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How to Travel Light & Not Look Like a Slob: The Lazy Girl’s Guide

Last Updated: July 11, 2022

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Wondering how to travel light?

First I have to warn you: whether you’re a backpacker or carry-on traveler, one of the downsides to traveling light is that your wardrobe is, by definition, woefully limited.

Now, don’t get me wrong – there are many things worse in this world than having only 2 bikinis on your Hawaiian beach vacation, but it seems like nowadays people are divided in two camps: the minimalist light packers who favour function, and the glam #OOTD traveler types who are inexplicably always wearing gorgeous flowing dresses.

… but my question is: what if I’m neither?! What if I’m both?! And also inhumanely lazy?!? (mostly that)

I’m by no means a stylish fashionista (I literally own 15 different grey cardigans and don’t know why), but looking presentable while travelling is still important for me.

From my experience, people are generally nicer and more willing to help you, plus on a very vain level, twirling in floral dresses is just really fun.

Genuinely, I don’t have the self-confidence to rock the stereotypical ‘backpacker’ look.

While other girls might look badass, carefree and cool in their loose tops and topknots, my attempts at this aesthetic veer more towards ‘deranged hobo’… which is a look that cannot be saved by any accessory.

… so for my fellow deranged hobos, this article is for you. The in-betweeners… who want to pack light, look decent, but not worry about looking glam at every second.

In this post, I detail how to travel light and feign that you’re put together wherever you go! Don’t worry fellow lazy girl, I gotchu.

Of course, these packing light tips are much more relevant to certain destinations than others. Most of my travels have been around Europe, where style might be more of a concern, but of course, if you’re reading this blog, I know you’re brilliant and amazing anyway… so use your common sense as to which tips make sense to where you’re headed.

How to Travel Light (and Not Look Like a Slob): Golden Packing Light Tips

1. pack a few knockout accessories – especially bold pieces like statement necklaces.

Honestly, beautiful accessories are the closest thing we have to magical ‘instant glam’ fairy dust.  People often question why “I look so dressed up” when legitimately all I’ve done is put on a sparkly necklace.

It’s a sneaky (and wonderfully lazy) way to look good, so I always try to have 2-3 nice pieces along with me, especially since they weigh close to nothing. (And cost next to nothing too… look at ALL these ridiculously pretty ones for less than $20).

Where can you find said magic dust? Well, if you’re looking for inspiration, Happiness Boutique has a wide selection of gorgeous pieces, including the sparkly gem I’m wearing in the photo above.

For other travel-inspired options, ModCloth has a bunch of beautiful necklaces I’m obsessed with at the moment!  Browse (and lose all self control) here.

2. Bring only what you wouldn’t mind being photographed in

Those wondering how to travel light should remember this: we’re living in the 21st century so odds are, at some point during your travels, you’ll be wanting photos taken.

My tip to you is to never ever bring anything that you wouldn’t want to see in photos, no matter how comfortable.

Many people tend to have a “lazy outfit” (probably giant sweatpants and hoodies, though I’m partial to this kangaroo onesie , myself). The problem with these is that they only serve one purpose: when you want to vegetate and become a human burrito.

When items only work for one certain occasion or purpose, then you’re not maximizing the space in your bag. So, even with things like sleepwear, think of items that are both comfy and decently put together (e.g. yoga pants instead of fuzzy panda bear fleece). This way you can potentially use them in other situations.

PRO TIP: Look into buying one of those dresses you can wear multiple ways. They’re so easy to find (and really cheap too! Here’s a cute one for under $20). They’re perfect for the day to night transition (and for pretending you’re not recycling the same 4 outfits over and over. lulz)

3. BUT don’t forget to prioritize comfort

This means those platform heels should probably stay at home, along with that skin tight clubbing dress.

Again, make sure the pieces you pack are multifunctional.

For instance, a nice top paired with dark jeans can be used for going out in the evening, and also for sightseeing during the day (with a pair of casual shorts).

One test I use is to think: “Would I mind sitting on a 12 hour bus with this on?”

If the answer is no, then I won’t pack it. There’s a wide variety of pretty clothes that are comfortable, so opt for those and never pack something that is *ultra cute* but uncomfortable to wear. I guarantee you won’t bother putting it on.

RECOMMENDATION: I seriously swear by my dress sandals from Clarks.  They’re the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever owned and one summer, I literally wore them everywhere, to the point where I got THE worst tan lines in history. Here’s a similar pair to what I have.

