Travel Light, Smart: Packing Tips For Savvy Globetrotters

Packing light is a skill that can be learned and perfected over time. It is a useful skill to have as it can save you time, money, and effort. Packing light gives you more freedom when you travel, allowing you to move through crowded spaces with ease, speed through baggage claim, and make last-minute plans without worrying about your luggage. It can also save you from additional fees charged by airlines for bags or luggage that exceed certain size or weight restrictions.

The key to packing light is to bring less stuff. This may seem challenging at first, but with careful planning and consideration, it is achievable. One general guideline is to limit yourself to only what you need and to choose items that serve multiple purposes. For example, a poncho can replace a rain jacket, an umbrella, or a backpack rain cover.

Another tip is to choose the right luggage. Opt for a lightweight and roomy bag with expandable options. A carry-on-sized bag is ideal, as it can save you from baggage fees and the hassle of waiting for checked luggage.

To make the most of the space in your bag, use packing cubes, compression bags, or vacuum-sealed bags. These can help keep your belongings organised and maximise space. Additionally, try to choose lightweight and multi-functional fabrics for your clothing. Quick-dry and moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal, especially for hot and humid climates.

Remember that you don't need to pack for every possible scenario. You can always buy or rent additional items if needed during your trip. By following these tips, you can master the art of packing light and enjoy a more comfortable and convenient travel experience.

Choose the right luggage

Choosing the right luggage is essential for a smooth and stress-free travel experience. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect luggage for your next trip:

Type of Luggage

The first step is to decide on the type of luggage that best suits your travel needs. There are three main categories: wheeled luggage, travel packs, and travel duffels.

• Wheeled luggage is ideal for traditional travellers and business trips, offering ease of transport through airports and on smooth surfaces.
• Travel packs are excellent for those who want mobility and are comfortable carrying their belongings on their backs. They are especially useful on uneven terrain like gravel, cobblestones, or stairs.
• Travel duffels are versatile and can swallow up a lot of gear. They come in various sizes, from compact carry-on bags to massive 100-litre plus bags for adventures requiring tons of gear. Wheeled duffels offer the convenience of wheels, while traditional duffels without wheels are lighter, more pliable, and better suited for remote places with bumpy, unpaved roads.

Size and Weight

When choosing the size of your luggage, consider the length and type of your trip. For a weekend getaway, a compact bag of around 30-50 litres is usually sufficient. Trips lasting one to two weeks may require a bag in the 50-75 litre range. For big expeditions or serious adventures, you'll likely need multiple large bags or several smaller, more manageable bags.

It's also important to remember that bigger isn't always better. A bag that's larger than you need will only tempt you to fill it, making your luggage heavier and more cumbersome. Instead, opt for a carry-on-sized bag whenever possible to save on checked baggage fees and streamline your travel experience. Most airlines allow carry-on bags no larger than 45 linear inches (a common size is 22" x 14" x 9").

Additionally, consider the weight of the luggage itself. Lighter luggage is generally preferable, especially if you'll be lifting and carrying your bag a lot. Bags with wheels tend to be heavier, so think about whether wheels are necessary for your trip.

Durability and Materials

When it comes to durability, consider the materials used and the sturdiness of zippers, wheels, and handles. Look for high-denier fabrics, which tend to be more durable. If protection is your top priority, go for hard-sided luggage made from lightweight, impact-resistant plastics or aluminium. For maximum pliability and ease of stuffing into tight spaces, opt for soft-sided luggage.

If you need a waterproof bag, look for duffels with high-denier ripstop fabrics coated in thermoplastic urethane. Alternatively, pack your items in plastic garbage bags inside a water-resistant duffel.

Features

Finally, consider the features that are important to you. Here are some options to look for:

• Two or four wheels: Two-wheeled luggage is more common and allows you to pull or push your bag. Four-wheeled luggage offers more mobility and can be rolled alongside you in any direction, but it may roll away if parked on an incline.
• Carry-on size: Ensure your bag meets common airline size guidelines for carry-on luggage.
• Laptop and tablet compartments: These dedicated compartments provide padding and protection for your devices during transport.
• Organiser pockets: Built-in organiser pockets keep frequently used items like pens, passports, and keys easily accessible.
• Removable daypack: Some travel packs include a removable daypack for excursions or times when you don't need your entire luggage.
• Backpack straps: Duffel bags with dedicated backpack straps make carrying heavy loads more comfortable.
• Packable: Some duffel bags can stuff into their own pocket for compact storage when not in use.

With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to choosing the right luggage for your travels. Remember to consider the type of trip, the features you need, and the size and weight restrictions that will work best for you. Happy travels!

