Deciding on what to bring for trips can be daunting, especially if one hasn’t been to that area before. Many factors can influence the items required. While location and the nature of the trip are the main ones, the season and duration are also important. For example, women’s swimwear should be packed if one is taking a vacation to a beach during summer. It is also possible to travel almost anywhere with the bare essentials if one is willing to compromise comfort. In any case, efficiency in packing is vital. One should not be bothered about the size of their bag when on their holiday. Here are some methods to pack light and make the most of it.
Bag Selection
There are many options in the type and size of bag one can take on a trip. This is mainly decided by the destination and duration of the trip. Backpacks might be better if the stay isn’t that long. It also lets one avoid checking in baggage which removes the wait for luggage upon landing. Even bigger backpacks or travel bags can be used in the same way. A 65-liter travel bag should be able to deal with most trips. An additional day bag can also be used for carrying essentials around.
Clothes
While many prefer to take all the clothes needed with them, this is not always required. For example, if one takes a trip to India or other regions in Southeast Asia, clothing can be bought on the road. They are very affordable and will also suit the climate better. However, in other areas like Europe, this method will not be feasible.
When traveling to hot areas, tops and shorts that can be mixed and matched are preferred. Denim should be avoided in such cases. Women’s swimwear will be also helpful in such regions. For colder climates, one should pack shirts and leggings for layering. Items like boots, heavier coats, and gloves can be added if the climate is cold.
Toiletries
Most toiletries can be bought in the destination itself. Brands like Pantene and Dove are available in a wide range of places. However, they may not be available in isolated regions like small islands. One should also pack a first aid kit along with the toiletries. In the case of prescriptions, one should consult their doctor and check the availability at the destination.
Useful Items
If one plans to travel for longer or more remote destinations, carrying some extra items can vastly improve the experience and make it more pocket-friendly. A travel line can be convenient as laundry is quite expensive in Europe. A diva cup, microfiber towels and a portable headlamp can also be beneficial in such trips. A sleeping bag liner can be packed if one isn’t sure about the quality of their stay. A sarong can also be very useful to cover up at temples or the beach.
Pack Light
After figuring out what one should pack, keeping it light is the next vital step. Heavy articles of clothing like sweatshirts and jeans should be limited. Using a certain outfit as a uniform for the indoors can also reduce luggage weight. Shoes are heavy, and limiting them to two pairs is recommended. Versatile jewelry and accessories items can be paired with multiple outfits and save a lot of space while packing.