6 Best Luggage Organizers for Carry-on Bags

I may be a professional packer, but I didn’t always approach packing with a game plan. I cringe thinking about how I used to pack — especially during my college semester abroad. I don’t remember folding or rolling anything, and I certainly wasn’t using packing cubes. I have distinct memories of hauling my overstuffed suitcases around Europe. Thankfully, I’ve since honed my packing skills. As a travel writer and author of a packing newsletter, I’ve made it my job to figure out small efficiencies and ways to streamline the art of packing lightly. 

While I’ve tested nearly every packing “hack” out there, I’ve found the true secret to minimalist packing is organization. Having your travel wardrobe neatly arranged means you won’t have to frantically dig for your favorite T-shirt or pair of jeans while you should be spending all your free time enjoying your vacation. Below, I’m sharing the six luggage organizers to optimize the real estate of your carry-on suitcase, personal item bag — or really any other luggage piece you’re using. Available at Amazon, Paravel, and July, my recommendations start at just $10. 

Bagail Compression Packing Cubes 4-piece Set

Before I started regularly using packing cubes, I didn’t quite get the hype. How would adding material to your suitcase result in more room for your clothing and other accessories? It wasn’t until I was introduced to compression packing cubes, however, that I understood the appeal. The middle zipper acts as a compressor, flattening the contents of the packing cube to reduce the amount of space your more voluminous pieces take up. I like to use them for sweaters, sweatpants, and jackets. 

Shacke Packing Cubes 5-piece Set

Compression packing cubes are a wise investment, but there also are a few reasons to have regular packing cubes on hand. While they don’t have the same compression features, these luggage organizers are incredibly useful for travelers, like me, who prefer a packing system based around categories. I typically lay out my clothes beforehand, creating separate piles for everyday shirts, casual pants, workout clothes, and dressier pieces that aren’t as bulky and wouldn’t benefit much from being compressed. These provide guardrails, too. If I’ve packed too much and the packing cube won’t zip shut, I know I need to pare down my list. 

Remerry Labeled Toiletry Pouch 4-piece Set

Organization hasn’t always come naturally to me, but there are certain travel products, like these nylon toiletry pouches, that make it feel like second nature. Whenever I’m packing just a carry-on suitcase, I’m also typically relying heavily on my personal item bag to haul a few more items. Waterproof and durable, they organize my items into set categories. It’s a method that ensures I’m never wildly searching through my bag or in a full-out panic, thinking I forgot an essential at home. Everything has its place, and my valuable luggage real estate is maximized. 

Misslo Hanging Zippered Organizer

Another lesson I’ve learned over the years is that accessories are a secret weapon. A simple tank dress is more suitable for a fancy dinner when you add earrings. Jeans and a basic T-shirt are elevated by adding a bangle or two. If you’re not careful, though, your manner of packing your jewelry can negate the benefits of bringing it along. Even a small jewelry box takes up a significant amount of space in your carry-on suitcase. That’s why I recommend a hanging jewelry organizer, like this one which can easily hold other small essentials like chargers or beauty products, too. The zippered, foldable design is made with space in mind, and then you can hang it up in your room or bathroom when you get to your destination.

July Compression Packing Shelves

Packing shelves are relatively new to me, but I think they’re genius. This set from July features three open shelves and a zippered pocket, the latter of which can hold a pair of shoes or laundry. Use the shelves as you would regular packing cubes. For a long weekend trip, I suggest putting each day’s outfits on their own shelf. The entire apparatus compresses down for travel days. Then, when you’re ready to unpack at your destination, simply unzip the shelves and hang them by the two hooks.

Paravel See-through Vanity Case 2-piece Set

I refuse to travel without my whole skincare routine in tow, so I need a roomy toiletry bag. But since I also try to travel as lightly as possible now, I need one that doesn’t take up more space than is absolutely necessary. I’ve tested several different kits and toiletry bags over the years, but I can confidently say this Paravel one is one of the most space-conscious options on the market. The spill-proof, stain-repellent organizers have a flat, rectangular shape. Where some toiletry bags end up having an awkward shape that won’t easily fit into your luggage, these are the opposite. I never have an issue fitting any of them into my carry-on or my backpack or tote. The transparent panels are also helpful for knowing what’s inside (and noticing if anything has spilled).

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