If you can fit it all into your carry-on, you’ll avoid checked bag fees and other inconveniences.

Carry-on only travel might sound intimidating at first glance, but there are a number of benefits to traveling without checked luggage. Just think: You can save on airline baggage fees, skip the baggage claim and enjoy a more stress-free flying experience.

Here’s how to travel with only carry-on luggage, plus more advice on ways to avoid checking bags.

Carry-on only travel tips

1. Bring both a carry-on bag and a personal item, when allowed

The number of bags you can carry onboard and the size and weight allowed vary. Factors typically depend on the airline you’re flying, the class of service you’re in (including if you’re flying a more-restrictive basic economy fare) and whether you have an airline credit card or elite status.

Check your airline’s website to see the carry-on policy for your flight. There’s a good chance you can bring both a carry-on bag and a personal item like a bookbag, laptop or purse that fits under the seat in front you. If that’s the case, bring both items and pack both with everything you’ll need for your trip.

2. Buy needed items at your destination

If you’re going on a long trip or you typically overpack, it may seem impossible to fit everything you need into carry-on luggage. And you may be right. One trick is to rely on the fact that almost everywhere you go will have stores — buy items you need while you’re on the trip itself.

Shopping at your destination is particularly helpful for goods that you won’t need to bring back with you, like sunscreen, shaving cream and shampoo.

That tip somewhat mirrors the 10-$10 rule, which is a packing strategy where — if you can acquire the item upon arrival in less than 10 minutes for less than $10 — you should just buy it there.

If you don’t feel like heading to a shop when you land, check with your hotel to see if they offer any of these items for free or if you can purchase them from the hotel itself.

3. Wear your bulkiest shoes on the plane

Maximize the space in your carry-on bag by wearing your bulkiest shoes on your flight. This leaves more room in your carry-on for clothes, toiletries and other necessities.

If you prefer not to fly while wearing boots or heavy shoes, wear them onto the plane and bring warm socks, slippers or flip-flops to swap into before takeoff or mid-flight.

4. Look for accommodations with laundry services

Rather than pack fresh clothes for each day you’ll be gone, look for accommodations that come with laundry facilities, like an Airbnb or a hotel that offers laundry services to guests. This way, even if you’ll be gone for few weeks, you can get away with packing enough clothes for just four or five days.

5. Roll your clothes

A great way to save space in your carry-on luggage is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. This might not work for bulky items like heavy sweaters or jackets, but it’s great for packing underwear, T-shirts, pajamas and shorts.

Know which items are only allowed to fly in carry-on

And then there are the items that can only travel in carry-on anyway. Yes, certain relatively-common objects are actually not allowed to even go in checked luggage.

In contrast from the TSA carry-on restrictions that require objects like pocket knives and liquids more than 3.4 ounces to remain in checked luggage if you must fly with them, the Federal Aviation Administration has rules stating that certain items are prohibited from flying in checked luggage.

Common items that the FAA prohibits in checked baggage include:

• Lithium batteries.
• Electronic cigarettes.
• Cordless curling irons that contain a gas cartridge or that are butane fueled.
• Fuel cells containing flammable gases or water-reactive material.
• Matches.
• Certain medical device that contain radioactive materials such as heart pacemakers

Among the most notable of those items not to overlook? Lithium batteries. Whether you’re traveling with a drone, flying with a mobility scooter or even flying with certain laptops, you might unknowingly have a lithium battery with you. Lithium batteries may seem harmless but can pose threats including explosions when exposed to extreme temperature or pressure conditions.

Check with the FAA, but the items in the bulleted list above can generally fly in carry-on baggage, just not checked baggage.

Ditch the giant suitcase/h2>

Carry-on only travel frees you from the hassle and expense of lugging big suitcases, but it takes planning. Check your airline website to learn baggage allowances, try to find accommodations with laundry facilities or services, then pack only what you need as tightly and efficiently as possible.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be more likely to successfully evade unnecessary airline bag fees.

Ahead of the busy holiday travel season, travel advisors share tips to help navigate busy airports and hotels. Plus, a new poll reveals the busiest travel days during the 2024 holiday season.

The most wonderful time of year can also be the busiest and most stressful, especially if you plan to travel for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Whether you’re traveling internationally to European Christmas markets or flying within the United States to visit with family or friends, the following holiday travel tips from travel agents can help make your trips go smoothly.

