When airlines limit carry-ons, your "personal item" becomes more important than ever. Whether it's a backpack, tote, or under-seat bag, that one piece can carry a surprising amount—if you know how to pack it smartly.

This guide is here for Lykkers who love to travel light but still want everything essential at hand. With some thoughtful planning, you can fit more than expected into that tiny space without feeling weighed down or disorganized. Ready to make the most of every inch? Let's get packing.

Choose the Right Bag and Fill It Wisely

Your success starts before you even begin packing. A clever choice of bag and some simple tricks will instantly level up your game.

Pick a Structured, Expandable Bag

You want something soft enough to squish under a seat, but with structure so it stands on its own. Look for bags with multiple compartments, a wide opening, and a strong zipper. Extra points if it has a sleeve to slide over your suitcase handle. And remember: a square or rectangular shape uses space better than a round or slouchy one.

Use Packing Cubes or Pouches

Divide your bag into zones—tech, toiletries, snacks, comfort items, etc.—and assign each to a small pouch or cube. This way, you're not digging around mid-flight. Clear pouches are a plus for visibility. Compression bags also help slim down bulkier items like hoodies or scarves.

Dress Smart, Pack Smarter

Wear your bulkiest outfit (like sneakers and jackets) on the flight so you don't need to stuff them inside your bag. Then, inside the personal item, roll instead of fold. Rolled clothes take up less space and stay wrinkle-free. You can also stuff socks or other soft things into empty shoes or corners of your bag.

Prioritize Essentials and Think Multipurpose

Once you've got your base bag sorted, it's all about what you put inside. The goal is to carry what matters most, not everything you own.

Keep Important Items Close

This is the bag that stays with you, so keep your essentials handy: passport, wallet, medication, phone, and charging cords. Place these near the top or in an easy-access pocket. If your travel documents are digital, download them ahead of time and consider a small folder for paper backups just in case.

Think Multipurpose and Mini-Sized

Go for items that do double duty. A shawl can be a blanket or pillow. A small water bottle can be refilled after security. Swap full-size beauty items for solid or travel versions. And instead of bringing lots of books or guides, use an e-reader or download apps.

Add Comfort Without the Clutter

Long travel days call for cozy touches—but not at the expense of space. You might pack a lightweight eye mask, noise-canceling earbuds, or a collapsible travel pillow. If you need snacks, go for ones that are compact, not crumbly, and won't melt easily. A small pack of gum or mints also goes a long way.

Making the most of your personal item is an art that any Lykker can master. From picking the perfect bag to smart packing techniques and multi-use items, every choice counts.

This isn't just about fitting more—it's about feeling lighter, moving smarter, and always having what you need within reach. So the next time you're boarding a plane, you'll walk on knowing your under-seat ally is working overtime for your journey.