Photo courtesy of -Gep- 36 Great Tips for Keeping Travel as Simple as Possible (and Two Poems)
“He who would travel happily must travel light.” - Antoine de Saint-Exupery
When you travel, do you want to be as light as possible? A light bag, and a light itinerary?
Many of us have had the nightmare experience of lugging around too much luggage, waiting in the baggage claims area, trying to cram too many activities into each day, and generally being so stressed that we need a vacation when we get home.
Instead, simplify your travel.
A few days ago, I asked the readers of this blog for tips for keeping travel as simple as possible. The result was an amazing outpouring of useful information, in the comments and via email!
I’ve compiled some of the best tips, combining some of them or choosing tips that were representative of a lot of comments. There are dozens more, so if you’re looking for the full list, see the comments in the original post.
I’m definitely going to be following some of the tips. Although there are a lot of great suggestions about useful items, my biggest aim is to pack as lightly as possible and to keep my itinerary loose and light. Here’s my packing list for my small backpack right now:
- Travel docs (passport, credit card, ID)
- deodorant
- 2 pairs of shorts
- 2 T-shirts
- 2 pairs underwear
- swim trunks
- 1 book
- journal and pen
- camera, charger
Anything else I need, I’ll buy in Thailand.
“I travel light; as light, that is, as a man can travel who will still carry his body around because of its sentimental value.” - Christopher Fry
What to Pack
Many of the tips were about packing: how to pack light and what items are essential or useful. What follows are some of the best, but be aware that there may be contradictory tips — choose the ones that will work best for you.
- Pack as light as possible. Ask the simple question: “Do I want it or do I need it and if I need it am I will to cart it around?” There is little you really need when you travel.
- Travel with a light backpack. If you are moving between places, backpacks leave your hands free to hold their hands.
- Pack just a few clothes with only a couple complimentary, solid colors — no patterns. Black is a good idea if you need to be able to dress up and be casual.
- Pack only what you can carry on to the flight.
- Put everything you want to bring in a pile and slowly strip away things that aren’t necessary.
- Leave the laptop behind, as well as blackberry and any other tech gadget. For computer addicts, being away from the internet’s constant flow of data for a few days recharges and relaxes you in ways that you never experience at home.
- Bring along a small, foldable umbrella to protect against the UV rays of sunlight and possible rain.
- Most toiletries can be found easily in your destination country.
- If it’s something you think you can buy there more cheaply than at home, then don’t bring it (especially if it’s something you don’t already have).
- Bring one book, and when you’re done, find a book-exchange and trade it for a new one.
- In Asia, sarongs are a traveler’s best friend! A sarong works as a towel, a skirt, a makeshift bag, a scarf, a sheet. They’re especially good to have if you’re traveling low-budget, staying in hostels or guesthouses, which often don’t offer towels or even top sheets. The best thing is that they dry really, really quickly, even when it’s humid. A wet towel can take all day to dry in the tropics, and if you have to stuff it in your bag before it’s dry it can get all dank and midewy, and so can all your stuff.
- Get one of those totes or bags that fold up into a small package to slip into your backpack. You can use this to collect your souvenirs. Alternatively, mail your purchases home as you go. This reduces what you must carry around with you, what you have to list for customs.
- Bring old clothes and undergarments and dispose of them each day leaving more room for momentos to bring home if you choose. It also cuts down on items that need frequent washing while away.
- Take baby wipes. And lots of Ziploc bags.
- Don’t travel with anything in your pockets except your passport and wallet. You won’t have to dig everything out of your pockets every time you go through security. Sitting in the plane is a lot more comfortable as well. Make sure your wallet is in your front jeans pocket. Sitting on your wallet for long periods of time will put your back out of alignment.
- Photocopies of sections of guidebooks so at the end of a leg of trip the copy goes in the trash.
- Take a photocopy of all your credit cards, passport and any other valuable document you have. Write down the emergency phone number for each credit card beside its photocopy. Leave this with a neighbour or family member along with your itinerary. Should you have your wallet and bags stolen and be only allowed to make one phone call, call this contact person who would be able to cancel your credit cards etc. for you. Alternatively, instead of photocopying your important documents consider scanning them and mailing them to yourself. That way you can always access these documents. Another reader suggested that you should encrypt documents if you email them to yourself.
- Pack only high-tech fabrics, the kind that dry quickly so that you can do a wash in the sink. You can get away with 2 pairs of socks for a 2 week trip by rinsing out the dirty pair at night. High tech fabric means it’s dry by the next morning. Cotton will stay soggy for days.
- Tilley makes underwear you can wash in the evening, and it will be dry by morning. You only need two pair, or even one if you are sure of finding somewhere to wash it!
- Tip for quick drying: roll a towel over wet fabric,and squeeze tightly.
- Bring a small amount of foreign currency to cover incidental expenses upon arrival, then change the rest in your destination country, as exchange rates are usually more favorable.
On Planning and Doing
Aside from what to pack, there were some great tips submitted about what to do when you get to your destination (along with some tips en route to the destination):
- Don’t overplan your trip. Keep your travel itinerary fluid, so that you can soak up the atmosphere in each place. Leave room for the serendipitous and when plans don’t work out, treat it as an opportunity!
- Arrive earlier than you think is necessary — for domestic travel, try to arrive at least 2 hours before flight time; on international, make it three. This reduces the stress of waiting in a long security line as the time of your departure inches ever closer, and those desperate rushes to your boarding area. Besides, a relaxing drink at one of the restaurants is a lovely way to start a vacation!
- Take time for naps. Seriously.
- Smile a lot and talk to the locals.
- Eat, eat, eat and savour the flavors.
- Don’t get caught up with sights. Plan some must-dos and leave the rest to chance.
- Wander around at night and stay open to the crazier elements of the culture.
- Get lots of massages.
- Prepare for security check in: Wear slip-on shoes; don’t wear a belt with metal; put the jacket or sweater in your carry-on before you get to security; have your electronics on the top of your carry-on along with the plastic zip-lock bag with your liquids so you don’t have to search through your bag to find them (and then repack after you go through security).
- Split your cash and financial assets up. Credit card in one pocket. Some cash in another. Some in a hidden backpack pocket. Some in your shoe(s). Some in a money belt. Go to the bathroom and enter a stall before taking out cash from any of these places.
