THE KEY TO CARRY-ON TRAVEL

It all starts with the right tote.

Instagram 2021

Updated post from December 2021.

An Instagram post of my carry-on bag and tote generated lots of interest and questions. I listed all of the items I packed and mentioned how the perfect tote bag was the key piece to make carry-on travel feasible. Aside from being generously sized, a carry-on tote must have a zipper to close (extra points if it’s a double zipper), have a roomy interior with pockets plus additional exterior pockets, and a sleeve to slip over the handle of a carry-on roller suitcase. This tote has those features, plus it’s waterproof – handy if someone in front of you spills something on the ground in flight and your bag is sitting on the moisture for hours.

The perfect tote is the large Baseline Tote by Briggs and Riley. You can read about the numerous features on the sites that sell it, but just know, it’s sturdy and well-made. I wouldn’t be able to go carry-on without it.

What fits in the tote? All of this, plus room for more:

-large cashmere travel wrap – White & Warren
– a light scarf – I like to have a ligthweight option too
–gloves, hat, umbrella
-Chanel small handbag – any luxury items go in the tote
-crossbody running around: similar at a variety of prices here and here
-Max Mara puffer coat – squishes down to nothing (similar)
–makeup bag and brushes
-toiletry bag (non-liquids)
–clear liquids bag
-ipad and phone
–chargers
–headphones – love my BOSE
–small zip pouch with flight essentials

Crazy, right? If you’re considering a tote, this is the one. I did my homework and researched a ton of them until I found the Baseline. It’s a game changer. Everyone who has purchased from my recommendation has thanked me.

The suitcase I currently use is Briggs & Riley Baseline with an “oyster” opening. I like the function of a top that opens, versus a symmetrical opening with a center zip, for situations when I don’t fully unpack and want easy access to my belongings.