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It’s really up to you how you would like to travel, but from years of experience we’re a fan of minimal luggage:
We highly recommend one bag only
If you really want to travel smart and light, one carry-on-size bag (this will fit in an airplane’s overhead bin) is a great way to travel. It might sound absolutely un-doable, but if you plan outfits that consist of multiple interchangeable pieces rather than a couple of outfits and matching shoes per day, and then judiciously choose a small amount of toiletries instead of your entire bathroom, you can do it. After you’ve discovered the joy of mobility and freedom, you’ll never travel any other way.
International Luggage Size
International luggage size standards are mostly weight based. 50 pounds is the usual weight limit. The largest checked international luggage size allowed is 62 linear (total) inches.Typically, a standard checked luggage size wavers around 27 x 21 x 14 inches.
The universally accepted carry-on luggage size for a domestic flights (within the U.S.) is 22″ x 14″ x 9″. That being said, anyone who has frequented short haul commuter flights will tell you that this size bag often will not fit into the overhead compartment and thus ends up being checked at the gate anyway. We have not heard at this time that anyone has been charged for a checked bag as a result of this, but then things are changing daily in the airline industry. Make a point to check out your airline’s web site in advance to find out the latest regulations on the carry-on luggage size for domestic flights.
Even with private transfers and porter service, you’ll be dealing with your luggage more than you think. If you need help getting your luggage out of the taxi and need a team of porters to help you to your room, consider thinning things out.
When you have one bag, it’s less likely to get lost in transit, things are less likely to get broken, or worst of all, stolen. Flight delays or plane changes are less worrisome. One carry on size bag is easily transported through the airport, into taxis or private town cars, as well as being easily put into the overhead bin or checked at the gate of the airplane. You don’t have to worry about losing it in the bowels of the airport, and when you arrive, you can hit the ground running. When you land in Croatia, be the person on your way to your hotel while everyone else waits for their luggage to emerge from the belly of the plane!
You can also save money by traveling with one carry on sized bag. While it’s still free to check one bag on most overseas trips, you’d likely pay a fee to check two. If you’re taking a separate flight within Europe, expect to be charged to check even just one bag.
The only reasons to pack light aren’t just saving time or money — it’s about how you like to travel. Too much luggage marks you as a typical American tourist. You and all your luggage become a problem for small vans or cars. Changing locations becomes a major operation. With only one bag, you’re mobile and in control. We want you to enjoy every minute of your trip,and dealing with too much luggage can turn a fun trip into not so fun memories of lugging your stuff everywhere.
Packing Basics
You’re probably thinking: How am I going to fit a whole trip’s worth of luggage into ONE suitcase? Here’s how: Bring very little.
If you say to yourself “I better bring this just in case” you’re bound to over-pack. Pack for the best-case scenario, and then buy what you need if you absolutely have to. Bring layers instead of a heavy coat. Think in terms of what you can do without — not what will be fashionable or convenient on your trip. When in doubt, leave it out. Instead of bringing a whole trip’s supply of toiletries, take enough to get through a few days and if need be, find a little Croatian grocery market for things you run out of. Here is a suggested Packing List
Pack the same if you’re traveling for three weeks or three months. To help maximize the amount of space, keep your clothes tightly packed and well organized, zip them up in packing cubes, airless baggies, or a clothes compressor. For smaller items, use packing cubes or mesh bags (one for underwear and socks, another for miscellaneous stuff such as a first-aid kit, earplugs, sewing kit, and gadgets).
Try and keep it simple, and very light. We highly recommend traveling smart, instead of bringing all the contents of your bathroom, your closet, and everything else ‘just in case’.