How to Pack the Perfect Carry-On Suitcase

As the weather starts to hint at the warmer days ahead, we’ve got our sights set on a weekend trip… or ten. And as you’ll learn in our book, Homemakers, we are firm believers that you can pack for anywhere between two and 10 days in a carry on. You just need to know a few simple tricks.

1. Instead of folding your clothes, roll ’em up! This is a more efficient use of space and still keeps your clothes relatively wrinkle-free.

2. Use shower caps as shoe bags. You don’t want all the dirt on your shoes getting all over your clothes.

3. Pack belts and socks inside your shoes. This helps shoes keep their shape and means you can fit more stuff in that little suitcase.

4. If you’re traveling with a curling iron or flat iron, bring a tea towel or pot holder to wrap it up. That way you don’t have to wait for it to cool down to pack your suitcase.

Be sure to pre-order Homemakers for over 1,000 tips and tricks for living more creatively, inside and outside the home.

Itching for more info? Here’s what the book is about, straight from the back cover:

You and your friends deserve a nice break from your daily routines — you deserve a girls trip. You know, one that'll give you all those sweet, sweet laugh-out-loud moments to reminisce on when you're back at your desk next week. But with every girls trip comes one very important question: what the heck should you pack? So, while you're busy making plans for the best brunch and some supreme R&R, we've rounded up some cute essential items you'll need on your next girls trip.

TKEES Lily Nudes Pout Flip Flops ($55)

Image via TKEES

A classic pair of flat-sole flip flops are a necessity for a girls trip. They're great for trekking to the beach or slipping into when those sexy stiletto heels cause your feet to ache after a couple of hours.

Stoney Clover Lane Travel Case ($88)

Image via Stoney Clover Lane

Alongside your makeup, you'll probably also have your cell phone charger(s), headphones, and backup batteries. This case, complete with removable dividers, makes sure everything is protected and organized in a cute way.

Stoney Clover Lane Packing Cubes (Set of 5) ($108)

Image via Stoney Clover Lane

If you plan to bring a lot of items you can't bear to leave at home, this set of packing cubes will see you through. You can even go the extra mile by labeling them, keeping everything in its proper place.

Solid & Striped Polaroid Go Camera (White) ($99)

Image via Solid & Striped

The idea of lugging your laptop around so you can upload and edit your vlog might be fun at home, but having a portable Polaroid camera to capture instant moments is adorably nostalgic and even more convenient.

Solid & Striped The Wategos Sunglasses ($99)

Image via Solid & Striped

Make a pistachio green statement with this pair of sunglasses by Solid & Striped. You can wear these while sitting at the bar on the beach, sipping a yummy cocktail — tequila mockingbird anyone?

Sold & Striped The Beach Towel (Pacific Blue/Marmalade/Buttercup) ($25)

Image via Solid & Striped

When's the last time you actually invested in a towel that didn't get ruined by wet sand? If you've had your fair share of experiences with sand getting trapped in places you weren't expecting, this beach towel can help eliminate the chance of that happening again.

Rue De Verneuil Tote M Palais Royal ($267)

Image via Solid & Striped

This tote is the perfect beach bag! It's stylish enough to serve as a purse, but durable enough to deal with all the beachy elements. It's also got soft canvas inside so you don't have to worry about scratching your sunnies when you toss them inside.

Red Dress Jumping In White Multi-Print Bag ($44)

Image via Red Dress

Are you the friend who over packs or at least makes sure everyone will have what they need? Then you need this versatile, trendy bag from Red Dress. It's large enough to fit snacks, a few drinks, and that extra sunscreen you most definitely need in it.

Lisa Says Gah Cupid Sunglasses ($155)

Image via Lisa Says Gah

Go retro with this pair of cute, classic sunglasses from Lisa Says Gah! While you may not be able to star in Grease, you can still invoke some modern The Pink Ladies energy.

Lisa Says Gah The Oasis Hat (Tan) ($149)

Image via Lisa Says Gah

Beat the heat with this wide-brimmed straw hat from Lisa Says Gah! Made of sisal hemp with a fedora shape, the sun won't stand a chance against this hat.

Clare V. Red with Navy Checkered Passport Sleeve ($115)

Image via Claire V.

Encase your navy passport in this red and navy checkered passport sleeve. Not only is it easily recognizable (in case you happen to lose it in your bag), it's functionality makes it worth the buy.

Clare V. Luggage Tag ($55)

Image via Claire V.

If you and your friends plan to fly to your destination, you may be worried about it getting lost in the sea of other bags at the airport's baggage claim. To quell your fears, this red and navy checkered luggage tag from Claire V. lets you more easily spot your suitcase.