4. Make sure all your tops match all your bottoms

One of my favourite packing light tips.

Making sure all your tops match all your bottoms is an easy but simple trick to maximize the different outfits in your bag!

This will usually mean picking some kind of colour palette for your wardrobe, but since I have a weirdo obsession with colour palettes anyway, that’s more of a reward for me than anything else!

There are also some companies out there who now specialize in convertible travel wear that you can wear in a bunch of different ways. VacayStyle for instance has awesome collections, with pre-matched pieces that combine into over a dozen outfits . Perfect for the hopeless and uncoordinated! (aka me)

5. Pay attention to the fabrics! Pick items that don’t easily wrinkle

When I’m at hone, my favourite thing in the world is my clothing steamer, which works like magic and instantly smooths wrinkles.

Unfortunately, bringing this mammouth gizmo with me isn’t an option on the road, and as a result I’m often stuck with wrinkly clothes (which I vainly try to fix with my hair straightener).

Save yourself the grief – you want clothes that you can grab right out of the suitcase and throw back in just as easily. While irons may be available at hotels and hostels, ain’t nobody got time for that.

What fabrics are ideal? Well some travellers swear by Merino Wool ( scope out products here ) but there’s plenty of good options out there.

Of course, you know your wardrobe best (i.e. what holds up to wrinkles, what dries quickest) but for a good guide, check out this post on Best Fabrics for Travel from Her Packing List.

6. Pack a pretty scarf or two

A nice scarf is probably one of the most versatile things that you can pack.

I use mine for so many purposes (as a blanket, to wrap around fragile goods, as a makeshift pillow on buses, etc.) that I sometimes forget you’re actually supposed to wear it.

A colourful scarf can jazz up your basics immediately and is a sneaky way to make it look like you have several outfits! It’s also perfect for emergency situations where modesty is a must (e.g. visiting certain churches).

PRO TIP: Consider getting one of those secret passport scarves that let you hide your valuables like a ninja. Yes, these exist. Loads of options online for less than $20 ( see them here ).

7. Quality > quantity, pack only pieces you love (rather than more just for the sake of variety)

If you wanna know how to travel light, you should keep quality > quantity in mind, and never pack anything for the sole purpose of “just in case”. If that 1 in 1000 case pops up, there’s stores abroad where you can probably get the item you need.

8. Bring plenty of layerables

A good question is how to travel light even when it gets cold.

The answer is layers!

Even during the summer, odds are there will be some random anomaly of a day where low temps will make you feel like a human popsicle.

Bringing clothes that layer well together is crucial.

Don’t be that girl who had to wear a fancy trench coat over a casual denim jacket over an oversized sleeping T-shirt (aka me once because I’m useless).

9. Avoid lights and whites

For long-term travel, I’d stick to darker tones.

A lot of bloggers advise that you bring a plain white t-shirt because “it’s so versatile” and “effortlessly cute”.

I don’t know what kind of stainless universe these bloggers come from, but if you ask me to pack a white t-shirt, that thing will probably have chocolate on it before it even hits the suitcase (shout out to Tide to Go for being your gal’s BFF).

Pastel and lighter shades should also be avoided. One of my favourite light blue dresses started turning brown in certain spots during my 3 months abroad, which ruined the princess appeal just a bit.

Depending on the length of your trip, you’re going to want items that last through some wear and tear, so darker shades work better.

PRO TIP: Buy some travel-sized laundry detergent pockets . Tide makes these affordable ones for sink use. They could save your life between proper laundry runs.

10. Have one little black dress

LBDs are a lazy girl’s best friend (well, 2nd best friend after Netflix).

It’s an easy way to look nice and its versatility is unmatched. You can dress it down with a scarf and cardigan during the day, then quicker than the Flash, add some bling and you’re ready for a night out. Pro tip: A-line dresses like this one  are perfect for hiding any travel-induced food babies!

11. Invest in a nice purse

“But what about money belts and fanny packs” you murmur.

I’m sorry – I can’t do it. I just can’t.

Fanny packs and big clunky backpacks to me are akin to a giant sign that reads “I am a tourist. Please rob me if you can”.

To me, it doesn’t matter if you have the nicest outfit in the world, the wrong bag really shatters the whole ‘put together’ illusion that we’re attempting to create.

