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Packing for a trip always feels like a balancing act. You want to be prepared but don’t want to drag a heavy suitcase through airports or hotels. The good news is that traveling light doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. With the right approach, you can fit everything you need into one carry-on bag.
I’ll be packing all week. Let’s see if I can take my own advice!
Start With a Packing List
The easiest way to avoid overpacking is to make a list. Jot down the essentials, then cut it in half. Most travelers bring more than they use, so focus on versatile pieces you’ll actually wear. Stick to your daily routine in mind—what do you need every single day? That’s your baseline.
Choose Versatile Clothing
Clothing is the biggest space stealer. The key is packing items you can mix and match. Neutral colors work well because they pair with almost anything. A few basics like jeans, shorts, and lightweight tops can create multiple outfits. Add one dressier option if you’ll be going out.
A smart tip is the “3-2-1 rule.” Pack three tops, two bottoms, and one pair of shoes for a short trip. Adjust as needed, but keep it simple. You can always do laundry if necessary.
Pack Smart With Shoes
Shoes can quickly weigh down your bag. Stick with two pairs: one casual and one versatile dress shoe or sandal. Wear your heaviest pair while traveling to save space. If you’re going somewhere active, swap one pair for sneakers.
Minimize Toiletries
Toiletries are another area where people overpack. Most hotels and rentals provide basics like shampoo and soap. Stick to travel-sized containers for what you must bring. Solid versions of shampoo, conditioner, and even perfume save space and reduce liquid restrictions when flying.
A clear, zippered pouch keeps everything organized and TSA-friendly.
Use Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are game changers for traveling light. They keep your bag neat and make it easier to find what you need. You can sort cubes by clothing type—tops in one, bottoms in another. Some even compress items, freeing up extra space.
Roll, Don’t Fold
Rolling clothes instead of folding saves space and helps prevent wrinkles. Tightly rolled clothing stacks neatly in your suitcase or packing cubes. For delicate items, fold them and layer on top.
Bring Multi-Use Items
Look for items that serve more than one purpose. A scarf can double as a blanket, swimsuit cover, or pillow. A small crossbody bag can work as both your day bag and evening purse. Choosing multi-use items keeps your packing list short while still meeting your needs.
Limit Tech and Gadgets
It’s tempting to pack every gadget, but they add weight fast. Stick with your phone, charger, and maybe a tablet or e-reader. Universal charging cables and compact power banks save space and keep everything powered up.
Wear Layers When Traveling
Instead of packing bulky jackets or sweaters, wear them during your travel day. This saves space in your bag and keeps you comfortable if planes or buses get chilly.
Rely on Travel-Sized Laundry
If you’re traveling more than a week, a small travel detergent or laundry sheet lets you wash clothes on the go. This means you can pack less and still have fresh outfits throughout your trip.
Keep Essentials in Your Personal Item
Even if you’re packing light, always carry essentials in your personal bag. This includes your passport, wallet, medications, snacks, and chargers. If your carry-on gets checked at the gate, you’ll still have the important items with you.
The Bottom Line
Traveling light takes planning, but it’s worth it. You’ll move faster, avoid baggage fees, and reduce stress. The secret is to pack only what you’ll use and choose items that work in more than one way. When you master this, you’ll wonder why you ever packed heavy in the first place.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.