Easy Packing Tips for Light Travel

Everything starts with the luggage. Using one carry-on bag may not be practical, but try to start small. If you use a larger bag, it’s going to be tempting to bring a lot. So, when choosing luggage, consider the kind of trip and activities you’ll be doing.  

For example, duffel bags are perfect for bike or safari tours because they’re affordable and durable. If you are exploring several destinations, a travel pack that has shoulder straps will make a good choice because of its versatility and mobility. Wheeled backpacks are convenient for families with young kids. Once you have chosen your bag, you can proceed to the next step.

Observe the 1-2-3-4-5-6 Rule

The 1-2-3-4-5-6 rule recommends packing a hat, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 bottoms, 4 tops, 5 pairs of socks, and 6 pairs of underwear. This list should be enough for a 2-week trip. You can customize the list to include rainwear, swimwear, and other items related to the trip. But no matter how long do you plan to stay on your trip is, try to pack only 2 weeks’ worth of clothing. No one will really notice or care if you wear your clothes more than once, but be prepared to do your laundry during the trip.

Create a Packing List

When you have a packing list, it will be easy to pick the things you really need. You can usually rent or buy what you need at your destination through pay links—an easy link-based payment service from Hiveage designed for travellers and vendors, so you don’t have to bring a lot of stuff. Before you go, lay out all the gear and clothes you have listed and pick only those that serve more than one function and take less space.

For example, bring a poncho instead of an umbrella or rain jacket. A sarong can replace a skirt or towel. Bring shorts that you can walk around, hike, or swim in, and instead of short- and long-sleeve shirts, pack one that has roll-up sleeves. Convertible pants are also a good choice. Instead of bringing a hat, you can pack a bandana instead. It can keep your neck warm or protect your neck and head from the sun.

Layer Clothes

By packing versatile layers that you can remove or wear as temperature or weather conditions change, you will have more outfit choices without adding too much volume or weight to your luggage. For example, replace a bulky sweater with a short-sleeve shirt and long-sleeve top.  Just make sure that the outer layer fits over the inner layer without bunching up. You should also

Pick Neutral Colors and Quick-drying Fabrics

Choose a simple color palette so that you can mix and match your clothes easily. Darker colors like black look cleaner longer and tend to be more sophisticated than light colors. It’s also a good idea to choose quick-drying and breathable fabrics. If you’re willing to splurge, you can add clothes made of merino wool to your travel wardrobe. Synthetic fabrics also dry quickly.

Pack Multipurpose Footwear

Light trail-running shoes will make a good choice because they are extremely versatile. You can use them for walking, hiking, or running. Consider getting a pair of shoes that’s 1 or 1/2 size larger since our feet tend to swell in hotter climates. Make sure the shoes are broken in beforehand to reduce blisters.

Before you leave, practice carrying your bag around. Lift it up and down. Is it too heavy? Then, consider ditching some of your stuff at home, like your toiletries. After all, you can just buy toiletries at your destination. The hotel will also provide some toiletries. Another option is to bring sample-size toiletries or transfer toiletries into storage bottles or smaller travel tubes. It’s also a good idea to check the airline’s limits on luggage weight and size.