How to Pack for 3 Days with Just a Carry-On

How to Pack for 3 Days with Just a Carry-On
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How to Pack for 3 Days with Just a Carry-On
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By Brooke Fisher
Aug 6, 2025
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There’s something magical about packing light. No baggage claim lines. No overthinking. Just you, your carry-on, and the open road (or skies).

Whether you’re heading out for a long weekend or sneaking in a midweek getaway, here’s how to pack smart and travel lighter than ever.

Your 3-Day Carry-On Checklist:

A Duffel That Does It All
Start with a bag that works hard without looking like it is. We love a soft-shell duffel that fits under the seat or in the overhead bin, but still holds your clothes, shoes, and that “just in case” jacket.

The Outfit Equation
→ 1 pair of pants or shorts depending on the season
→ 3 tops
→ 1 lightweight layer
→ 1 pair of shoes (wear your bulkiest)
→ Sleepwear & underthings
→ Swimsuit (always…you never know)

Pro tip: Roll, don’t fold. And wear your heaviest outfit on the plane.

Toiletries That Tuck In Neatly
Use a compact toiletry bag that keeps your essentials visible and secure. Whether you’re a minimalist or a “what if I need it” packer, there’s a bag for you:

Mini for a night or two

Slim for the essentials-only crew

Plus for those who like options

Max for the full routine (and then some)

Explorer MAX™ Toiletry Bag – Packing the Most

A Bag Inside Your Bag

A packable day bag or tote takes up barely any space but comes in clutch for excursions, beach days, or snacks-on-snacks.

The Extras

Reusable water bottle

Kindle or book

Sunglasses

Packable Layover Blanket for the plane (or chilly Airbnb)

Packing light means traveling smart so you have more freedom to say yes to unexpected detours, last-minute swims, and extra dessert.

→ Shop Travel-Ready Gear

Whether you’re heading out for a long weekend or sneaking in a midweek getaway, here’s how to pack smart and travel lighter than ever.

Your 3-Day Carry-On Checklist:

  1. A Duffel That Does It All
    Start with a bag that works hard without looking like it is. We love a soft-shell duffel that fits under the seat or in the overhead bin, but still holds your clothes, shoes, and that “just in case” jacket.
  2. The Outfit Equation
    → 1 pair of pants or shorts depending on the season
    → 3 tops
    → 1 lightweight layer
    → 1 pair of shoes (wear your bulkiest)
    → Sleepwear & underthings
    → Swimsuit (always…you never know)

Pro tip: Roll, don’t fold. And wear your heaviest outfit on the plane.

  1. Toiletries That Tuck In Neatly
    Use a compact toiletry bag that keeps your essentials visible and secure. Whether you’re a minimalist or a “what if I need it” packer, there’s a bag for you:

Mini for a night or two

Slim for the essentials-only crew

Plus for those who like options

Max for the full routine (and then some)

Explorer MAX™ Toiletry Bag – Packing the Most

  1. A Bag Inside Your Bag

A packable day bag or tote takes up barely any space but comes in clutch for excursions, beach days, or snacks-on-snacks.

  1. The Extras

Reusable water bottle

Kindle or book

Sunglasses

Packable Layover Blanket for the plane (or chilly Airbnb)

Packing light means traveling smart so you have more freedom to say yes to unexpected detours, last-minute swims, and extra dessert.

→ Shop Travel-Ready Gear