Carry-on only and tight connections

Read the actual allowance

Cabin allowances vary by airline and fare type. Some basic fares include only a small personal item. Check the specific fare you are buying, the size and weight limits, and whether the second carrier on a connecting itinerary has a different rule.

Measure your bag with wheels and handles included. A soft bag is easier to fit in a sizer than a rigid one at the limit.

Pack for screening

In the United States, the TSA liquids rule limits the size of liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on bags, with exceptions such as medication and baby formula that must be declared. Other countries have their own rules and some airports have changed screening technology; check each departure airport.

Keep electronics and the liquids bag easy to reach. Spare lithium batteries and power banks generally must travel in the cabin, not checked baggage.

Judge the connection before booking

A short connection may be legal for the airline but still stressful. Consider whether you change terminals, pass through passport control or security again, or need to recheck bags. Connections on one ticket are normally protected by the airline if the first flight is late; separate tickets usually are not.

Check the airport’s map for the terminals involved and how you move between them.

If you miss the connection

Go to the airline’s transfer desk or use its app immediately; rebooking queues grow fast. Know your passenger rights for the jurisdiction, such as the U.S. DOT refund rules or the EU air passenger rules where they apply.

Packing light that actually works

Pick clothes that layer and share one colour palette so every top works with every bottom. Wear the bulkiest shoes and jacket on the plane. Plan to do a small wash midway through a longer trip instead of packing for every day. Decant toiletries into small containers or buy them at the destination.

Keep a small pouch for documents, medication, charger and a change of clothes within reach under the seat, in case your cabin bag has to be checked at the gate on a full flight.