- Don’t bring all your cash/credit cards etc. on you when you go out. Leave some in a safe at the hotel, and leave the extra credit cards back home.
- Keep a card on you featuring your embassy’s #, some local friends’ numbers.
- Get up early. In hot climates, this will help you avoid the heat of the day; in any climate, it will help you avoid the crowds and get more out of your day at a more leisurely pace. Equally, do the thing you really want to do first, as often plans go awry as the day goes on.
- You shouldn’t try and see everything in a given place. In fact, you’ll probably have a better time if you focus on meeting great people (instead of going to great places): visits to great places will naturally following if you meet the right people during your travels.
- Try to stay away from big tourist spots (unless there’s something you REALLY want to see). meeting locals, doing the things they do, and eating the things they eat always makes for a better stay. If you have any friends there, ask if you can stay with them for a short while; that would give you a true local experience.
And a couple of poems
A couple of readers submitted short and sweet poems that summarized simple traveling so well I had to reproduce them here:
From Elise:
Open your heart and mind to everything
Accept everything and everyone
Forget your own background, habits and norms
Follow your heart (or nose)
Reinvent yourself moment by moment
Light Haiku for Trips
by Maggie Marie Dougherty
Pack light and remain
open to light in people
who bless you with smiles.
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- Posted on 20 March 2008 in Productivity & Organization, Simplicity |
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Comments (87)
Vered Says:
March 20th, 2008, 21:24 pm
Despite good intentions, I never ever managed to travel light. I have a long flight ahead of me this summer too. I can’t imagine I’ll be able to stick with your impressively light packing list (just 9 items!), but I am challenging myself to pack no more than double that (18 items). For me it would be a huge accomplishment.
Corey - Simple Marriage Project Says:
March 20th, 2008, 21:29 pm
Ah traveling. The lighter the better. It is amazing how the times I have traveled with only what I need, I enjoy so much more.
Good ideas Leo.
Evan Says:
March 20th, 2008, 21:29 pm
It doesn’t matter how long I’ll be gone, over night or two weeks… I always seem to fill the same bag with the same amount of stuff. Grr
Jeff - ScienceSays.net Says:
March 20th, 2008, 21:50 pm
Ok, this was a VERY cool idea for a post - there’s an awful lot of knowledge condensed right here. Awesome resource here.
Crystal from www.jewelfaerie.com Says:
March 20th, 2008, 22:01 pm
I’ll be taking a weekend trip to NYC soon and plan on wearing the same dress the whole time…it’s made of a non-wrinkling fabric! All I need to pack are my toiletries and some walking shoes :-)
blogrdoc Says:
March 20th, 2008, 22:46 pm
smart wool socks are a must. they easily dry, they keep your feet warm and not smelly. they’ve got different kinds for differnt climates. In general - wool is a great natural material that is elastic, comfy and performs well in both cool and warm weather (doesn’t make you too hot or cold) I’ve got a jcrew zip up that is indespensible
blogrdoc Says:
March 20th, 2008, 22:49 pm
@jewelfaerie:
Ohh… I remember going stay in a hostel last time I was in NYC. i remember the website was called ‘jazz in the park’ or something like that. It had *very* reasonable rates and good location.
Cat Laine Says:
March 20th, 2008, 23:02 pm
I would add that the sarong thing works anywhere in the tropics not just Asia.
The best advice for me (which I never manage) is leave half half of luggage empty for goodies.
I tend to bring my crackberry on vacations, but mainly so I can read the paper and/or my favorite blogs. I never get to read them (by which I mean take them in at a slow luscious pace) at home.
Kimberly - The Good Life on a Budget Says:
March 20th, 2008, 23:23 pm
I always try to pack light when traveling. If something doesn’t fit in one of my two carry-on items, then it doesn’t come with me. I usually pick up liquid necessities when I get to my destination so that I don’t need to check a bag.
I want to travel to Europe at the end of the year. The tips listed above will be very helpful when packing for that trip.
Suzie Says:
March 21st, 2008, 0:13 am
Wow, I am impressed, just 9 items. I always start out with good intentions but like Cat & Vered I always seem to end up with more.
I agree travelling with less makes for a simpler life
I would also recommend a loaded Debit card so you don’t get hit with such high charges. Not sure if i read this, but remember to let your bank/amex etc know you are going away and DON”T try to use Pay pal in a foreign country as this will result in yor account being frozen. See Des’s post abou our experience last year in US http://www.thinkinghomebusiness.com/2008/01/14/paypal-dont-leave-home-with-it/
Have fun and enjoy
hyrcan Says:
March 21st, 2008, 0:52 am
@Vered Like many things on this site and others, each tip and trick has to be adapted to work with us, if 18 would be an accomplishment for you then great! Strive to it! I hope you meet your goals and and have a safe and fun trip!
@blogrdoc Smartwool socks are awesome I highly recommend them to everyone. They are bliss.
Sometime this year I’ll be going back to Japan and I plan to travel light. And do something I didn’t do much of last time I was there, which is hang with the locals. It’s hard for a lot of people to try this, and in some countries (japan included) it’s hard to do at all. (I’m reminded of the first Onsen - 温泉 - I went into.) There are some aspects of daily life that people are not eager to share with outsiders. But if you are respectful, and show a genuine interest to learn, you may be surprised at how many people are willing to help you fumble through something. (even if it’s so they can laugh at you… ;) can’t blame them I’d laugh at me too). That being said, laughter or not… stop thinking like an -insert nationality here- and try new things, think differently. Read about where you’re going ahead of time, and amaze the locals with knowing how/what to scrub before hitting the tub. ;)
Heck I amazed people with knowing how to find an address just outside of Osaka, and that got my foot in the door for some fun times that would have been missed if I was just a tourist . Some times it’s the simple things…
Laurie Says:
March 21st, 2008, 0:58 am
This is very timely. I’m going to Boston on Tuesday for several days. I’ll keep your suggestions in mind!
Nicole Says:
March 21st, 2008, 1:31 am
I would add, about traveling in Thailand (and in most developing countries): laundry service is very cheap, easy to find if you ask, and helps support the locals. If you go this route, traditional fabrics like cotton will fare better than quick-dry synthetics because the launderers tend to be more familiar with how to care for them. Happy travels, Leo!
Eugene (Editor, Varsity Blah) Says:
March 21st, 2008, 1:52 am
It really is the little things about the experience that matter. One of the most fun things I did on my trip to Egypt in December was take a taxi ride around the city after dinner. The fact that our driver could barely speak English (and drove like a maniac) made it that much more enjoyable!
Brian Hollar Says:
March 21st, 2008, 3:12 am
Sounds like a great plan, Leo. I especially like what you wrote about not overplanning. One of the best trips of my life was a two-week solo trip I took to New Zealand and Australia as a graduation gift to myself when I finished my master’s degree. The only thing I planned before I left was making a one night reservation at a hostel in Auckland and two nights at a hostel in Sydney. Everything else I made up as a I went along. I found out a lot after landing in each country from talking to people and never could have discovered so many neat things to do just from reading guidebooks in the US.
My dad and I also took a 30-day trip across the US a couple years ago following a similar plan. Each morning we’d wake up and decide where we would go for the day and what we wanted to do. We covered 11,000 miles, 28 states, and a ton of National Parks across the country — far more than we would have ever hoped to had we planned our route out before we left.
A combination of spontaneity, flexibility a positive attitude are some of a travelers best friends.
Here are 28 life lessons I learned from my travels:
1. Travel lightly. The journey is so much more enjoyable that way.
2. You never need as much as you think you do.
3. A positive attitude is one of the most important things you can pack for any journey.
4. The friends you make are more important than the souvenirs you bring home.
5. Make the most of every opportunity.
6. Expecting perfection will only leave you frustrated. Plan and do your best and then enjoy the outcome – even if it’s less than perfect.
7. Take risks. You can experience so much more that way.
8. Take time for rest – it makes the journey so much more enjoyable.
9. The more flexible you are, the more of an adventure you can have.
10. Leave room for spontaneity.
11. People around the world are not all the same. That’s what makes them special.
12. Americans aren’t the only ones who are proud of their country.
13. Not everyone can understand English, regardless of how loudly and slowly you speak.
14. Make time for reflection.
15. Never forget your loved ones back home.
16. Just because mom didn’t cook it growing up, doesn’t mean it’s bad to eat.
17. Just because some people eat it, doesn’t mean it’s good.
18. The differences between cultures are both bigger and smaller than we think.
19. If you really want to understand somebody, listen more than you talk.
20. Just because people drive on the wrong side of the road, doesn’t mean they’re backwards.
21. Respect the heritage and beliefs of others without being ashamed of your own.
22. Sometimes sharing cookies does more to solve the world’s problems than hours of debate.
23. Just because someone else has a different perspective, doesn’t mean they’re wrong.
24. Missing people is bittersweet.
25. Never forget your underwear.
26. Higher prices don’t always mean more fun.
27. Regret about a decision you made is better than regret about never having made a decision.
28. Relax – God’s with you wherever you go.
Read more of my thoughts on travel here: http://thinkingonthemargin.blogspot.com/search/label/travel
Dave Says:
March 21st, 2008, 4:31 am
Leo! Enough of the numbered lists, already. Yur killin’ me! I love the blog, but I’m starting to cringe every time I see another “36 tips…” or “12 ideas…” or “187 outfit ideas for spring.” It reminds me of Cosmopolitan or Redbook magazines. And I’m afraid you use them for the same reason - they “sell.”
Neil Says:
March 21st, 2008, 5:23 am
I’m going skiing soon. Not sure how appropriate the sarong will be, but thanks otherwise.
Niobe Says:
March 21st, 2008, 5:29 am
Re: The toiletries, keep in mind that anything for your face or even bath foam in SE Asian countries may contain some form of whitening cream.
A travel tube of afterbite isn’t a luxury either with insects or jellyfish around.
JoddeHaa Says:
March 21st, 2008, 6:10 am
Leo, I am a bit worried about you only bringing shorts to Thailand. My impression is that it is generally considered rude not to wear trousers. Apart from that - great advice.
From http://wikitravel.org/en/Thailand
Personal appearance is very important in Thailand as a measure of respect to other people, so clothes should be neat, clean, and free from holes or tears. Traditionally, Thais are modest and conservative dressers, and thus clothing should avoid showing a lot of skin. Pants are preferable to shorts, blouses should have capped sleeves, and if tank tops are worn, the straps should be thick (i.e. not spaghetti straps). Thai men generally wear pants, and most Thais view an adult man wearing shorts as fairly ridiculous; shorts are primarily worn by laborers and schoolchildren. Shorts should be knee length or more, if worn at all. Swimsuits should not be revealing — many Thais swim in full clothing. You will find that dressing appropriately means that you are shown more respect in return. This translates in many ways, even sometimes lowering initial offering prices at markets. While some allowance is made for the differing customs of foreigners, Thais respond more positively to well-dressed Westerners.
Bart Says:
March 21st, 2008, 8:25 am
OMG, I must have a really really tough day. I actually read “36 Tips for Keeping Time Travel as Simple as Possible”.
But the first tip (travel documents) gave it away, no time travel here.
:)
Keep it up though!
James Says:
March 21st, 2008, 8:26 am
1. Use a button down shirt rather than a t-shirt. It looks better, allows more formal occasions, and most cultures dress more formally anyway.
2. Learn at least “please”, “thank you”, and “hello” in the local language. You will have a lot more fun if you show you are attempting to join the culture, not merely observe it from the outside.
Lynn Says:
March 21st, 2008, 9:02 am
I would recommend a plastic shopping bag, just like you get at the grocery store. If you go swimming (or get wet for some other reason) you can just stick your wet clothes in the bag without worrying about the rest of your stuff. Plus you can reuse as the bag as long as you don’t tear it.
Robbin Says:
March 21st, 2008, 9:33 am
Hmmm, maybe it’s just me, but a packing list is NEVER complete without toothbrush and floss….
Other than that, I love the list. It is what I aspire to on scuba vacations. Unfortunately, the scuba gear takes up some additional space, but it’s very necessary on such a trip :-)
Thailand is on my shortlist of wish-trips. I look forward to hearing about it on your return.
Robbin
WhoGivesAShirt Says:
March 21st, 2008, 9:47 am
Throw away used portions of your guidebook? That won’t sit well for your traveller *or* environmental karma. A number of hostels and hotels will have a bookshelf or reading room where you could easily deposit used pages. I’ve found several that proved to be a real boon - different maps or suggestions from which to choose is always a good thing.
(By the way, spellcheck your posts before uploading. It takes two seconds and makes things a lot more readable.)
Gina Says:
March 21st, 2008, 9:49 am
I would promote getting up and out a bit later. Having lived in NYC and New Orleans, I can assure you that nothing makes the work commute more unbearable than a clog of tourists hogging space — while endlessly commenting on the lack of it — in the subway car.
Mr Positioning (Stanley Bronstein) Says:
March 21st, 2008, 9:56 am
Is there any way to teach my wife to pack as lightly as possible (grin) ???
Every time we go on a trip I wind up using 90% of what I take and she winds up using 50% of what she takes (and she takes more than me to begin with).
The number 1 tip I keep trying to tell her is that unless you’re going to some type of event on multiple nights, no one will know if she wore something twice (except for me and I don’t mind . . .)
Take care
Mr Positioning (Stanley F. Bronstein, Atty, CPA, Author and Professional Speaker)
Maria - Never the Same River Twice Says:
March 21st, 2008, 10:18 am
The point that strikes me about traveling simply is the intention behind it. So many Americans (not sure about other countries on this point) only get 2 weeks vacation and feel that they have to squeeze as much as possible into that time.
Because you’ve created more time freedom for yourself, Leo, you have the luxury of not jam-packing your schedule and your bags. Congratulations!
Tony Says:
March 21st, 2008, 10:22 am
Two lines from those poems sum things up very nicely.
“Open your heart and mind to everything
Pack light and remain open to light in people”
Personally I always take too much but here’s a few things that may be handy.
Travel or sample size products.
Black silk socks feeling great and stay that way if you even have to wear them a couple of days on the trot (excuse the pun, couldn’t resist!). Silk is self-cleaning and cool in hot climate and warm in a cool climate.
Fuzzy Brushes - handy anywhere and no need for water.
An Avid travel razor - the blades are kept in the handle to protect them (and you).
Ultra Shave Cream 50ml; apart from using for shaves it also has a natural bactericide, keeps your skin moisturised and protected all day and offers good protection against mosquitoes. Ultra also combats the dryness of cabin pressure.
William Profet from OneJobTwoSalaries.com Says:
March 21st, 2008, 10:24 am
Here’s my light bag contents:
1. Passport
2. Credit cards - 2xAmEx and 1xVISA
3. My DSLR photocamera
4. Mobile phone (Nokia E65)
5. Dry deodorant and Eauparfume
6. Boxer shorts x number of days :)
7. Socks x number of days
8. 2 T-shirts
9. A pull-over (depends on the season)
10. A Moleskine notebook + pen (for money making ideas :-))
11. Chargers - for the mobile phone and camera.
12. A book (Tony Robbins, Robin Sharma, something like that)
And, of course, the clothes on my back.
I hope this could be useful for you when packing for a trip. :) I am going to visit Brussels, London and Luxembourgh after two weeks and this is going to be my luggage… as usual.
Good luck,
William
Nancy Zellers Says:
March 21st, 2008, 10:44 am
Learn to wash your underwear and socks, William. You’ll eliminate most of your luggage — 14 pairs of shorts and sock and 2 shirts! Really. I wouldn’t carry around that much underwear. Maybe for a 3 day trip but not for more than that.
Mari Lynn Mann Says:
March 21st, 2008, 11:14 am
I’m a little bothered by the “take along old clothes and discard them” and the “trash your copied guide book pages” tips because they perpetuate the American throw-away mind-set as well as our belief that other countries are good places to dispose of our trash. This kind of mindless-ness and lack of responsiblity for our impact on a society, a culture and it’s environment is not very Zen-like.
SpaceAgeSage Says:
March 21st, 2008, 11:26 am
My best trips unfolded when they were not over planned. It allows me to look at the world through eyes of a person on an adventure and not as a tourist. A tourist often looks for the passing moments of enjoyment the trip is supposed to bring; the person on an adventure looks at every thing and everyone around them and brings something to the moment.
Paul Says:
March 21st, 2008, 11:27 am
Having just returned from a trip through Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand I would add bring medicines you can only easily find in the US such as Lotrimin, Cortisone cream and Neosporin. Also, extra cotton socks as your feet will sweat in Asian countries during their summer seasons.
PK Says:
March 21st, 2008, 12:18 pm
I have to agree with JoddeHaa; it’s my understanding that pants/trousers are more or less a requirement for respectful travel in Thailand. And you will flat-out be denied entry into any of the temples in shorts.
If you’re just going straight to the beaches and don’t care to absorb any of the local flavor, you might be OK. But in the spirit of everything else in the post about opening your heart, meeting the locals, etc., you had better think a little harder about how you dress! No amount of smiling will overcome the ill effects of your bared knees!
Dug Says:
March 21st, 2008, 12:50 pm
To create the best frame of mind for traveling, focus on reciprocity and begin at home. Stay open to foreign accents and that confused tourist look in the eye, and if you see a chance to help someone visiting your city from far away, step up and introduce yourself and offer help. My fondest memories from my travels all begin with such people. To make this better, learn what you can of other languages, and learn your own home town well enough to guide others to the best features.
andy from stoptalkinganddeliver.com Says:
March 21st, 2008, 13:03 pm
Great post. I’ve spent 5 of the last 7 years living in a hotel for work. I’ve got my entire life down to one suitcase and a laptop bag.
Here is my toiletries list:
bic single blade razor (and spare)
bar soap
q-tips (180 box)
folding scissors
tweezers
clothes line
flat sink stopper
adjustable hair clippers
oatmealer Says:
March 21st, 2008, 13:11 pm
Here is my list
duct tape - always comes in handy. fixing busted luggage
swiss army knife - for opening cans etc.
Undercover Silk Money Belt - can hold passports and important doc under clothes. leaving pockets free
when it comes to clothes you want to where something nice and flattering. I recommend wrinkle-free button downs mixed with cotton and polyster the dry fast and can be worn to formal events. And darks slacks comfortable, protects from bug bites and insect or plants reactions. Look nice, B/c you will probably bring home photos and movies of your trip and you dont want to look like a bum to your friends and family.
I keep all my guide books as a mementos and avoid buying any souvenirs.
gsm - world phone- have it unlocked by your carrier and by a sim card. It was cheap and we were able to plan rendouves for lunch and dinner when we split up’ed.
You can change currency at most airport you arrive at during international travel to get you through the first day and your hotel. That way you can skip the exchange rates and fees from here.
cap/hat - for sun protection
breathable, lightweight, and moisture wicking clothes like Patagonia’s stuff for outdoors activities.
pack toliettres with you - you are there to have fun not waste time looking for things that they just might not have. Don’t assume that they will have your product/medicine or specific item.
I use a compositionj ournal mead grid lab notebook so I can draw, write and record my trip.
blogrdoc, I like the wool socks idea, gonna try that.
If you are going to buy souvenirs make a short list of what you want and for whom before you leave. takes guesswork out and may elevate the buyers remorse we all get trying to resist a good deal.
now use these tips to write a book….
Alex Says:
March 21st, 2008, 13:35 pm
I think, some first add medicine could be very useful.
For me its better have it within any disaster, then to have nothing in a bad way.
The perfect tourist is one, who can use some useless things as the things which he really need.
Camilla Says:
March 21st, 2008, 14:44 pm
I might just add to this, that if you need copies of something like guidebook pages, informational pages, or maps, you can take photos of them in high res with your camera and then just view them on the back of your camera (provided you have a big enough viewer screen) as you travel. No need to carry paper anywhere. I frequently take photos of Google Maps screens, and then set off to find places using my camera viewer as the map, and zooming in and out of the photo as needed. :)
When i’m worried about using up my camera battery, i transfer photos to my Archos media player (because i am always carrying it anyway), although that might not suit others quite as much.
Martin Says:
March 21st, 2008, 15:14 pm
Hi Can’t beat one bag travel. I no longer take a camera. I have zillions of photos I never look at. I do like to send myself postcards with my thoughts of the time noted on the back. There nice to come home to.
qleyo Says:
March 21st, 2008, 15:26 pm
Wow there is no way I can accomplish this one, I pack 2 outfits for each day at least! 3 pairs of swimwear and can’t breathe easily without my laptop!
But when going on a summer trip to greece or the islands, asides outing clothes a quick cheat like someone else posted is a sarong and an oversized shirt :) saves a couple of items. I’m going for a ski trip on the 4th, will try my utmost best to apply some of these tips, however after that is a one month long business trip to a circa 40ºC destination, which means heat, alot of showers and alot of change of clothes :s
Mojowrkn Says:
March 21st, 2008, 15:57 pm
Brilliant I will put this to use when I head to the big island for 3 weeks in April. Need the lappy for sure but instead of bringing my road bike ill rent and save the hassle.
Thanks again!
Mario Says:
March 21st, 2008, 15:59 pm
Dear Elise,
there is no problem with my backround or the norms. But please dont ask me to forget my habits. This is was this site taught me in such a amazing way in the last month.. :)
Thanks Leo
Mulungu
Niles Gibbs Says:
March 21st, 2008, 16:01 pm
I adopted a “one bag” only policy several years ago, and it served me well in the Peace Corps, and ever since.
The sooner you learn to live on the absolute minimum required resources, the easier and more fun travel becomes.
The sarong is the duct tape of light travel (in terms of limitless utility, not as an adhesive).
Budget a small amount of money for hygiene consumables and buy them when you arrive (except maybe deodorant).
Carry small amounts of OTC medications (you can buy boxes of travel-friendly packets of pain killers, etc.) Yes, you could buy them, but when you’ve got a headache, and you’re delayed/stranded/lost, it’s better to have them on hand.
Avoid electronics with built-in batteries, because that usually means separate chargers, which is wasted bulk. Get a universal charger, or take one battery charger and use rechargeable batteries in your devices, or budget money for buying replacement batteries (depends on length of trip/usage requirements).
After having to travel through areas with pickpocketing, I don’t carry anything in my back pockets. Get a thin wallet for your front pocket, and strip out everything but cash, id, credit/debit card. But all those membership cards in with your travel documents (or leave them at home).
Take PANTS. Wearing shorts in most of the world will quickly mark you as a tourist, and can be disrespectful (locals might not say anything to your face, but the less “outsider” you look, the better your interactions).
Take a single plastic bag for temporary storage of wet/dirty clothes (to separate them in your pack from everything else.)
Even if (or especially if) you’re an avid bookworm, don’t bring a NEW book. Either you’ll get too sucked in and not see the world around you, or you’ll forget about it and feel guilty that you hauled it around.
Instead, bring something you’d read a hundred times over and over, so that it’ll fill the time when you need it to (possibly providing new insight due to the change of locale), but you won’t feel it “wasted space”, anymore than you’d feel a close friend “wasted space” by traveling with you.
I always keep this quote on travel from Lin Yutang in mind:
“A true traveler is always a vagabond, with the joys, temptations and sense of adventure of the vagabond. Either travel is ‘vagabonding’ or it is no travel at all. The essence of travel is to have no duties, no fixed hours, no mail, no inquisitive neighbors, no receiving delegations, and no destination. A good traveler is one who does not know where he is going to, and a perfect traveler does not know where he came from.”
michael Says:
March 21st, 2008, 16:05 pm
re: “Write down the emergency phone number for each credit card beside its photocopy. Leave this with a neighbour or family member along with your itinerary. Should you have your wallet and bags stolen and be only allowed to make one phone call, call this contact person who would be able to cancel your credit cards etc. for you. ”
Are there credit card companies/banks that would actually allow a non-authorized person to cancel your cards?