Pack versatile clothing

Packing versatile clothing is key to travelling light and smart. Here are some tips to help you pack versatile clothing items:

Plan your clothing choices

Lay out all the clothes you plan to take and assess whether you really need each item. If you're not sure, you probably don't. Cut your list of desired items in half and only take what you know you will use. Make sure every item serves more than one purpose and weighs less or takes up less space.

Choose the right clothing

Select clothing that can be layered, so you can adapt to changing weather conditions without packing bulky items. For example, a short-sleeve shirt with a long-sleeve top, or a lightweight packable jacket. Pick clothing made from lightweight, quick-drying fabrics that don't wrinkle easily. Merino wool is a good option as it is lightweight, odour-resistant and temperature-regulating.

Colour coordinate

Stick to a simple colour palette so that you can easily mix and match tops and bottoms to create multiple outfits. Black and dark colours tend to look cleaner for longer than light colours and are more sophisticated for dinners out.

Wear your bulkiest items

When travelling, wear your bulkiest items, such as jackets or hiking boots, so that they don't take up valuable space in your luggage.

Plan for laundry

Planning for laundry is an important part of packing light. Here are some tips to help you plan and prepare for doing laundry while travelling:

Plan ahead

Before your trip, practice washing your clothes in a sink to get an idea of how long it will take for them to dry. This will give you an idea of how often you will need to do laundry and how many sets of clothes you will need to bring.

Choose the right clothing

When packing, opt for clothing made from lightweight, quick-drying fabrics. Synthetic fabrics, such as merino wool, are a good choice as they dry quickly and are odour-resistant. You can also look for clothing designed for travel, such as convertible pants or skirts that can be worn in multiple ways, saving space in your luggage.

Pack smart

Bring a small bar of biodegradable soap that can be used for laundry, as well as for hair, body, and dishes. You can also pack a laundry bar, which is useful if you won't have access to a washing machine. To save space, use packing cubes or compression bags to organise your laundry items and keep your luggage tidy.

Do laundry on the go

If you are staying in a hotel, ask if they offer laundry services. Otherwise, look for laundromats or use the washing machine at your vacation rental. If you are unable to find a washing machine, hand washing in the sink or using a sink laundry bag is always an option.

Keep it simple

Remember that you don't need to bring your entire wardrobe! Pack only what you need and plan to re-wear items. Choose clothing that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. This will reduce the amount of laundry you need to do and save space in your luggage.

Be prepared for delays

Finally, remember that travel plans can be unpredictable. Always bring a small laundry bag to separate your dirty clothes and keep your luggage organised. This will help you stay prepared and ensure that laundry doesn't become an afterthought.

Minimise toiletries

Minimising the number of toiletries you bring is a great way to reduce the bulk and weight of your luggage. Here are some tips to help you streamline your toiletry kit:

Choose Multi-Purpose Products

Look for products that can serve multiple purposes to reduce the number of items you need to pack. Coconut oil, for example, can be used for moisturising rough skin, soothing eczema or psoriasis, softening the soles of your feet, taming frizz and adding shine to your hair, and even as a subtle highlighter for your cheekbones. Vaseline or Lucas' Papaw Ointment are other versatile products that can be used for a variety of purposes, from eyebrow conditioning to minor wound healing.

Opt for Solid Toiletries

Solid shampoo and soap bars are a great way to reduce size without necessarily reducing the number of items. They last longer than their liquid counterparts, take up minimal space, and eliminate the risk of spills and leaks. You can also use a bar of soap instead of shower gel to save space.

Downsize Your Products

Instead of packing full-sized bottles, invest in some refillable travel-sized containers. You can also purchase smaller sizes of your favourite products or sample-sized versions. For short trips, consider using individual toiletry packets, which are small, easy to pack, and generate less waste as you can toss the empty packets as you go.

Streamline Your Makeup

If you wear makeup, be selective and only pack the products you will definitely use. You can also save space by using stackable makeup, such as the Subtl Beauty "Starter Stack", which includes a shine control powder, highlighter, bronzer, lip cheek, and concealer in one convenient stack.

Be Selective

Before packing, lay out all the items you're considering bringing and critically assess whether you truly need each one. Ask yourself if you will actually use each item, and if not, leave it behind. You can also check what toiletries your accommodation provides, as hotels often supply shampoo, body wash, and other essentials, reducing the number of items you need to pack.

Share With Travel Companions

If you're travelling with others, coordinate with them to share certain toiletries, such as hair styling products or sun protection, to maximise space in your bags.

Buy Locally

Remember that you can always purchase additional toiletries at your destination if needed. Shampoo, body lotion, shower gel, sunblock, toothpaste, and deodorant are commonly available in most places, so you don't need to pack large quantities of these items.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the amount of space that toiletries take up in your luggage, making your travels lighter and more efficient.

