1. Choose comfortable luggage that meets airline standards
Cabin baggage is designed to accompany you on board the aircraft. The suitcase used must therefore meet the airline's standards, and fit easily into the designated slots. That's why baggage size requirements are so strict.
It's imperative to find out about the limits set for your flight, either from your travel agent or directly from the airline. It's not the shape or model that matters, but the height, width and depth. So you can opt for either a soft or a hard-sided travel bag, with or without wheels, with handle or shoulder strap...
A rigid suitcase protects the contents from shocks and remains waterproof. A travel bag, on the other hand, weighs less when empty, and allows you to carry more belongings. So it's a question of personal choice between the advantages and disadvantages of each type of cabin baggage.
2. Pay attention to the contents of your hand luggage
Air transport is based on a number of restrictions designed to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. In this context, access to the cabin may be strictly forbidden or highly restricted for various items, while they may be authorized under other conditions in the hold.
Good to know: a razor with a folding blade will not be accepted in the cabin, nor will a pair of scissors or other sharp instruments and blunt objects.
Likewise, hygiene products and toiletries must comply with specific packaging rules to be accepted in carry-on baggage. You must pack a maximum of 10 bottles of 100 ml each for your shower gel, shampoo, make-up remover and other cosmetics. These small containers are then placed in a transparent storage pouch (like a freezer bag).
To facilitate checks, leave the toiletry bag easily accessible on the top, so that liquid products can be presented quickly.
3. Check the weight of your suitcase before leaving for the airport
Like dimensions, the weight of a cabin bag is also regulated. If you don't comply with the weight limits set by the airline, you'll be subject to a surcharge. To avoid extra charges, it's best to check the weight of your baggage before you get to the airport.
Good to know: there are small accessories called " luggage scales " that attach to your suitcase and allow you to weigh your luggage. But you can also use a bathroom scale if you don't have this little electronic device.
4. Optimize cabin baggage storage
You've carefully assembled all the items on your travel list: matching tops and bottoms, shoes, the perfect number of pairs of socks... However, the real challenge lies ahead: fitting everything into your carry-on bag.
To begin with, place the heaviest items at the bottom, close to the wheels. Then fold them Marie Kondo-style to save space and make access to different outfits easy, without wrinkling your clothes.
Don't hesitate to use several toiletry bags and small bags to compartmentalize your suitcase and optimize storage: underwear, hair accessories, cables and chargers...
5. The last details to remember for the safety of your hand luggage
To secure the contents of your cabin bag, you need a padlock. However, it's essential that the lock is TSA (Transport Security Administration) approved. These are the only models for which customs has universal keys. Without such a device, your luggage may be damaged during the usual checks.
Last but not least, labeling is the final point not to be overlooked when preparing your suitcase for air travel. Take care to remove all old labels, and make sure the information and barcode are clearly visible.