So, you're heading out on a one month backpack around Europe, and managed to scalp some great budget airline deals on Flights. London to Madrid, Madrid to Lisbon, Lisbon to Rome, etc. But now they want to charge you double, quadruple, the fair you paid so your clothes can accompany you. Seems like it would be cheaper just to buy your clothes an extra seat. Could you realistically travel for one month with just a carry-on? Will you spend the last week of your trip, rewearing stinking underwear and smelling like a fat guy who just ran a marathon? Possibly. But not if you follow our simple instructions as to how to successfully pack a carry-on.
First, buy yourself a canvas bag, the biggest you think you can get away with as a carry-on. Remember you can generally take two bags, a carry on and a handbag style bag on most budget airlines. For the larger bag;
Fill it with heavy items.
Wear your coat. If you're leaving from UK, you'll be cold anyway.
Roll your clothes, don't fold.
Bring a sarong for a towel and the beach
Don't pack cosmetics. Buy them abroad. Takes up too much room. Go to a department store for a free spray of perfume on your way out.