Travel light, travel happy

Packing light is the way to go

Packing light means more freedom when you travel. With less luggage to lug around, you can easily manoeuvre through crowded spots, speed through baggage claim, make last-minute plans without worrying about your stuff, and spend less time tracking your gear. Plus, you'll avoid those pesky baggage fees.

How to pack light

The 1-2-3-4-5-6 rule

A general guideline is to pack one hat, two pairs of shoes, three bottoms, four tops (short or long-sleeve or an outer layer), five pairs of socks, and six pairs of underwear. This should be enough to last you for two weeks. Beyond that, customise your packing list to include swimwear, rainwear, or other specific items related to your trip.

Make every item do double duty

Pick your clothes carefully. Given two choices, pack the item that serves more than one purpose and weighs less or takes up less space. For example, a poncho can replace a rain jacket, umbrella, or backpack rain cover. A sarong can be used as a towel, picnic blanket, or skirt.

Choose light, quick-drying fabrics

Pick performance fabrics that breathe well, keep moisture away from your body, wrinkle less, and dry faster. Merino wool is a great option as it doesn't retain odours, breathes well, and is lightweight. Synthetic fabrics also pack well and dry quickly.

Plan on doing laundry

Unless you have the luxury of hotel laundry services, doing laundry is part of travelling light. Practice washing your clothes in a sink, and pack a small bar of biodegradable soap that can be used for your hair, body, laundry, and dishes.

Bring multipurpose footwear

Most travellers can get by with two pairs of shoes. Think multi-use—running shoes can work for running, walking, and hiking. Light trail-running shoes are a good option as they offer maximum versatility and are suitable for various activities.

Leave most toiletries at home

If you can get toiletries at your destination, leave them at home. Ask your hotel if they supply items such as shampoo, lotion, or razors. Only bring what you need daily, like toothpaste, a toothbrush, or contact solution. Buy sample-size toiletries, including toothpaste, as space is limited.

Choose the right luggage

Think small and light. Aim for one carry-on bag if possible. That may not always be practical, but challenge yourself to start small and make it fit. A backpack is a good option, especially if you're exploring multiple destinations or spending a lot of time on trains and buses.

Use packing organisers

Roll your clothes and use packing cubes, stuff sacks, compression bags, or zip-top bags to maximise space and keep your things organised. Compression bags squeeze things down by removing excess air, but be sure you don't end up adding extra weight by packing more.

Prepare for lost bags

Keep essentials with you in your carry-on bag, including your passport, money, eyewear, and medication. Wear or carry the heaviest and bulkiest items that would be hardest to replace, such as hiking boots.

Benefits of packing light

Save money

By travelling light, you can avoid baggage fees, especially when flying with low-cost airlines.

Peace of mind

When you don't check luggage, there's no need to worry about your bag being lost, damaged, or stolen. It gives you peace of mind knowing that your bag is always with you.

Easy mobility

Moving around is much easier when you don't carry heavy luggage. Walking to a train station or searching for your hotel in a foreign city is much more enjoyable without a heavy suitcase.

Flexibility and control

With only one bag, you're mobile and in control. You can adapt to any situation, make last-minute changes, and easily hit the ground running when you arrive at your destination.

Save time

With a carry-on bag, you can exit the airport quickly while others wait for their checked luggage. You also save time by not having to pack and unpack a lot of items.

Serendipity

Packing light allows you to embrace the unexpected. You can change locations easily, be nimble at the airport, and have the freedom to explore without being weighed down by your luggage.

Tips for packing light

Make a packing checklist

Make a list of things you need and things you want. Then cut the list of wants in half. If you're not absolutely sure you'll need something, don't take it.

Try a trial pack

Fill your backpack with everything you want to take and go for a walk with it on. You'll quickly realise how cumbersome a heavy bag can be and will be more inclined to cut down on what you want to carry.

Roll your clothes

Rolling your clothes instead of folding them saves space and can help reduce wrinkles.

Keep toiletries tiny

Buy sample-size toothpaste tubes and deodorant to save space and weight. Pick up solid shampoo and conditioner bars, which last for months and take up minimal space.

Choose a functional personal item

In addition to your carry-on bag, choose a functional personal item like a backpack or tote that can hold your electronics, in-flight essentials, and even a change of clothes.

Pick versatile shoes

Go for classic and neutral shoe options that will go with any outfit. Pick a pair of walking shoes that you can wear during the day and pack lightweight gym shoes as a backup.

Adjust your body care routine

Curate a selection of multi-purpose products that get the job done and leave you feeling refreshed. Waterless moisturisers and lotion bars are great space-savers, and solid face moisturisers are perfect for carry-on luggage.

Use travel hacks

Carabiners, a buff or scarf, and an inflatable travel pillow can be lifesavers when travelling lightly. They provide functionality and comfort without taking up much space.

Final thoughts

Packing

Frequently asked questions