If you’re the type of person who frequently pays excess baggage fees, packing light may seem like an impossible task. However, a lot of advice on how to travel light revolves around fitting two weeks’ worth of luggage into a knapsack the size of your hand.
Traveling with less luggage gives you more flexibility. With less to carry around, you can move through congested areas quickly, rush through baggage claim and make impromptu plans without thinking about where to put your belongings. However, in this article, we offer you a neutral ground, so don’t worry.
Make Sure Your Clothes Serve Double Duty
By this, we imply that you pack those clothes that serve more than one purpose, are less space-consuming and also weigh less. For instance, have a look at the below-mentioned examples :
- Pack track pants that are comfy and can be worn on treks to casually walk around while you are being touristy.
- A good hoodie can be worn in the cold, can be used as a raincoat and is something you can casually pull off.
Layering
As the weather and temperature vary, pack a variety of layers you can add or remove. When packing layers for your next adventure trip, consider yourself a hiker or backpacker. Layer a short-sleeved shirt under a long-sleeved top rather than bringing just one big sweater. Include a light, packable jacket if the weather is colder. This greatly expands your wardrobe possibilities without adding a lot of bulk or weight.
Neutral Colours
To keep it simple, pair various shirts and bottoms for outfit combinations, and stick to a limited color palette. When you go out to dinner, black and deeper hues typically look more upscale and last longer than light hues.
Multipurpose Footwear
Depending on the type of trip, most travelers may get by with just two pairs of shoes. When traveling or on days off, wear the heaviest pair. Avoid packing too much footwear for different occasions especially those which are not waterproof and are prone to getting dirty soon. Keep it simple and versatile.
Pack Quick Drying Fabrics
Choose performance materials that dry quickly, remove moisture from your skin, are less likely to wrinkle, and have good breathability. Several items in your closet most likely already exist. Additionally, synthetic textiles dry quickly and pack easily. Consider a down or lightweight synthetic insulated jacket that packs down tiny and offers amazing warmth for its weight if you need a warm outer layer.
No Organizers
It is best if you don’t include your bulky organizers whether that is for your shoes, makeup, toiletries, etc. Rather use a thin drawstring wash bag that would not only store your items but also come in handy for other purposes.
Do Not Pack Full Sized Toiletries
In fact, many shampoo, conditioners and body wash companies encourage the use of small bottles and thus manufacture travel packs that have the most utility, especially for someone who travels frequently. It is not advisable that you travel with bulky products. You can always rely on the hotel to provide you with toiletries or purchase them from the area you are staying in.
Smart Electronics
By this, we mean smartly pack your electronics! Don’t cause chaos for yourself by packing all chargers and USBs. It would be wise to invest in a small portable charger which would be very useful while you are traveling.
Books or Kindle?
If you are someone who is an avid reader, especially on trips, our advice is that its time to turn digital. How many books are you going to carry and can you imagine the space it is going to take up? The most ideal thing would be to get yourself a kindle.
Medicines
Carry only your essential medication and don’t fill up your pouches with things that you “might” need in ‘just in case’ situations. These are the kind of things that could add to your non-essential bulk.
Conclusion
Make the most of your time by traveling light! You won’t need to go to the airport early, and once you arrive, you’ll be among the first to head out as others wait at the baggage claim. Additionally, you can make the most of your trip by packing less at the end of your stay.
