A trip to a hot country is an exciting prospect – blue skies, sunshine, exotic cuisine and well-deserved relaxation. But before the plane lifts off the runway, it is worth spending a moment on carefully preparing your hand luggage. It is largely its contents that determine the comfort of the whole journey – both at the airport and on arrival, right after landing.
Hand luggage is not just a handbag or a small suitcase in the cabin. It is a strategically planned set of things meant to give us comfort, security and peace of mind while travelling. In hot countries, with high temperatures and specific climatic conditions, the right choice of hand luggage contents matters even more. A well-packed cabin suitcase is one that not only fits within the airlines’ weight and size limits, but also contains everything essential for the first hours and days of the holiday.
In this article we will analyse in detail what is worth packing into your hand luggage when flying on holiday to a hot destination. We will suggest which clothes work best in a tropical climate, which cosmetics can be carried safely, and what is worth having to hand on the plane and right after landing. Packing will become simple, logical and stress-free – exactly the way every journey should be.
What is hand luggage and what are its limits?
Hand luggage dimensions and weight
Hand luggage is a bag, backpack or suitcase that the passenger brings on board the aircraft. Depending on the airline, different limits apply to the size and weight of such luggage, so it is worth checking the carrier’s current guidelines before every trip.
For the most popular carriers in Europe:
- Wizz Air – the basic ticket allows only a small free bag of max 40 × 30 × 20 cm. A cabin trolley (up to 55 × 40 × 23 cm, max 10 kg) is available only after purchasing WIZZ Priority.
- Ryanair – passengers with a basic ticket can bring a small free bag (max 40 × 30 × 20 cm – the allowance was enlarged in August 2025). A standard cabin suitcase (up to 55 × 40 × 20 cm, up to 10 kg) requires the Priority service – see our full guide to Ryanair cabin baggage dimensions and tips.
- LOT – allows one piece of hand luggage of max 55 × 40 × 23 cm and up to 8 kg (in Economy Class). On top of that you can usually take a small handbag or laptop bag.
It is worth distinguishing two concepts:
- A small personal bag – usually a small backpack or bag that must fit under the seat in front of you.
- A cabin suitcase – a classic small wheeled suitcase that must fit the dimensions of the overhead locker.
Every airline has its own policy and surcharges, so check carefully what your ticket includes – our summary of what you can take in carry-on baggage walks through the details. Exceeding the dimensions or weight can mean having to check the bag in as hold baggage – and that means completely different conditions and costs.
Security rules – what you can take and what you cannot
When packing hand luggage, you have to follow the security rules in force at airports and with the airlines. Most restrictions concern liquids, sharp objects and electronics. Following them is not just a formal requirement – it also lets you get through security faster.
Hand luggage must not contain, among others:
- sharp tools and objects (scissors with long blades, penknives, razor blades),
- flammable substances (e.g. aerosols containing gas),
- weapons and objects resembling weapons,
- large bottles of liquids (over 100 ml).
Liquids and cosmetics can only be carried in hand luggage in containers of up to 100 ml, placed together in a transparent, resealable zip bag with a maximum capacity of 1 litre. This applies not only to cosmetics, but also to drinks, gels, pastes (e.g. toothpaste), liquid medicines and sunscreens. The full list is in our article on what not to pack in your carry-on luggage.
Electronics and batteries are another area worth planning well. Laptops, tablets, power banks and cameras must be carried in the cabin, not in checked baggage. During the security check, they need to be taken out of the bag and placed separately in a tray. Lithium-ion batteries (e.g. spares for cameras or drones) must also be in hand luggage, packed in accordance with the rules.
Knowing these rules helps avoid unnecessary stress at check-in and pass smoothly through security. In the next sections we move on to practical packing – taking into account the climate, activities and the absolute essentials in hot countries.
Needs analysis – what is really essential in a hot climate?
Climate and activities vs. luggage contents
When planning a trip to a hot country, it is worth considering not only high temperatures, but also humidity levels, the intensity of the sun and the type of activities planned. A completely different set of things will be useful for lazy beach relaxation than for intensive sightseeing or trekking in mountainous terrain.
For the beach, light, quick-drying fabrics work best – protecting against the sun without causing overheating. Airy dresses, loose shirts, shorts in natural materials – that is the base that ensures comfort even in tropical conditions. Sunglasses and a cap or hat are mandatory too.
