Robert Croma / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA

Embarking on an international trip presents numerous packing challenges, particularly for women. In this era of checked baggage fees, limitations on carry-on liquids and other similar regulations, packing for such a trip requires a certain knowledge base and a carefully executed plan.

Travelers hoping to lighten their loads while simultaneously avoiding extra fees and the potential for lost luggage should consider traveling only with a carry-on. Read on for tips on how to make it overseas with everything you might need—with just your trusty backpack in tow.

Consider your carry-on

First things first: Give some thought to your carry-on bag itself. Airplane travelers are allowed one small carry-on bag plus a personal item like a purse or briefcase. Your carry-on bag cannot exceed 45 inches in overall dimensions, so pull out the measuring tape if you’re unsure if yours fits within the requirements.

Versatile clothing and accessories

Let it be said that Europeans are not necessarily in the habit of washing their clothes after each wearing like Americans are. Make like a native and pack items you can get multiple wears out of, like structured tops and pants in materials that don’t wrinkle easily. It’s also a good idea to check before you leave to find out if you’ll be able to do laundry during your stay, as that can significantly impact your packing decisions.

Liquids: To pack or not to pack?

Memorize the 3-1-1 rule: All liquids, like your favorite shampoo or contact lens solution—must be in 3.4-oz. bottles, and all of these bottles must fit in one quart-size clear plastic zip-top bag. Each person may carry only one of these bags in her carry-on. Obviously this limits the number of toiletries and other liquid items you can bring on board, so do a bit of research before you leave; chances are, you’ll be able to buy whatever you need once you arrive at your destination. Also, look for items that can do double or even triple duty; a product like Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Soap can serve as body wash, shampoo and laundry soap.

There are a few exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule: Items like baby formula and prescription medications in liquid form may be carried onboard in larger quantities, but you must first notify a TSA officer at the security checkpoint that you’re in possession of the item in question. Your bag may have to undergo more extensive searching or even an explosives test.

Additional considerations

Aside from the items already mentioned above, you might consider carrying a few extras in your carry-on or personal item. Entertainment items like newspapers and magazines can go a long way toward making a flight more tolerable. Toys and books can help entertain restless children, which can be beneficial for everyone on board. And health-related items like wheelchairs, walkers, portable oxygen concentrators and proof of an international medical insurance policy are obviously necessary for a successful trip.

It’s entirely possible to travel overseas with just a carry-on bag, and doing so will likely make your trip more agreeable since you won’t have to lug around a heavy suitcase. With some planning, research and a bit of flexibility, you can set off for your European adventure with little more than a knapsack, a passport and a smile.