I started traveling with only a carry on a few years ago, when I wanted to 'stick it to the man' & not pay for a checked bag. Plus, I have a crazy fear of my luggage getting lost (it happens too often, people!) so I'm determined.
Though it may seem impossible, fitting everything into a carry on can be done, and trust me when I say you feel a sense of 'I can do anything!' once you get it down.
These are the tricks I swear by: