Light packing for a smooth trip

One of the essential steps for traveling is the packing stage. For some of you, a stressful task, and for others, the joy of already starting their trip. With this article I just want you to see it as an easeful experience that frees your mind from future worries and your body from too much load to carry around.

Why packing light is beneficial?

- It can help you to save money on luggage fees and time for packing and unpacking.

- It reduces the weight impact on your body as well as on the environment by promoting less stuff use and consumerism.

- It is more about inviting you to focus on what you truly need instead of thinking you are depriving yourself.

- It also gives you major freedom, flexibility and ability to move during your trip and airport walks. Less sweat and curses too.

Before packing, consider this:

1) Start your packing process at least one or two days previous to your trip. The calmer you pack the less possibilities of quickly stuff your luggage with things you won’t need.

2) Choose the appropriate bag/luggage: a compact, lightweight and smaller one easy for you to carry. It can be a backpack, a carry-on or a medium size that are space efficient and comfortable. Using a smaller luggage is such a great way to force yourself to pack lighter.

3) Plan your outfits: think about more than one combination for the same shirts and pants. Opting for a color scheme will help you to easier coordinate this. Also think about layers to adequate to climate needs from fresher to warmer outfits. Choose quick-drying clothes according to your destination type of weather and preferable wrinkle-resistant fabrics. Limit your shoes since they take more space, bring a comfortable pair for walking and airports, and a more formal one for special activities. Sandals only if needed.

4) Packing technique: rolling clothes and packing cubes can really save space and keep your personal items well organized besides visible. After packing all your belongings, take another look at everything and remove anything you don’t really need or have considered a “just in case” or a “nice to have” thing. Focus on items that will be useful to you ALL the time and have multiple uses. Avoid the "one time” stuff.

5) Travel-sized self care: get smaller containers for your personal care products and make sure your liquids don’t go in your hand luggage. Just bring the minimum necessary for daily hygiene, skin care and health routines.

6) Only pack your electronic essentials: I am pretty much talking about only your phone and charger, and maybe one more device of your preference (e-reader, portable charger, mini tablet, camera, etc.).

7) Pack a small portable laundry bag and weight your luggage!! Don’t think you need an explanation for these.

Use this list as a reference for light packing and adjust according to your own travel needs:

- Underwear and socks.

- Tops.

- Pair of jeans or cargo pants.

- Pair of shorts or skirt.

- Light jacket or sweater.

- Hat and coat (if apply)

- Dress or formal outfit (if apply).

- Swimsuit (if apply).

- 2-3 pairs of shoes.

- Pjs.

- Travel-sized self care products.

- Simple jewelry and functional items.

- Essential electronics.

- Travel documents, ID, money.

Final light packing tips:

Try to keep a quarter of your bag empty to make loading and unloading easier, and to have some space for storing souvenirs and gifts.

Shift your focus to the activities, places and experiences you will have during your trip instead of just thinking about what to bring. Be mindful about the value of quality versus quantity.

Avoid bigger luggage since it will unintentionally make you pack more stuff when you notice you have more space available.

Hope you find these ideas and suggestions very helpful for not only a more organized travel but for a smoother journey and a ready to explore spirit.