If you plan sightseeing, it is best to go for clothes that combine comfort with sun protection. Light clothing with longer sleeves and legs can effectively protect the skin from UV radiation and – with the right material – will not be burdensome in the heat. Remember also comfortable footwear for uneven terrain, thin socks and a scarf or shawl to shield the neck.
For trekking or trips into nature, even greater emphasis on practicality is needed – technical clothing with a UV filter, breathable underwear, a light backpack, a small filter water bottle. All these elements should go into hand luggage, especially if you will spend the first days actively and will not have access to your main baggage.
Minimalist packing – only what is necessary
In a hot climate, less really is more. Too many clothes or cosmetics can only make the journey harder – especially if you limit yourself to hand luggage. High temperatures and humidity mean we reach mostly for light and comfortable things, while heavier or less functional clothes remain untouched for the whole trip.
Instead of packing ‘just in case’, it is worth creating a coherent, well-thought-out list of things you will actually use. The key is planning sets – e.g. three tops matching two bottoms, which lets you create as many as six different outfits from a minimal number of items. Multi-purpose items also work well, such as a pareo, which can serve as a cover-up, a blanket or a dress.
Minimalism also means less physical strain – lighter luggage is easier to carry, fits into the overhead locker and gets through security faster. Thanks to thoughtful packing, you do not have to worry about excess baggage or a lack of space for souvenirs on the way back.
Clothes ideal for a hot climate – what is worth packing?
Daywear
When packing for a holiday in a warm country, it is worth prioritising daywear made of breathable, natural materials. High temperatures and intense sun mean that wearing comfort depends largely on what the clothes are made of.
The best fabrics are:
- linen – naturally cooling, quick-drying, light and comfortable, though it can crease,
- cotton – breathable and versatile, good for everyday wear,
- viscose – gentle on the skin, slightly flowing, works well in the heat.
It is worth packing a few basic wardrobe elements:
- short-sleeved T-shirts or tops,
- loose dresses (ideally midi or maxi),
- shorts, light skirts,
- light, airy trousers (e.g. linen or thin cotton),
- long-sleeved shirts – ideal for sun protection, but also as cover-ups.
The ‘capsule’ principle works well – sets that can easily be combined with each other – which saves space in your luggage and means you always have an outfit ready for any occasion.
Swimwear and accessories
In a hot climate, swimwear is an absolute basic. Even if you do not plan daily beach time, it is worth having it with you, as many hotels and apartments offer access to a pool or sauna.
In hand luggage it is worth fitting:
- a minimum of two swimsuits – so you can change into a dry one during the day,
- a pareo or light cover-up – useful not only on the beach, but also on the way to a poolside bar or restaurant,
- swim shorts – good both for swimming and for walks by the beach,
- beach flip-flops – light, quick-drying and practical.
Remember also a quick-drying microfibre beach towel – it takes up little space, and can come in handy both on the beach and when visiting waterfalls, thermal baths or on spontaneous trips to a lake.
Evening wear and something for cooler evenings
Even in very warm countries, evenings can be cooler – especially by the sea or in mountainous regions. In addition, many places require slightly smarter dress for dinner, especially in hotels or restaurants.
It is therefore worth packing:
- one light sweatshirt or thin jumper,
- long trousers or thin leggings – also useful on the return journey or in air-conditioned rooms,
- one versatile dress that works for dinner, a stroll around town or an evening out,
- a light scarf or shawl – can serve as a shoulder cover on a cool evening or in places where appropriate dress is required (e.g. temples, museums).
Additional items can include a thin long-sleeved shirt or a cardigan, which take up little space but can provide warmth in the evening.
Underwear and pyjamas
Underwear is an often overlooked yet key element of hand luggage – especially in a warm climate, where comfort and hygiene matter even more.
For hand luggage it is worth packing:
- light, breathable underwear – ideally cotton or microfibre,
- non-wired or sports bras – comfortable in high temperatures,
- thin socks (if longer walks in closed shoes are planned),
- pyjamas in a thin fabric – ideally short-sleeved or with straps,
- possibly a light dressing gown or cover-up for moving around the hotel or apartment.
Underwear takes up little space, so you can allow yourself a surplus – especially if laundry options during the stay will be limited.
