Easy and Nifty Tips for Traveling Light

Last updated on February 2nd, 2017 at 06:43 am

One of the most challenging parts about going on vacation is packing. You’ll be away from home for an extended period of time, so there are things you’ll definitely need to bring with you. Suitcases can quickly fill up, and they’re difficult to carry through the airport.

It is possible for you to travel light, and here are some great tips to help you do it.

Don’t Bring Maybes

There are always items that we think, “I might need these!” More often than not, we don’t ever end up actually needing them. Whenever you come across an item that you aren’t totally sure you’ll use, leave it out. Don’t bother packing it because it will only take up space and probably won’t come in handy. Only bring the items that you’re sure you’ll need.

travel light

Bring Laundry Detergent

It might seem like adding laundry detergent to your bag will only make it heavier and take up space, but you only need a very small bottle. If you bring laundry detergent with you when you’re staying in a hotel, you’ll be able to wash your clothes by hand, especially your sock and underwear, in the sink or bathtub. This way you can pack less clothing items because you’ll be able to reuse the ones you bring.

travel light

Pack in Pairs

When you’re packing your clothes, consider packing in pairs. If you truly want to travel as light as possible, bring only two of each item. Two pairs of socks, two pairs of underwear, two pairs of pants, two T-shirts, two long-sleeve shirts. No one on your vacation should care if you wear the same clothing more than once. With two of everything, you can alternate items and wash one every night.

travel light

Cut Down Your Beauty Routine

If you use a lot of beauty products when you shower or get ready, make it a point to cut down on your routine in order to pack more lightly. You’re on vacation, so don’t worry about putting on complete makeup – just bring some mascara and lip gloss. Leave your blow dryer at home and air dry. Determine which products are essentials – shampoo, body wash – and which aren’t – moisturizer, foundation, etc.

travel light

Use the Hotel’s Stuff

Call ahead to where you’re staying and find out what they provide you with. Lots of hotels will give you mini shampoo bottles, toothbrushes, lotion, and more. You should have towels, and you might have a hair dryer and iron and ironing board. Whatever they give you, use their stuff and leave yours at home. You can always ask for more of the complimentary toiletries when you run out.

travel light

Mail Home Your Souvenirs

If you plan on buying souvenirs and goods from the country you’re visiting, they can quickly make your luggage much heavier. Instead of bringing a second bag to carry them in and dealing with the extra weight, consider mailing them home. You won’t have to lug them around or deal with customs; your new belongings will be waiting for you when you arrive home.

travel light

Herbert Kikoy

Surigaonon by birth, Butuanon by heart and now an adopted son of Cebu, Herbert is a hobbyist photographer who focuses on Food, Sports, Travel and Festivals photography.