Traveling with only a carry-on doesn’t mean you need to skimp on what you pack.

Severe flight delays and mishandled baggage mean sticking to a carry-on bag is a safer bet than checking luggage. Follow these steps from professional organizers to fit everything you need for a summer getaway into a smaller bag.

First, ensure your luggage meets the airline’s specifications. Otherwise, you risk having your bag checked at the gate.

Don’t put items in your bag without a plan. Experts recommend displaying all the clothes and accessories you want to bring, so you can visualize what you need.

“Lay out what it is that you think you need, and then remove one of everything,” recommends Blake Jones, owner and founder of The Organizing Boss, an organizing company based in Washington, D.C.

To prevent overpacking—and leave room for souvenirs—pick clothing items you can mix and match, building multiple outfits out of just a few pieces.

Try clothes on before you leave to prevent wasting space on items that you won’t wear, says Eryn Donaldson, founder of the Model Home, an organizing company.

Packing cubes help to compress your items, allowing you to fit more in your bag. In a pinch, a large zip-top bag can serve the same purpose.

When placing items in the suitcase, be smart about filling in all of the bag’s nooks and crannies.

“If you don't have the crevices filled up, then your more fragile items are more likely to move or get broken,” says Sylvie Muchmore, owner of Bins & Bliss, an organizing company based in Jupiter, Fla.

With limited space in a carry-on, it’s important to protect clean clothes. Pack a bag to hold dirty laundry, or ask your hotel for one.

Strategize what goes on top

Kay Patterson, a Boston-based organizer, says to pack with your travel day in mind. Keep toiletries handy so you can access them at security. If you’re often cold, pack your sweater on top.

After going through security, reorganize your bag so your toiletries are padded to prevent any spills or explosions. Last, be sure to wear the same outfit on the day of your flight to ensure everything fits in your suitcase.

Produced by Ericka Burchett and Michael Bucher Additional image: iStock