Chris Weiss Says:
March 21st, 2008, 16:33 pm
Couple of good reference sites for packing light:
http://www.onebag.com/
http://lifehacker.com/search/packing%20light%20travel/ (which actually references this article)
And Tim Ferris’ site: http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/2007/07/11/how-to-travel-the-world-with-10-pounds-or-less-plus-how-to-negotiate-convertibles-and-luxury-treehouses/
In my recent travels, the best tips I implemented were learning to fold clothes efficiently (http://lifehacker.com/software/travel/pack-like-a-pro-with-the-bundled-wrapping-method-301435.php) and I picked up a $13 good looking non-metal belt from REI. TSA checkpoints are sooo much easier when I don’t have to keep hauling my pants back up (I’m not about to wear tight pants on 13 hour flights).
Cle' from MySpace.com/Cle Holly Says:
March 21st, 2008, 17:09 pm
Great blog! Add One More Thing to the list: a light sweater that can double as a neck roll. The purpose is actually greater than comfort - *most* holy sites, around the world (not just Thailand!), require that women cover their shoulders (really, shoulders - so sexy) before entering. But enough about modesty - soak up whatever culture you fall into, & support local musicians wherever you find them! Bon voyage!
Kyle Says:
March 21st, 2008, 17:25 pm
Wow! I’m not planning a vacation anytime soon, but these ideas make so much sense. I’ll for sure dig up this email before my next trip. Great post idea!
any mouse (real name withheld) Says:
March 21st, 2008, 18:19 pm
for my back up plan, I always carry enough money to bribe my way home. 2-4k in hundreds tucked away.
Kelly@SHE-POWER Says:
March 21st, 2008, 20:03 pm
Wow, the combined knowledge of the Zen Habits community is quite impressive, isn’t it?
Great reference post for anyone travelling near and far. makes me want to slip my backpack on again.
You’ll have a such a fabulous time in Thailand, Leo. The Land of Smiles is a must-see for everyone. I’ve been twice so far and can’t wait to get back again.
Kelly
oatmealer Returns Says:
March 21st, 2008, 20:39 pm
EDit a couple more things
A couple of extra large trash bags - for wet clothes and doubles as a poncho with some quick alterations
a good toiletree bag. water proof and sufficent amount of compartments for all your things.
A pen. You wouldnt believe how many times someone asked me for a pen to write directions down or exchange emails.
dufflebag or framed pack and a day pack. Pack food, drinks and snacks in day pack. That way you can avoid feeling hungry during the day. And being rippedoff at tourist aimed resturants. Try to find local resturants that are populatd by locals, the food will surprise you, great way too interact with locals and the price would be easy to swallow.
Again, now use these tips to write a book…. But all i ask is to give credit where credit is due. Ok Bro
Laura Says:
March 21st, 2008, 22:13 pm
When I went to India a few years ago, I wore a money belt and took a carry-on size backpack containing:
2 t-shirts
1 long-sleeved t-shirt
1 sarong
1 pair of woolly socks
2 pairs of underpants, 1 bra
comfortable sandals
pen and notebook/journal
guidebook (yes, the giant Lonely Planet)
SLR camera and film
first-aid/OTC items in a small ziploc bag
bar of soap
roll of TP (wouldn’t bother with that again)
small ziploc of toiletries
small ziploc of laundry soap
contacts and contact solution
sunglasses
hand towel
Shortly after I arrived, I had two pairs of silk pants made very inexpensively and bought a cotton salwar-kameez. I also bought a wool shawl, which I used as a sweater and as a blanket.
I had to travel in “business casual” because I was standby, so I stuffed the light dress and flats in the bottom of my pack while I was travelling. There was still room left over.
Kris Says:
March 22nd, 2008, 0:05 am
Wonderful article! I’m attempting to pack the next two years into two bags (slowly, I’m spending 60 days doing this on my little blog - 0wn1t.net ). I like your minimalist list, and hopefully my final tally will be near 30 items or less!
Perfect Life Project Says:
March 22nd, 2008, 0:12 am
I recently flew out of San Fran International. While I queued with all the other luggage burdened passengers at check-in i watched a handful of lucky people rapidly checking in in a separate queue. This counter was for passengers with no luggage to check in. I saw a whole family just walk up, wave their passport and tickets and wander of with hand luggage. Man was I jealous?
From that moment I resolved to travel as lightly as possible. Hand luggage only if at all possible. I realised that most of the luggage we pack for travel is unnecessary. Recycle, rewash and purchase supplies once you have arrived and you too will be waltzing though rapid check in and not waiting for luggage at the other end.
I did this on my most recent travels to Sabah and it was both liberating and immensely satisfying.
blogrdoc Says:
March 22nd, 2008, 1:07 am
@oatmealer: the particular brand to look for is ‘SmartWool’ . This brand is amazing. They are pricey, but money well spent. I’ve got stank feet (sorry) and with these bad boys, the problem is mitigated. I can go days wearing them without wash. (Is it okay to admit to that? Probably not.)
I should add, however, that Costco sells a pretty good ‘knockoff’ sport wool sock that shows up every winter. 3 pair for $10. Can’t shake a stick at it. (I love that phrase) I’ll wear them in the summer no problem. Again, it’s the power of wool. Natural materials are amazing. I could go on an on about the benefits of real leather.
open sdp Says:
March 22nd, 2008, 6:55 am
good
Albert @ Headspace Says:
March 22nd, 2008, 9:51 am
Travel tips really seem universal! I travel a lot and these tip mostly agree with what I would have said.
One lesson that I keep having to learn is not to take books with me when I leave home.
I always find interesting things to read at my destination and end up lugging books there and back without reading them!
Gretchyn Says:
March 22nd, 2008, 9:54 am
My husband and I have done quite a bit of traveling, including Thailand and Madagascar and some more remote regions of Mexico. My favorite suggestion of his — pack your dirty underwear in the top of your pack. This might deter anyone with sticky fingers trying to steal things from the outer pockets or top of your pack.
Here are a few of mine:
Mosquitoes and sun are both serious issues in Thailand from which you will need protection. Mosquitoes seem to be somewhat less attracted to light colors. I would recommend at least one pair of convertible pants which you can zip off the lower legs during the day to make shorts. This will also come in handy if you want to visit some of the temples. They require not only pants for the men, but sandals with a strap across the back. If you do not have these 2 important items, you can either rent them or not visit the temple. Also, bring some sort of hat with a brim to protect you from both sun and sudden rain storms.
