Packing is something that can actually invoke anxiety in a lot of travelers. So, I am hoping these packing light strategies will help alleviate some of that. First of all, don’t wait until the last day or so to pack! Second of all, don’t pack the whole house. You really don’t need half of what you think you need.
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Packing light strategies for liquids
I eliminate as many liquids as I possibly can when I pack because they are bulky and add unnecessary weight! Their alternatives are just as effective, and they last so much longer than their liquid counterparts.
Before I start purchasing items or packing for upcoming trips, I check to see what my accommodations provide. Do they provide shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, etc? Almost all hotels do and a huge portion of vacation rentals do. In fact, some go above and beyond in terms of quality. Under those circumstances, I usually don’t have to pack much. I pack my travel size deodorant stick, razor, travel toothbrush, travel size toothpaste, and my little makeup kit. Also, I may toss in an insect repellent stick and a sunscreen stick if my trip warrants it.
TRAVEL TIP! Ladies! They make these super amazing travel size makeup kits that have everything you really need in them. They are so convenient!
Make a list, well actually two
Your first list will be all the items you need to take with you when you travel. You don’t want to arrive at your destination only to realize you forgot something really important. To make the listing process easier, divide your list into categories. Make one category for electronics, one for clothes, one for toiletries, and so on. Make sure you wait until you put each item in your luggage before you mark it off your list.
Your second list will be items you need to purchase for your trip. Likewise, mark those off after you pack them and don’t wait until the last day to run to the store.
Simplify your wardrobe with my packing light strategies
Book accommodations with access to a washer and dryer
For the purpose of packing light, my choices of accommodations almost always have a washer and dryer available, whether it be in my private vacation unit, a public facility at a campground, or on the lower level of my chosen hotel chain. I generally pack soap sheets for this purpose. You can take out how many you need and pack them in a storage baggie to make extra space!
I generally do work tasks on my laptop while I wait for my laundry, or I dive into a good book. Yes, I travel with a book…or two. I opt for paperbacks that are lite weight and refuse to ever get an electronic reading device. There’s just something about cracking open a good book and flipping the pages that modern technology can’t replace.
Roll clothing in environmentally friendly zip top baggies
I roll every item I can and place them in zip top baggies. Yes, I am still being environmentally friendly and quite thrifty! For packing your smaller items, these environmentally friendly quart size zip top bags work quite well! That’s certainly a ton of bags for the price, and they are reusable.
For packing your larger items, opt for these environmentally friendly gallon size zip top bags. They’ll allow you to pack those larger items in a way that organizes your luggage while saving you a ton of space.
PRO TIP: I always toss a couple extra bags of each size in my luggage; in case I have something wet to bring home after my adventures.
Packing light strategies for clothing
The type of clothing you choose to pack makes a huge difference when it comes to packing light! Winter trips are certainly the most challenging. Coats, hats, scarves, gloves, boots all equal heavy bulky luggage, especially if you’re traveling as a large family.
Winter Gear
Switch out bulky jackets for light weight “packable” puffer jackets.
Make sure you opt for one that has synthetic insulation if you plan on being outside in wet weather conditions. Ladies, this lightweight puffer jacket packs into its own pocket and is absolutely great for traveling. Guys, here’s the men’s version of that same lightweight puffer jacket.
Scarves are really long and can be thick once you roll them up for packing purposes. For that reason, consider using a traditional neck gaiter or a bandana with ear loops (which I absolutely love).
Look for thin gloves that are capable of protecting your hands during super cold temperatures.
Likewise, there are light weight hat options that still keep you warm (some weighing as little as a 1/4 of an ounce). Also, wear your boots and pack your shoes.
Let’s talk jeans for a minute!
They are bulky and take up a ton of space. In addition, they’re heavy which adds unnecessary weight. But, most of us want at least one pair of jeans with us when we travel, especially in the cooler months. So, how do we get what we want and still travel light?
Well, this is how I do it. IF I want a pair of regular jeans, I wear them the day I leave so they don’t add any bulk or weight to my luggage. I usually pack at least one pair of light weight travel jeans (8-12 ounces) in my luggage. My favorite pair is made from a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex. Additionally, jeans with this blend are made for both men and women. They are stylish and oh so comfortable.
Bras & underwear
Bra tip for the ladies! Ditch bras with padding and underwires. They add unnecessary weight and take up a lot more space in your luggage. My favorite travel bras weigh between 1 and 2 ounces.
As far as underwear goes, I pack a pair for each day of my trip plus a couple extras just in case. Light weight travel underwear is amazing and totally worth investing in. They are comfortable and dry quickly.
Socks
The number of socks I pack obviously depends on the season, planned activities, and trip duration. I only require a pair or two if my intention is to lounge poolside and sip margaritas for a few days. However, in the cooler months, my trips almost always involve hiking. For these trips, I usually pack 5 pairs. I always opt for socks that are light weight, fast drying, help prevent blisters, and pull moisture away from my skin.
Pants & skirts
I usually pack a long, thin skirt or a lightweight pair of business casual pants in case I need something nice to wear.
I also pack leggings! In fact, I usually pack 2-3 pairs. They are so comfortable and versatile! I pack light leggings for mild days which weigh a little over 5 ounces. Likewise, I pack fleece lined leggings for colder days.
Depending on the nature of the trip I am packing for, I may pack a pair of light weight hiking pants or a pair of lightweight cargo Capri pants. In this case, I usually eliminate a pair of leggings or nix the blue jeans all together.
Shorts
I usually pack light weight athletic shorts. They are so comfortable and take up very little space! However, you may want to take a pair or two of blue jean shorts on your trip. If you want to shave a little weight, make sure they are made with lightweight denim.
Shirts
My shirts usually weigh between 3 and 5 ounces in the summer. I usually pack three or four that are capable of going with any of my chosen pants, skirts, shorts, etc. In the winter months, I pack light weight options and usually dress in layers to limit bulky sweatshirts and sweaters.
Packing light strategies for documents
What about all those travel documents? Read the section “Making copies of important documents” on my post Basic Safety for all Travelers. If you like those ideas, scroll down on that same post and read the “Cyber safety for all travelers” section…just in case.
I hope my packing light strategies make your travels a little easier. Wishing you many blessings and as always, safe travels!
