As more airlines charge for traditional carry-on bags, those who don’t want to pay need to fit everything into a tote, small duffel bag, daypack or roomy purse. Here’s how.

I once flew Spirit Airlines round-trip to Las Vegas from Chicago for less than $100. The catch: I could take only a personal item that would fit under the seat in front of me (or check a bag for a fee).

This lesson in ultralight flying won me over with convenience and the joy of being unburdened by a lot of extra stuff.

With the cheapest airfares come the tightest constraints, including limitations on complimentary carry-on luggage. Basic economy tickets on United and low-cost carriers such as Allegiant, Frontier and Spirit restrict ticket holders to a personal item.

Packing light is a challenge compounded by the personal-item limit. Provided you’re not packing for business or special events or have children to consider, the following