Keep Calm and (How To) Carry On

Can you say vacay? Summer has arrived and it’s time to head to the airport and hit that destination you’ve been dreaming about all winter. Everyone loves the convenience (and savings) of not checking a bag at the airport and, no matter how high-maintenance you are, it can be done. We’re here to show you how to pack your carry-on like a pro. —Jeanine Gordon

use packing cubes. Expert travellers swear by packing cubes—zippered pouches that hold all your items and fit together in your suitcase like Tetris. By compartmentalizing items like clothing, accessories, toiletries and swimsuits, you can easily fit everything you need while staying organized. We like these ones.

pint-sized products. We’re living in a glorious age where you can find almost any of your favourite makeup, skin-care and fragrance products in convenient travel sizes. Visit any Sephora in store or online to shop more than 600 must-have mini products.

all-in-ones. Streamline your packing with multi-taskers that take you from day to night, city to beach and destination to destination without the need to overpack. We love makeup like The Multiple by Nars, which is an eye, cheek and lip tint in one handy stick. For clothing, try a flowy caftan over a swimsuit on the beach, then pair it with chic accessories for the perfect dinner dress.

versatile shoes. Shoes can be a deal-breaker when trying to cram your belongings into a carry-on bag. We love versatile shoes like these from Native that are lightweight, comfortable and look great with everything from shorts and a tank to summer slip dresses.

limit liquids. One of the biggest hassles of carrying your luggage on the plane is the no-liquids rule. Fortunately, you can turn to liquid-free solutions like dry shampoo or foundation powder instead of a traditional liquid formulas.