Packing is not always easy. There are tough choices that have to be made about what to bring and what to wear so that you are as prepared as possible for your trip without overpacking which can lead to astronomical baggage fees and back pain. Use these minimalist inspired packing tips and hacks to cut out the stress and get back to the basics.
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Lightweight Luggage
Start off on the right foot by investing in some lightweight luggage. Having your luggage cut into 8-12 lbs of your weight limit hurts. There are some suitcases that weigh as little as 3 lbs!
Plan Your Outfits
Plan your outfits by day. This way you know what you’re going to wear and won’t over pack with too many outfit choices or what if items that you might need.
Get Creative with Clothing Items
When planning your outfits, use clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create several different outfits. Being able to wear each clothing item multiple times really cuts down on how much you need to bring.
Use a Packing List
Use a packing list so that you make sure you pack everything important that you need but don’t pack too many items.
Don’t Pack for Every Possibility
Leave the “just in case” items at home. You can most likely purchase anything you need at your destination if you really need to and you’ll be grateful you left them at home and saved the space when you don’t need the majority of them.
Roll Your Clothes
Roll your clothes, don’t fold them. Not only will this save space but it cuts down on wrinkles!
Pack Liquids Carefully
Nothing puts a damper on getting to your destination quite like opening your suitcase only to find your shampoo has spilled over everything. That will definitely mean a trip to the laundry mat when you could be sightseeing or adventuring. Start off on the right foot by packing liquids carefully. Place a layer of saran wrap between the bottle opening and the lid.
Then place all liquids in a plastic, spill proof bag for an added layer of protection.
Lastly make sure you bring liquids in travel size bottles, not full size products (even if you check a bag) to save the space and weight where you can. Unless you are taking an extraordinarily long trip, you don’t need that much product.
Read More: How to Pack Makeup for Travel
Use Your Space Wisely
Use all the space you have available to you when packing, get creative if you have to. Fill your shoes with socks or small items. Put overflow items in your carry on or personal item.
I always recommend that you wear your heaviest items like jeans, bulky shoes, coats and sweaters while flying in order to save room in your bag for other items you may need.
Finally, if you still need a little extra space hang items from the outside of your bag. I like to hang my neck pillow from the outside of my personal item for easy access. You could also use a carabiner clip to attach a water bottle to the outside of your bag. Get creative!
Pack a Dryer Sheet or Two
Keep this smelling fresh all vacation long by packing a dryer sheet or two in every suitcase. This way you’ll smell great no matter how long you’ve been on vacation.
Minimalist Packing Tips
There you have it, use these minimalist packing tips for travel in your next vacation to make sure you aren’t overpacking and you’re using the space available to you in smart ways. Have a great trip!