Luckily, there’s a lot of great bags out there that combine function and style. I would highly recommend the Lo & Sons Claremont camera bag, which is big enough to hold a camera + lens and plenty else if you get creative. There’s even a secret zipper on the back for your valuables! I bring it pretty much everywhere and it’s my go-to “look presentable” companion.

12. Pack shoes that can transition from day to night

While running shoes are practical, I argue that you can find flats, walking sandals and boots that are just as comfy, but more versatile for travel purposes.

Unless you plan on doing hikes or other sporty things, invest in some really good walking shoes that can be passable for a night out (e.g. high heeled boots, strappy sandals, etc.), again, rockin’ that dual purpose.

RECOMMENDATION (AGAIN):  One last plug for my favourite sandals ever. I promise, Clarks makes the most comfortable shoes. I’ve gone hiking in them!  Here’s a similar pair to what I have.

13. And this isn’t for everyone, but bring a friend who’s your size!

Here’s the thing: you can mix and accessorize all you want, but after a certain amount of time on the road, there’s no shaking the fact that  you  feel drab from wearing the same thing over and over.

If you’re able to travel with a friend, you have the potential luxury of sharing your wardrobe which, trust me, can work wonders on you feeling recharged and ready to take on your travels.

Even if you’re not the same size, share accessories like scarves and necklaces and you’ll feel brand new! No friends? This product makes it easy to grow one. … just kidding. *starts sobbing*

But you know, of course, I wouldn’t recommend choosing your travel partner based on their clothing size. That’s a little too  Mean Girls  for my liking.

A final note on modesty:

Depending on where you’re going, certain types of dress may be considered inappropriate, or will earn you the kind of looks you don’t want.

In Morocco for instance, I had to make sure my dresses were long and that my legs were covered because otherwise I would get stared down everywhere I went. Bring a pair of leggings/stockings and a scarf on every trip for moments like these when you need to cover up in a pinch.

So, do you have any extra tips on how to travel light?

Oh, come on guys, I’m definitely not perfect. Let me know in the comments if you have any extra tips on how to travel light and still look good!  Until next time! 🙂

Pssst… I hope you enjoyed this guide on how to travel light! Please note that this post does contain affiliate links, which means I would earn a commission from purchases made through my recommendation (but come at no extra cost to you). Feel free to email me if you have any questions!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

32 thoughts on “How to Travel Light & Not Look Like a Slob: The Lazy Girl’s Guide”

Great tips. I think the number one thing is making sure that every piece can be used and matched in different ways. The second to most important thing to me is: make sure you bring clothes that don’t get super wrinkled or in some other way need a lot of TLC. When you are traveling, the last thing you want to worry about is spending 30 minutes ironing one shirt or folding the cardigan in just the right way so that the hole doesn’t show. Bring your most effortless clothes!

Thanks, Susanna!! Yeah those are definitely key ones. You learn a lot just from trial and error I think, but hopefully this post will help a few newbies out !

I love this article! My color palette is basically grey, blue and black LOL! Great tips! May apply a few to prevent that hobo look!

Nothing wrong with that haha! Those are my go-to shades as well. Like I said in the post, I own 15 grey cardigans. #hoarderproblems

I am also very lazy so packing isn’t high on my prio list but I do want to look decent indeed, especially with all the pics happening. I always bring a scarf for fashion statements and/or comfort/warmth/pillow. I will never look like I’m in a photoshoot but as long as it is comfortable and I feel good in it, I am happy.

That’s my exact attitude as well! Sometimes I see these gorgeous photos of girls in long, flowing dresses on top of mountains and I just… I just don’t get it haha. I’m constantly pursuing that happy medium, because I know I’m not cut out for high fashion style blogging, but I still want to feel comfortable/confident.

Great tips! My last trip was the first time I properly tried to do the matching thing and it was amazing! Ive never gotten dressed so quickly in the morning as I could literally put on any clean top and any clean bottoms. I’ve even found myself thinking this way back home and now if it doesn’t match, I don’t buy it!

It’s SUCH a gamechanger, isn’t it?! And so cool that you’re doing that at home too. I just did a mass purging of all my clothes and am now trying to be more minimalist in my wardrobe. Think I’ll keep matching in mind for my next shopping trip!

Agreed, one must pack the bare minimums and repeat it in different combinations.

