Traveling with only a carry-on changes a city trip. You walk off the plane and straight to the train, there is no waiting at the baggage carousel, and nothing can be lost in transit. For a city break of three or four days, it is entirely possible, and with a bit of planning you will not miss anything you left at home.
Check the rules before you pack
Airlines set their own carry-on size and weight limits, and they vary between carriers and fare types. On some basic economy fares, a full-size bag for the overhead bin is not included at all, and only a small personal item that fits under the seat is free. Check your airline's rules for your specific ticket, measure your bag including wheels and handles, and weigh it if your airline sets a weight limit.
Choosing the bag
- Wheeled cases are easy in airports but awkward on stairs, cobbles and steep hills. San Francisco's hills and Boston's older brick sidewalks both test small wheels.
- Travel backpacks leave your hands free and handle stairs and transit well, but carry the weight on your back.
- Packing cubes keep things organized and make it easy to find what you need without unpacking everything.
Build a small wardrobe
The secret to packing light is choosing clothes that all work together. Pick two or three base colors and make sure every top goes with every bottom. A practical list for four days might look like this:
- Two pairs of pants, or one pair plus a skirt or shorts, depending on the season.
- Three or four tops that can be layered.
- One warm mid-layer, such as a sweater or fleece.
- One light, windproof and water-resistant jacket.
- Underwear and socks for each day, or fewer if you are happy to wash a few things in the sink.
- Sleepwear and something slightly smarter for a nice dinner.
Wear your bulkiest items on the plane: the jacket, the heaviest shoes and the sweater.
Shoes: the most important choice
City breaks involve a lot of walking, often more than you would do at home in a week. Bring one pair of comfortable, broken-in walking shoes that you would also happily wear to dinner, and at most one lighter second pair. New shoes on a city break are a reliable route to blisters. Pack a few blister bandages anyway; they weigh nothing and can save a day of sightseeing.
Packing for San Francisco and Boston
San Francisco is cool for much of the year, and summer fog can make July and August feel chilly, especially near the water. Layers are essential in every season; our guide to the best time to visit San Francisco explains why. Boston has hot, humid summers and cold winters, so pack for the season: light breathable clothing in summer, and in winter a warm coat, hat, gloves and shoes that can handle slush, worn on the plane rather than packed.
Liquids and toiletries
At US airport security checkpoints, liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on bags have long been limited to containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, all fitting in one clear quart-size bag. Security rules do change, and some airports are introducing new scanners, so check the current rules before you fly. Solid toiletries, such as bar soap and solid shampoo, avoid the issue entirely. Remember that hotels usually provide basic toiletries.
Electronics and batteries
Spare lithium batteries and power banks must travel in your cabin baggage, not in checked bags. The US uses plugs with two flat pins, sometimes with a round grounding pin, and a supply of around 120 volts. Visitors from abroad need a plug adapter, and should check that their chargers handle the voltage, which most phone and laptop chargers do.
A quick checklist
- Passport or ID, and any entry documents.
- Phone, charger, power bank and plug adapter.
- Payment cards and a little local cash.
- Any medication in original packaging, in your carry-on.
- A refillable water bottle, empty through security.
- A small foldable tote bag for shopping or day trips.
If your trip includes driving, our road trip packing list covers the extras.
Frequently asked questions
Can I really pack for a week in a carry-on?
Yes, with a mix-and-match wardrobe and a plan to wash a few items midway. Most hotels and many neighborhoods have laundry options.
Should I bring an umbrella?
A small travel umbrella is useful in winter in both cities. In San Francisco's windy spots, a hooded jacket often works better.
Where should I keep medication?
Always in your carry-on, in its original packaging, with enough to cover possible delays.