Wouldn’t it be nice if you could shrink your entire wardrobe with a cartoon ray gun and fit everything into your pocket? And then enlarge it again when you arrive at your destination? Yes, that would be pretty cool. But since we won’t be defying the laws of physics anytime soon, we must learn how to travel light.
We’ve all been there. You’re standing in front of your closet, scanning your wardrobe, trying to figure out what to pack. For some people it’s agonizing, as if you’re forced to choose your favorite child. Thankfully, there’s solution to this conundrum: exercise mind over matter.
Before departing on a trip we tend to worry about insignificant things. What if we run out of toothpaste? What if we lose our iPhone charger? What if I break a heal on my stilettos? But these kinds of worries melt away when when we finally reach our destination.
Holiday travel is more about the places and experiences. Not the stuff we bring. After all, almost anything can be purchased if necessary.
Seasoned travelers only worry about three things: their passport, their wallet and their cell phone. Everything else is secondary and easily replaced. We naturally become less self-conscious about our wardrobe when we realize that nobody else cares what we’re wearing.
Other travelers are not judging us. And even if they are, who cares? You’ll never see any of those people again. Get over it.
Overpacking weighs us down. It strains our back and muscles. It adds stress. Especially when traversing uneven sidewalks, climbing up stairs and crossing cobblestone streets, which are commonly encountered in foreign countries.
Traveling light enables flexibility and ease. And it’s kinder to your body. So we’ve created this simple guide to help you learn how to travel light.
1. Learn how to choose a good carry-on suitcase.
There are key features to look for, such as: two wheels vs. four wheels (“spinners”), single rod handles vs. dual rod handles, soft cases vs. hard cases, as well as handles and skid guards. Not to mention overall suitcase construction! Our favorite combination is: two wheels + dual rod handles + soft case construction (with outside pockets) + handles on all sides and ample skid guards. To get into the nitty-gritty, read our guide on How To Choose The Perfect Carry-On Suitcase.
2. Learn how to pack only the essentials.
Seasoned travelers choose clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched. Jeans and trousers can be worn more than once, so pack fewer of those. Shirts are usually worn just once, so pack more (unless you are packing non-stink clothing). Read our guide on How To Pack A Suitcase – The Ultimate Guide, to learn more.
3. Learn how to pack your suitcase more efficiently.
There are different methods for packing your clothes. Some people roll them, some people fold them. What’s the most efficient way? We conducted a test and found that rolling is better than folding. You can fit more in your suitcase and also avoid creases. Plus, there are other benefits of rolling. Read our post: Suitcase Packing Face-Off: Rolling vs. Folding, to learn more.
4. Learn how to keep your wardrobe fresh when traveling.
Laundry service is relatively inexpensive compared to bag check fees charged by most airlines. Especially in foreign countries. It’s better to pack fewer items and do laundry once or twice during your 10-14 day trip. Small items, such as undergarments and t-shirts can be easily hand-washed in the hotel room sink using a travel soap packet and then hung dry in the shower or closet to be re-worn the next day. Read our guide on How To Pack A Suitcase – The Ultimate Guide, to learn more.
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For Pinners:
Nice guide! Packing is always one of the most troublesome when it comes to traveling especially if you have kids, as you need to remember everything. I really agree on #4 that sometimes getting your laundry done while traveling is much cheaper than checking in your baggage which costs roughly $25 for the 1st bag alone! Overall the guide is great. It certainly helps me on planning our trip next month. Thanks!
Sure, happy to help. Thanks for the comment and have a great trip!