Tips for traveling with one bag
Explore the world with just one bag - learn from the experts! In this post, we'll share top tips from the onebaggers community, so you can pack light and focus on the adventure, not the weight.
Packing efficiently is one of the most important skills to master for any traveler, whether you're going on a short weekend trip or a long-term adventure. By packing smartly, you can avoid overpacking and lugging around unnecessary weight, making your trip much more enjoyable. Plus, efficient packing means you'll have more space to bring back souvenirs or goodies from your travels.
Wear heavy outerwear and shoes on the plane.
Wearing your clothing doesn't count as carry-on and can save space in your backpack. If you need to bring a jacket, it's more practical to wear one, particularly on chilly flights. Opt for a jacket with a full-length front zipper if you're worried about getting too warm.
In addition, wearing your clothes won't take up space in your carry-on or luggage. Shoes usually take up the most room, so it's better to wear large sneakers on the plane instead of packing them in your suitcase.
Select colors that work well together
When planning your travel wardrobe, it's important to consider the limited space in your luggage. You don't want to end up with a suitcase full of mismatched items that you won't wear. One way to simplify your packing is by choosing a coordinated color palette.
Opt for neutral colors such as ivory, beige, khaki, grey, navy, and black. These hues are versatile and can easily be mixed and matched. If you prefer to add some color to your outfits, stick to a similar color family and saturation level.
Roll up your clothes
Rolling up your clothes is a popular packing technique that can save you valuable space in your luggage. When you roll your clothes instead of folding them, they take up less space and can be compressed more easily. This means you can pack more items in the same amount of space. Additionally, rolled clothes are less likely to wrinkle, as there are no sharp creases that can cause the fabric to fold or bunch up. By rolling your clothes, you can also see all of your items at once, making it easier to find what you need without having to dig through your suitcase.
Get a set of packing cubes
A packing cube is a fabric pouch with a mesh top that helps organize clothes in your suitcase or hand luggage. It separates belongings and compresses soft items to maximize space while maintaining order and easy access.
You can buy a set of packing cubes that match the dimensions of your suitcase or backpack, ensuring a perfect fit and maximum space utilization. These sets often come in different sizes and colors, allowing you to customize and organize your packing to your preference.
Use technical clothing
Technical fabrics are specifically designed to offer protection and warmth in a variety of environments, while also being lighter and thinner than traditional materials. Instead of packing a bulky puffy coat, consider bringing a fleece and rain jacket made from technical fabrics. These materials are designed to be lightweight and packable, making them a great choice for travelers who want to save space in their luggage. Additionally, technical fabrics are often more breathable and moisture-wicking than traditional materials, helping to regulate your body temperature and keep you comfortable in a range of climates.
Replace large items with more compact versions
When traveling, it's often better to replace large items with smaller versions or analogs. Additionally, specialized travel gear is often more practical and convenient for travel. Here are a few examples:
- Travel-sized toiletries: Instead of bringing full-size bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, opt for travel-sized versions.
- Compact cameras: Rather than bringing a bulky camera, consider using your smartphone camera or a compact point-and-shoot camera. These are smaller and more portable, making them easier to carry around and use on the go.
- Portable chargers: Instead of bringing a large and heavy charger, consider using a portable charger. The latest GaN chargers are not only smaller in size but also more powerful than their predecessors. This means that you can charge multiple devices at once without sacrificing charging speed or performance.
- Foldable travel bags: Instead of packing a large and bulky suitcase, consider using a foldable travel bag. These are lightweight and can be easily folded and stored when not in use.
- E-books: Rather than bringing a stack of books, consider using an e-reader or tablet. If you plan on reading outdoors in direct sunlight, an eInk display is highly recommended.
Consider how many times you will actually use
To determine the necessity of each item, it's important to take into account how often you will use it. While it may be difficult, this process can help distinguish between what you genuinely require and what you merely enjoy having with you.
Choose accommodation with a washing machine
When choosing accommodation for your travels, it's worth considering if laundry facilities are available on-site. Having access to a washing machine can allow you to pack lighter and save space in your luggage.
Although many hotels offer laundry services, they can be quite pricey. To save money on laundry, consider looking for nearby laundromats or laundry services instead.
Purchase toiletries during your vacation
Buying toiletries directly on vacation can be a smart decision, especially if you're traveling with limited space in your luggage or if you're only taking carry-on luggage. It can also be a fun way to try new products that you may not be able to find at home. Many hotels offer complimentary toiletries, but if you prefer to use your own, look for a local drugstore or supermarket to stock up on essentials such as shampoo, soap, toothpaste, and sunscreen.
Weigh your luggage in advance
Overweight baggage fees are typically higher at the airport than on the airline's website. Also, check carry-on luggage restrictions, as some budget airlines have a weight limit as low as 7 kg. Weighing your luggage beforehand can help you avoid surprise fees and having to check it in at the gate.
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