Packing light doesn’t mean losing out on style or comfort, but it does require reconsidering heavy-duty travel basics including bags, shoes, jackets etc. 500 grams here, a kilo there when you’re packing for a trip, especially by air, these small increments can add up fast. So what’s a jet-setter like you with a serious case of wanderlust to do?
There’s a certain art to packing a bag. It’s surprisingly easy to travel light and look good on your trip. It definitely requires organisation throughout the entire process. But to truly take your packing skills to the next level, you’ll need to learn a few tricks of the trade. Whether you’re looking to travel with a carry-on only or you simply want to cut your checked bag down to size, these tips for packing light can help.
Let’s Talk Luggage And Suitcases
Packing light starts with a featherweight foundation. When you’re looking for a suitcase, consider these weight classes: A 22-inch carry-on roller suitcase is generally considered lightweight if it’s under four kgs. Manufacturers start claiming “ultralight” status at around the three kg mark.
Maximise Your Suitcase Real Estate
You’ll need to condense your belongings down as much as possible to make sure everything fits. Packing cubes make the impossible possible when it comes to packing a ton of stuff in a small space. Roll your garments and tightly squish them in each cube, squeeze out as much air as possible. A large packing cube can contain a week’s worth of clothes, while still leaving you plenty of extra space in your suitcase
Packing Footwear
I usually don’t need to bring more than three pairs of shoes on any trip. Exercise sneakers, a comfortable daytime shoe to walk around in (loafers, for example), low boots or sandals and, for evenings, and heeled sandals if you want them. Here are few packing hacks you may want to follow:
• Clean your shoes thoroughly because they will be coming into contact with some of your clothes.
• Stuff smaller clothing items, into bulky shoes like boots, sneakers, loafers etc.
• Pack the heels in the central top half of your suitcase so that they don’t take as much weight.
Travel Bottles Are Your Best Friend
Tiny containers are incredibly versatile tools. Instead of stuffing your full-sized toiletries into a zip-lock bag, buy your own small travel bottles and transfer your lotions, shampoo, and conditioner to their own secure little containers. You'll save space, and avoid leakage. These convenient cases can also store your necklaces, earrings, small cables, and other items that might otherwise get lost or tangled.
Use A Handbag With Lots Of Pockets
Airlines generally let you bring a carry-on bag, as well as a “personal item,” like a handbag or backpack and you want to take advantage of every inch of allowable space. Carry a handbag/backpack with a lot of pockets. A handbag with lots of compartments allows you to create a dedicated space for each of your essentials.
Be Practical But Stylish
Athleisure clothing is becoming increasingly fashionable. They also fold neatly and fit into virtually any bag. Consider compression leggings, along with a long-sleeved cotton top and coat, or a track jacket, or a half or full-zip hoodie. If you have a formal evening or event planned during your trip, don’t bother with bulky dresses and co-ords that take up a lot of space, opt for a slip dress or lightweight materials that fold easily. A few key accessories can change the look of an entire outfit, so always packs some costume jewellery, like a statement cocktail ring and a pair of oversized earrings. Carry one statement jacket or coat in a shade that you can wear with all you outfits.
Staying Connected Without Clutter
Think about what you will really need. If you’re traveling for fun and not work, just bring your phone, and if you like to read your Kindle. You can even avoid bringing your camera, most phones take amazing pictures now. Definitely get the plug extender with USB charge port so you only need cords and aren’t lugging around extra plugs.