I Packed a Carry-On for 2 Weeks: Here's What I Learned

Since space is limited, keep statement pieces to a max of three. Opt for styles you can wear multiple times and that will seamlessly work with your basics.

If there's one thing I tend to overpack, it's shoes. But with limited space, it's important to keep in mind that we all usually end up in the same pair every day anyway. Keep your shoes down to three sets: sneakers, heels and one pair specific to your location—boots, sandals or otherwise.

When it came time to figure out what to pack, one trick that helped was Insta-mining the style of the city I was headed to. A little insight into how fancy—or casual—my final destination was, it helped streamline the other steps of assembling my travel capsule wardrobe.

For the majority of my wardrobe, I opted for simple pieces that I could easily layer or style together. I focused on neutral shades and simple prints like stripes to ensure that I could make outfits feel fresh by swapping pieces in and out.

Travelling can be unpredictable, so it's a smart move to have one sporty outfit on hand. Leggings are great if you end up on a hike, but they're also an easy staple to wear on the plane or for sightseeing.

Thinking strategically about how to pack is crucial when every spare inch matters. Instead of packing all your shoes together, tuck them into the sides and corners of your bag. Stuff the nooks and crannies with soft items like socks, and roll your tops instead of folding them. (Bonus: This prevents wrinkling too.)

As much as I'd love to travel with a chic full-brimmed hat, it's better to save room for more versatile wardrobe items. Instead, pack a baseball cap or a hat that can be stuffed away.

To save space and maximize how much you can bring along, wear your heaviest coat on the plane. Bonus: When things get chilly in the air, you'll have something to keep you warm.