Show Me Your Mumu Lido Sarong ($44)

Image via Show Me Your Mumu

Your swimsuit sarong just received a colorful upgrade with this vibrant sarong. You can wear a nude bathing suit, or opt for warmer tones like SunKist orange or hunter green.

Show Me Your Mumu Kiran Sarong ($54)

Image via Show Me Your Mumu

Not everyone likes a mini sarong. Some prefer a little more coverage, like this Show Me Your Mumu Kiran Sarong, and that's perfectly fine! When paired with a white bikini and wide-brimmed straw hat, you'll look beach-ready.

Stanley The Iceflow Flip Straw Tumbler (20 oz) ($26)

Image via Stanley

Remember what we said about storing extra drinks in your tote bag earlier? Well, this tumbler is sure to keep you cool and refreshed, regardless of what you're drinking!

Rare Beauty Positive Light Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20 ($30)

Image via Rare Beauty

Since you and your girls will be probably be in and out of the sun, wearing a full face of make-up might not sound appealing. Instead you can wear Rare Beauty's Positive Light Tinted Moisturizer. It contains SPF 20, so not only will your skin be protected from the sun, you'll also have a radiant complexion while you're at it.

Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask ($49)

Image via Summer Fridays

Jet lag is very real and can cause your skin to look and feel dull. To help combat that, Summer Fridays formulated a mask filled with ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to calm your pores while putting moisture back in your skin.

Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen ($36)

Image via Summer Fridays

Looking for a lightweight sunscreen that feels as smooth as a serum does, but is also full of rich antioxidants that helps protect your skin from sun damage? Summer Fridays' ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen has you covered — literally.

Sun Bum Texturizing Sea Spray ($17)

Image via Sun Bum

Are you looking for something that gives you effortless, "I just walked out of the water" hair? Try Sun Sum's Texturizing Sea Spray that's made with sea kelp. Your hair will thank you later.

Beis The East To West Tote in Beige ($108)

Image via Beis

Cute carry-on bags do exist — just ask Beis. Their The East To The West tote is made of recyclable material and has various compartments that can house items like your Stanley Tumbler, or your passport if you're traveling out of the country.

Manifatura Beach Towel (Pistachio Green) ($56)

Image via Manifatura

The oversized beach towel of your fantasies just arrived in the form of this pistachio and cream towel. You'll feel like you're sitting on a treat due to being made of Turkish long fiber cotton. Seriously, it's the ultimate soft beach towel.

Sunday Supply Black Sands Beach Chair ($152, was $169)

Image via Sunday Supply Co.

If sitting or lounging on a beach towel sounds like the last thing you want to do, try bringing your own trendy beach chair. This one is portable and doesn't take up a lot of room.

Analog CC Analog Camera with Development ($30, was $32)

Image via Analog

If you're feeling nostalgic, you'll love carrying around a disposable camera to have developed at your local CVS.

CALPAK Silk Travel Set ($38, was $95)

Image via CALPAK

To speed through the length of time it takes to get to wherever you're going, try investing in a neck pillow and matching eye mask. You won't have to worry about having a sore neck the next time you fall asleep on your long car or plane ride.

CALPAK Water Bottle Holder ($42)

Image via CALPAK

If you don't want to risk your tumbler spilling in your tote bag, this waterproof water bottle holder will ease your worries. It has a shoulder strap in case you don't feel like holding it with your hands and it's completely insulated.

For more inspiration that takes you beyond summer, stop by our travel Pinterest board.

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Stoney Clover Lane

Last year, some of us celebrated the holidays apart from our families for the first time. COVID has brought with it many changes, some of them arguably positive (like increased flexibility to work from home), some difficult (such as the realization of vastly different political and social views between family and friends), and some horrible (obviously, the health implications of a global pandemic). However, for some of us, celebrating the holidays without family members isn't exclusively due to COVID. In addition to so many of us living in different areas than our families of origin, some of us simply don't have close bonds with the people we grew up around. Sometimes, this can cause loneliness.

If you're not close with your family members, the holidays can be a difficult time. This is doubly true if you don't have a close circle of friends to call upon. But make no mistake, if this sounds like your situation, you're not alone — there are thousands of other people going through the same struggles you are. We sat down with Irad Eichler, founder of Circles, a website that connects people who are sharing similar struggles, like heartbreak, grief, or loneliness. Here are some of Eichler's tips for coping — and even thriving! — during the holiday season when you're not planning on spending it with your family, for one reason or another.

Don't Fall For "Perfect Families" On Social Media

Laura Chouette

The first VERY important step to having a joyous holiday season when you're going it alone is to stop believing the narrative that others' family situations are perfect, Eichler says.

