When I travel, my minimalist travel packing list is what saves me. When you’re travelling from city to city – using various modes of transport, the last thing you need is a big, chunky suitcase. I don’t like having many things I won’t wear or use, and I’m not really into considering all the “what if” scenarios. And most importantly, I think about the aftermath: the unpacking with all the laundry left for you once you return home, most likely jetlagged. No thanks!
You get the point. I have so many reasons for travelling light, and I am happy to say that I’ve become pretty darn good at it over the years. I seem to always be prepared, have what I need, and never have too much. For me, it all comes down to planning. I always consider a few things before packing that help me keep my bag light. So today, I’m here to share my packing tips with you.
Plan Your Minimalist Travel Packing List
Planning is the first important step. There are many factors you should consider: the weather, the activities you’ll be doing, and of course, the duration of your trip. Of course, what then makes it to your minimalist travel packing list depends on the type of trip you’re going on.
Here are some questions you can ask yourself:
- Will this be a nature adventure, or will I spend most of my time in the city?
- Will I be dealing with changing climates, or am I looking at a stable weather forecast (if that even exists)?
- Where will I be staying? Will I have access to a kitchen? Can I wash my clothes? Will I have towels?
- Will I be moving around a lot or be in one place the whole time?
- What kind of transport will I be using?
- Am I travelling solo or with a group?
Once you know the answers to your questions, you can begin to think about your packing list.
Tips to Help You Pack Light
The size of my bag, the type of bag I take with me, and the items I carry around with me obviously change from place to place and season to season. However, there are a few rules I abide by no matter where I go. These rules help keep my bag light.
Versatile Clothing
Take versatile clothing. This is one of the first rules of minimalism in general. Make sure all the pieces in your wardrobe go together to come up with as many outfits as possible. Also, keep your travel wardrobe versatile to take you from museums to parks and cafes.
Minimize Your Beauty/Personal Products
When it comes to personal and beauty items, I carry my own. I like to use zero-waste, eco-friendly and natural products. This usually means I often have to make my own stuff with me. My Shampoo Bars are a lifesaver when it comes to travelling light. A bar can last for up to two months, and you don’t have to worry about security because it’s solid. And the natural and quality ingredients in it also mean that I can easily avoid conditioners.
We spoke about versatility when it came to our clothes. The same applies here: I often take a facial oil that works the face, body, and hair. So here’s a tip: if you want to travel light, start with your everyday life and only buy and consume what you need. Keep your shelves clutter-free. When it comes to travelling, you would’ve had lots of practice.
Share with Friends
Are you travelling solo or in a group? If you’re travelling with family or friends, then get in touch beforehand and see if there are any overlaps. Maybe you can share some of the items between you. This helps you keep your bags light, and it’s a great way of making sure you’ve got everything you need.
Take Some Detergent
I’ve recently started doing this, and when it comes to longer trips, it’s a lifesaver. Take some laundry detergent along with you! When I travel, I wish my intimates and socks daily, and every few days, if need be, I wash my tops and let them dry.
Think About the Bigger Picture
When it comes to my minimalist travel packing list, one thing that makes it easy is thinking about the bigger picture. Remember, you want to think about the place you’re travelling to, not the things you take with you. The objects you take have to serve you and help make your trip effortless and accessible – nothing else. The journey is about your experiences, not the clothes you’ll wear. So keep that in mind, think about your comfort and the beautiful knowledge you’ll be having.
You have it: a minimalist travel packing list to help you downsize and enjoy those holidays coming up this Summer.
