Carry-On vs. Checked Luggage: A Travel Planner & Mom’s Opinion
As both a travel planner and a mom, I’ve had my fair share of airport scrambles, suitcase debates, and last-minute outfit swaps. One of the first questions families ask when planning a vacation is: Should we do carry-on only or check our bags?
And while it definitely depends on your packing style and preferences, there are a few things you should consider when making this decision. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of each — with a dose of mom-life reality.
Option 1: Carry-On Only
✅ Pros:
Faster & easier at the airport – No check-in line during departure, no baggage claim upon arrival.
Less risk of lost luggage – Your essentials are safe and sound with you.
Budget-friendly – No checked bag fees.
Forces you to pack light – Which isn’t always a bad thing.
❌ Cons:
Limited space – Tough when packing for multiple kids, different weather, etc.
Liquid restrictions – Traveling with liquid essentials can be a hassle.
No room for extras – Like beach toys or souvenirs.
Option 2: Checked Luggage
✅ Pros:
More space – Great for bulkier clothes, gear, and comfort items. Also a plus if you are an overpacker like me! (I sure do love having options!)
Lighter load in the airport – Less to juggle with kids in tow.
Room for souvenirs – Because kids will want to bring things home, especially if there is no room for anything else. 😆
❌ Cons:
Extra time & fees – Waiting at baggage claim + airline charges. (I highly recommend getting a baggage scale like this one - it saves you the time and hassle of your bags being overweight at check-in if you can weigh them at home)
Risk of lost or delayed bags – Rare, but frustrating if it happens.
So you might be saying to yourself - ok, those pros and cons are great - but what is the best solution?
Option 3: My Go-To Strategy - Hybrid Packing (Because who says you have to follow all the rules?)
For most trips, we check one or two suitcase(s) for the whole family and bring personal backpacks for each person (yes, even little kiddos love their own bags!). This gives us room for the essentials while keeping things manageable at the airport. My boys bring an extra set of clothes and pjs in their backpacks and then the rest of the space is for snacks and activities to keep them entertained during travel.
Final Thoughts
Every family and trip is different. Whether you pack light or bring everything under the sun, the goal is the same: make memories, not stress. A little planning goes a long way and I can help you plan the BEST vacation ever! If you have questions or need help, I’m just a DM away!
Happy travels and I’ll talk to you soon!
Your favorite travel planner & fellow mom on the move
About Kim: Kim is a Travel Planner with Goldgell Getaways. She specializes in helping moms and families book less stressful vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Orlando, cruises and other Disney destinations. Kim walks clients through the planning process step by step and takes the guesswork (and stress) out of travel! From research to booking and recommendations to reservations, Kim is your one stop shop for a fabulous family vacation! Kim was previously a health and mindset coach for moms who specialized in stress management. She decided to pivot to travel planning so that she could focus on reducing stress and increasing fun in one specific area for moms - travel and vacation planning! Looking to go to on a cruise or another type of vacation? Kim can help with that! Just fill out this form! 🏝️