Heh exactly! I suppose guys are also less fussy about this kind of thing, hey? 🙂

Either I’m going for the deranged hobo look and just don’t care, or I can pull it off! Things like merino wool are my best friend! I’m actually wearing a jumper made of wool as we speak… And I’m at home! With my (somewhat still packed in boxes at my mums house) full wardrobe! It’s interesting seeing how everyone thinks about packing. I’m finding my bags are slowly getting less and less full as time goes on!

I think you just pull it off haha. So envious of that! But yeah I’m trying more these days to downsize my packing too. It’s definitely a work in progress but over time you really do learn what you need and what you don’t.

I actually never care how I look on pictures when I travel. But I have many friends that do and those will be very helpful for them 🙂

That’s so good to hear! Admittedly, I can be a little vain haha so how I look really impacts my confidence. Hope some of your friends will find this article useful!

This is such a great list! Like you, I don’t want to look like a complete slob but I’m not about checked luggage or a ton of wardrobe changes. A scarf is my best friend when traveling. I’ll have to remember the statement necklaces though. So easy and takes up very little room.

Yeah I think all travellers have their go-to ‘pretty scarf’ haha. It’s genuinely a lifesaver! And yesss so happy to have another girl join the statement necklace bandwagon. Hop on! It’s a sparkly ride 😉

Wow, great tips thanks. I always try and pack light as who wants to carry around a heavy rucksack but it is difficult to look good. I love your idea of travelling with a friend of the same size. Technically you could then travel very light and just wear her clothes 🙂

Hahah that’s brilliant. You show up to the airport with just a purse and she’s like “where are your clothes??” Then you give her a big hug, point at her backpack and whisper “OUR clothes.”

Yup to all of these tips! Although I love my pastels, so there’s always at least one piece that travels with me! But I also bring Tide to-go, just in case 😉 But you sound like my husband when it comes to white tees…lol, it’s like he attracts stains! Thanks so much for the little blurb to my blog! 😀

Great tip about the statement jewelry. I could definitely use a few pointers on that as I am awful at accessorizing. Overall great tips, and I think we have the same style on a lot of items! Thanks again for the link back 🙂

This is great, I will definitely have to keep these in mind! Keep up your wonderful work pretty gal! x

adelelydia.blogspot.com

Thank you, Adele!! <3

This is so necessary! My sister makes fun of me for buying all neutral colors but I always am glad that I have items to match pretty much everything. Thanks for the great advice. 🙂

Hehe no problem Gina! Team Neutral all the way. Like I said, I own 15 grey cardigans. How, I don’t know, but I do haha.

Great tips! Packing clothes that look good for day and night is absolutely essential for me!

Thanks, Emily!! Yess it can be tough to find those transitionable pieces at first but once you find the perfect one… best feeling ever.

This post is amazing thank you so much! I’m going travelling in South East Asia this summer and I have no clue how I’m going to pack light (I’m the kind of girl that needs a mini suitcase for one night away! But I’m also the kind of girl that then wears the one comfy outfit the whole time!) I’m terrible at packing light even though I know I won’t wear all that I do actually pack! Goodness me this post is helpful! Thank you!O

Yay Olivia – so happy you thought the post was helpful!! Pro tip for SE Asia: pack only the bare essentials because you are going to do a LOT of shopping. You can pick up super cute dresses for like $5 USD if you haggle, and the comfiest pants ever so don’t worry about packing much at all because there’s tons of opportunities to shop and pick up what you need once you’re there.

This is the answer for my upcoming one-month eurotrip this May! I’ve been thinking on and off about bringing lighter shade clothes and dress because I still want to look ‘cute’ though I only want to bring eight pieces, but now I read this… I should reconsider it again. Thank you so much!

hejnerissa.com

You’re welcome, Nerissa!! SO happy you found it helpful. Have an amazing time in Europe!

It’s 2020 so no travelling but when I do get to travel again I will incorporate some of your tips. I find these useful whether you are a backpackers or luggage hauler. Last year my daughter & I went to Costa Rica. She took a backpack. I took luggage. Both of us learned some valuable lessons from that trip. I over-packed. She under-packed. Her clothes were a wrinkled mess. I had to lug that suitcase up many, many flights of stairs. No elevators in Costa Rica. And my nice white t-shirt that I wore numerous times ended up very dirty and stained. Lessons learned. Thanks for the tips.

