no extra suitcases. For some, this may sound like a nightmare, but with a little practice and thoughtful planning, it can be incredibly freeing.
Imagine it: no baggage fees, no lost luggage, and no struggling to maneuver bulky suitcases down narrow European cobblestone streets. The benefits are plentiful, but the best reason to one-bag? It’s the most responsible option. Less weight on a plane means less fuel burn, which ultimately leads to lower CO₂ emissions.
How to get started
The first step is choosing the right bag. Most airlines allow a carry-on size of 22 x 14 x 9 inches, though some permit slightly larger dimensions. Always check your specific airline’s requirements before packing and heading to the airport.
Generally, backpacks that are 40 liters or smaller fit within these limits. Many brands design travel backpacks specifically for one-bag travel, offering smart organization and durable materials. PackHacker has an excellent guide to the best travel backpacks, which you can find here:
https://www.packhacker.com/guide/best-travel-backpack/
While these bags can be pricey, they’re often available used or on sale during events like Black Friday. Thanks to their high-quality craftsmanship and materials, they’re built to last for years. If you’re not fully sold on one-bagging yet, don’t worry—any backpack you already have at home will work just fine. It may not have all the bells and whistles, but it’s a great way to try the concept without spending extra money.
How to pack smart
When you limit yourself to one small bag, every item must earn its place. Clothing should be neutral in color, lightweight, fast-drying, and easy to layer. Focus on pieces you can mix and match to create multiple outfits rather than packing bulky, single-use items.
Packing cubes can be especially helpful for keeping clothing organized and compressed, making it easier to fit everything into your bag. Affordable sets are widely available online.
Toiletries and liquids should follow TSA guidelines. A good rule of thumb is to bring only what you will actually use. Most items—such as shampoo, conditioner, and basic toiletries—can be purchased inexpensively at your destination.
Electronics should also be kept to a minimum. Bring only what you truly need, and don’t forget a universal adapter appropriate for your destination.
Laundry on the road
Depending on the length of your trip, you’ll likely need to do laundry at some point. Many accommodations—including hotels, Airbnbs, and apartments—offer access to washing machines. In a pinch, hotel sinks work well for rinsing underwear and smaller items.
Quick-drying fabrics are especially important, as dryers abroad are often smaller and less efficient than those commonly found in the U.S. Some machines automatically dispense detergent, but if not, detergent can easily be purchased locally. You can also bring your own—laundry detergent sheets, such as those from Sheets Laundry Club, are an excellent option. They’re TSA-friendly, take up very little space, and are environmentally friendly.
Choosing the right fabrics
Merino wool is often considered the gold standard for travel clothing. It regulates temperature, resists odors, is lightweight, and dries quickly. Unfortunately, it can also be expensive. That said, good deals can sometimes be found during sales or at stores like Costco during the winter months.
While the travel community often praises merino wool, it isn’t the only option. Brands like 32 Degrees offer affordable, quick-drying clothing that works well for layering. Ultimately, most lightweight clothing you already own will work just fine.
Toiletries: Less is more
Most toiletries are cheaper and easier to buy at your destination, and purchasing them after arrival frees up valuable space in your bag. That extra space can be used for items that are harder to replace while traveling.
If you prefer to bring toiletries with you, there are space-saving alternatives. Chewable toothpaste tablets are a great option and can even be used conveniently in the airport. The Humble Company makes a popular version. For shampoo and conditioner, solid bars like those from Ethique are compact, long-lasting, and travel-friendly.
Final thoughts
Final Thoughts
One-bag travel may feel overwhelming at first, but in practice, it’s incredibly liberating. It works for every type of traveler—from solo adventurers to parents traveling with young children. By simplifying what you carry, you make travel easier for yourself while also reducing your environmental impact.
Travel lighter. Stress less. Help the planet along the way. 🌍✈️