Much cotton stuff is a pain to dry. Wool blends are much better. For shirts look at non-iron and be prepared to de-wrinkle using the bathroom as a steam room.

I always find clothing is the least of the problems when packing - assuming normal day to day wear. It's shoes, electronics, books and pills & potions that take up the space (and weight).

As for why OP is considering a small bag - perhaps they are using low costs airlines and don't want to pay the fees for checked luggage.