4 tips for packing light while travelling

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Minimalist packing, or the increasingly popular hand luggage-only approach, is a growing travel trend. Beyond the practicality of carrying less, it also contributes to sustainable travel and can save you costs associated with checked baggage allowance.

But even if you’re not explicitly travelling with hand luggage only, the general concept of packing light still stands. It means less to carry, fewer items to worry about being scattered or lost in your hotel room, and more space for shopping and souvenirs.

If you’re a chronic over-packer (guilty), packing light can seem like a near-impossible task. So, we’ve rounded up four of our best tips to help you travel lighter without compromising on practicality or comfort.

1. Be versatile

Packing light isn’t always about bringing less. It’s about choosing versatile clothing pieces that you can mix and match to create different outfits. A simple t-shirt in a neutral colour is great for daytime sightseeing, but you can also dress it up for a night on the town. A clean pair of sturdy sandals can see you through those long days sauntering down cobblestone streets, but they’re also great for a casual dinner. Opt for clothing items you can layer, such as a scarf, cardigan or light rain jacket, so you’re prepared for all types of weather.

Considering the fabric of your clothing can also help you pack lighter. Opt for lightweight, quick-drying fabrics like nylon, polyester or linen. If you want to go one better, choose fabrics like cashmere or elastane that don’t crease easily (unfortunately, that eliminates linen.)

And that bulky faux fur number with the tag attached that you haven’t worn in the three years since you’ve bought it, but feel like maybe Los Angeles is the place to finally show it off? Save it for another time, and only bring items you know you’ll wear.

Also read: 14 travel hacks to change the way you travel forever

2. Leave the hairdryer at home

No, really. Most hotels, Airbnbs and hostels provide hairdryers, along with other essentials like toothbrushes, soap and shampoo. Some properties even go one step further with vanity kits, mouthwash and shaving kits. If you have something specific in mind, check with your accommodation before you leave home. You may need to pack less than you think!

And if your accommodation doesn’t have what you need, you can always pick up the basics when you arrive. If your dental floss is still perched on your bathroom counter at home, you may have to settle with a different brand for now.

Another tip for packing light is to consider buying your favourite products in travel-friendly sizes. Or, decant your must-haves into smaller containers. Most international airlines have a liquid limit of 100ml per container, which is often enough for a few weeks. But you don’t have to maximise that limit if you’re travelling for a shorter period. Consider purchasing 30ml or 50ml containers and only decant enough product to last your trip.

Also read: The benefits of earphones vs headphones for travelling

3. Go digital where possible

These days, there’s a mobile app for almost everything. Most airlines and hotel groups have apps, so you can easily access your bookings. Or, use an app like TripIt to access details of your flights, hotels and activities in one place, even when you’re not connected to the internet. You may be able to get transport cards on your phone, while some destinations like Istanbul simply require a credit or debit card to travel on public transport.

Cutting down on bulky plastic folders and scores of printed documents is not only great for the environment but also for your luggage. Organising your travel plans digitally, whether on an app, downloaded to your phone, or stored on a drive, means you can easily find what you need, and you won’t be caught short without a printed entry ticket to that must-do activity.

Also, consider adding your debit or credit card to your mobile wallet for more manageable payments. Card payments are on the rise worldwide and having your card stored on your phone can make payments quicker, easier, and discreet. There’s no need to fumble through your entire wallet for a physical card, especially in busy street markets or popular attractions where the risk of theft may be higher.

Though you should aim to lessen what you’re carrying while travelling, use your discretion. A physical card should always be brought on your travels (but perhaps not whipped out at every spending opportunity) so you can access ATM withdrawals and, of course, just in case.

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4. Consider multi-use items

If you’re doing a round the world trip, there’s a high chance you’ll need different travel adaptors for each region you visit. Rather than pack multiple adaptors to cater to every gadget you have – not to mention different adaptors for each country – consider a universal travel adaptor to minimise space. Universal travel adapters are designed to work in multiple countries by having built-in plugs that can be configured to fit different outlet types. You could even pair this with a powerboard (I use one with individual switches and USB ports) to charge multiple electronics simultaneously.

While you’re at it, consider a multi-charger USB cable to cater to different devices. Multi-charger cables have interchangeable tips – often three or more – that can connect to different types of devices, so you can charge multiple devices with a single USB cable.

Choosing multi-use beauty, electronics, and other tools can help you pack lighter for your next trip without compromising on convenience or functionality.

Also read: 10 essential travel electronics for your next trip

Summing up

Travelling with less is more than just a trend. By considering your travel essentials—for instance, choosing versatile items or going digital with your plans—you can pack fewer items without compromising on practicality.

And, while packing less, why not travel for less, too? Here are some of the cheapest countries Australians can travel to, plus our favourite uses of 100,000 Qantas Points to help you achieve your dream getaway.

Featured image: Adobe Stock