A Travel Writer’s $10 Carry-on Bag Packing Trick

Packing for a winter getaway, especially when only bringing a carry-on suitcase, can feel like an Olympic sport. There are extra layers, bulky sweaters, puffy jackets, and warm accessories that need to fit beyond your essential travel items. 

For years, I convinced myself I could fit everything I needed in a carry-on, only to end up stressed, and then surrendering to the use of an oversized checked bag last minute. Things changed when my aunt gifted me a set of the Hibag Compression Packing Bags a few Christmases ago. Now, I’m able to bring all my winter gear and essentials on any trip — without needing to check a bag. 

Hibag Compression Packing Bags 12-pack

On sale for $10, the set comes with 12 bags in varying sizes, ideal for organizing and compressing your clothes, especially if being a carry-on-only flier is your 2025 travel resolution. The method is foolproof. After packing your items up, roll each bag to expel excess air. Just watch and see how the size of bulky items like sweaters, coats, and scarves shrink. 

I was hesitant to give these a try after a poor experience with some vacuum-sealed bags that required an actual vacuum. Thankfully, these bags don’t require anything other than your hands. This makes them far more practical when you’re on the go and traveling.

Hibag Compression Packing Bags 12-pack

Despite the low price, these are also incredibly durable. I’ve rolled and repacked them all over the world, repeatedly over the years. They’re made out of extra thick and flexible plastic, making them the perfect rip- and tear-resistant travel companion. 

I’ve even found a hack within this amazing hack: to free up even more room in my suitcase, I’ll put these compression bags into organized packing cubes — that’s how I ended up being able to pack all my winter coats into a single carry-on suitcase.

If you’re ready to ditch checked luggage and say hello to smarter packing, the Hibag Compression Packing Bags are a must-have. Luckily, Amazon’s stocked with other useful gadgets and packing accessories that make carry-on-only travel a breeze. Keep scrolling to check out more budget-friendly carry-on travel essentials below. 

More Carry-on Travel Essentials at Amazon: 

Iniu Portable Charger

Tocelffe Travel Bottles for Toiletries

Caoodkdk Electronics Organizer

Veken 8-piece Packing Cube Set 

At the time of publishing, the price was $10. 

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