Just came up on Pinterest. Good advice. I usually go light, and yes avoid light colours and for me, also black. But I have to be colour coordinated or I don’t feel right, which actually makes putting a wardrobe for a trip easier. a couple of things – longer sleeves are useful for under layers, hot places (I burn) and for modesty, and shirts that roll up can be worn several ways. And your “little black dress” – the concept is excellent, but the colour can be any darkish colour that makes you look great – for me, it’s more likely to be dark green, dark brown or aubergine. Black makes many look sallow or washed out.

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How to travel light: 12 travel hacks to travel light

By: Author Monica

Categories Packing Tips , Travel Tips

I’m always harping on about how important it is to travel light. Travelling light gives you extra freedom and flexibility that you just don’t have with heavy luggage.

You can move quickly through airports and train stations and it’s so much easier to take public transport with a small bag. You’ll save money by not having to check your bags in on a plane and you can keep your luggage close when you’re on trains and buses.

You’re also less likely to lose things when you travel light because it’s easier to keep track of your belongings.

I’ve been thinking a lot about travelling light recently because I’ll soon be travelling with a baby and I’m pretty sure that travelling light + baby is pretty much impossible. I might not be able to pack light for the baby but I’ll definitely be able to pack light for me so the travelling light challenge is about to get extreme!

I could go on all day about the benefits of travelling light but I’ll leave it at that and start sharing my top tips for travelling light.

1. Use a small, lightweight case

The oldest trick in the book and possibly the simplest way to pack light – Use a small suitcase or backpack so you can’t possibly fit too much in it. Don’t be tempted to get a case that’s slightly too big because you will fill that space with unnecessary crap.

For more inspiration and proof of the benefits of travelling with a small bag, check out this post by Chris over at Backpacker Banter: My 25L Backpack Challenge . Yep, he travelled for 3 weeks around Thailand with nothing but a 25L backpack!

I like to travel with just hand luggage and recommend my range of luggage which is all available on Amazon. There’s the Travel Hack Cabin Case, the backpack and the tote.

It’s designed to be the perfect size for cabin baggage, meaning it’s as big as it possibly can be without being too big. It has separate compartments to keep everything organised and is an absolute dream to travel with. This is a great option is you plan to travel with cabin luggage only.

Below are a couple of great luggage options if you’re trying to travel light.

The Travel Hack Cabin Case

The Travel Hack Cabin Case is my all-time favourite for travelling light. The suitcase is perfect for a carry-on case for most airlines and weighs just 2.7kg but still has a massive 45 litre capacity. It also has handy pockets so you can access your belongings easily, whether you’re on the plane, going through security or at the airport.

• Generous 28 litre main compartment with packing straps and a variety of zipped pockets for everything from toiletries to straighteners.
• Rear padded compartment for a Macbook or a small laptop.
• Stylish 600D PU outer shell with faux leather inserts and rose gold detailing.

Cabin Max Metz

The Cabin Max Metz backpack is within the dimensions for most airline carry-on luggage and weighs just 0.7kg!

If you’re looking for ultra light but spacious luggage then this is the one.

• CARRY ON BAG 55x40x20 cm soft shell design to fit 94% of worldwide hand luggage gauges including: EasyJet and Ryanair, Eurowings, Vueling, Norwegian, Virgin, BA, Lufthansa, Jet2, Wizz Air, Iberia,...
• MAXIMUM CAPACITY - Large 44-litre capacity cabin bag makes it possible to fly without checking in baggage to the hold. Lightweight yet durable cabin bag 55x40x20 0.7kg (1.5lbs).
• CABIN BACKPACK - Featuring 3 main lockable zipped compartments, including document pocket, organisational accessories and tech pocket, including 2 zipped compartments. High strength durable,...

Tripp Ultra Light 4 wheel cabin case

If you’re looking for a lightweight suitcase then you can’t go wrong with the Tripp Ultra Light 4 wheel cabin case. It weighs 2.1kg, so you’re going to be left with 7.9kg for your belongings.

• 4 Wheel Carry On Suitcase
• Colour: BLACK
• 5 year guarantee

Antler Clifton Suitcase

The Antler Clifton Suitcases are great quality and so reliable. The cabin case is a little heavier at 3.5kg but if you’re looking for a really good quality case and you’re not as worried about weight then it’s a good option.

• CLIFTON LUGGAGE: Our Clifton cabin suitcase is everything you could want from a lightweight suitcase. Designed to last with its polycarbonate material, this carry on suitcase is strong, eye catching,...
• SIZE & MEASUREMENTS: Our carry on suitcase features flexible carry handles, 4 interior pockets, a zip closure & interior compartments. The cabin suitcase measures 20 x 40 x 55 (cm) with a packing...
• DOUBLE ANTI-THEFT TSA LOCKS: The Clifton cabin suitcase has anti-theft technology with its double TSA-approved locks for added security that separately secures the front pocket & the case itself. This...

