How to Pack Light for Travel: 7 Expert Tips
Travel should be about discovery, not wrestling with overstuffed luggage. Whether you’re headed out for a weekend getaway or a week-long adventure, knowing how to pack light for travel will save you time, money on baggage fees, and the backache of hauling heavy bags. Here are seven tried-and-true strategies to streamline your suitcase—and your journey.
1. Create a Capsule Wardrobe
Build outfits from a handful of mix-and-match pieces in a cohesive color palette. Aim for:
- 2–3 bottoms (jeans, a skirt, travel-friendly pants)
- 4–5 tops (layerable tees, a lightweight sweater, a blouse)
- 1 versatile jacket or blazer
With these, you’ll have outfits for every occasion—without overpacking.
2. Roll, Don’t Fold
Rolling clothes saves space and minimizes wrinkles. For bulkier items (like sweatshirts), fold once at the center and then roll. Use rubber bands or packing straps to keep rolls compact.
3. Use Packing Cubes
Divide your wardrobe into cubes by category (tops, bottoms, undergarments). Packing cubes not only organize but compress, so you can fit up to 20% more in the same space. The packing cubes I use are not expensive and can be bought on Amazon, see them HERE.
4. Limit Shoes to Two Pairs
Shoes are bulk and weight culprits. Choose one pair of comfortable walking shoes and one dressier—or sandals if your destination is warm. Wear your bulkiest pair on travel days to save room in your bag.
5. Minimize Toiletries
Transfer liquids into travel-sized bottles or use solid alternatives: shampoo bars(check out my favorite shampoo bars HERE), lotion sticks, and solid perfume. Keep everything in a clear, sealable pouch for airport security.
6. Pack Multi-Use Accessories
Scarves can become a blanket, sarong, or shawl. A bandana works as a hair tie, mask, or napkin. Multitasking items reduce the number of specialty pieces you need.
7. Plan to Launder on the Go
Even a quick sink wash and overnight dry can refresh your essentials. Pack a few detergent sheets or a travel-size bar, and you can wear each piece more than once.
A Final Tip from Beaudin
For hands-free ease and thoughtful design, consider our designer crossbody styles—ideal for travel days when you need quick access to passports, phone, and boarding pass.
Happy Travels!
