You’re going on a much anticipated trip abroad for three nights, and though your first inclination is to pack everything you think will need– stop right there! All you will really need are a few choice items that you can take with you in your carry-on bag. Though most seasoned travelers can’t imagine leaving their suitcases behind, you really won’t need yours.
Personally, I prefer to skip the carry-on bag altogether and opt for a more comfortable travel backpack. I feel that backpacks are easier to tote around and help distribute the weight evenly during my travels. Most importantly, it’s easier to put them in overhead compartments whenever I travel by plane.
It’s also important to note that most carry-on bags end up being transferred to the hold area of the plane. This means you won’t have access to your belongings until after arrival while also having to wait for your bag to clear. On the other hand, when you have a comfortable backpack, you can stroll through customs quickly and efficiently.
Below, I will share some of my insider tips of how you can pack lightly for your travels while making the most of the space in your backpack. This will eliminate the need to overpack things you really don’t need!
Tips For Packing Essential Toiletries
If traveling by plane, you will need to pay attention to how you pack and transport liquids. You need to ensure they’re in a clear zippered pouch and don’t contain more than 100ml of any one substance. The reason for this is because they are scanned separately from the luggage during security screening.
Here are some of the popular toiletries I include in my backpack:
*Branded shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and body lotion all dispensed into 50ml bottles.
*Purchase travel sized portions of deodorant, toothpaste, and makeup products. Whenever possible, keep these to the bare minimum.
*Keeping fluid restrictions in mind, take small sample-size perfume with you along with any other feminine hygiene products you may need.
*Pack any lotions such as sunscreen, hand cream or antiseptic you may anticipate needing.
*Prescription medications are usually allowed, however, certain countries have restrictions on given substances. Always check what these are before traveling and make sure to have proof of your official prescription in case you need it.
*Also pack any medical or health related items such as OTC painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen, and also bring any mobility or visual aids if necessary.
Considerations For Packing Tech Gadgets
Electronics and technology are crucial to ensuring that your travels are safe and memorable. Make sure you pack a digital camera with all of the necessary cords and cables along with a small portable charger. This also goes for a cell phone charger as you will undoubtedly need one!
You may also think about bringing:
*Hair styling devices such as a straightener, curling iron or blow dryer.
*Your Kindle for entertainment or an MP3 player such as an iPod.
*If you have a Fitbit or a smart watch, also bring that with the necessary chargers.
Packing The Right Outfits For Your Trip
Casual clothes are probably the most important items to pack for your trip. Unless your travels coincide with an important milestone event such as a wedding or you’re planning to try a fancy restaurant, comfortable and breathable clothes are all that you will need.
When traveling to your destination, make sure you wear something comfortable and lightweight such as sweatpants or harem pants, a loose sweatshirt, a T-shirt, and your face mask.
Here is what I normally pack for three nights:
*One pair of shorts and chinos to help accommodate warmer and cooler temperatures.
*A summer dress that’s adequate for both daytime and nighttime wear. I usually pair this with a large shawl for cool evenings.
*Three pairs of tees because they are versatile and are perfect everyday essentials.
*A swimsuit if needed.
*One pair of flip flops and a pair of comfortable sandals for walking.
*A hat to protect against the sun.
*A pair of pajamas, two pairs of socks, and three pairs of panties.