No matter where you’re headed or how long you’re going to be there, it’s likely you can pack like a minimalist and still have everything you need for your trip. With a little bit of planning and implementing either a capsule wardrobe or committing to uniform dressing for your trip, it’s easy to carry on and stay care-free your entire vacation. Please keep reading to figure out the must-haves when it comes to packing like a minimalist for your next adventure.
A Folding Technique
Before you even decide what you’re going to bring with you on your trip, it’s a good idea to master some folding techniques that will make the most out of the space that you have in whatever bag you’re using. If your bag doesn’t have multiple compartments, it’s worth utilizing Ziploc bags or other easily stacked containment units to keep everything packed and tucked away neatly.
Light Layers
Whether you’re going somewhere in the summer or winter, you want layers that are easy to take on and off while you’re traveling. Taking just one tank top, two tee shirts, a light blouse, sweater, and jacket is all you need. You may want to take a small container of liquid detergent with you to wash items in your hotel or airbnb’s bathtub or sink, but if you’re only bringing your backpack, these are all the top layers you’ll need.
One and Done
It’s nice to have an outfit that can be worn during the day as a casual look but is quickly elevated with a piece of jewelry like diamond studs or a coin necklace. When it comes to shoes, try to bring only one pair of dressy shoes if you think you’ll ever need them; for those times, you’ll need to up your style a little.
Wear Your Heaviest Gear
If you’re going to a place where you think you’ll need a heavier coat, hiking boots, or anything else bulky, wear those items on the plane. They may not be as comfortable as the loungewear set you’re wearing as you read this, but they save you a ton of space when it comes to packing. Also, be prepared to wear those items on your return trip.
You Can Always Buy
The truth is, most people tend to overpack for trips by a long shot. It’s essential to keep in mind that all the things you want to pack “just in case” could be bought where you’re going, if and when you do run into a “just in case” scenario. The likelihood that you actually end up needing the item you were tempted to buy is slim enough that it’s worth leaving behind all those “maybe” items and be prepared to either buy or go without.
Forego Sleepwear
Studies have shown that sleeping in the buff actually promotes deeper and more restorative sleep. However, if you’re not comfortable sleeping without a stitch one, opt to sleep in just your undergarments and the tee or tank you wore that day. Sleepwear is unnecessary when it comes down to it, so forego it entirely or use what you’re already wearing during the day.
Another Bag
It’s essential to be realistic. This guide is about how to pack like a minimalist, and you may not live that lifestyle – just looking to minimize some of the headaches that come with packing and checking multiple bags with each trip. So, in anticipation of possible souvenirs, you may decide you can’t live without them on your trip. It’s a good idea to pack another bag inside your travel bag. A backpack is an ideal choice as it is easy to fold into a compact square that can be stowed away in the base of your packing bag. That way, if you end up purchasing things you’re going to be returning home with, a backpack is an accessible item to either physically wear onto your plane or effortlessly stowed away as a carry-on.
Packing can seem like a headache for some or a literal nightmare for others. But, it doesn’t have to be. By implementing the packing list mentioned above, you should have all your bases covered for whatever you’ll get up to where you’re headed. Happy trails!