Bring a carabiner clip with you. They are great for hanging things like wet socks from the back of your pack during the day to dry.
Bring clothes you can donate at the end of your trip. This is both good for an economically challenged local economy and will give you space in your pack coming back for any treasures you might find along the way.
Lonely Planet guide — GOOD
In some areas there will be a lot of begging, particularly from children. Rather than giving money, we bring hard candies or pens and pencils to give out. If you feel strongly about giving money to these impoverished areas, find a local charity doing work for these communities. This will still help and will help deter the idea that all foreigners are there as a source for begging.
Do not keep your wallet or travel documents in a pants pocket — pick pockets are clever! I would definitely recommend a travel belt worn under your clothes.
Have a great time! The Thai people we encountered are warm and friendly.
We did not have any problems in Thailand with my husband wearing casual swim trunks at the beach or the pool. I do not remember seeing any speedos, however. :)
chandra Says:
March 22nd, 2008, 11:31 am
Inspirational articles, Leo. Keep it going !
Also, could you please write an article on creating a spa experience at home.
mel starrs Says:
March 22nd, 2008, 17:15 pm
Tip - if you’re going to a country where you are likely to sweat a lot (China in summer springs to mind) - don’t pack black! Sweat patches show up with white tide marks and look awful. Try neutral beige and stone colours instead.
Thailand Adviser Says:
March 22nd, 2008, 22:54 pm
Well, Thailand is easy and simple to get all you need like Shirts ahorts Pans, If I was you, I would do the same as well. Travelling with one Bag Wow! Great easily splitting away when I landed.
blogrdoc Says:
March 23rd, 2008, 1:04 am
Here’s my #1 tip for writing down mapquest/googlemaps directions: include the *distances* (not just Right/Left on [streetname] information). That way, you will know if you passed up the street.
Alli Says:
March 23rd, 2008, 4:04 am
I am an overpacker. Everyone that knows me knows this as well. I am getting considerably better though. I tried to make notes beside previously mentioned items to emphasize some uses you may not have thought of . Some of my better decisions include…
* a quality backpack with a mesh air pocket between the bag and my back. check out the AirSpeed and AirCore details http://www.ospreypacks.com/PackTech/SuspensionTechnology/
* lingerie/small mesh bags or ziplocs (wet seasons especially)- pack in these, if your bag is searched it is so much easier and when you get to the location things are organized, and easy to find, possibly waterproof
* stuff to pack
* colorful piece of fabric/sarong- mine has been a sheet, pillow, towel, dress, skirt, changing room, and tent/shield from the sun- I purchased my “sarong” for less than half of the price of a real one and had it cut to the length I wanted it at a cloth store during a trip. I didn’t think of the fabric shrinking with the wash, weight gain, or the frayed edges so I wish it was about 4-6″ longer than i originally thought was necessary
* piece of rope and/or clothes pins or clothes pins with hooks, depending on the destination
* an inflatable neck pillow- works great as a regular pillow
* loose, quick drying long pants in khaki- loose keeps more bugs away than any bug spray ever could
* loose, long sleeve button up shirt- bug and sun protection, chilly weather
* safety pins of various sizes
* bandanna or washcloth- sweat rag, to sit on during bus rides or sitting on plastic chairs to prevent sweating, belt (can go through a few loops), head band- avoid gang colors such as red or blue
* dryer sheets- improves smell of stinky stuff, if you rub on fabric it will reduce the static cling- probably best on the inside to prevent residue showing if any, I have heard you can rub them on you to prevent bug bites but don’t know if this is a myth
*baby/body powder such as Gold Bond- medicated properties are refreshing when you can’t get to a shower immediately.
safety and security thoughts
* ziploc bags- the real ones and not just the sandwich size, not the cheap ones that can leak- you may end up on a plane without a bathroom- don’t laugh too hard it happens
* a whistle
* a fake wallet with one or more of the “credit cards” from the applications you get in the mail- the ones with a random number and YOUR NAME HERE on them
* small combination lock for storage areas in hostels
* list of medicines (including the generic name and dosage) and allergies and a contact- laminate (can be with packing tape) and stick in wallet, and keep copies. if you are unconscious you can’t tell someone this information
* if you are a diver or someone in your family is, get DAN insurance, but only the best coverage- this includes travel assistance even for non-diving emergencies http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/
* register where you are going with the embassy- you never know what may happen and need assistance http://www.travel.state.gov/
Liara Covert Says:
March 23rd, 2008, 5:16 am
This is wise advice. I have evolved in my travel practices. The more I travel, the less I take. It enables me to focus on experiences at hand, and value being “in the now.”
Marina Martin Says:
March 23rd, 2008, 13:04 pm
@Suzie If you call PayPal, they will put a travel notice on your account that allows you to use its debit card overseas. This alert only lasts for 14 days at which point you have to call again. I have had no problem BUT I would never travel with a single card if possible. Last year I was at dinner in Japan with a friend and we both had Wells Fargo platinum debit cards — mine worked and his was declined (but had plenty of money on it). Foreign card access is funky.
If you’re bootstrapping it, many hostels across Europe provide sheets but charge 2-3 Euro for a towel. Avoid this fee AND avoid carrying a towel by drying off with a dirty shirt.
Collect one-use samples of shampoo and body wash (the ones frequently glued onto magazine advertisements). I frequently take side trips on vacations where I’ll go somewhere else for 1-2 days and leave most of my stuff at the original location. These are great because they take up almost no room, rarely leak, and you can throw them out.
Lots of people travel with books. Take magazines instead. You can toss them out as you read them, whereas with a book you usually end up carting it around even after you’ve finished it.
A fresh pair of underwear each day can easily stretch out one pair of jeans well past a week.
As for travel guides, I never touch one. The good stuff is never in a guide.
FlintZA Says:
March 23rd, 2008, 13:22 pm
I am notorious amongst colleagues for managing to travel exceptionally light. Most of the tips I would offer are already in your list except for one:
For those toiletries you must carry, find and buy the smaller versions (eg 35-50ml deodorant cans) and spend on a decent waterproof toiletry bag that fits easily in your carry on bag (which should be your only bag for anything less than 4 days of travel and possibly more).
mace Says:
March 23rd, 2008, 14:13 pm
Hello all, very nice to read people talking about this. I’ve carried my share of luggage, too.