Cabin Max Lightweight Backpack Trolley

If you aren’t sure if you want a backpack or a trolley then check out the Cabin Max Lightweight Backpack Trolley. It weighs just 1.7kg and has a 44 litre capacity.

• HYBRID - Cabin Max Lyon trolley backpack is a convenient wheeled carry on suitcase that coverts into a backpack for any type of travel. Just unzip the back section which covers the wheels and backpack...
• PACK TO THE MAX - Combines the maximum size allowed for hand luggage with an abundance of practical features
• DESIGNED TO FIT - At a massive 44L with dimensions 55 x 40 x 20 cm including wheels it is still extremely lightweight at 1.7KG

2. Pack 2 pairs of shoes and no more

Shoes can often be the bulkiest items in our bags so never travel with more than 2 pairs. Wear your bulkiest pair on the plane and a pack a smaller pair in your case.

I’m currently love the On Cloudnova trainers for trips where I’ll be doing lots of walking.

The Veja trainers are nice if you want some comfy white trainers that are a bit more stylish.

A comfy pair of Dr Martens are great for winter trips.

And I like a pair of Birkenstocks for daily wear in warm destinations.

Read more: What shoes should I take travelling?

3. 1 pair of trousers/jeans

Jeans or trousers are another bulky item to travel with so never travel with more than one pair and you should always wear these on the plane.

I usually opt for whichever jeans are my current favourites. You can’t go wrong with a comfy pair of black skinny jeans. My favourites at the moment are the classic Levi’s 501’s . I have them in a few different colours but black is the best for travel because they’ll match everything and no one really notices them, so you can get away with wearing the same jeans for days (don’t judge).

4. Minimise toiletries

If you’re staying in a hotel you can guarantee you’ll be provided with shampoo and shower gel so leave these at home. This means that most guys can get away with nothing more than a travel sized deodorant and toothpaste.

Most ladies will find it a little more difficult because there are some toiletries you just can’t leave home without.

I have a whole post over here about travelling with hand luggage toiletries and some nifty little products to make it easier to travel light! These tiny refillable pots are genius to help travel light with things like makeup and lotions.

How to Travel with Hand Luggage Liquids (& fit all your toiletries in that tiny bag!)

#5. Take an iPad/tablet

Cut down on tickets, books, magazines, a laptop, games, notepads, music, maps and travel guides and simply pack a tablet. My hand luggage used to be chocker with all sorts of entertainment options but now I just have my iPad and it’s made travelling so much easier.

Consider taking a portable powerbank  if you’re planning on taking long journeys. I have one that isn’t much bigger than a lipstick but it will charge my iPad for about 5 hours. It’s a good backup for emergencies too – like if you’ve got your hotel confirmation email stored on your iPad and the battery has died!

6. Pack simple clothes and lots of accessories

If you look at my Travel Style board on Pinterest you’ll see that I’m a bit obsessed with jeans and white t-shirts. It’s such a simple, easy style and so easy to pull off while you’re travelling. I’m really tempted to pack a bag full of white t-shirts next time I go away.

Team your jeans with sandals, white trainers, winter boots or heels. Then team your t-shirt with a blazer, a cardigan, a cosy jumper or a big scarf and you’ve got outfits for any situation without having to pack too much.

7. Pack ‘hard working’ clothing

No, you’re not sending your clothes to work, you’re looking out for clothes that have more than one use.

Think things like sarongs and scarves which can be used as towels, blankets and wraps.

You also can’t go wrong with black leggings. They’re easy to wash and dry and go with virtually everything.

It can be harder to pack light in colder climates. I love UNIQLO’s Ultra Light Down coats because they pack up into a tiny bag (similar to a cag in a bag) but they’re really, really warm!

8. Use packing cubes

I LOVE packing cubes. Not only do they keep your bag organised but they help make the most of your space and stop you overpacking. I tend to travel with four packing cubes. One for tops, one for bottoms, one for underwear and one for evening clothes. Once each packing cube is full you can’t possibly squish anything else in so you’re forced into packing light whether you like it or not.

Read more: Are packing cubes worth it and do they really save space?

