How to Pack Two Carry On Bags and Get Away With It - Tortuga

This article titled “How to Pack Two Carry On Bags and Get Away With It” by Stacey Ebert discusses the benefits of traveling with two bags and provides tips on how to do it successfully. The article addresses the rules for both carry on luggage and personal item luggage, as well as offers recommendations on the best bag combinations to use. By utilizing two bags, travelers can maximize their packing space, stay organized, and have their essential items easily accessible during the flight. With the right knowledge and bag selection, packing two carry on bags can be a convenient and efficient way to travel.

Table of Contents

The Benefits of Two Bag Travel

Traveling with two bags instead of one can offer a range of benefits for those who prefer not to pack light. Some of the advantages of two bag travel include:

Maximizing total carry-on packing space: By using two bags, travelers can pack more items without needing to check a bag.
Increased organization with bag flexibility: Having two separate bags allows for better organization of belongings, making it easier to locate items during travel.
In-flight essentials at your fingertips: Having a separate bag for in-flight essentials, such as a book, snacks, or a neck pillow, allows travelers to access these items without having to open their main carry-on bag.
Keep laptop and work gear separate from clothes and toiletries: With two bags, travelers can dedicate one bag to their electronic devices and work materials, keeping them separate from their personal items and clothes.
Ease of hands-free travel: Utilizing a backpack as one of the bags allows for hands-free travel, making it easier to navigate through airports or other travel destinations.
Having a second bag for day use at your destination: A second bag, such as a tote or sling, can be used for day trips or outings at the traveler’s destination, eliminating the need to carry around their main carry-on bag.
No checked bag fees: By traveling with only carry-on bags, travelers can avoid the additional fees associated with checking a bag.

The Rules of Two Bag Travel

To successfully travel with two bags, it is important to understand and abide by the rules set by airlines. While most airlines allow one carry-on bag and one personal item, some basic economy fares may have different regulations. To ensure compliance with airline rules, one of the bags must meet the requirements for carry-on luggage, while the other must meet the regulations for a personal item. It is crucial to research and understand the specific rules for each bag to avoid any inconveniences during travel.

Two Bag Luggage Options

When traveling with two bags, it is recommended to use a travel backpack as the primary, carry-on luggage. A travel backpack provides the convenience of a suitcase with the comfort of a hiking bag, making it a versatile choice for travelers. In addition to a travel backpack, options for the second bag include a duffle bag, tote bag, or sling bag, depending on personal preferences and needs. However, if the primary carry-on bag is a duffle bag or suitcase, a personal-item-sized backpack can serve as the ideal secondary bag, fitting neatly under the seat in front of the traveler.

Why Use a Travel Backpack as Primary Luggage?

Using a travel backpack as the primary carry-on luggage offers several advantages for travelers. These benefits include:

Carry-on-sized: Travel backpacks are designed to meet the size requirements for carry-on luggage, making them suitable for hassle-free travel.
Easy to pack: Travel backpacks often come with multiple compartments and organizational features, making it easier to pack and locate items during travel.
Comfortable to carry: Travel backpacks are designed with padded shoulder straps and back support, ensuring comfort even during long periods of carrying.
Built to last: Travel backpacks are typically made from durable materials, designed to withstand the rigors of travel and last for multiple trips.

By using a travel backpack as the primary luggage, travelers can enjoy convenience, comfort, and durability throughout their journey.

Choosing a Duffle, Tote, or Sling as a Personal Item

The choice of a duffle bag, tote bag, or sling bag as a personal item depends on individual preferences and needs. Each option offers unique features and benefits:

Duffle bag: Duffle bags are spacious and versatile, making them suitable for travelers who need to pack extra items or prefer a more casual and flexible bag option.
Tote bag: Tote bags are stylish and practical, with plenty of room for personal belongings and easy access to essentials. They are ideal for travelers who prefer a fashionable and convenient option.
Sling bag: Sling bags are compact and lightweight, perfect for travelers who want a minimalist and streamlined bag option. They provide easy access to items and can be worn cross-body for added security.

Consider personal preferences, the duration of travel, and the specific items that will be carried before choosing the appropriate duffle, tote, or sling bag as a personal item.

The Advantages of Traveling with Two Bags

Traveling with two bags offers several advantages, especially for those who prefer not to limit their packing. Some of the advantages include:

Increased packing space: Two bags allow for more items to be packed, without the need for checked luggage. This can be particularly beneficial for longer trips or when extra items are required.
Organization: With two bags, travelers can easily separate different categories of items, such as clothing, toiletries, and electronics. This promotes better organization and makes it easier to find specific items when needed.
Flexibility: Having two bags provides flexibility in terms of accessing items during travel. In-flight essentials can be kept within reach in a personal item bag, while non-essential items can be safely stowed away in the carry-on bag.
Protection for electronics: Separating electronic devices from clothing and toiletries reduces the risk of damage due to leaks or spills. A dedicated bag for electronics can offer additional padding and protection.
Versatility: Two bags offer versatility in terms of usage. The personal item bag can be used as a day bag at the destination, allowing for easy access to essentials while exploring.
Avoiding checked bag fees: By traveling with only carry-on bags, travelers can avoid the additional fees associated with checking a bag. This can result in significant cost savings, especially for frequent travelers.