"Remember people only post a moment in time, and only the moments when they look their happiest and best."

In addition to the fact that everything you see on social media is curated for the 'gram, it's also important to remember that by focusing on what others have and you lack, you risk failing to see the great things at play in your own life.

"These holiday periods can become a time of focusing on who and what we don't have, rather than who or what we do, and can cause a negative spiral into depressing and dreadful feelings of inadequacy," says Eichler.

Gratitude is the reason for the season, after all. So instead of only seeing the negative, try some gratitude journal prompts to help you focus on what's actually really wonderful about your life right now.

Make An Effort To Deepen New Connections

Joel Muniz

While it may seem like everyone has friends and family to spend time with during the holiday season, that doesn't mean no one is available for deepening a blossoming relationship or new friendship.

"Make a list of people you can or would like to connect with, and try to reach out to at least one of them," advises Eichler.

Reaching out doesn't have to mean a big plan or an hour-long conversation. Even a quick text letting a friendly coworker know you're thinking about them can go a long way toward deepening the relationship and moving it in the direction of closer friendship.

Don't have an acquaintance in mind? Then it's time to make new acquaintances. What's more in line with the Christmas spirit than attending a Meetup or event full of people eager to make new friends?

"Join groups with similar interests to yours, such as hiking, baking, or games. Push your boundaries and be brave - you might find new people who have much in common with you."

Give Back

Priscilla Du Preez

The holiday season is a great time to focus on giving back to your community, and coincidentally, acts of generosity and kindness are known to reduce loneliness and help people feel happier. One study found that knowing a few of your neighbors and doing small acts of kindness for them — such as cheering them up, listening to them, mowing their lawn, providing advice about local business recommendations and job opportunities, and chatting over the fence — was statistically correlated with feeling less lonely and having a lower risk of depression.

Helping out elderly neighbors can be a particularly gratifying way to give back.

"Notice older lonely people in your neighborhood or community who might have no family at all, and offer to help them," says Eichler. "These can become mutually meaningful connections, and help you 'adopt' a grandparent."

Connect With Others Online

Thought Catalog

Finally, use the Internet for its highest and best purpose: to connect people. Whether you're using Meetup to find in-person events, digital forums for having conversations about special interests, or programs like Circle for getting support from others in your situation, the opportunities to create new connections are practically endless.

"There are many interest groups that can be found digitally, where or any person can connect with others in the same life stage, going through the same challenges, or who would like to explore the same interests," Eichler states. "Meaningful connections can be formed easily in these circumstances. The Internet enables us to find and connect to people all over the world who fit this, and to whom we can become more easily attached, as we are able to find people with the exact interests that energize us."

If you're struggling with loneliness, you're not alone. Connect with our digital community of makers and creatives here at Brit+Co by following us on IG and signing up for our newsletter!

This post has been updated.

Look, no one likes waiting in lines. Especially if said line is the one thing between you and a relaxing vacation or stress-free travel day. Thankfully, there are plenty of travel shortcuts to help you say goodbye to those pesky security lines and long waits, namely TSA PreCheck. Wondering if TSA PreCheck is worth it or how to get TSA PreCheck in time for your summer travel bucket list? Keep reading!

What is TSA Precheck?

TSA PreCheck is an airport security program designed to make flying a breeze, allowing participants to bypass long security lines while minimizing inconveniences like taking off shoes, belts, light coats, and removing laptops for screening. It's available at most major U.S. airports and is included with Global Entry/NEXUS membership packages.

TSA Precheck allows travelers to breeze through airport security faster by bypassing traditional screening processes. Membership costs $78 annually and lasts five years.

Approved participants receive a Known Traveler Number that must be entered when booking flights; this will display a TSA PreCheck indicator on their airline boarding pass, providing access to expedited lanes.

Travelers looking for TSA Precheck can apply either online or in person at one of the many enrollment centers like Staples. Usually, the process is quick and painless; however it may take longer during peak times; most people receive their approval within weeks.

Citi AAdvantage Executive credit cards offer reimbursement of Global Entry and TSA PreCheck application fees (up to $100 every five years). Service members in uniform automatically enroll, while civilians must add their Known Traveler Number when making leisure travel reservations or frequent flyer programs to ensure it appears on boarding passes. It's possible to reapply six months before your current membership is set to expire.

How much does TSA Precheck cost in 2023?

TSA PreCheck costs $78 to apply for and is valid for five years, payable by credit card, money order, company check or certified/cashier's check — some travel credit cards even reimburse application fees! Once an applicant submits an application they can schedule an interview at one of 350 TSA PreCheck enrollment centers around the country.