Ahead, a look at the busiest days to travel during the holiday 2024 season, plus travel agents share their favorite, lesser-known holiday travel tips to help alleviate some of the stress that comes with flying during those hectic stretches in November and December.

What Are The Busiest Holiday Travel Days in 2024?

If the busy summer travel season was any indicator, airports could be braced for a banner year this holiday season—the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) says summer 2024 was the busiest on record.

The busiest date to travel during the 2024 holiday season will be Dec. 23, according to a new survey conducted by Talker Research on behalf of IHG Hotels & Resorts. New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) will be the most common travel day on the trip home, according to the survey that polled 2,000 Americans who are planning holiday travel.

Thanksgiving 2024 falls on Thursday, Nov. 28. The day before Thanksgiving (Nov. 27) as well as Nov. 30 are the most popular 2024 travel days surrounding Turkey Day, according to the Talker Research poll.

Top Holiday Travel Tips For 2024, According To Travel Experts

You probably know some of the golden rules of traveling during the holiday: Arrive at the airport with plenty of extra time to get through security and enroll in TSA PreCheck to help you get through security more quickly.

Most airlines recommend arriving at the airport two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight. But some airports get extra busy, especially during the holidays, and recommend shifting to two hours before your boarding time for a domestic flight and three hours before boarding for an international flight.

Here’s some lesser-known travel tips and tricks that will help holiday travel go smoothly, according to travel agents and experts.

1. Pre-Book Airport Lounges

Whether it’s a long layover or delayed flight, an airport lounge can be your sanctuary from holiday crowds but they often command waits during peak travel times, points out Athena Livadas, founder of Páme Travel. When airports are busy, and delays are rolling in, the lounges fill up quickly, prompting long lines to get in and waitlists that may extend past your boarding time.

However, some lounges allow you to make reservations a day in advance, Livadas says. If you have Priority Pass with your travel credit card, download the app ahead of time and check to see if your airport’s lounge takes reservations, and snagging one if so.

2. Reserve A Spot In The Security Line

A growing number of airports now have programs that allow you to reserve a spot ahead of time in security lines. This is a separate program from PreCheck and borrows the fastpass idea from the amusement park world, allowing travelers to book their time slot in the security line. The program rules vary by airport, so check out the details of which security line the reserve program is offered in and how far in advance you can book your security slot.

The following U.S. airports have options for reserving spots in TSA security lines in advance:

• Denver International Airport (DEN)
• George Bush Intercontinental/Houston Airport (IAH)
• John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York (JFK)
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
• New Jersey’s Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

3. Use Digital Hotel Keys For Faster Check-In

Many hotel chain programs, like Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy, offer digital key options through their apps, allowing you to skip the front desk and head straight to your room, says Livadas. This faster check-in is convenient for late arrivals or for avoiding busy lobbies during peak holiday times.

4. Download Mobile Passport Control

Global Entry can save you time in busy customs lines and come in handy if you have a tight connection. But if you don’t already have Global Entry, and can’t get in for an interview before your holiday travel, you’ve got another option.

Download Mobile Passport Control (MPC), a free app accepted at many U.S. airports for expedited customs processing. It’s ideal for last-minute travelers, as there’s no need for a pre-approval interview, Livadas says.

5. Check In On Rental Car Prices

Reserve your rental car as soon as you decide on flights or an itinerary, recommends Ben Armstrong, CEO of Famvia Travel. But check the price of the same rental the week of your trip to see if you can get a better deal by canceling and rebooking.

“Rental car agencies use dynamic pricing and any sudden cancellations by others may help you get a better price on a new reservation,” Armstrong says.

6. Take The First Flight Of The Day Out

Yes, you’ll have to set your alarm extra early (or maybe even stay up late), but opting for the first flight of the day, especially during the busy holiday travel season, has its perks.

Morning flights are less likely to face delays or cancellations, says Carolyn Weppler, senior vice president with Goway, a travel company that creates personalized itineraries.

If your early-morning departure does hit a snag, you’ll have a shot to get on one of the flights scheduled for later in the day. However, Weppler also recommends booking a “buffer day” to help make sure you arrive to your destination in time for any important holiday celebrations.

7. Don’t Wrap Your Gifts Ahead Of Time

Travel experts are fans of carrying on bags, especially during the busy holiday travel season. That way, you don’t have to wait at baggage claim or worry about your bags getting lost.

