Whether you're heading out for a weekend getaway or a two-week holiday, packing light can make your journey smoother, quicker, and much less stressful. No more lugging overstuffed suitcases or rummaging through cluttered bags to find your socks.
The secret? Packing smarter, not more.
Here are practical tips for travelling light without sacrificing the essentials.
Start with a Packing List
It sounds obvious, but starting with a list is key to packing only what you truly need. Categorise it by:
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Clothing
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Toiletries
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Tech/chargers
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Documents
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Miscellaneous (snacks, travel pillow, etc.)
Tip: Use a digital checklist app (like Notion or PackPoint) so you can reuse and tweak for every trip.
Stick to a Colour Scheme
Pack clothes that mix and match easily. Choose a neutral base (black, navy, beige) and add 1–2 accent colours. This way, every top works with every bottom, and you can create multiple outfits from fewer pieces.
Bonus: Accessories like scarves or statement jewellery can switch up your look without taking up space.
Go Mini with Toiletries
Use travel-sized bottles or solid alternatives (like shampoo bars, solid deodorant, or toothpaste tablets). Not only do they save space, but they also avoid liquid restrictions if you're flying with hand luggage only.
Hack: Refill travel bottles from full-size products at home instead of buying new miniatures every time.
Limit Shoes to Two Pairs
Shoes take up the most space, so plan wisely. One everyday comfortable pair (trainers or sandals) and one versatile pair (for evening or dressier settings) are usually all you need.
Travel tip: Wear your bulkiest shoes while travelling to save room in your bag.
Use Packing Cubes or Compression Bags
Packing cubes keep things organised and compact. You’ll know exactly where everything is and won’t have to dig through your bag to find a single T-shirt.
Try this: Roll clothes to maximise space and minimise wrinkles, and use compression cubes if you’re packing heavier items.
Layer Up Instead of Packing Bulky Clothes
Instead of a heavy jumper or coat, pack lighter layers you can wear together if it gets chilly; like a long-sleeve top, a lightweight fleece, and a packable waterproof jacket.
Great for: Unpredictable spring or autumn weather.
Cut the “Just in Case” Items
Be honest with yourself: will you really need four books, two extra jackets, or that fourth pair of sunglasses? If it’s a “maybe,” it’s probably a “no.”
Tip: If you end up needing something, chances are you can buy or borrow it at your destination.
Packing light isn’t about depriving yourself, it’s about freeing yourself. Less stuff means less stress, less time unpacking, and more freedom to move. With a little planning, you can travel smarter, lighter, and happier.
Wherever you’re going, pack with intention and leave room for adventure. 🌍