5 tips for traveling lighter

5 tips for traveling lighter

In the age of airlines charging for every pound we bring on board, it's more worthwhile (and smart) than ever to travel light. That doesn't mean that it's easy to pack, whether in a backpack or a suitcase, because we travel in different contexts that often require multiple clothes and accessories. Here are 5 tips to travel lighter to apply now!

Stay concise. The more space we have, the more we occupy it!

Before you even fill your suitcase or your backpack, examine this “container”. Is it too big for your needs? If so, reduce its size! Not only will you be carrying oversized luggage that may interfere with your travels, but rest assured that it will be packed, no matter how big. Might as well stay small to avoid simply "taking up space" which is not really vital!

Choose clothes that dry quickly and fit well!

Put lightweight, technical, or quick-drying clothes in your luggage and you can reduce the amount of items you carry. Let me explain. Wash your bits in the sink or, as I often do, in the shower with you. Yes, yes, get in the shower with your clothes on, soap them on you (it feels better than in your hands), rinse off and then take them off. At the end of your shower, wring them out and hang them up. The next morning, your underwear, sweater, and pants will be dry and ready to wear the next day.

This technique requires a little work, but it allows you to bring 2-3 days of clothes in carry-on only instead of a full week (and more) in the hold.

Avoid duplicates and unnecessary

Unsure to use it? Drop! A tip I often offer during my conferences is to make a pile of everything you want to bring, then remove 50% before putting it in your backpack or suitcase. It sounds like a stretch, but I assure you it's true in most cases!

When it comes to USB cables, hats, mittens and jackets of all kinds, avoid duplicates at all costs. If you can use the same item for multiple things, do it! A good example is the pashmina which can be used as a scarf, towel, beach mat, pillow, etc.

Limit pairs of shoes

What takes up the most space and weight in a suitcase or backpack is without a doubt shoes. A good pair of walking shoes and flip-flops are usually sufficient. In any case, if you also have to bring your hiking boots or summer sandals, make sure you never exceed the rule of 3 shoes, so 2 in your luggage and one under your feet!

Opt for accessories instead of extra clothes

Say goodbye to 12 t-shirts and numerous kits. Instead, consider bringing one or two cuter scarves, headbands, earrings, or necklaces. Lighter, they slip well into a corner of your luggage and will make all the difference to your look. Even if you wear the same sweater several times, by alternating the accessories, you will look totally different in your photos and you won't get tired of wearing it often!

Last tip as a bonus: roll your clothes (it takes up less space) and place them in storage cubes (packing cubes). It's magical, organized and easy to place!

With these tips and tricks to lighten your luggage, you will not only be able to reduce the weight to lug from accommodation to accommodation or from transport to transport, but you will be able to save on your next trips by perhaps traveling by carry-on, c i.e. only with cabin baggage. I challenge you!