If you’re planning to carry-on, though, don’t pack wrapped gifts, Weppler suggests. While wrapped gifts are allowed through TSA, an agent may unwrap those presents if they trigger the need for additional screening. It’s less likely that gifts in checked bags will be unwrapped, but it’s still a possibility.

8. Ask For Hotel Room Decorations

Many hotels go all out during the holiday season. If you’re traveling with kids, Weppler recommends connecting with the hotel’s concierge ahead of your travels to help make the holidays more memorable by arranging for gifts to be delivered by Santa, having an in-room menorah set up or displaying a Christmas tree. These types of requests can be met depending on the hotel and availability, she says.

9. Book Your Rideshare In Advance

Consider reserving your ride share in advance, especially if traveling during a holiday like Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, Armstrong recommends. That way, if a driver accepts the reserved ride and cancels or falls through, you will have priority on getting a car to you. There could be less people out driving on the holidays, so this may help you lock in a better price in advance.

10. Make Sure Your Passport Meets Requirements

You probably already checked to make sure that your passport isn’t expired. But some countries have additional rules, like requiring two consecutive pages to be empty, says Jonathan Alder, a luxury travel advisor and founder of Jonathan’s Travels. Also, make sure that your expiration date is more than six months out from your return as that’s a requirement for many countries. You can check with the U.S. State Department to see which countries have the six-month passport rule.

For those planning to travel over the festive period this year, you may or may not be worried about catching something while flying. Travelling often exposes us to a mix of health challenges, from jet lag and bloating to bacteria-laden surfaces.

Is it true that air quality on planes is poor? Will you be susceptible to catching illnesses in-flight? Experts and flight attendants agree that maintaining good health while travelling comes down to practical, evidence-based strategies. Here’s how you can safeguard your health while travelling.

Air quality on planes

One of the most common misconceptions is that recirculated air on planes is a breeding ground for viruses. According to Dr. April Wilson of Loma Linda University Health, this is largely false. “The air quality inside airplanes is generally quite good due to advanced filtration systems,” she explains. Modern aircraft use HEPA filters that remove over 99% of airborne particles, including viruses, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

However, the real health risks often come from frequently touched surfaces such as tray tables, seatbelt buckles, and armrests. These can harbour germs for hours, if not days. Dr. Wilson advises passengers to carry disinfectant wipes to clean personal spaces before settling in, emphasising that “taking a few minutes to sanitise the immediate surroundings can significantly reduce the risk of contracting infections.”

Essential hygiene habits

Hand hygiene remains crucial. Wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser after touching communal surfaces and try to avoid touching your face. Dr. Wilson also suggests using knuckles or elbows rather than fingertips when interacting with shared spaces like light switches or lift buttons.

Stay hydrated and eat healthy

Staying hydrated is vital for your immune system, especially during flights. The Aerospace Medical Association recommends drinking 237 mls of water every hour you’re in the air. Try to avoid the tempting salty snacks, caffeine and alcohol, which can cause bloating and dehydration. Consultant dietician Ro Huntriss suggests packing nutrient-dense snacks like nuts or fresh fruits to maintain stable energy levels and avoid energy crashes. However, nuts can be a problem if you’re on a flight with someone who has a nut allergy.

Prioritise sleep to combat jet lag

Flight attendants swear by the importance of sleep to counteract fatigue. If you’re travelling with young children, then this is of course easier said than done!

Whether it’s a trusty neck pillow, a silk eye mask, or meditation apps, find what works for you. Natural sleep aids like melatonin can help, but avoid mixing these with alcohol.

To beat jet lag, some flight attendants recommend sticking to your home time zone for short trips. For longer stays, adjust gradually by eating when hungry and sleeping when tired. If you’re landing with immediate plans, avoid sitting down to prevent unintentional naps.

You can also try grounding – this is standing barefoot on grass or natural earth when you get to your destination. A report in The Times noted: ‘The theory is the practise draws energy needed to help reset your inner body clock, soaking up the ground’s negative charge to leave you feeling more refreshed.’ It’s worth a try!

Keep moving in-flight

Long hours of sitting can take a toll on your body. Flight attendants suggest walking around the cabin and stretching, when safe, to promote better blood flow. Some airlines, like Qantas, even offer “Wellbeing Zones” on long-haul flights. For shorter journeys, try simple seat exercises, like rotating your ankles or stretching your arms.

