How To Travel Light & In-Style
By Guest Blogger Katherine McIntosh
Packing the perfect carry-on is no easy task, especially if you are trying to stay fashion-forward, and my biggest struggle throughout my years of travelling has been trying to find functional and stylish bags and accessories. More and more women are becoming the voices of travel, whether for business or pleasure, and companies are starting to catch up with some of the holes in the industry being filled by companies with women running the show.
Before I tell you my secrets, it’s important to understand the difference between a carry-on bag and a personal item. Knowing the difference between your carry-on and you personal item is key because airlines have strict size restrictions.
Carry-On: The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (22 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm), including handles and wheels.
Personal Item: The maximum dimensions for your personal item that fits under the seat in front of you, such as a shoulder bag, purse, laptop bag other small item, are 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm).

Carry On: Heys’ Portal 21″ Smart Luggage

Personal Item: Lo and Son’s O.M.G bag
It’s What’s Inside That Counts
Now that the basics are covered, it’s time to make packing your bag and flying as easy as possible!

Packing Cubes: Hey’s Ecotex Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are fairly easy to find. Walmart, Eddie Bauer, and Hey’s all carry great ones. My personal favourites are from Target. I use both French Toast and designlovefest. I’ve used them for many trips and the zippers have yet to fail me.
Packing cubes are a must for me when I am traveling with just a carry on, not only to compartmentalize everything, but also to ensure my lace unmentionables aren’t going to be flying out everywhere upon being chosen for a random inspection at the security gate. Even when packing checked luggage I usually throw a backup outfit in a cube and put it in my bag just in case my luggage is delayed. No one wants to be sitting by the pool in sunny Mexico in jeans.
Hot Tip: SweetLegs roll up small and compact and are a great option for your carry on!

Travel Wallet: Indigo Travel Wallet
Pro Case Make Up Bag
- 3.4 ounces or less per container
- 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag)
- 1 bag per passenger
Packable Tote: Longchamp Le Pilage Tote
Cable Organizer: MYTAGALONG Cable Case
Slippers and Socks: Indigo Reading Socks
Let’s face it, airplanes are gross and not the place to walk around barefoot. I always travel with oversized socks or slippers. Especially when traveling with just carry on because chances are I am wearing my larger shoes or boots to avoid wasted space in my suite case. My OMG bag has the perfect compartment to keep them in too!
Travel Sweater: Community Ionic Cape
Planes are also always too cold or too hot, so layers are important. Once you find that perfect travel sweater you’ll feel like you’ve found your soulmate. When you do find it, make sure to buy two or three if you travel a lot, you will thank me later. The love my of life is the Community Ionic Cape, and I own four! It makes an excellent blanket too. The colours change up a lot, but Aritzia always has at least one version out.