Are you travelling soon? Packing light means more freedom when you travel. With less to carry around, you can easily go past crowded spots, speed through baggage claims, and make last-minute plans without worrying about what to do with your luggage.
It is wiser to travel light now that many airlines and other means of transportation charge fees for bags or luggage that exceeds a certain size or weight restrictions. Here are tips on how to pack light and smart.
- Consider the 1-2-3-4-5 rule
No matter how long your trip is, try to limit yourself to no more than seven days’ worth of clothing. Get used to wearing clothing more than once (no one really notices or cares). The 1-2-3-4-5 rule applies to one hat, two pairs of shoes, three bottoms, four tops and five undies ( including bra for women).
2. Have a packing list
Make a packing checklist of things you need and things you want. Then cut that list of wants in half. If you are convinced you don’t need something, don’t take it. You can typically buy at your destination. Spread all of your planned clothes before you go and think carefully about each item if they are necessary to take with you.
3. Make sure every item serves double purposes
Pick your clothes carefully. Given two choices, pack the item that serves more than one purpose and weighs less or takes up less space.
4. Layer your clothes
Pack versatile layers that you can put on or take off as weather and temperature conditions change. Instead of packing one bulky sweater, take a layer of a short-sleeve shirt with a long-sleeve top. In colder climates, add a lightweight packable jacket. This gives you many more outfit options without adding too much weight or volume. Before your trip, make sure your outer layer fits easily over your inner layer(s) without bunching up.
5. Choose light and drying fabrics
Pick performance fabrics that breathe well, keep moisture away from your body, wrinkle less and dry faster. You probably have some items in your closet already. If you’re on a budget, invest in choice items like quick-drying socks or underwear and add to your travel wardrobe over time. Synthetic fabrics also pack well and dry quickly. For a warm outer layer, consider a lightweight synthetic or down insulated jacket that packs up small and provides impressive warmth for its weight.
6. Choose neutral colours
Stick with a simple colour palette to easily mix and match tops and bottoms for several outfit combinations. Black and darker colours look cleaner longer than light colours and tend to be more sophisticated when you go out to dinner.
7. Bring multipurpose footwears
Most travellers can get by with two pairs of shoes, depending on what kind of trip they embark on. Wear the heaviest pair on the plane or on travel days.
8. Leave your toiletries at home
If you can get toiletries at your destination, leave them at home. When you book your hotel, guesthouse or apartment, ask if they supply such items. If it is not something you need every single day (toothpaste, toothbrush or contact solution), consider leaving it out.
9. Choose the right luggage
You should think small and light for your trip. Aim for one carry-on bag if possible. That may not always be practical but challenge yourself to start small and make it fit. Resist the urge to use a bag larger than needed or you’ll be tempted to fill it.
10. Weigh your bags
Before you leave, pack your bag and practice carrying it around and lifting it up and down. If it is too heavy, you can ditch some things at home.