Nevermore, i then said!
Nowadays my guideline is, that wherever i’m going, the people there manage quite well indeed with the resources provided locally. There’s absolutely nothing essential i /can/ get from Finland and /cannot/ get from there. Thus i travel without a bag at all. ~10 days in Ireland, ~10 days in Zagreb+Budapest and ~10 days in Paris+London, weekend in Estonia. All these trips well accomplished without any sort of a bag. To Barcelona i toke my bike which was the best of ideas. At first i planned to rent one for the week, but bringing my own was a much better alternative, it cost 25€ return for the bike in the plane (which i think is a ripoff because the 11.5kg bike weights far less than the allowance of 20kg), and i rode from home to my own HEL airport, from BCN airport to town, around the town and up the hills for the week and then back to the BCN airport and to the plane. Hehe it was worth the look of the baggage-attendant: “is this bike /all/ your luggage, you don’t seem to even have anything to go in the cabin O_o” “that’s correct, miss: i do travel light ,:-)”.
For 5 weeks in Japan, i had a 2.2kg shoulderbag, and brought back total 10kg of loot. I never buy souvenirs, but i do send postcards, letters or occasionally a small packet.
In my pockets i can easily fit a tooth-brush (i sawed most of the handle, i don’t have the mouth of a crocodile :) and a pair of socks. I cut off my hair before leaving and use local barbers to get shaves or if not available or too expensive, resort to buying disposable blades and leave my unused blades at the hostel or whatever place i’m staying at or try to find some place to pass them on. Of course travelling documents (passport, tickets and some toilet paper) in a small plastic bag and an international debit card; i *always* pay in cash, abroad or not. That’s it. A pen is nice to have around, but let’s face it, there will be pens there too.
There’s always been water (and soap) where i’ve travelled to, so i rinse or wash underwear and socks daily and other clothes as need be. Yeah laundromats are nice too like somebody already noted. It’s great to hang around in them, waiting for clothes to dry and wearing just a borrowed bathrobe and slippers in the meantime. I always wear the same garderobe, though of course i might acquire something once i get there. It’s marvellous to go abroad in whatever you were wearing that day. The cosmopolitan feeling is the best!
Nowadays i have a smartphone which serves me as a camera, photocopier, mp3 player for podcasts i’ve loaded it up with, wifi-terminal for surfing and email (neither of which i almost never do when travelling), clock, calendar, alarm, some games, notebook, a mini-flashlight, gps and a map.
With that i need a charger, but i’m carrying it all the time anyway.
Sometimes i take a book, but generally much prefer using a local library, read local newspapers or magazine or perhaps get a 2nd hand book.
It should be noted that i typically go to cities when i travel. Going hiking or on a ski-trip is quite different from that, and i assume i would bring very many more things.
For other tips, i second to what others have already said: rest and take naps as needed, drink a lot of juice, water, milk or whatever you like, spending time in the sun will wear your energy but that is a deal well worth making. :) Walk around the town, get out of the downtown. Loiter in cafés, pubs and bars. And on the streets too. Go take a look at some attractions, and read some local newspapers if you can. Order foodportions you don’t know about. Be humble. Be curious.
Not once have i regretted not bringing something i didn’t. All in all, my advice is the same as i guess everybody else’s here: travel light, don’t overplan. You’re going to be just fine!
GP Says:
March 23rd, 2008, 21:47 pm
As an innkeeper, this is a great “pass along” to our guests. Proving once again… less is more :)
gp in montana
lisa Says:
March 24th, 2008, 2:00 am
its difficult to travel light when you have small kids and you are going out in winters…you need to carry so many things…from socks to sweaters, mittens..and what not..i have always tried but its near to impossible
LadyExpat Says:
March 24th, 2008, 6:53 am
Great list. This is how I travel these days. The stress level is 0. My only suggestion is make sure you wear good footwear. I would suggest a really good pair of walking sandals. You can buy flip flops for the beach once you get there. Have fun!!
Jasi Says:
March 24th, 2008, 10:40 am
“1. Use a button down shirt rather than a t-shirt. It looks better, allows more formal occasions, and most cultures dress more formally anyway.
2. Learn at least “please”, “thank you”, and “hello” in the local language. You will have a lot more fun if you show you are attempting to join the culture, not merely observe it from the outside.”
@James: I totally agree with this list. A light, cotton, button down is classic and comfortable. But I’ll have to add “Bathroom” to number 2. No pun..
Ponderosa Says:
March 24th, 2008, 12:13 pm
Seriously. I’m still figuring out RSS, and webfeeds, and all this stuff… but I STILL come here every day.
Really great information. I sigh in regret of past vacations where I’ve OVER PACKED, and now I realize why traveling light leaves so much room for flexibility.
Thanks… again & enjoy yourself.
computeraddict Says:
March 24th, 2008, 21:43 pm
I like the idea of only taking 1 camera and 1 charger (maybe a spare battery) but I’m paranoid about data loss to the extent that I take a laptop and portable drive to backup photos from my camera (and my partners camera) to the laptop at the end of each day, then backup all those photos to the portable hard drive (which I have my partner carry in her bag).
Does anyone have any suggestions for simplifying this?
James Says:
March 24th, 2008, 22:30 pm
@computeraddict: My father had a pretty good experience using a hard drive with integrated card reader — it would read the card when a button is pushed, and copy it to the hard drive. Unfortunately, I cannot remember the name, but suffice to know that such things do exist. So at least you can skip the laptop, but still be paranoid.
Alli Says:
March 25th, 2008, 11:32 am
computeraddict you can always try sites like Shutterfly to download your pictures to if you have an internet connection. This insures that there is no way to loose your photos even if your external hard drive is damaged or stolen.
MrPositioning.com (Stanley Bronstein) Says:
March 25th, 2008, 18:07 pm
Another thing necessary to keep traveling simple is to go with the flow. AVOID getting into any disputes with airline personnel, etc. That could make a trip quickly turn into a MAJOR hassle.
Mr Positioning
Stanley F. Bronstein
Attorney, CPA, Author and Professional Motivational Speaker
