Carry-On Traveler

The Efficiency of the “Carry-On” Mindset

In the aviation world, everything is about efficiency. Whether it’s turn-around times or fuel burn, the goal is always to optimize. I try to apply that same logic to my own travel by sticking to a carry-on whenever I can.

It isn’t a strict rule where I refuse to ever check a bag, but it’s a mindset. It’s about the freedom of knowing I don’t have to be tied down to a baggage carousel.

Keeping the Momentum

When you bypass baggage claim, you aren’t just saving twenty minutes. You’re keeping your momentum. There’s a big difference in how a trip feels when you step off the jet bridge and walk straight to the exit. You’re mobile, you’re agile, and you aren’t waiting around on a rubber curtain.

Using the Insider Knowledge

After 23 years in the airline industry, I look at a suitcase differently than most people. I’m thinking about bin dimensions, weight limits, and which regional jets are going to have a hard time with overhead space.

Traveling light lets me:

• Handle tight connections: I know which hubs are a pain to navigate. Having my bags with me makes a 45-minute layover much less stressful.
• Stay in control: In an industry built on protocols and schedules, I like keeping my essentials where I can see them.
• Keep it simple: Whether I’m headed to a training site or taking a personal trip, I want the logistics to be invisible so I can focus on why I’m actually there.

Being Practical

I’m not 100% on this. There are obviously times when checking a bag is a must, especially with certain work assignments or specialized gear. But by defaulting to a carry-on when it makes sense, I’ve learned to be more intentional.

For me, traveling light isn’t a hobby. It’s just a better way to operate. It’s about understanding the aircraft, respecting the process, and making sure I arrive ready to go without any extra baggage holding me back.

Have a look at what I am currently using

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Thrive Traveler Carry-on Luggage

I have the Black and Orange one. I love this bag as it is designed to fit in the overhead compartment of most aircraft because of the taper at the top. And it has skateboard trucks and wheels, so it doesn't do the penguin dance! (UNFORTUNATLY in 2026, this is no longer a viable carry-on luggage)

The North Face Borealis

New backpack to replace an old backpack I've had since the mid 90's! My dad had bags custom made when he was TDY in South Korea while we were living in Okinawa. They've done its job, If I can have them made today and "modernized", I would.

adidas Tracefinder Trail Running Shoes

The newest addition to my footwear for travel. This is now my main wear.

Maxpedition Gear Tactical Travel Tray

Something new for me. The last time I traveled, I found myself dumping the contents from my pocket just anywhere, even losing a few things behind the TV stand in my hotel. This thing is pretty awesome for a quick catch of that pocket dump!

GL.iNet GL-BE3600 (Slate 7) Portable Travel Router

Part of my electronics travel gear, the GL.iNet Slate AX (GL-AXT1800) has been a absolute lifesaver. This device functions as a powerful private Wi-Fi repeater, or you can plug in an Ethernet line if your room has one to establish a more stable, high-speed connection. By connecting all your devices to this one router instead of the hotel’s Wi-Fi, you only have to deal with the captive portal once. This setup pairs perfectly with a media stick like the Chromecast with Google TV, ensuring your streaming remains seamless and secure.

Google Chromecast with Google TV

This thing is great if you have a TV in your hotel with a usable HDMI port. Forget about paying loads of money for in-room movies; just plug in the Chromecast with Google TV, connect it to your travel router, and use the included remote to browse your apps directly on the screen. Since it has its own interface, you don't even need to rely on your phone to control the action. It is worth noting that Google has discontinued this specific device. If you're looking to pick one up, you can usually find them for a great price on eBay or local online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace.

Dot&Dot Slim Packing Cubes for Travel - 4 Piece Luggage Accessories Organizers

I have 8 of these and they fit perfectly in the Thrive Traveler Carry-On Luggage. I use each one to pack a set of clothes (minus pants). A red one that I use as an electronics kit (spare batteries, chargers, cables, etc.)

Dot&Dot - Shoe Bag - Convenient Packing System For Your Shoes When Traveling - Space Saver Bag - Protects Your Clothes From Dirt And Smell

It's a shoe bag, what more is there to say. Again, fits nicely in the Thrive Traveler Luggage.

Dot&Dot Hanging Toiletry Bag for Men, Women and Kids - Organizer for Travel Accessories and Toiletries

To stay with the theme, picked up a hanging toiletry bag that matches everything else.

quip | Perfect Oral Care. Delivered

Don't have one yet, but ordering for my next trip.

Gerber Shard Keychain Tool [22-01769]

This is actually part of my EDC, but I travel with it as well. It is a handy little tool for when you are on the go. It is TSA "Safe" (don't get it mixed with "approved"), but I have never had any problems with it when traveling. The Shard has seven useful functions: small flat driver, medium flat driver, cross driver, pry bar, wire stripper, lanyard hole, and bottle opener.

Divided Pill Boxes

I use this to carry some OTC pain, migraine, and allergy medications.

UGREEN 100W USB C Charging Station, 6-Port GaN Desktop Charger

Updated from the old Anker version. I've consolidated all my electronics to use USB-c only so I only need to carry this one charger.

1ft USB-A to USB-C Cable, 2 pack

Great addition for the single desktop charger.

1ft USB-C to USB-C Cable, 2 pack

Great addition for the desktop charger.

LISEN Retractable Car Charger USB C [Upgraded Dual Type C] 75W Fast 4 in 1 Car Charger for iPhone 17, Road Trip Essentials Gifts for Men Women, Car Accessories for Galaxy S26 Phone 17e 16 15 Pro Max : Automotive

6 Inch Black Reusable Cable Ties

Keep those cables organized!