Have you ever gotten back from a trip, finally get around to unpacking, and realize that you didn’t use many of the things you packed? It happens. Want to save some moolah on those pesky checked bag fees & stop traveling in such a silly manner? Read on my friend. 😎
Minimalistic Travel. What is it?? At the very core, it’s packing only the essentials (sometimes even less) in order to lighten the mental, physical, and financial impact of travel. Imagine not having to deal with the stress of paying for & lugging around two (or more🙄) checked bags, a carry-on, and a personal item. Pare that shit down and get to the good stuff already!😜🤙
“Yeah, sounds good. But I like my things! How the hell am I supposed to live out of one bag for weeks in a foreign place??” Well my friend, I’m glad you asked! If travel/vacation is about getting away from the stress and chaos of normal life, and there’s a simple step you could take to feel physically and mentally lighter during the process, why would you not take it? You don’t need that shit weighing you down. So relax, set yourself free from all the travel clutter, and join the ever-growing minimalist movement! After all, it’s what the cool kids are doing these days.
A few things to consider…
1. Climate – Will you need tank tops & tee shirts or pants & a parka? Sandals or snow boots? Scuba gear or ski masks? (Okay, I’m kidding…Don’t pack SCUBA gear in your carry-on.)
2. Activities & Lodging – Will you be camping or staying in a hostel? Hiking or taking guided tours? Whitewater rafting or going to museums? (Maybe all of the above??)
3. Accessibility – Sometimes picking up a few essentials at a local convenience store can be more cost effective than shelling out +$30 for a checked bag. But it all depends on where you’re travelling to. For example, buying toiletries in Belize is cheaper than Hawaii (duh). My advice, research your destination & use common sense.
Clearly, the type of travel you’re doing will greatly impact your level of realistic achievable minimalism. But the same basic principles still apply.
If you’re wondering where to start, no fear! I’ve included a packing list, here.👇👇👇
–Shirts: I usually aim for 2-3. Bring something that doesn’t wrinkle easily, dries quickly, and can double as dressy/casual wear. Personally, I pack something similar to this. The more versatile the better. (Ladies, same philosophy with packing dresses, bring something lightweight if you must)
–Jackets: This will greatly depend on where you’re going & what time of year you’ll be there. A packable rain shell and a light fleece jacket are my staples.
–Pants: Again, weather dependent. Aim for no more than 3 in this category.
–Intimates: Alright ladies, do you really need to bring four bras? 1-2 is sufficient, but you do you. I pack half as many socks as I have days in my trip – i.e. 14 days = 7 pairs. And if you’re reading this, I trust you’re grown-up enough to make your own decisions when it comes to underwear.
–Accessories: Sunhat, sunglasses, sarong, and maybe a few of your fav. jewelry/makeup items if you’ve got a fancy dinner, but honestly a tube of eco-friendly glitter does the trick. (PSA glitter is not an age/gender restrictive accessory. But again, you do you)
–Shoes: Weather depending, sandals (comfortable to walk in/can double as shower shoes) & hiking/walking shoes are all you need. I honestly don’t understand packing any more than that.👌
–Toiletries: Toothbrush (I buy toothpaste & floss @ my destination), nail clippers, tweezers-for 1st aid/unibrow purposes, glitter, chapstick, bar soap, tamps, medications, and maybe a couple band-aids if you’re as clumsy as I am.
–Gear: This will vary greatly trip to trip, but it’s good to start with: Sunglasses, phone & charging gear, passport/ID, ca$h-small bills, water bottle, padlock (especially if you’re staying in a hostel), headphones, and a hair tie if applicable.
Between the 2018 study that shows people travel for “likes”, and United airlines advertising, “Become the world traveler your Instagram needs.” There’s a lot of hype and trendy shit going on around travel & minimalism right now, and while I’m not a fan of following the crowd (I can’t fucking stand it tbh, sorry grandma🙊), this is one bandwagon I’m definitely hopping on.
Minimalistic travel isn’t a cookie-cutter solution. Packing lists will look different for every person and every trip. It’s not about depriving yourself or bragging about how light your pack is. It’s about being frugal, minimizing stress, and focusing on the important things…Like having a damn good time exploring new places!
Now go out there and enjoy this magnificent day! After all, you’ve waited your entire life for it.😎
Adventure Enthusiast 