Are packing cubes worth it and do packing cubes really save space?

9. Wash your clothes while you’re away

No matter where in the world you’re travelling, it doesn’t need to be expensive to get your clothes washed.

Fancy hotels in certain cities will charge a fortune to wash your clothes so look out for laundrettes or, cheaper still, wash your clothes in your hotel bathroom. You can’t go wrong with the Dr Beckmman Travel Wash . It’s so cheap and amazingly effective!

I usually soak my clothes in the sink and rinse them out while I’m showering. Laundrettes and apartments with washing machines will become your best friend if you’re travelling for a few weeks or more.

If you’re travelling in a developing country it costs next to nothing to get your clothes washed but be aware that if you’re paying £0.50 for a load of washing, you don’t want to be giving them your expensive designer clothes.

• Special concentrated washing gel
• Formulated to use when you are travelling or away from home
• Can be used in any type of water

10. Remember: you can buy everything out there!

No matter where you’re travelling, you’ll always be able to find the necessities. You might not find your favourite brand of shampoo but you will find something very similar.

If you’re going somewhere where you think you’ll need specialist equipment, wait until you get there to buy it. You’re not the first traveller to visit and you won’t be the last so you can guarantee you’ll find local shops selling everything you need.

When I travelled to Borneo I climbed Mount Kinabalu. I’d spent the past 18 months in Australia and didn’t have a single item of warm clothing or a decent pair of shoes. I was panicking but when I arrived to Kota Kinabalu I realised I wasn’t alone and the city was filled with hiking shops thanks to all the travellers who pass through and pick up the necessary hiking items.

11. Don’t use lots of small purses and pouches

(This doesn’t apply for packing cubes – I mean really small pouches for tiny things like jewellery or socks) The first time I went backpacking I was super organised and had a separate little pouch for everything. A pouch for medicine, one for toiletries, one for souvenirs. Yes, my bag was organised for about the first 5 days (out of about 450 days!) but I had lots of unused space in my bag. Socks and toiletries are the perfect items to squeeze in your bag and fill up the gaps. Lots of pouches lead to lots of gaps and lots of wasted space.

12. Use a bag or case that opens fully

I don’t recommend using a top-loading backpack. This means smaller items slip to the bottom and are forgotten. Use a bag that opens all the way and you have access to everything. You don’t need to be quite as organised and this reduces the needed for all those little purses and pouches.

Do you have any more travel hacks to help you pack light?

You can find even more packing tips over here.

Sunday 24th of March 2019

The last 2 hotels I stayed at offered at the most is the mini bar soaps. The first one gave the soap and had to buy travel sized shampoo, lotion, etc. I take bar soap and refill the empty bottles with everything else I neeed.

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8 Tips for Flying Wizz Air

See recent posts by Peter Thornton

Flying within Europe? You’ll likely come across some incredibly cheap flights on Wizz Air—especially if you’re flying to/from Eastern Europe. Based in Budapest, the airline, along with its subsidiaries Wizz Air UK and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, flies to over 160 airports around Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

While the airfares on Wizz Air are often shockingly low, you’ll want to know what you’re getting into before you get too excited about that €10 ticket. Much like Spirit and Frontier in the U.S. and Ryanair in Europe, Wizz Air is an ultra-low-cost carrier that adds fees for just about everything. Follow these tips to have the best experience and learn how to take advantage of its cheap flights without paying exorbitant fees.

Pay for Bags in Advance

Don’t be tricked by the terminology used by Wizz Air for what baggage is included in your ticket. Wizz Air only includes one small “carry-on” bag that does not exceed 40 x 30 x 20 cm and 10kg in the initial ticket price. This is similar in size to what U.S. airlines consider a “personal item” that fits under the seat. If you have a larger carry-on bag or checked luggage, you’ll want to pay for it during booking for the best prices.

Baggage fees vary depending on weight, season, and where you purchase. Any excess weight or baggage fees paid at the airport are considerably higher than if you were to book in advance. The fees are actually somewhat reasonable if you pay for your bags during booking. Sure, it may be double the airfare but your total cost could still be much cheaper than flying other airlines.

Related: How to Pack in Only a Personal Item Bag

Purchase Wizz Priority

If you want to bring a larger bag onboard the aircraft and avoid checking luggage, you’ll need to purchase Wizz Priority . This allows you to bring a “trolley bag” onboard, which is similar to a normal sized carry-on bag allowed by U.S. airlines. The trolley bag is in addition to the smaller carry-on bag included in your ticket and can be up to 55 x 40 x 23 cm and 10kg.