Maximizing Packing Space with Two Bag Travel

To maximize packing space when traveling with two bags, consider the following tips:

Utilize packing cubes: Packing cubes help maximize space by compressing clothing and keeping items organized. Group similar items together and use packing cubes to separate different categories of clothing.
Roll clothing: Rolling clothing instead of folding can save space and prevent wrinkles. This technique allows for easier organization and more efficient use of available space.
Use travel-sized toiletries: Opt for travel-sized toiletries to minimize the amount of space taken up by these items. Alternatively, transfer toiletries into reusable travel bottles to reduce bulk.
Pack multifunctional clothing: Choose clothing items that can be worn in multiple ways or serve multiple purposes. This reduces the number of items needed and maximizes the use of available space.
Pack strategically: Place heavier items at the bottom of the carry-on bag to distribute weight evenly. Pack shoes in shoe bags to protect clothing and utilize any empty spaces within shoes for extra storage.

By implementing these packing strategies, travelers can make the most out of the available packing space and ensure a more organized and efficient travel experience.

Organizing Your In-flight Essentials

In-flight essentials are items that travelers may need to have within easy reach during a flight. These can include a book or e-reader, headphones, a travel pillow, snacks, and any necessary medications. To keep these items organized and easily accessible, consider the following tips:

Use a small pouch or organizer: Keep all in-flight essentials in a small pouch or organizer to prevent them from getting lost or scattered within the bag. This allows for quick and easy access during the flight.
Separate liquids: If carrying travel-sized toiletries or other liquid items, ensure they are kept in a separate, clear plastic bag compliant with airline regulations. This makes it easier to retrieve these items during security checks.
Consider a seatback organizer: Some travel backpacks come with seatback organizers, which can be used to store in-flight essentials. These organizers attach to the seat in front of the traveler, providing easy access to items throughout the flight.

Organizing in-flight essentials ensures a more comfortable and convenient travel experience, as necessary items are readily available without the need to search through the main carry-on bag.

Separating Laptop and Work Gear from Clothes and Toiletries

When traveling with work-related items, such as a laptop or documents, it is important to keep them separate from clothing and toiletries to prevent damage or spills. To separate laptop and work gear from clothes and toiletries, consider the following:

Use a padded laptop sleeve: Place the laptop in a padded sleeve or a dedicated laptop compartment within the bag. This provides extra protection from impacts and prevents scratches.
Pack electronics in a dedicated bag: Consider using a separate bag or organizer for electronics and work-related items. This ensures they are adequately protected and prevents them from coming into contact with clothing or toiletries.
Invest in a waterproof bag or pouch: To protect electronics from potential leaks or spills, opt for a bag or pouch that is waterproof or water-resistant. This provides an extra layer of protection and minimizes the risk of damage.

By separating laptop and work gear from clothing and toiletries, travelers can ensure the safety of their valuable items and minimize the risk of any damage occurring during travel.

Combining a Backpack with a Duffle, Tote, or Sling

Combining a backpack with a duffle, tote, or sling bag offers a versatile and efficient two-bag travel solution. This combination allows for better organization, ease of access to essential items, and the flexibility to carry different types of belongings. Consider the following scenarios when combining a backpack with a secondary bag:

Backpack with a duffle or tote bag: Use the backpack as the primary carry-on bag and pack clothing and other personal items. The duffle or tote bag can be used as the personal item, carrying additional essentials, in-flight items, or doubling as a day bag at the destination.
Backpack with a sling bag: Utilize the backpack as the main carry-on bag and pack clothing and toiletries. The sling bag can serve as the personal item, holding essential items for easy access during the flight or day trips at the destination.
Two backpacks: For those who prefer the convenience of two backpacks, use one backpack as the primary carry-on and the other as the personal item. This allows for more packing space and flexibility in organizing belongings.

Combining a backpack with a duffle, tote, or sling bag offers customization and flexibility in packing, ensuring a comfortable and well-organized travel experience.

In conclusion, two bag travel can provide numerous benefits for travelers who prefer not to pack light. By understanding the rules, choosing appropriate luggage options, and maximizing packing space, travelers can enjoy the advantages of two bag travel. Organizing in-flight essentials and separating laptop and work gear from clothes and toiletries further enhance the efficiency and convenience of this travel method. Whether using a backpack with a duffle, tote, or sling bag, two-bag travel offers versatility, organization, and ease of access, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer not to limit their packing options.

How to Pack Two Carry On Bags and Get Away With It – Tortuga