Peli Air cabin suitcases
Footwear – which shoes work best?
Flip-flops and sandals
When travelling to countries with a hot climate, flip-flops and sandals are an absolute basic. It is worth going for models made of light, quick-drying materials – especially if you plan beach time, using the pool or frequently crossing sand or damp areas.
Foam or rubber flip-flops take up very little space and are ideal for the beach, the hotel shower or as house footwear. It is good if they have a non-slip sole.
Sandals are a somewhat more versatile option – choose models with adjustable straps, a stable sole and good ventilation. Ideal for strolls along the promenade, shopping at a local bazaar or an evening dinner out. If you plan longer walks, choose trekking sandals – they are light, hold the foot well and let the skin breathe.
Footwear for walks and sightseeing
During intensive sightseeing or walks in the sun, foot comfort becomes crucial. Breathable trainers or light sports shoes are a great option for city trips, exploring ruins or walking cobbled streets. It is good if they have breathable mesh and a soft insole that absorbs shocks.
An alternative to classic sneakers are sports sandals with a contoured, cushioned sole – particularly useful when you want to combine comfort with airflow. It is a great choice for holidays in Greece, Spain, Thailand or Mexico, where you often walk a lot in varied conditions within a single day.
Remember not to take new, untested shoes – it is better to bring ones you already know well and that do not cause blisters. In the tropics, any discomfort can quickly turn into more serious problems due to the humidity and the difficulty of drying feet quickly.
Shoes for the plane
The choice of footwear for the plane also matters – both for comfort and for practicality. During the security check you often have to take your shoes off, so it is worth choosing models that can be easily slipped off and on without laces.
Light slip-ons, ballet flats, slip-on trainers or sock sneakers work best. The shoes should be soft, breathable and comfortable also during a flight of several hours, when feet can swell slightly. If you are flying at night or in an air-conditioned plane, it is worth having thin socks with you – they provide extra comfort and protection from the cold. (More ideas in our guide to what clothes work best on a plane.)
Pro tip: if you plan to take one pair of bigger shoes (e.g. sneakers or trekking shoes), wear exactly those on the plane – you will save a lot of space in your hand luggage.
Waterproof Peli cases for the beach and pool
The travel washbag – what to pack under 100 ml?
Summer skin care
In a hot climate the skin is exposed to strong UV radiation, dehydration and the effects of salt water and wind. That is why one of the absolute priorities in your washbag should be sunscreen – ideally SPF 50, in a light, quickly absorbed formula. You can choose a 2-in-1 version: a moisturiser with SPF, to limit the number of products.
It is also worth taking a face mist – ideally in a container under 100 ml – to refresh the skin during the day. Versions with aloe, thermal water or hyaluronic acid will soothe irritation and calm the skin.
A moisturising night cream or an aloe-based gel will come in handy after a whole day in the sun. If you do not want to take several cosmetics, choose one multi-purpose product that handles both regeneration and moisturising.
Personal hygiene in mini format
In hand luggage you can carry liquids only in containers of up to 100 ml, up to a total of 1 litre – and all of them must fit in a transparent, resealable bag. So it is worth reaching for cosmetic miniatures or buying dedicated travel sets.
What should such a washbag contain? A mini shampoo and shower gel (or one of them in bar form), a mini toothpaste and a small toothbrush, ideally folding. An alternative is solid cosmetics – shampoo and soap bars are not subject to the liquid restrictions and are often more efficient than liquid versions.
Do not forget wet wipes – useful both for refreshing the face and in emergencies. Plus a cream or roll-on deodorant – skip the spray, which may be confiscated or react badly to pressure changes.
Colour cosmetics and accessories
On hot days, make-up should be light, long-lasting and minimalist. A waterproof mascara, a light BB cream (instead of foundation) and a lip balm with SPF are entirely sufficient. If you plan evenings out, you can add a mini blush or a highlighter stick – they are compact and take up little space.
On top of that, a few practical bits: a small mirror, hair ties, hairpins, a folding brush or comb. This makes it easy to look after your appearance even after a long day in full sun.
Remember – in a travel washbag, functionality is what counts. It is better to have fewer products, but multi-purpose and proven ones, than an overpacked bag half of which returns untouched.
