How to Travel Carry-On Only as a Full-Time Nomad

Living as a full-time nomad teaches you one key lesson fast: you do not need much to live well. Travelling with only a carry-on bag brings freedom, simplicity, and fewer worries. You can move faster, save money on baggage fees, and stress less about lost luggage.

This guide shows you how to embrace minimalist travel, shares the best packing tips, and helps you master the carry-on lifestyle for long-term adventures.

Why Carry-On Travel Makes Life Better

Many new nomads start with large suitcases packed with “just in case” items. After a few trips, reality hits: dragging heavy bags slows you down and adds stress.

Choosing a carry-on lifestyle gives you:

• Faster check-ins and fewer airport hassles.
• Lower travel costs with no checked baggage fees.
• Easier movement between cities, buses, and taxis.
• More focus on experiences, not stuff.

Pro tip: Every item you carry should earn its place. If you will not use it weekly, you probably do not need it.

Quick Checklist: Essentials for Carry-On Travel

Before setting off:

• Choose a strong, lightweight carry-on backpack or suitcase.
• Pack versatile clothing for layering.
• Pick travel-friendly tech and compact chargers.
• Use packing cubes to stay organised.
• Stick to a simple colour scheme for clothes.
• Carry a lightweight, waterproof jacket.
• Bring only essential toiletries (small sizes).
• Keep documents, cards, and emergency cash accessible.
• Leave behind “just in case” items.
• Follow the one-bag, one-purpose rule.

Important: Airlines have size and weight limits for carry-ons. Always check them before flying.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Travel Carry-On Only as a Full-Time Nomad

1. Choose the Right Carry-On Bag

Your bag matters more than you think.

Look for:

• Maximum legal carry-on size (usually around 22″ × 14″ × 9″).
• Lightweight material (less than 2.5kg when empty).
• Durable zippers and water resistance.
• Comfortable straps if using a backpack.

Top choices for nomads include:

• Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack.
• Nomatic Navigator Carry-On.
• Osprey Farpoint 40.

Tip: Try to choose a bag with a laptop sleeve to save space and protect your gear.

2. Master the Art of Capsule Wardrobe

A minimalist travel wardrobe focuses on flexibility. Every item must mix and match easily.

Basics:

• 4–5 tops (neutral colours).
• 2 pairs of trousers or jeans.
• 1–2 pairs of shorts (for hot destinations).
• 1 lightweight dress or formal outfit (optional).
• 1 waterproof jacket.
• 1 warm layer (sweater or hoodie).
• 5–7 sets of underwear and socks.
• 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes.
• 1 extra pair of lightweight shoes or sandals.

Stick to dark colours that hide stains and match everything.

Tip: Layer clothes instead of carrying heavy jackets for cold-weather trips.

3. Minimise Your Toiletries

Toiletries can eat up carry-on space fast.

Downsize by:

• Using travel-sized bottles (max 100ml for flights).
• Packing solid alternatives (solid shampoo, bar soap).
• Buying refills abroad instead of carrying months’ worth.
• Skipping heavy items like full-size perfumes or hairdryers.

Carry only the basics:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss.
• Small shampoo, conditioner, and soap.
• Deodorant.
• Razor.
• Small sunscreen.

Tip: Many nomads find it easier to buy toiletries at their destination when possible.

4. Slim Down Your Tech Setup

Technology is important, but it can also weigh you down.

Smart tech packing:

• Lightweight laptop or tablet.
• Compact universal charger and plug adapter.
• Foldable Bluetooth keyboard (if needed).
• E-reader instead of physical books.
• Small noise-cancelling headphones.

Leave behind:

• Heavy camera gear unless photography is your job.
• Multiple spare gadgets you rarely use.

Tip: Carry tech in a personal item (small backpack) if airlines allow an extra bag.

5. Use Packing Cubes and Compression Bags

Organisation is key in small spaces.

Benefits of packing cubes:

• Keep clothes grouped and tidy.
• Make it easier to find things without unpacking everything.
• Compress bulkier items to save space.

Choose lightweight cubes, not heavy, structured ones.

Tip: Roll your clothes inside packing cubes instead of folding — it saves more space.

6. Stick to Essentials Only

Ask yourself three questions for every item:

• Will I use it at least once a week?
• Is it difficult or expensive to replace at my destination?
• Will it fit easily in my current setup?

If the answer is no, leave it behind.

Golden rule: If you can buy it locally when needed, do not carry it.

7. Pack Dual-Use Items

Items that serve more than one purpose are the heroes of minimalist travel.

Examples:

• Sarong: a towel, blanket, beach cover.
• Packing cube: doubles as a pillow.
• Tablet: work tool, entertainment hub, e-reader.

Choosing multipurpose items keeps your bag light and your options open.

Maintaining a Carry-On Lifestyle

• Weigh Your Bag Before Leaving: Make sure it meets airline rules.
• Pack a Daypack Inside: Useful for day trips once you reach your destination.
• Wear Bulky Clothes on Flights: Saves space in your carry-on.
• Review Your Pack After Each Trip: Remove anything you did not use.
• Stay Disciplined: Resist shopping temptations while travelling.

FAQs

Can you really travel full-time with just a carry-on?

Yes. Many full-time nomads live comfortably with only one bag. It just requires smart planning and discipline.

What size bag is best for carry-on travel?

Aim for a bag around 35–40 litres in volume that fits within airline limits.

How do you handle different weather seasons with limited clothes?

Use layering. Lightweight base layers, mid-weight sweaters, and a waterproof outer layer cover most conditions.

Is it worth buying high-end travel gear?

Investing in a good backpack and durable clothing saves money and headaches over time.

Living Light: Freedom Through Minimalist Travel

Travelling carry-on only is not just about saving and managing money or moving faster. It is about living freely, making better choices, and focusing on what truly matters — experiences, not possessions.

By mastering minimalist travel, using smart packing tips, and embracing the carry-on lifestyle, you simplify your life and unlock a new kind of freedom.

Download our Free Minimalist Packing Checklist and start your carry-on journey today.