Under-Seat Bag Packing Tips For Budget Travel

On the JJ Barnes Blog, if you’re planning your summer holidays but want to keep cost, and time wasting, down, these under-seat bag packing tips will help you achieve your goals without compromising your style.

Going on holiday is a wonderful treat, but keeping costs down can be a challenge. If you’re anything like me, the thought of squeezing your entire vacation wardrobe into a tiny under-seat cabin bag feels like a cruel joke. With budget airlines like Ryanair (40 x 20 x 25cm) and easyJet (45 x 36 x 20cm) cracking down on luggage allowances, those extra fees for overhead bags or checked luggage can seriously cramp your style—and your wallet. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! With help from the experts at boohooMAN, I’m sharing how to pack light while still looking fabulous for your short getaway.

First off, can we talk about the travel trend blowing up right now? According to boohooMAN‘s search trend analysis, Google searches for “underseat bags” have skyrocketed by 163% over the past five years. Clearly, we’re all trying to beat the system and avoid those pesky baggage fees. But with such limited space, how do you pack enough outfits to slay your vacation looks? Here’s how I make it happen with a chic, minimalist approach.

Under-Seat Bag Packing Tips

1. Go Dark and Stay Polished

I’m all about vibrant colors, but for travel, I lean into darker hues like black, navy, or charcoal. Not only do they hide stains (because, let’s be real, spills happen), but they also keep your outfits looking sharp for multiple wears. A black jumpsuit or a navy midi dress can be styled with different accessories for a fresh look every day without taking up extra space.

2. Solid Toiletries Are a Game-Changer

Liquid toiletries? A recipe for disaster in a tiny bag. I’ve switched to shampoo bars and deodorant sticks to save space and avoid leaks. Pro tip: I often skip packing toiletries altogether and grab them at the airport or a local shop at my destination. Some airports even let you order online and pick up post-security—how convenient is that? It’s like having a mini beauty store waiting for you when you land.

3. One Pair of Shoes, Endless Possibilities

This one’s tough for me because I love my shoes. But I’ve learned to pick one versatile pair—like sleek white sneakers or classic black pumps—that I can wear on the plane and style with every outfit. If I must bring a second pair (hello, strappy sandals), I stuff them with socks, jewelry, or my phone charger to save space. It’s like a packing puzzle, and I’m winning.

4. Lightweight Fabrics Are Your BFF

Heavy fabrics? No, thank you. I pack lightweight linen dresses or cotton-blend tops that don’t crease as much as pure cotton and can be rolled up tightly. These fabrics are breathable, stylish, and perfect for compacting into that tiny under-seat bag. Plus, they’re ideal for warm destinations or layering in cooler climates.

5. The Magic of a Lightweight Tote

I never travel without a foldable tote. It’s a lifesaver for beach days, sightseeing, or even as an extra bag for souvenirs. I also use it to stash small items like earrings or my charging cables, keeping them from getting lost in the chaos of my bag. Bonus: It folds flat, so it barely takes up space.

6. Roll, Don’t Fold

Rolling my clothes has been a revelation. Not only does it save space, but it also keeps wrinkles at bay. I roll my belts inside my tops or dresses to maximize every inch. And don’t sleep on those bag corners—stuff them with small items like underwear or hair accessories to make every centimeter count.

7. Build a Base, Layer Smart

When packing, I start with bulkier items like a pair of tailored trousers or a lightweight cardigan at the bottom of my bag. Then, I layer lighter pieces like t-shirts or camis on top. This keeps the bag’s structure solid and makes it easier to grab what I need without digging through a mess. Trust me, it’s a small thing that makes a big difference when you’re rushing through the airport.

8. Packing Cubes Are My Secret Weapon

I used to think packing cubes were overrated, but now I’m obsessed. They compartmentalize everything and let me compress my clothes even more. If you’re not ready to invest, resealable sandwich bags work just as well for organizing smaller items like scarves or hair ties. It’s all about keeping things tidy and compact.

9. Capsule Wardrobe Vibes

Here’s where my fashion heart sings: creating a capsule wardrobe. I pack classic, versatile pieces like a plain white tee, black trousers, and a neutral blazer that can be mixed and matched. Add a bold scarf or statement earrings, and you’ve got a chic day-to-night look. Stick to a cohesive color palette (neutrals are my go-to), and you can create a dozen outfits with just a few items.

10. Airport Hacks for Extra Ease

If you’re really tight on space, check if your destination airport has a service to order toiletries for pickup. It’s a game-changer for saving room in your bag. Plus, sharing travel-sized products with your travel buddies means you can pack even lighter. Who doesn’t love a team effort?

Packing for a trip with just an under-seat bag used to stress me out, but now I see it as a fun challenge. With these tips, I can fit everything I need to look effortlessly stylish without breaking the bank on baggage fees. So, grab your favorite dark-colored dress, roll it up, and get ready to jet-set in style. Have any packing hacks of your own? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear how you make it work!