As an avid traveler over the years, I've developed packing hacks that allow me to pack lightly and take only one carry-on bag and a backpack on my trips. I rarely (if ever) checking anything in.
I prefer it this way for several reasons.
So how can pack lightly on ALL of your trips, no matter how long they are?
Check out these easy packing hacks you can follow!
This first packing hack is the most important. You want lightweight, yet strong and reliable luggage that allows you the space and the ability to carry it with you without a struggle.
The Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Luggage, Black, Carry-On is a perfect example. It's durable, and this one has the four spinner wheels (which makes things SO much easier), and also the TSA approved lock. Plus, it's lightweight, making it easier to stay within your airline's weight limits.
Given that it's a hardtop, you will never have to worry about fitting in the overhead bin space. Sometimes people are forced to place their bags on a luggage scale during check-in, or to squeeze it into a bag sizer because it "looked big". A carry-on such as this one can help you eliminate that issue altogether.
You want to be prepared for any kind of weather at your destination. For your travel wardrobe, consider packing lightweight clothing that you can layer, for instance, light tanks, flowy tops, tights, cardigans, etc. This way you can pack more while not taking up as much room.
Packing hacks:
On longer trips, plan to do laundry when you're there. So, pack only 5-7 days' worth of outfits and then plan on doing laundry while abroad. Many of the packing cube sets also come with a bag for dirty laundry, so you'll have an easy way to keep it separate. This is a great way to travel light and limit excess baggage weight!
I never pack more than two pairs of shoes. Pick one sandal and one pair of closed-toed shoes, e.g. flats that are comfortable to walk around in. Pick ones that go with all or the majority of your outfits. Then, wear sneakers on the plane, which saves you room in your suitcase and comes in handy for any outdoor activities you may want to do.
Get travel-sized toiletries and favorite products, or, if you can't, squeeze your favorites into 3 oz. travel size bottles.
Other options include:
The packing trick to consider here is that you only need a little bit of each thing, and sometimes 3oz bottles are still too big. If anything mentioned is difficult for you to come by, just take a look around your home for similar things that you can re-purpose to save you space on your travels.
I usually throw everything into a small plastic box that won't get compressed or crushed.
If you want to prevent tangles and keep things more organized then consider the following packing hacks:
In your backpack just pack pajamas and one extra travel outfit (including a set of undergarments) for easy access in case you need to change. In addition, add in your toiletries, valuables (always keep these on your person!), a small first aid kit and any snacks. You literally just need the essentials. You don't want to break your back carrying something too heavy.
This packing hack is a game-changer. This allows you extra space without having to lug around a large/heavy suitcase. Because let us all be honest, we always seem to have more stuff coming back from a trip than on the way there. Makes sense though right? We all go shopping for souvenirs.
The collapsible bag I'm referring to is a foldable duffel. Open this bag up to carry extra souvenirs/purchases you make while abroad, then ON THE WAY BACK, you can check in the duffel or your carry-on (if you need to). International flights are less likely to charge you for check-in; even if they do, with this method you may only have to do so on one leg of your journey.
I find that being able to pack lightly with the random stuff you might need like chargers, headphones, and curling irons, can get really frustrating. My strategy for staying organized, if you don't have any spare packing cubes, is to group them together in a Ziploc plastic bag. This way they are all together in one place.
If you're traveling with friends, then divide and conquer. Split up the items amongst yourselves. For instance, you bring a phone charger, and they'll bring a curling iron. That way, there's not double of everything, and you each save space. This is especially useful for those items that you both need/use.
Packing for any destination can be a headache. These packing hacks, hopefully, make it easier for you on your trips no matter how long!
Happy Travels!