Interviews for TSA PreCheck typically involve a brief and straightforward background check process, along with fingerprinting and photographs being taken of applicants. Successful participants receive a Known Traveler Number which they enter when booking flights and is used by TSA security checkpoints to identify them as well.

What's the difference between TSA Precheck and Global Entry?

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are both trusted traveler programs through the Department of Homeland Security that facilitate expedited airport security screening. Both require a background check, interview, and fee to enroll; enrollment centers include airports, Staples stores, and an increasing number of IdentoGo locations.

Once approved, you'll receive a Known Traveler Number which can be used when booking airline flights. In some instances, airlines will automatically assign this number when you book or check-in for your flight.

Global Entry differs from TSA Precheck, as it expedites your customs experience when traveling internationally. You can find more information, such as eligibility requirements, on their websites. Typically, U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents are eligible to enroll; children aged 12 or younger may use their parents' memberships.

Is TSA Precheck right for me?

Let's weigh the pros and cons. TSA PreCheck is available at many airports and allows travelers to skip regular security lines, providing them with a quicker experience using dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes without needing to remove shoes and belts; members also can keep electronics and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in their bags without worry of removal by security officials.

On the downside, the TSA PreCheck application process can take some time, and the initial application and renewal fee of $78 every five years might seem a bit steep. However, many credit cards offer reimbursement for this expense and your membership lasts for five years.

Even if you only fly a few times a year, the time-saving benefits make TSA PreCheck totally worth it in our book. TSA PreCheck remains an attractive solution for frequent flyers looking to ease their travel experience. Global Entry may offer greater value as its membership includes both PreCheck and Global Entry membership for one price tag, though.

What are other time-saving travel hacks I should know about?

  1. Mobile Passport: Say goodbye to those tedious customs and immigration forms with the Mobile Passport app. It lets eligible travelers complete their paperwork electronically, so you can skip the regular lines when you arrive in the United States. More time for exploring, less time waiting!
  2. Clear: Picture this: you effortlessly glide through security like a VIP. That's exactly what Clear offers. As a Clear member, you can breeze through designated lanes at participating airports, leaving those long security lines in your rearview mirror.
  3. Priority Boarding: Why wait in the line when you can waltz right onto the plane? Take advantage of priority boarding, available for frequent flyers, elite status holders, and those lucky ducks in premium cabins. Getting settled in your seat without the hustle and bustle of the general boarding crowd? Yes, please!
  4. Online Check-In: Skip the hassle and queues by checking in online before you even set foot in the airport. Online check-in lets you bypass the check-in lines and head straight to security or bag drop-off, depending on your needs. It's the smart way to start your journey smoothly.
  5. Pack Smartly: Let's lighten your load, shall we? Efficient packing is key to saving time. Travel light or use some cute packing cubes and follow the airline's baggage rules to avoid any hold-ups during check-in or at baggage claim. And don't forget to check the TSA guidelines to pack like a pro, without any security surprises.
  6. Non-Peak Travel Times: Want to dodge the crowds? Opt for non-peak travel times, like early mornings or late nights. This savvy move means less congestion and shorter lines at the airport. Smooth sailing from check-in to boarding. Ah, the sweet serenity of travel during quieter hours.
  7. Airport Lounges: Upgrade your pre-flight experience with a little VIP treatment. Airport lounges are havens of comfort and tranquility. Enjoy amenities like Wi-Fi, snacks, and cozy seating. It's the perfect place to unwind, recharge, and make the most of your downtime. Bon voyage, stress!
  8. Research the Airport: Before you take off, get the inside scoop on your departure and arrival airport. Knowing the layout, facilities, and shortcuts can make navigating a breeze. From check-in counters to restrooms, be the master of airport navigation. Knowledge is power, my friends!
  9. Plan Ground Transportation: Let's keep the travel momentum going. Don't waste time figuring out transportation on the fly. Plan ahead by booking ride-sharing services, rental cars, or airport shuttles. Smooth transitions from the airport to your destination? That's how we roll!

Remember to check the specific requirements and availability of each time-saving gem, as they may vary depending on the airport, airline, or program. Get ready to reclaim your time and make your travel dreams a reality. Happy travels, our fellow adventurers!

Image via Pexels/Spencer Davis

Zach Bryan and Brianna "Chickenfry" LaPaglia's explosive breakup is everywhere right now. From his seemingly one-sided social media posts to all the bombshell revelations she keeps dropping, it's clear this split is NOT amicable. Both parties are dropping tons of lore, info, and everything in between — including new music?! — right now, so it makes sense if you can't keep up. Luckily, I'm here to help break this breakup down for you! Here's everything you need to know about Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry's relationship...or lack thereof.

