School is over or almost over, and the summer travel season is beginning. I was surprised to read in Inc. magazine (June 2012, pg 28) that $3.4 billion was charged to airline customers for baggage fees in 2010. Back in 2007, only $464 million was spent on baggage fees. That’s a huge jump.
I try to avoid checking my luggage on planes for a number of reasons. Carry-ons help eliminate the hassle of waiting at the baggage claim. I’ve also had a fair share of checked suitcases arrive a couple days after I did. But of course, carry-on luggage is restricted in size to be able to fit overhead. It can be a challenge to limit yourself to the smaller space, especially for trips longer than a few days.
I find that keeping a list of what I need to pack helps me strategize the outfits I need and limit what I try to fit in my suitcase. Another old trick I learned from overnight camp days is to lay out my clothes on a flat surface and roll them up like a snail shell before packing them. 
Even if you are bringing delicate clothes that must be packed carefully, see if you can find some items on your to-pack list that can be rolled up. Packing those harder-wearing items at the bottom of your suitcase will leave you more room to gently fold or lay out the expensive and fragile garments on top.
What useful tips do you use to help pack light in carry-on luggage for a trip, whether long or short? Remember, planes allow only two carry-ons: one small suitcase plus a purse/backpack/briefcase.
Limit your clothing colors to a maximum of three, e.g. black, khaki, and white. Then use scarves as accent colors.
Thanks Barbara. Excellent idea to use accessories to help expand outfits without taking up extra space in a suitcase.