Since I was little, I have traveled a lot (really a lot). I have traversed the globe for pleasure, work, or a combination of both.
In recent years, my way of packing, and even my approach to travel, has evolved. Now, most of the time, I travel only with a carry-on. Of course, it’s often cheaper, but it’s also so much more enjoyable!
I am convinced that there is a direct relationship between the quantity of objects we own and what we believe we need. I am not a minimalist, but I have let go of many things thanks to the KonMari Method. This process taught me that I didn’t really need that much, and that it is so liberating to declutter and lighten my load. Since then, I've discovered that this approach applies to travelling too.
What I no longer do
Before I learned to take care of my belongings, I used to lug around overstuffed suitcases. To the point where I had to sit on them to close them, especially on the way back after shopping sprees that I never missed. Once, I even had to buy an extra bag to bring back all my shopping.
So, here are 3 things I no longer do:
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- Bringing a lot of things “just in case” which rarely, if ever, served me. By planning your stay, you can have a good idea of what to bring. In case of an emergency, you can always find a solution. Once in London, I decided to go out more glamorously than I had planned. Since I hadn’t brought any makeup, I went to a makeup counter in a department store where I got a free makeover by a pro.
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- Prioritising shopping at the destination, or even traveling just to shop: There are so many more things to do! What a shame to spend your time browsing stores (which are often the same as those at home). Let’s spend on experiences, not things. This may seem obvious, but it took a good load of decluttering for me to realise it.
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- Bringing back giftsEvery trip, I used to buy gifts for my family, friends, and colleagues. Even though it didn’t stress me out, I saw it as a duty and would wander around shops looking for something to buy. I’m embarrassed to remember that I once brought back a bottle of brandy from Romania for my husband, who doesn’t drink alcohol, simply because it was the only local thing I found in the duty-free shop. Needless to say, that bottle remained untouched at the back of the cupboard.
My top 5 tips for travelling light without depriving yourself
And here are tried and tested tips, the fruits of a long learning process:
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- Comfort : Your travel wardrobe — and at home for that matter — should only consist of items that you feel good in. In other words, only travel with items you already know. It would be a shame to shorten an outing because your new shoes hurt!
- Layering : choose clothes that can be layered. Not only are they more versatile, they are also lighter and less bulky. In addition, it allows you to easily adapt to the weather of the day. Pro tip: wear bulkier pieces when on the move.
- Folding & packing cubes : Fold your clothes according to the KonMari Method; they will be easier to squish than if you roll them. Store your clothes vertically in packing cubes (here is a tutorial video). Once you arrive at your destination, you can simply transfer the cubes into the drawers or, if there are none, onto the shelves.
- Small containers for cosmetics I used to store samples to use when travelling, but I stopped because I prefer to bring products that I already know. I transfer the necessary amount of my usual creams and lotions into small pots. A little effort to avoid unpleasant dermatological surprises while travelling.
- Doing laundry on-site : the simplest way to travel light? Bring less things! So, don’t hesitate to do the laundry at your destination. For trips longer than a weekend, I bring a small piece of Marseille soap so I can wash underwear by hand. To speed up drying, wrap the item in a clean towel and wring it out before hanging it up.
Upon your return, take the time to thank your faithful travel companion Air out and wipe your suitcase. before putting it away. It’s like giving it a little bath before tucking it away until the next adventure.
I hope these tips can brighten your vacation this summer ☀️