The travel first-aid kit – what is worth having with you?
Basic medicines and first-aid supplies
Even if we are travelling to paradise on earth, it is worth being prepared for minor health issues. A travel first-aid kit should be light but well thought out. To start with, painkillers and fever reducers are essential, e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen – they can help both with a headache from the sun and with minor injuries.
In countries with different sanitary standards it is worth having anti-diarrhoea medicine and antispasmodics to hand – a change of water, spicy food or unfamiliar fruit can surprise the stomach. It is also good to have something for bloating or heartburn.
Do not forget remedies for colds and sore throats – the air conditioning on the plane or in the hotel room can lead to an infection even in the tropics. Lozenges, an anti-inflammatory and something for a runny nose will suffice.
The kit should also include plasters (regular and gel blister plasters), a small disinfectant (e.g. antiseptic spray or wipes), an elastic bandage (e.g. for a twisted ankle during trekking) and tweezers for removing splinters or ticks. Plus mini scissors or a small knife (in checked baggage if the blades exceed cabin rules!) and a few sterile gauze pads.
Supplements and electrolytes
In a hot climate, dehydration comes easily – not only through sweat, but also through increased physical activity. That is why it is worth taking electrolytes in sachets or effervescent tablets, dissolved in water. They come in handy after a day in the sun, intensive sightseeing or at the first signs of weakness.
Probiotics are a great safeguard for people with a sensitive digestive system – it is worth taking them a few days before the trip and continuing during the stay, especially in countries with different bacterial flora.
Vitamin C (for immunity) and vitamin D (if you spend most of your time in the shade or in air conditioning) can also be useful. Supplements are best taken in tablet, capsule or sachet form – they are light, take up no space and are easy to dose.
If you take regular medication, pack enough for the whole trip – ideally with a few days’ reserve and in the original packaging, in case of customs checks.
To sum up: a travel first-aid kit does not have to be big, but it should contain the most necessary supplies that let you react quickly to minor health problems. That way you avoid stress and unnecessary expenses abroad.
Electronics and gadgets – what comes in handy when travelling?
Essential electronics
These days it is hard to imagine travelling without a phone – it is our camera, map, guidebook and contact with the world in one. That is why your smartphone should always be charged and well protected. Be sure to take a charger (ideally a fast one) and a power bank – models up to 100 Wh (roughly 27,000 mAh) fit in hand luggage and meet airline standards. When travelling it is a real must-have, especially on long flights, connections or full-day excursions.
Headphones – wired or wireless – will come in handy on the plane, on the beach, on a bus ride or on city walks. It is also good to take a plug adapter if you are heading to a country with a different power standard – e.g. the USA, Japan, Australia or the UK. Universal versions with USB ports work best.
Also remember a USB-C or Lightning cable, and a spare cable or plug if your charger splits into modules – a small thing that can save the day.
Travel accessories
In tropical countries and places without air conditioning, a mini USB fan can bring enormous relief – it runs off a power bank and fits even in a pocket. It is an inexpensive but very practical gadget, especially in queues, on public transport or while waiting for a plane.
A phone stand (e.g. for a table or bed) lets you comfortably watch films, read or make video calls. If you plan to vlog, take photos or run social media from your travels – a tripod or a selfie stick with a Bluetooth remote may also come in handy.
A mini LED light – great for reading, night-time returns or as an emergency light source. Clip-on or USB versions are superlight and take up little space.
For reading fans, an e-book reader such as a Kindle is ideal – light, capacious and energy-efficient. Alternatively, a tablet can replace a computer, books, guidebooks and entertainment for the journey. It is worth protecting it with a case and downloading maps or films offline. (For long-haul flights, see our full list of what to take on a plane for a 12-hour flight.)
In some countries it pays to buy a local SIM card with internet right after arrival. Combined with dual SIM or a portable LTE router, this gives you independence and constant access to the network, without surprise roaming bills.
To sum up: travel electronics should be light, functional and reliable. It is worth betting on proven devices and organising everything well – e.g. in an electronics case or cable organiser, so nothing gets lost in the suitcase.
Armoured travel gadgets from Peli
Useful things for your hand luggage
Protective items
In a hot climate it is worth protecting yourself against the sun and overheating – not only on the beach, but also while sightseeing or walking.
