Pack this: How to travel for business in a single carry-on

Whether you're next business trip involves catching a flight, boarding a train, or heading out on a road trip, packing everything you need in a single carry-on can cut costs and reduce stress while you're away from home.

Start With The Right Suitcase

Whether you're a frequent flier or not, a high-quality, airline-approved carry-on suitcase is a smart investment for any business traveler. Most airlines strictly limit carry-on sizes to bags measuring no greater than 22" x 14" x 9" - any bigger and you'll be looking at checked baggage fees and the inevitable delays that come with airport luggage carousels.

Look for one that has wheels and a pop-up handle that can do double-duty as a briefcase holder during those long treks through the terminal, parking lot, or hotel hallways.

Choose Neutral Colors

Packing a high-quality black (or neutral) business suit will give you the perfect base to build all your outfits on during your trip. During the day, wear the entire suit with a simple button-down business shirt, then pair the pants with either a casual dress shirt (for men) or a blouse (for women) to wear in the evening so you won't need to pack multiple pairs of matching shoes.

Stick with black socks, and use ties and lightweight silk scarves to add a touch of color without bringing along extra clothes.

Pack Travel-Sized Personal Care Products

Not only can regular-sized containers of hair care products, contact lens solution, and beauty creams take up a lot of room in your luggage, but there's strict limits on what you can take with you on a flight.

Pack only TSA-approved travel-sized containers of any must-have toiletries, and remember, most hotels offer complimentary toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, and conditioner on request. Unless you need a specific brand, go ahead and leave those personal items at home.

Ditch The Winter Boots

If you're travelling to, from, or between destinations where boots are a must, consider investing in a pair of pack-able, waterproof winter overshoes. Lightweight and versatile, they're the perfect space-saving alternative to bulky boots, and they're designed to fit over both casual and business footwear.

Wear Your Jacket

Jackets can really eat up the limited space inside your carry-on bag - that's why we recommend wearing your coat or blazer while traveling. Not only will this leave more room inside your luggage, but your jacket can serve double-duty as a pillow in a pinch.

Roll or Fold?

Roll small items like underwear and socks so they can be tucked into small spaces in your bag. To pack dress shirts, first button them up, lay them front-down, and fold into thirds. Fold again horizontally, then roll tightly from the fold right up to the collar. Similarly, dress pants can also be rolled vertically - just be sure to keep the crease straight.

Suit jackets are the exception - they should be carefully folded (not rolled) and packed last to minimize wrinkles.

Limit Your Electronics

Choose a single, multi-function laptop computer in lieu of multiple devices when traveling. Not only will this cut down of what you'll have to pack, but it'll reduce the risk that you'll loose your electronics while on the road.