Should I Check a Bag?
How long is the trip?
🎒Carry-On Only. It's a Weekend, Not a Move.
Can you do laundry at your destination?
Check It. 2+ Weeks in a Carry-On Is Torture.
Are you packing bulky stuff? (jackets, gear, gifts)
How much does the airline charge?
🏃Carry-On Only. Skip Baggage Claim, Win at Life.
🆓Free Checked Bag? Take It. No Brainer.
💸Worth It. Pay the $35, Pack in Peace.
📦Oof. Learn to Roll-Pack or Ship It Ahead.
A
Weekend (1–3 nights)
B
A week
C
2+ weeks
A
Yes (Airbnb / hotel laundry)
B
No / don't want to
A
Yes, lots of layers
B
Light packing, warm destination
A
Free (Southwest, intl, etc.)
B
$30–$40
C
$50+ (budget airline)
View full decision tree

How long is the trip?

  • Weekend (1–3 nights)
  • A week
  • 2+ weeks

🎒 Carry-On Only. It's a Weekend, Not a Move.

Can you do laundry at your destination?

  • Yes (Airbnb / hotel laundry)
  • No / don't want to

Check It. 2+ Weeks in a Carry-On Is Torture.

Are you packing bulky stuff? (jackets, gear, gifts)

  • Yes, lots of layers
  • Light packing, warm destination

How much does the airline charge?

  • Free (Southwest, intl, etc.)
  • $30–$40
  • $50+ (budget airline)

🏃 Carry-On Only. Skip Baggage Claim, Win at Life.

🆓 Free Checked Bag? Take It. No Brainer.

💸 Worth It. Pay the $35, Pack in Peace.

📦 Oof. Learn to Roll-Pack or Ship It Ahead.