- A cap or hat – protects the head and face from the sun, while being light and taking up little space.
- Sunglasses with a UV filter – not only improve visual comfort, but above all protect the eyes from harmful radiation.
- A small quick-drying towel – useful not only on the beach, but also on the road (e.g. to wipe off sweat, dry hands, or even as a little blanket on the plane). It takes minimal space and dries in a flash.
Snacks and water
A long flight, time changes, waiting for transfers – all these situations can surprise you with hunger or thirst. It is worth having something to hand.
- An energy or protein bar – a small thing that can save the situation when there is no access to food. Particularly useful during delays or night flights.
- Nuts, dried fruit – healthy, filling and resistant to high temperatures. They work better than chocolate, which can melt.
- A filter bottle – ideal for topping up water in places where you are not sure about its quality. An empty bottle will pass through security, and you can fill it in the departure zone afterwards.
Comfort on the journey
Even a short flight can be tiring, especially with connections, a night flight or limited space. It is worth taking a few small accessories that significantly improve travel comfort.
- An inflatable travel pillow – takes up minimal space, supports the neck and lets you nap on the plane, on a bus or at the airport.
- An eye mask – useful on long flights, in hostels or in hotels without blinds. It helps you relax and fall asleep even in the light.
- Earplugs – invaluable on noisy planes, during a nap at the airport, or if you have sensitive ears at take-off and landing.
All these small items are best packed into an easily accessible pocket of the cabin suitcase or a small bag, so you have them ‘to hand’ in any situation.
Compact protective cases from Peli
Luggage organisation – how to pack a cabin suitcase efficiently?
The role of organisers, washbags and vacuum bags
Packing hand luggage requires thoughtful organisation, so that all the essentials fit while keeping order and easy access to individual items. For this purpose, it is worth using different types of organisers and bags:
- Clothing organisers – light, flexible bags or pouches that let you sort clothes by type or by day. They make it easier to keep order and quickly find the set you need.
- Travel washbags – they protect cosmetics and small accessories from leaks and take up less space, and a transparent version makes the airport security check easier.
- Vacuum or compression bags – ideal for clothes that can be flattened, reducing their volume by up to half. This solution gains extra space in the suitcase, especially when packing thick fabrics or jumpers.
It is worth investing in a set of organisers matched to the size of your suitcase, making packing and unpacking more efficient and pleasant. And if you are looking for the ideal cabin suitcase that will hold everything and meet airline requirements, the Peli 1535 is worth considering – light, tough and superbly organised.
How to distribute the weight and make the security check easier
Arranging items properly in your luggage not only helps control the weight, but also speeds up the security check and improves comfort during the journey.
- The heaviest things at the bottom of the suitcase – shoes, electronics and books should go at the bottom, to keep the luggage stable and avoid uncomfortable weighting on one side.
- Lighter clothes on top – T-shirts, light dresses and underwear can be placed on top, making them quick to find without unpacking the whole suitcase.
- Cosmetics and liquids in an easily accessible, transparent washbag – airport security requires liquids to be taken out, so it is best to have them to hand to pass through the gates quickly.
- Small items in side pockets – chargers, headphones and documents can go in the side pockets of the suitcase or a separate bag, so they do not get lost during the journey.
With a well-thought-out weight distribution, the luggage will be more comfortable to carry and easier to inspect, and you will save yourself stress at the airport. (Curious what actually raises eyebrows at the scanner? Read what gets confiscated most often at European airports.)
What to wear on the plane to save space
One clever way to reduce the volume of your hand luggage is to choose the right clothes for the flight. That way you do not have to pack everything heavy or bulky into the suitcase.
- Layered clothing – a light T-shirt, a thin sweatshirt or jumper on top, plus a light jacket or shawl will let you easily adapt to changing temperatures both on the plane and at the airport.
- The heaviest and biggest shoes – if you plan to take flip-flops for the beach and comfortable shoes for sightseeing, wear the heavier, more built-up pair during the journey, saving space in the suitcase.
- Accessories like a hat or a scarf – can be worn or rolled up and put in the luggage, but if they are bulky, it is worth wearing them.
This way you gain more space in the suitcase, and the journey becomes more comfortable. Remember that a well-chosen suitcase, like the Peli 1535, can significantly ease packing and organisation.
