What I packed (carry-on only) for 10 days in Europe

The logistics of traveling light

I recently returned from a 10-day choir tour in France. We did four concerts in four cities, plus saw various tourist attractions. My 18-year-old son (my roommate for the trip) and I decided that we preferred not to need to check bags. So we used our wheeled carry-on sized suitcases, plus he took a back pack and I had my purse (a Longchamp tote that can fit my laptop plus a few other things).

I’m happy to report that not only was this possible, I probably could have packed less if I’d been more strategic. This project was somewhat more doable with hot weather (summer clothes are light) but also because I looked at the itinerary and planned outfits for each day. Here’s what I packed and how I wore it.