Boost your immune system

Frequent travellers often rely on immune-boosting vitamins. A healthy diet rich in vitamin C, zinc, and selenium can help keep your defences strong. Consider supplementing with vitamin D, especially if you’re travelling to a destination with limited sunlight exposure.

Avoid stress and act responsibly

Travelling can’t be completely risk-free, but taking proactive measures can make a significant difference. As Dr. Wilson says, “It’s not just about protecting ourselves – but about being responsible travellers and safeguarding the well-being of those around us.”

Whether you’re hopping between EU cities or heading further afield, a little preparation goes a long way.

To celebrate the slew of one-of-a-kind sights on ‘Top of the World’, we’ve put together an album of our favorite scenes from the mile-a-minute city of Tokyo, Japan. Be sure to hit the ground running—this metropolis doesn’t stop.

Shinjuku Skyscrapers

Cinéphiles (and fans of five-star luxury) know the towers to the left of this aerial shot well: They house the Park Hyatt Tokyo, where Sofia Coppola and her crew filmed Lost in Translation on location in 2003.

Rainbow Bridge

Since 1993, the Rainbow Bridge—which owes its name to the vivid lamps that collect solar energy during the day and illuminate it after sunset—has connected Shibaura Pier with the Odaiba waterfront area in Minato. The bridge isn’t multicolored every night, but it’s bathed in festive hues for the holiday season every year, and for special occasions.

Sensoji Temple

Sensoji Temple is also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple: As legend has it, in the 7th century, two fishermen found a golden statue of Kannon (or Guanyin), the Buddhist goddess of mercy, and the temple was constructed for her. According to The Japan Times, Sensoji receives more than 30 million visitors a year.

Kabukicho

Kabukicho (in Tokyo’s Shinjuku neighborhood) is the city’s largest red-light district, though most of the entertainment to be found there isn’t quite so X-rated. Host and hostess clubs rub shoulders with everything from love hotels to bars and pachinko parlors. It’s a marvelous place to go people-watching, but be on the lookout for unexpected costs: At a host and hostess club, a few cocktails can ring in at over 10,000 yen (about $90).

Flood-Control Silos

Tokyo sits squarely in the middle of a floodplain and 30 percent of its population lives below sea level, which means that summer monsoons (which can dump four inches of water on the city per hour) can cause catastrophic damage. The city’s elaborate flood control system—including five futuristic silos like this one, full of 60-foot-high concrete pillars—is so efficient that it can clear enough water to drain an Olympic swimming pool in 12 seconds.

Tsukiji Market

Located in central Tokyo between the Sumida River and the Ginza district, Tsukiji Market is the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world. It opens at 3:00 most mornings and between 5:20 and about 10:00, licensed bidders from around the world compete to purchase tons of fish. Much of the auction process is closed to tourists, but they can view the action from designated areas between 5:00 and 6:15 (and shake off their jet lag with a sushi breakfast in the market’s retail space).

Capsule Hotel

Tokyo’s Nine Hours is a capsule hotel, where floors of podlike, streamlined rooms (which have little more than a bed, shelves, outlets and sometimes a television) provide travelers with the bare necessities and offer communal bathing areas and lockers. While they wouldn’t suit claustrophobic travelers, capsule hotels are exceedingly budget friendly: A bed and a shower can be yours for about $30.

Shibuya Crossing

At peak times of day, more than 1,000 people are said to stream along the crosswalks each time the light changes at Japan’s busiest intersection. Connoisseurs say that the hypnotic view is best on Friday and Saturday nights and that the Starbucks on the second floor of the Q-front building is a particularly good vantage point (if you’re lucky enough to get a seat there).

Robot Restaurant

Since opening its doors in the summer of 2012, Robot Restaurant—a cabaret-style show featuring scantily clad dancers, massive robots, raucous pop music and lasers—has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tokyo. Each 90-minute performance culminates in a battle between two robot armies—and an opportunity for guests to pose for pictures with the stars of the show.

Tokyo Tower

At 332.9 meters in height, Tokyo Tower is the second-tallest structure in Japan. When its 90-meter antenna was bolted into place at the conclusion of its construction in 1958, it was the tallest freestanding tower in the world—since the Eiffel Tower in Paris was 13 meters shorter.