Traveling light is art and science. Resources abound with checklists (very useful) and advice (also useful to glean ideas) but each traveler has to find what works for them and develop their personal style. Some like to prepare for any eventuality, the antithesis of packing light, while others want to lighten their load.
You see it everywhere tourists are—people dragging heavy suitcases, bumping their roller bag over uneven cobblestones and pushing overstuffed bags into airplane overhead bins. Rarely a sojourner can be seen lightly tripping down the street with a compact bag, looking cool and relaxed as they check in. It’s not difficult to pack light, but it does take some planning and concentrated effort, which is impossible if you’re throwing random items in your suitcase at midnight before your pre-dawn departure.
Benefits: There are many benefits to packing light. Being able to independently carry bags and not have to check bags on airplanes saves time and reduces the possibility of loss or theft. Maneuvering bags over cobblestones or unpaved roads is infinitely easier with smaller bags. If travel involves many different modes of transportation, such as buses, minivans or boats, being able to be nimble with luggage eases the hassles of dealing with small storage spaces. Getting to a room on upper floors in buildings where there is no elevator or it is out of service will not be a problem if a bag can be shouldered with ease.
Detriments: Is there a downside to packing light? It depends on the traveler and their personal circumstances. Style and variety are sacrificed and the traveler and travel companions may tire of the same look day after day. Business travelers can benefit from some of the concepts, such as sticking with one color scheme, but must maintain a professional appearance. Likewise, travelers who avail themselves of certain cultural events, such as the opera or fancy balls will have fashion constraints. Extreme temperature swings are harder to plan for, so travel to certain regions in some seasons can make packing light problematic. Rinsing out clothing in the bathroom sink every night or two may not appeal to some.
If you’re ready to take the challenge, read on for 10 tips for packing light.
Ten tips for packing light for overseas travel
1. Select a backpack or other bag that fits in an airplane overhead bin and can be easily handled by you.
2. Make a checklist so you don’t forget anything important.
3. Start packing several days in advance-lay your clothes out, then critically evaluate each item and start putting things back in your closet. Aim for 50% reduction.
4. Stick with one neutral color scheme to reduce need for multiple shoes and accessories.
5. Make sure tops work with more than one outfit and limit to three or four. Two pairs of pants or skirts should be sufficient. I’m a fan of reversible print skirts for women—two travel outfits in one.
6. Select sturdy fabrics that dry quickly (no jeans or thick socks).
7. Plan to rinse out one or two items every day, including underwear and shirts. Bring some laundry supplies: a snack sized zip top baggie with powdered detergent, a flat, universal plug, and travel clothesline and you’re all set. Roll them in a towel before hanging to remove excess water and they will dry faster.
8. Pack liquid or gel toiletries in TSA-approved 3.4 oz (100 cc) containers and cram as many as you can into a quart sized bag. Liquid medical supplies, including contact lens solution, is exempted from this rule, and can be packed separately.
9. Use ditty bags, packing cubes or mesh laundry bags to organize your things, especially small items.
10. Bring one semi-nice outfit-a collared shirt for guys, a nice blouse and skirt for women, so you’ll look presentable if you want to go to a nice restaurant or other event. A colorful silk scarf or inexpensive jewelry can also dress up an outfit.
Resources
The Travel Independent website provides a comprehensive discussion about all aspects of backpacking and traveling light, and has useful information even if you’re not using a pack.
For more tips on packing light, see Packing Light for Overseas Travel on Inga's Adventures.com
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