The extra bathing suit, the rain jacket just in case, the pair of shoes you probably won’t wear – needless to say, we’re all guilty of overpacking. After all, everyone wants to be prepared for any occasion on their vacation.
If you’re like most travelers, you return from your vacation with a heap of clean clothes that never saw the light of the day. Even more upsetting is the realization you’ve hauled 50 lbs. of luggage to and from your destination for nothing.
That’s why vacationers all over the world are turning to minimalist travel. Minimalism prompts travelers to sort through their belongings, bringing only what they truly need on a vacation. Condensing all of your belongings to one bag, rather than a 50 lb. suitcase, is the easiest way to travel. Interested in learning more? Peruse our minimalist travel packing list and travel light on every trip.
Pack Only the Necessities with Our Minimalist Travel Packing List
The Bag
The first step in becoming the ultimate minimalist traveler is picking the right bag. A lightweight rolling suitcase or roomy backpack are excellent options. The key is to pick a bag small on weight, but big on durability. Packing cubes or luggage dividers are great ways to keep your belongings organized, too.
The Clothes
Fashionistas, buckle in. Arguably the most difficult part in mastering minimalist travel is removing half the clothes from your suitcase before you depart. While having a variety of clothing may make you feel more prepared, sitting on your suitcase just so you can zip it up is the wrong way to go.
We recommend picking multi-functional pieces. For example, blue jeans can be easily dressed up or down depending on what you pair with them. Since they’re so versatile, consider including a few pairs as part of your minimalist travel packing list. Rather than packing pink, green, and purple jackets, just pack a black or tan one. Neutral colors go with almost anything and can significantly cut down on excess clothing in your baggage. If you’ll be traveling for an extended period, pack clothing that isn’t prone to wrinkling. Athletic clothes are great options and can be dressed up or down, too.
The Electronics
Our minimalist travel packing list doesn’t end with clothing. Especially applicable if you’re traveling with children, it’s important to think about what gadgets you will use most often on your vacation. While your cell phone, charger, and headphones are all essential items, consider leaving video games, laptops, and your favorite electronic wine opener at home.
The Toiletries
While the easiest way to master minimalist travel when it comes to toiletries is to just purchase them at your destination, we have a few tips for those looking to bring their bathroom essentials with them. Similar to airline regulations, it’s best to use travel-sized soaps, shampoos, lotions, etc. While it may not seem like enough to get you through your week-long vacation, you’d be surprised to see how far it’ll get you.
Consider what other products need to be on your minimalist travel packing list, too. While you may have five different hair products or perfumes to choose from, just bring one. Trust us, you won’t miss the others when you’re breezing through the airport.
Now that you’ve mastered the minimalist travel packing list, it’s time to minimize time wasted at the airport, too. Shipping your luggage ahead of time to your destination will allow you to travel through the airport with just a ticket in-hand. Learn more or start shipping today!