I finally did it.

I bought new luggage.

After years of using the same soft, spinner carry-on suitcase and personal item bag, my frugal self broke down and replaced them—both out of necessity and curiosity.

First, necessity.

The strap on my favorite bag to stuff under the airplane seat was starting to tear. And stuffed is not an understatement. It technically wouldn’t fit completely under the seat when fully filled, and I almost always packed it to the max. While I’m grateful I got away with using it as a personal item for so long, I’d rather not continue pressing my luck—especially as the under-seat space seems to be even smaller on newer planes.

Which leads me to curiosity.

Could I pack a bit lighter and buy a bag that fit? I was up for the challenge.

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Top-Rated Weekender Tote Bag on Amazon

After weeks of comparing products and brands, considering dimensions, and scrolling through hundreds of reviews, I picked this large tote bag. (It comes in lots of colors!)

While I was prepared to spend more, the price point and reviews sold me. Plus, the fabric is water resistant, the bottom unzips to expand if needed, it slides over the handle of my suitcase… and yes, it fits under standard airplane seats.

But speaking of suitcases… I also replaced my soft, fabric carry-on with a new hard-shell.

Hard-Shell vs. Soft Luggage

As a frequent traveler, I’m somewhat embarrassed to admit it took me so long to understand the appeal of a hard-shell suitcase.

Curiosity eventually got the best of me, and I am now the happy owner of this hard-shell carry-on.

These are a few pros to consider if you’re on the fence right now.

• The exterior is easier to clean.
• The shell offers more protection for what you pack inside.
• The center opening zipper makes it easier to find clothes without digging.
• The case itself is surprisingly lightweight —at least mine is.
• Some hard-shell designs also include an expansion zipper. This feature is a non-negotiable for me.

But expanding a carry-on isn’t always an option for flights with limited overhead space. So…

While I do attempt to pack lighter, I decided to give compression packing cubes a try because I like outfit options when I travel. I am who I am.

Best Compression Packing Cubes

Do compression packing cubes actually work?

Once again, I read hundreds of reviews on numerous websites, including Amazon.

BAGSMART was a clear winner for quality, compressive ability, and range of features. I ended up buying this set based on reviews, price, and availability. (The BAGSMART website only sells newer product models.)

And yes. They really do compress! While the exact level of compression may vary, my clothes stayed tighter and more compact AND I can also organize my outfits and only take out the bag(s) I need for that day.

I feel so much more organized with packing cubes!

Essential Items I Always Put in My Carry-On

Wanna see the full list of essential travel items that always make it into my suitcase?

Items include:

• My favorite cord-free portable charger
• Easy hanging toiletry bag
• Daily pill organizers
• My shoe cover hack
• 2-in-1 travel steamer and iron
• Designer-looking sunglasses that travel well
• The only no-show socks I wear
• Cute silicone ring set

Travel Outfit Inspiration

Looking for comfy and cute clothes to wear on travel days? Here are some of my favorite athleisure finds to wear on planes, long road trips, and casual adventures.