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

October 22, 2024 – Zach Bryan Announces His Breakup With Brianna Chickenfry

On October 22, 2024, after some recent speculation that Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry split up, Zach took to his Instagram stories. The country star said, "Addressing something: Brianna and me have broken up with [each other] and I respect and love her with every ounce of my heart. She has loved me unconditionally for a very long time and for that I'll always thank her."

He continued, noting, "I have had an incredibly hard year personally and struggled through some pretty severe things. I thought it would be beneficial for both of us to go our different ways. I am not perfect and never will be. Please respect Brianna's privacy and space in this and if you have it in your heart, mine too."

To wrap it all up, he closed by apologizing to his fans. He said, "With everything I am and to anyone I let down, I am sorry. I try my best in everything. I failed people that love me and mostly myself."

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Brianna hopped on her own Instagram stories shortly there after. She posted, "Hey guys I'm feeling really blindsided right now. Gonna hop off social media for a while and attempt to heal privately, when I'm ready I'll be back and ready to talk. I love you guys so much thank you for all of your kind words. Remember you are so loved and everything's always gonna be okay 🫶"

The Brianna got on Youtube next, posting a raw, emotional video about the situation. Sitting on the floor of her bathroom, she opened up as much as she could in the moment about her breakup. She said, "I just woke up to Zach posting on his Instagram that we broke up and I had no idea that post was going up. He didn't text me, he didn't call me. I just woke up to a bunch of texts, like, 'Are you okay?'"

Brianna, with her teary eyes and red face, explained she's been crying for "five days straight." She said, "I'm at the point where it's like, how can you give someone everything and love them so unconditionally, like through stuff that you shouldn't because you just love them and you want them... like you see the good in them?"

The internet personality said that this is all "so embarrassing" and "really, really heartbreaking." She elaborated that the couple broke up on October 21, but wanted to process on her own and "didn't want it to be public."

Much like her Instagram story, she told her audience that she'll come back when she's ready.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

November 7, 2024 — Brianna Claims Zach's Emotionally Abusive, Wanted $12Mil NDA

Well, it appears this week, Brianna decided she's ready. On Barstool Sports' BFF's Pod November 7, 2024, Brianna gave an inside look at the breakup unlike any other. Not only did she claim Zach was abusive, but she also alleged that he offered her a $12 million NDA to "not talk about the relationship."

After saying it's been the hardest year of her life, she said. "I'm still scared right now because I'm scared of him. My brain's rewired and I'm scared to make him mad and last week, I didn't want to talk about it 'cause I was scared."

Brianna then described the alleged emotional abuse. She noted that everything was cyclical and that he would build her up only to break her back down again. "There was always another excuse as to why he was treating me so poorly and why I'm crying myself to sleep every night, why he's screaming at me," she said. "And then you wake up, it's the apology, it's the 'I'm going to be better like I need you in my life,' but if you've been through this — I don't expect people to understand emotional abuse if you haven't been through it. I hope you never have to go through it but if you've been there you know what I'm talking about."

Not only does Brianna allege she was offered an NDA, but she said that other women that came before her had to sign their own agreements. She declined the offer because she didn't want to "sign away [her] experiences and what [she] went through to protect someone that hurt [her]." She also wanted to share this experience for other women who've suffered something similar.

And when it comes to the logistics of losing out on the famous lifestyle and alleged $12 million? She said, "It was never about the money — I was with the dude because I loved the dude."

Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival

November 8, 2024 — Zach Quit Touring Amid Abuse Allegations

On November 8, 2024, Zach posted on Instagram — where he clearly loves to share all his big news — that not only is his new single "High Road" out today, but that he's also ending his tour early. Read his full statement here:

After not being home for a year and a half I drove out to my mothers gravestone in the dead of night a few days back on familiar Oklahoma roads and I came to realize just like in the past, that she never would call me again

Told her I quit touring because I got accepted to get my masters in Paris next year, I told her I was back in Oklahoma, told her about all my best friends in New York and all the nights we howled with the moon, told her about the immeasurable laughter my band and me have shared these last five years, all the calluses on my finger tips, every tear shed, told her about making it on The Rolling Stone and most importantly told her about porch swinging with my beautiful sister.
I wrote the chorus for this song a month or two back and finished it when I realized I was blessed with all these things.

I figured it was about time I released it.

Thank you guys for listening to ‘This Worlds a Giant’ last night and thank you to all the people who love me; who have truly carried the weight with me.

Seems that all these Quiet Dreams have gotten much too heavy but I’m home now and I’ll hold you through the pain.

High Road is out today and I appreciate all of you"

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