Flying With Hand Luggage Only

The problem with air travel is that we probably spend more time hanging around in the airport than we do sitting on the aeroplane. Prior to departure we're expected to check-in two or three hours before the flight is due to leave and when we've landed at our destination, we're waiting again for our baggage to be unloaded when all we really want to do it get on with the holiday. This is probably the most frustrating wait, especially on the return journey when all you want to do is get home and unwind.

For some reason we have got it into our heads that we need to take clothing for all occasions and therefore couldn't possibly spend a week away with only a small travel bag full of clothes and toiletries. However these days, more and more people are cottoning on to the fact that for a short break, one can easily cope with just having a small travel bag full of luggage rather than a large suitcase or three.

The major benefit of taking only a small travel bag is that it can be taken into the cabin with you. Upon landing at your destination just get off the plane and get on with your holiday, avoiding the long and tedious wait for your suitcase to be unloaded from the plane. There are however size and weight restrictions on hand luggage and these vary from airline to airline. The International Air Transport Association guideline suggests the maximum size for hand-luggage is 22 inch x 18 inch x 10 inch. However some airlines only allow dimensions of 17 inch x 12 inch x 8 inch, so in spite of your best efforts to travel light, your hand luggage may end up in the cargo hold after all.

You do need to be strict with what you're going to pack if you're only taking hand luggage, and consider how you're going to pack it. For example, if you have to take a heavy coat with you, then wear it rather than pack it. In fact by wearing all the bulkiest items for the flight will help maximise space in even the most compact of travel bags. Due to increased security, we are now forced to minimise on the amount of toiletries and liquids we can take on a plane, which isn't a bad thing as such items can easily be purchased on arrival, as can the many items of clothing which are packed 'just-in-case'.

Minimise your packing and do away with the suitcase if you want to maximise your time abroad, especially on shorter breaks where every hour counts. There are plenty of cabin-friendly bags available, but check with your flight operator first as the permitted weight and size of hand-luggage can vary considerably.