Lay shoes along the bottom and sides of the carry-on bag. Place the shoes with the soles against the bag interior.
Lay pants flat on a bed or other flat surface. Stack the pants if you have more than one. Smooth the pants with your hands to remove any wrinkles.
Roll the pants tightly, starting at the top. Place the pants on top of the shoes. Stack shirts and blouses in the same manner. Roll the clothing using the same method as the pants. Lay the shirts on top of the pants. Tuck socks and underwear along the edges of the carry-on and on top of the clothes.
Place small bottles of non-liquid toiletries, makeup and medications in smaller bags. Place the plastic bags in the meshed area inside the top of the carry-on. One quart-size plastic ziplock bag with multiple containers of 3.4 ounces or less of liquid are allowed per person in carry-on luggage, according to the Transportation Security Administration. Place the plastic bags inside the meshed area also.
Place a book or CD player inside the exterior pockets to use during the flight.