How to handle airline restrictions without losing comfort?
Knowing the airline rules
Before every trip, it is worth familiarising yourself thoroughly with the current hand luggage rules of the airline in question. The dimensions, weight and number of permitted pieces can differ not only between low-cost carriers such as Wizz Air and Ryanair, but also among legacy airlines like LOT or Lufthansa. These rules change frequently, so it is good to check them on the carrier’s official website just before departure, to avoid unpleasant surprises at check-in.
Knowing the requirements allows conscious packing planning and the choice of the right luggage. For example, some airlines allow an additional small handbag or backpack that does not count towards the hand luggage limit – a great option for carrying the most important small items. Knowing the weight limits also helps avoid having to repack or pay surcharges at the airport.
How to fit everything within the dimensions and weight?
Efficient packing is fundamental if we want to have everything we need without exceeding the luggage limits. It is worth using organisers and vacuum bags, which let you reduce the volume of clothes and other things to a minimum. It is also good to choose multi-purpose clothing that is easy to combine into different sets, which lets you limit the number of clothes.
Weighing your suitcase in advance is also important – many people only discover at the airport that their luggage is too heavy, which means stress and additional fees. If you weigh the suitcase at home and still have some reserve, you can add something or rearrange the packing. Also try to place heavier items at the bottom of the suitcase, so the luggage is stable and comfortable to carry. (More pitfalls in our guide to cabin luggage dimensions, weight and 5 traps.)
Alternatives to traditional hand luggage
With very restrictive airline limits, it is worth considering taking an additional small bag or backpack that can be treated as a personal item. Carriers often allow such an additional piece of luggage, which gives extra space for small items and distributes the weight across different bags. (Whether you can combine a trolley with an extra bag is exactly what we cover in can you have two carry-on bags.)
It is also worth using the fact that you can take on board e.g. a laptop, a handbag or a camera bag, which are not counted towards the hand luggage limit with some carriers. So it is good to have a light, practical bag ready for such items, which may need to be quickly accessible during the flight.
Preparing for the security check
The airport security check can be stressful, especially when you have to quickly pull liquids, electronics and other items out of your luggage. That is why it is good to pack your hand luggage in such a way that these things are easily accessible – for example placed in transparent washbags or on top of the suitcase. This saves time and avoids unnecessary searching through the bag in the queue.
It is also a good idea to minimise the number of things that need to be taken out – for example by choosing cosmetics in mini versions or bars, which are easier to repack and quicker to pull out. It is also worth preparing mentally and having your documents to hand, so as not to waste time looking for them.
The importance of a durable, functional suitcase
In conditions of limited space and the need for precise packing, the choice of the right suitcase matters enormously. The best choice is a solid, light and well-designed cabin suitcase that makes maximum use of the available space. The Peli 1535 is an example of a suitcase that meets these requirements perfectly. It is durable, resistant to mechanical damage and equipped with practical dividers that help keep order.
With it, you can safely carry even fragile items and electronics, while travelling comfortably without worrying about exceeding airline limits. Its ergonomic design and durable wheels make moving around the airport and the city easier, which considerably raises travel comfort.
Investing in a high-quality suitcase is an investment in peace of mind and freedom on holiday – especially when travelling to warm countries, where light and well-organised luggage counts.
Summary
Well-thought-out hand luggage is a foundation that significantly affects the comfort of every journey, especially when heading to hot countries. Carefully chosen items help avoid excess and unnecessary weight, which translates into freedom of movement, faster passage through security and less stress connected with airline restrictions.
In this case, quality definitely counts over quantity. It is worth choosing light, functional clothes and accessories that can easily be combined into different sets, and betting on multi-purpose cosmetics and travel gadgets. That way our luggage will be not only light but practical, and we gain more space for the things that are truly essential.
Planning your packing well in advance is another important element of a successful trip. It gives you time to think through your needs, check the weather forecast, and assemble the essential elements of your hand luggage, such as documents, electronics and sun protection. Especially for trips to warm countries, with high temperatures and intense sun, well-chosen luggage can considerably improve the comfort of your holiday and sightseeing.
Finally, it is worth repeating that the best choice for a cabin suitcase is the Peli 1535 – solid, light and exceptionally capacious, which will prove itself on any journey, ensuring security and packing comfort.
