12 Pro Travelers Reveal What They Will Never Pack In Their Carry-On

Packing for a trip is a skill honed through experience—and sometimes, the smartest packing choices are about what you don’t bring. While it’s easy to focus on must-haves, veteran travelers know that leaving the wrong items behind can make your journey smoother, lighter, and a whole lot less stressful.

We asked expert globetrotters to share the one thing they never pack in their carry-on—and their answers might just change the way you travel.

1. Heavy Books Are A No-Go (Erin)

Erin, a travel writer with years of experience, advises against packing heavy books for your travels. Books add unnecessary weight to your carry-on and take up precious space that could be used for more versatile items. Instead, she recommends embracing the convenience of digital books.

A lightweight e-reader or tablet can store hundreds of titles, ensuring you have a wide selection without the bulk. Imagine breezing through security without the extra heft, and having easy access to your entire library while lounging at the gate.

2. Full-Size Toiletries? Forget About It. (Zoé DeFour)

Zoé DeFour, a globetrotting beauty enthusiast, explains the pitfalls of packing full-size toiletries. Not only do these items consume valuable space, but they also risk being confiscated at security checkpoints due to liquid restrictions.

Zoé advocates for travel-sized alternatives or reusable containers no larger than 100ml. These options not only comply with airline regulations but also prevent spills that can ruin your belongings. By planning ahead and selecting multi-use products, you can maintain your beauty routine without the hassle.

3. The Bulky Neck Pillow Myth (CiCi)

CiCi, an experienced flight attendant, dispels the myth that bulky neck pillows are essential for comfort during flights. While they promise support, these pillows can be cumbersome, taking up significant space in your carry-on.

She strongly suggests considering travel-sized alternatives or inflatable options that deflate for easy storage when not in use. These compact solutions provide the same level of comfort without the bulk, allowing more room for essentials you truly need.

4. Brand-New Shoes Are A Recipe For Disaster (Angela Mollard)

Angela Mollard, a travel veteran, warns against the perils of packing brand-new shoes. While they may look stylish, these shoes are often untested and can lead to discomfort or blisters during travel. She recommends wearing shoes that have been broken in and are comfortable for prolonged periods of walking or standing.

This choice prioritizes practicality over potential fashion mishaps, ensuring your feet remain comfortable and pain-free. Comfortable footwear can make or break your travel experience, and Angela’s advice emphasizes the importance of prioritizing comfort over style.

5. A Bulging Wallet? Leave It At Home. (Evie Carrick)

Extra cards, old receipts, and unnecessary items contribute to clutter and inefficiency. Instead, opt for a slim cardholder that contains only the essentials. Consider using mobile payment options, which add convenience and security, reducing the need for physical cards.

A lighter wallet not only eases accessibility but also clears mental clutter, allowing you to focus on your journey. Evie’s minimalist approach promotes efficiency and simplicity, ensuring you’re never weighed down by unnecessary bulk.

6. The Overpacked Tech Bag Problem (Kim Marcum)

A digital nomad highlights the challenges of an overpacked tech bag. While it’s tempting to bring every gadget, overloading your bag leads to chaos and inconvenience. Instead, Kim encourages selecting only essential tech items that serve multiple purposes.

Consider versatile gadgets like a multi-port charger, which reduces the need for multiple cords. By prioritizing your tech based on necessity, you save space and ensure everything is easily accessible.

7. Jeans Are Not Your Friend (Reddit User)

According to a savvy Reddit user, jeans are often a poor choice for travel. While durable, they are bulky and slow to dry, making them an impractical option for many travelers. Instead, consider lightweight and versatile alternatives that offer comfort without the weight.

Options like joggers or travel pants provide flexibility and style, adapting effortlessly to various climates and activities. These alternatives pack down smaller and dry faster, perfect for the on-the-go lifestyle. By choosing travel-friendly clothing, you maximize space and comfort, ensuring you’re prepared for any adventure.

8. Your Full Makeup Kit? Leave It Behind. (Rebecca)

A frequent traveler and beauty expert suggests leaving the full makeup kit at home. Carrying an entire arsenal of beauty products is often unnecessary and takes up valuable space. Instead, Rebecca recommends curating a selection of multi-use essentials.

Opt for products that serve multiple functions, like a tinted moisturizer with SPF or a lip and cheek stain. This approach simplifies your routine while ensuring you still look polished and put-together. By streamlining your makeup bag, you not only save space but also reduce the stress of packing and unpacking.

9. Cheap Luggage Can Ruin Your Trip (Captain Alexander York)

This seasoned pilot stresses the importance of investing in quality luggage. Cheap luggage is prone to damage, risking inconvenience and added costs during travel. Instead, Captain York advocates for durable luggage that withstands the rigors of frequent travel.

Quality luggage offers peace of mind, ensuring your belongings are safe and secure. Look for features like sturdy wheels, solid zippers, and reinforced handles, which contribute to longevity and reliability. By choosing reliable luggage, you avoid unnecessary headaches, focusing instead on the adventure ahead.

10. That “Just In Case” Outfit? You Won’t Wear It. (Lydia Mansel)

Lydia Mansel, a seasoned travel blogger, highlights the redundancy of packing ‘just in case’ outfits. These items often remain unworn, taking up space that could be better used for pieces you’ll actually wear. Instead, she recommends packing versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched effortlessly.

Select items that can transition from day to night with minimal effort. This strategy not only conserves space but also minimizes decision fatigue, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip. Lydia’s packing philosophy is rooted in maximizing each piece’s potential, ensuring you have a practical and stylish wardrobe without the excess.

11. Overly Complicated Outfits? Skip Them. (Sasha Grady)

Sasha Grady, a fashion-forward traveler and content creator, advises against packing outfits that require too much maintenance. Think silk dresses that wrinkle instantly or looks that need specific shoes or accessories to work.

She recommends sticking with low-maintenance clothing that doesn’t crease easily and can be mixed and matched across different outfits. Prioritizing practicality doesn’t mean giving up style—it just means choosing pieces that work harder for you.

12. Extra Towels? Let The Hotel Handle It. (Marcus Lee)

Marcus Lee, a minimalist traveler and travel gear reviewer, warns against the temptation to bring your own towel—unless you’re camping or truly going off-grid. Towels are bulky, take forever to dry, and are available at virtually every hotel, hostel, and rental.

Instead, Marcus suggests a compact travel towel if you’re headed somewhere unpredictable or doing day trips that involve water. Otherwise, skip it. His rule of thumb: if the place you’re staying offers it, don’t bring it. Leave the fluff at home and pack smarter, not heavier.