Minimalist travel is about packing only your essentials. The simplest way to pack less is to separate the “needs” from “wants”. Once you determine the difference between the two, it will be easier to pack for your next trip. The minimalist approach in packing will make your life easier. Less stress from waiting on queue to have your baggage checked in, save money from the extra load, and most of all, it’s more comfortable. Having that extra weight while traveling can be very exhausting.
Choose A Smaller Bag
By using a smaller bag to carry, it will reduce the chances of you overpacking. It will push you to pack lighter and bring only the essential. A backpack is the best option when traveling light. It’s easier to carry and it’s more versatile. You can walk around the city and not have to worry about where to leave it when exploring.
Pack Only The Essentials
Learn to prioritize when packing light. Do you really need to bring that extra pair of jeans when you’re traveling to the tropics? Maybe not. Don’t overpack by bringing more than 1-week worth of clothing. Bring clothes that you can easily mix an match with your other clothes. Buy clothes that don’t need to be washed every time you wear them. Minimalist packing is all about stripping your packing list down to the essentials and only bringing those. On top of the essential list is: Passport, Extra Valid ID, Credit Cards, Cash, Phone and Charger.
Travel Clothing and Accessories
Your travel wardrobe will depend on where you’re going. But the most basic items should always be packed. Bring at least 6 shirts, a pair of jeans, outdoor shoes, flip flops, 5 pair of underwear, a pair of socks, a hoodie and swimming shorts.
There are accessories that are just as important as clothing. Like sunglasses and/or eyeglasses. If you wanna stay hip while you travel, SmartBuyGlasses has an amazing selection of designer eyewear to choose from. Lightweight microfiber travel towel should be added on our packing list. It is 10 times lighter than an average cotton towel and it dries faster. A multifunctional headwear is a good addition to your packing list. It is so versatile. You can use it as a bandana, sweatband, scarf, sleeping mask, money holder, or sun guard. A lightweight packable travel pillow and blanket can be pretty handy too.
Toiletries
I personally pack a shampoo bar instead of the normal shampoo bottle. It lasts longer and it’s organic. I also bring a multipurpose liquid soap. There are liquid soaps that can be used as a shampoo, body wash, shaving cream, laundry detergent, fruit and veggie wash, and more. Some other stuff on the toiletries list is toothbrush, deodorants, bug repellent and sunscreen.
This article is only scratching the surface of minimalist travel. There are many other great articles out there to help you on your way. Though my recommendation is just to get out there and do it.
