By Brazen Edwards
Travelling light is an art form that requires a blend of strategic planning and disciplined choices. Packing light can make your journey smoother and less hassle, whether for a short break away or a year-long trip.
Before you start packing everything, including the kitchen sink, read my comprehensive guide to mastering the skill of packing light.
Plan Ahead
Before you start stuffing your bag, take a moment to plan. Research your destination considering the climate, cultural norms, and planned activities. This step is crucial to help you create a packing list tailored to your needs. Remember to check the weather forecast—it’s a simple yet effective way to pack smartly.
A compact rain jacket or poncho is essential if heavy rain is expected. For colder climates, layering is key, so instead of packing bulky items, a lightweight fleece or a down jacket is more packable than a heavy coat. Plan your outfits based on your activities. A beach vacation obviously requires different attire than a hiking expedition!
Luggage Choices
Opt for a carry-on-sized bag. I know this can seem scary, but it forces you to be selective with your items and saves you from the hassle and expense of checking in luggage. Choose a versatile backpack like Black Voyage’s vacuum seal backpack, or a compact rolling suitcase, depending on your travel style.
Backpacks are great for mobility and adventure travel, while rolling suitcases are ideal for urban environments or if you have mobility issues.
Compression bags also help maximise space and keep your belongings organised. Not only do they reduce the volume of clothes, but these packing cubes categorise items for easy access, making them more convenient if you’re staying in a hostel or backpacking.
Streamline Your Wardrobe
The key to packing light is versatility. Choose mix-and-match clothing that can create multiple outfits. A capsule wardrobe using more neutral colours can be easily coordinated and dressed up or down.
Regardless of the length of your trip, aim to pack at most seven days’ worth of clothing. Embrace the habit of wearing outfits multiple times—most people won’t notice or mind. Invest in clothing that serves more than one purpose. A sarong, for example, can be used as a beach cover-up, a scarf, or a makeshift blanket.
Pack laundry detergent sheets to help you travel with fewer items. Depending on your location, you can often use a laundry service or do it yourself in a laundromat.
Limit Shoes And Accessories
This is difficult for many, myself included, but shoes take up significant space, so limit yourself to two pairs if possible. You need a comfortable set for walking and a dressier style for fancier occasions. Something like ballet flats or a wedge heel will dress up an outfit.
Wear the bulkier pair during travel to save space in your luggage. You can also minimise accessories to enhance your various outfits. Items like a scarf, a few pairs of earrings, some lightweight necklaces, a versatile belt, and a pair of sunglasses are great.
Essential Toiletries And Personal Items
To save space, stick to travel-sized toiletries and use multi-purpose products. Many brands offer solid versions of everyday toiletries, such as efficient, carry-on, travel-friendly shampoo bars and toothpaste tablets. Use a compact, waterproof toiletry bag and pack only the essentials, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, and medications. Many hotels provide basic toiletries, so check in advance. Makeup-wise, try using items that pull double duty, like a tinted moisturiser as a foundation and a lipstick that can be used as a blush.
I also advise packing a small first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relief medication. A reusable water bottle will help reduce waste and keep you hydrated on the go. Most airports have drinking water fountains where you can fill your bottle after you have passed security.
Embrace Technology
If you’re a voracious reader like me, instead of carrying multiple books, bring an eReader or download an app on your smartphone or tablet. You can also add movies, music, or podcasts to your devices for offline enjoyment. Scan and upload copies of important documents like your passport, travel itinerary, and insurance details, and store them on your phone or cloud.
Your smartphone becomes your camera, GPS, and entertainment device, so purchase a reliable, compact power bank to keep your devices charged when you can’t access charging points.
Final Tips And Tricks
If you’re an over-planner like me, limit “What If” items and resist the urge to pack for every possible scenario. If you genuinely need something, you can often buy it at your destination.
Create a checklist of essentials and stick to it to avoid overpacking. Remember, the goal of packing light is not just to save space but to enhance your mobility, reduce stress, and allow for a more flexible and spontaneous adventure.
Imagine the freedom and excitement of moving around easily and exploring new places without the burden of heavy luggage. Do yourself a favour and pack light!