Last Updated on September 16, 2022 by Natalie Rabinowitz

Having lived in London these past five years and globe-trotting to European cities and exotic locals, I have found that the best way to travel is having the right Gear to Go and to travel light with a carry-on.

I prefer to forgo checking in luggage then having to wait at my destination for luggage to eventually show up on the conveyer belt. Of course, some circumstances will require to check-in luggage and also depending on the destination, but I do my best to pack light.

Two of my favourite Gear to Go are from Osprey and Kipling. While options are abundant, this is my preferred fail proof brands, and I pretty much stick to what I have tried and tested. Gives me more time to focus on planning my next destination.

Carry-on Gear to Go

European carry on baggage allowance size dimensions is (55 x 36 x 23 cm) (22″ x 14″ x 9″). However, do make sure to check carry-on restrictions and luggage allowance as each airline and depending on long haul travel, varies.

With that said, my all-time favourite Carry-on is the Osprey Women’s Fairview 40 Travel Pack. Small and compact (54 x 35 x 23 cm) (22″ x 14″ x 9″), durable, waterproof, and most importantly, an incredible amount of packing space! It never ceases to amaze me how much I can get into this bag. I have been to Borneo, and Bali combined, Tibet and Iceland, with just this one carry-on.

Of course, I throw in a compact bag for souvenirs I might pick up along the way. I only use a roller bag when going back to the states to bring items back and have to say that I don’t miss having to drag a suitcase around. Osprey is the top of the line for me for all types of luggage.

Outside

• Lockable zip access to the main compartment
• Dual front compression straps
• Dual front mesh pockets
• Padded top and side handles
• A top stash pocket for electronics and sunglasses
• Zippered rear flap to stow away and protect hip belt and harness
• Shoulder strap included

Inside

• Large compartment (40 litres) capacity
• Laptop (37 x 30 cm) (15” x 12”) and tablet sleeve
• Large Zipped mesh pocket
• Dual Compression straps
• Key attachment clip

Crossbody Bag

I highly recommend having a crossbody bag. Ideally for hands-free travel so that you can hold onto your phone, grab a cup of coffee, or anything else that might come up.

My favourite crossbody bag is Gabbie by Kipling. Waterproof, compact (28 x 22 x 12 cm) (11″ x 9″ x 5″) yet just the right amount of pockets and excellent storage for travel necessities.

Outside

• two zip front and side pockets
• hidden zip pocket on the back
• reinforced bottom
• adjustable shoulder strap

Inside

• one main compartment
• key holder and pen holder
• one zip pocket
• one slip pocket