10 Tricks for Traveling Light
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Traveling light, with as little luggage as possible, makes my favorite pastime (exploring other places) just that much more enjoyable – even before I arrive at the airport for departure.
I dislike paying baggage fees and hate standing in baggage claim waiting for my bags to pop up on the carousel with what seems like a hundred other people waiting and praying that my bag will show up.
There’s nothing worse than my bags getting lost.
I try to prevent that by taking only a carry-on bag and a personal bag (a purse or laptop bag).
Here are 10 tips to help you learn to pack lighter for your next trip.
1. Only use a carry on suitcase. If you need more, carry a small backpack as your personal item.
2. Will you need a coat or a heavy sweater? Wear it on the plane. You can always take it off and place it in the overhead bin.
I often travel with a light shawl or scarf. I’ve even used my scarf as a beach cover-up and a tablecloth.
This train of thought also goes for jeans. They are heavy, so wear them on the plane. The same goes for boots.
However, if you’re traveling to a warmer client, you can leave all of that heavy stuff behind, which leaves more room.
3. I love to read, and my Kindle allows me to conveniently carry thousands of books with me.
Often, I will bring my second Kindle or Fire Tablet if I know that I will be beachside so that I can read in the bright light.
I’m still trying to get my favorite cousin and frequent travel companion to leave those heavy books behind and load them onto her Kindle.
4. I rarely bring back souvenirs, but when I do, I always have an extra duffle-style travel bag that folds neatly in my carry-on.
5. I use small containers that I’ve recycled for makeup and toiletries.
When traveling, I put these in one clear zip bag so that they are easy to remove for scanning at the airport.
I also save room by not packing bulky items such as lotion, sunblock, baby oil, or other heavy liquids. I buy them at my destination.
6. Seriously limit the number of clothes you pack, and make sure they serve double duty and are in the same color palette. They will be easily interchangeable.
Now is NOT the time to pack every new outfit you’ve never worn.
7. Pack your clothes vertically (file cabinet style) so you can see them at a glance without moving items.
8. Pack a Max of 2 Pairs of Shoes
9. Pack a maximum of 5 pairs of undies. Try ultra-soft, quick-dry undies for women and quick-dry boxers for men. It’s really easy to wash your undies with soap and hang them to dry.
10. Wear comfy socks for a chilly plane ride. Ensure they’re not tight and binding on your legs or ankles so they won’t interfere with leg circulation.
Decide on your list of must-have items for your carry-on bag.
I always include an empty, flat water bottle, Cetaphil moisturizer, travel-size Vaseline, and lip balm.
Do you usually only take a carry-on bag when you travel? Share any tips you have for making your travel journey lighter in the comments below.
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