The advantages of traveling light are multiple. Let's start with not worrying about what and how to squeeze everything in your bag. Plus most of the time, traveling with only a backpack or a carry-on is a cheaper ticket alternative 😉 and in the worst case that you absolutely need something that you haven't packed, buy it locally. Then there is the -obvious- time and weight advantage. The lighter the baggage, the less straining it is on your body to push and/or carry it... and if you have to run to catch a connecting flight, you'd wish you had left that extra pair of shoes -or any other item you didn't really need- at home! That's saving time and energy to get ready and to get in and out of airports. Another tip in this category is to wear the heaviest instead of carrying it in your rucksack.
The aforementioned brings me to what to pack. This is crucial and will determine how well you can organize yourself and save on time and worries. Once you have determined what your trip is about -a beach, or rather a hiking in the mountains trip- you will assess better what items you need and what others you can leave behind. The concept of the travel capsule wardrobe is to have a few indispensable interchangeable pieces of clothing so that you can create multiple outfits from some items only. For instance, when I pack 3-4 shirts, 2 pairs of pants, 1 skirt, and 1 dress, I am set for a week. If the trip's duration extends that period, what to do? The idea is to travel smart, not to add expenses by requesting a laundry service. In some countries, having your clothes washed and ironed for you is so cheap that it's worth it. When it is not the case, having a travel washing bag with you is ideal and it will allow you to wash your clothes yourself. Keep your clothes fresh by hanging them for some time before packing them back or using dryer sheets in your packing cubes.
Since I have mentioned packing cubes, my journeys have changed thanks to these space savers. I use one for running shoes and slippers. Another one for underwear. One for pants and bottom clothes. One for tops. One for toiletries. One for small electronics -such as a power bank- and cables. And I keep 2-3 for new apparel that I might purchase when I see a good deal/bargain, and for dirty wear that will go straight to my washing machine as soon as I am back home. These cubes are great to organize anything you take with you. And you will immediately know what is where without rummaging through your luggage. On some trips and when I have a larger piece of luggage because I intend to bring back products I do not find at home, I keep some essentials in my backpack which is my emergency go-to pack: I use it for my laptop and electronics and generally a light jacket in case it gets cold on the plane, a change of underwear, a shirt, a legging, and socks. If my luggage is delayed, lost, or if I get stranded, I have the minimum to freshen up until I buy whatever is necessary. Anyway, one fundamental thing to keep in mind is to choose the right fabric that doesn't require a lot of maintenance, is light, and dries fast. Don't pack complete outfits. It's preferable to have items that can be cross-matched and come in neutral and dark colors.
So if you are heading to a warm destination, pack long sleeves to protect yourself from sunburn. And if it's a cold location, a good coat and several thin yet warm layers are going to be your savior. It gets tricky when you are vacationing for more than a week and in more than one location with different weather. But it is not impossible. Avoid packing at the last minute and try to get ready one day before departure: if an important thing is missing, you can still acquire it before flying off. Place the clothes you want to take with you on your bed and eliminate any piece that you "might" need or want to wear. Then add a pair of flats or high heels if you are attending an official event and slippers -I love my Havaianas because I use them in the shower and anywhere I am not sure is clean enough to walk barefoot. Keep the toiletries at a minimum. Unless you are camping or staying at a hostel, carrying this extra weight is unnecessary. When you do, use small silicon bottles and fill them with your shampoo and liquid soap. Leave your laptop at home and only pack a tablet if you need to do some work while abroad. Your favorite books can be downloaded in audio format to your phone at no extra weight.
Now, the testing part. Wear your backpack and walk around the house. If it's heavy, you need to remove one or several items. For instance, leave your valuables at home. There is no need to carry your jewelry box when on trip to the woods or to the beach! Especially not in your carry-on. Remember your journey isn't a fashion show. All you need is to dress neatly with your touch and keep comfortable at all times. Because the main goal is to enjoy your time, create new memories, and come back home with a refreshed psyche. Being organized will make the security process at airports smoother and faster. It will save your time and energy. Happy traveling ✈️✈️
