Working as a cruise director 15 years ago, Anne McAlpin would often see passengers with far too much luggage and clothing inappropriate for a Caribbean trip. Inspired, she decided to offer onboard packing seminars. "People would tell me they wished they'd had this information before they came on their trip because it would have saved them money, time and effort," says the packing expert, who now shares her tips on Oprah and The View.
Like many frequent flyers, McAlpin avoids checking bags and is quick to extol the benefits of traveling light. "You don't have to deal with delayed or lost luggage," she says, "and you'll spend less time packing and unpacking." While it's easy to toss a bunch of stuff into a checked bag, if you're trying to fit a week's worth of clothing into a single carry-on, you'll need to pack smart.First things first: Make sure your carry-on is within the airlines' size and weight restrictions. Generally, its combined dimensions should total no more than 45 inches, with a maximum weight of 40 pounds (30 pounds on Air Jamaica). But with ever-changing rules, and to avoid unpleasant surprises at the counter or gate, it's wise to check with your airline in advance.