Wizz Priority also includes priority check-in and priority boarding. The fee varies between €5-40 according to the website. For the flights I recently purchased, it was around €15 per flight which was cheaper than any checked bag fees and well worth it. I got the feeling that Wizz Priority passengers were less scrutinized on the size/weight of their luggage. Technically, my bags may have been too large or too heavy but I was never asked to weigh or size my bags.

Of course, there is no guarantee that you won’t have your bags weighed or sized but there’s much less of a chance if you avoid the check-in counter all together. During boarding, agents are more interested in getting the flight off on time than checking the size of your bag—especially for priority passengers boarding first. 

Compare Bundles

If you do have checked luggage, you’ll want to compare the bundles offered to simply purchasing all of the extras you need a la carte. Wizz Go includes a trolley bag, 20kg of checked luggage, seat selection, free airport check-in, priority boarding, and priority check-in. This can be a good choice for flyers who travel with multiple bags and wish to choose seats. Otherwise, you may be able to pay less by paying for just a checked bag or seat selection separately.

Wizz Plus includes premium seat selection, Wizz Flex, and 32kg of checked luggage in addition to all of the extras included with Wizz Go. This is the best option if you want an all-inclusive experience without worrying about extra fees to change your flight or receive a travel credit if plans change and you can’t fly. Still, if you don’t think you’ll use all of the extras included, it may be cheaper to just purchase what you need a la carte. Since prices vary, you’ll need to compare for each booking.

Related: 9 Tips for Flying Frontier Airlines

Plan to Sit Apart or Pay Extra (Unless Traveling with Children)

One of the most annoying fees that has become commonplace in the airline industry is the fee to choose a seat assignment. If you’re traveling with a companion, you won’t be guaranteed seats next to each other when flying Wizz Air unless you pay extra. The seat selection page makes it seem like you have no choice but to pay extra for seat assignments by auto-selecting recommended seats.

If you want to take your chances and have seats auto-assigned at check-in for free, you’ll need to select the “choose seats later” option. If you’re traveling with two adults, you’ll be given a pop-up with an option to pay €12 for a “ sitting together ” add-on. This doesn’t allow you to choose specific seats but guarantees you’ll at least get seats together. If you don’t want to pay, make sure to click “No, thanks”.

Children under 14 years of age will be auto-assigned a seat next to at least one accompanying adult so you don’t have to pay extra to guarantee a seat next to your child.

Download the App

One of the best tips I can give for flying Wizz Air is to download its mobile app . This will make the check-in process, boarding, and verifying documents much easier. You can easily take photos of your COVID-19 vaccine and testing documents and upload them to your reservation via the app, which is required for most flights these days. And with the app, you don’t need to worry about paying extra to check in at the airport since you can get a mobile boarding pass right on the app.

Related: 5 Apps You Need for COVID-19 Travel

Check-In Online

If you don’t have the app, you’ll want to make sure that you check-in online at least 3 hours before scheduled departure time. After that cutoff, you may be forced to check-in at the airport and pay a fee to do so. If you didn’t purchase a seat assignment, you can check-in starting 48 hours before departure. If you paid extra for a seat, online check-in is available 30 days before departure.

For airports that don’t allow online or mobile check-in, you’ll be able to check-in at the airport free of charge. To be sure, it’s always a good idea to attempt online check-in first.

Be At the Gate on Time

Wizz Air’s business model is all about reducing the amount of time an airplane sits on the ground between flights. For this reason, it is imperative that you are at your departure gate no later than 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time as Wizz Air is very strict on this cut-off time.

You’ll often need to board a bus which brings you to the airplane. This means that boarding closes earlier than you may be used to when flying on other airlines that primarily have jet bridge gate access. Give yourself extra time to make it to your gate. There is no reason to add stress by running late.

Become a Member

Lastly, consider signing up for the Wizz Discount Club . Standard membership allows the member to receive benefits and is only €29.99/year. Group membership gives benefits to the member and up to five companions for €69.99/year. Benefits include €10 off all fares that are at least €19.99 and €5 off checked bag fees for 20kg or 32kg bags. Simple math will tell you that the membership can pay for itself after just three flights and even fewer if you have checked bags.

I decided to pay for the membership for two flights I recently purchased since it saved me €20 off the bat. Chances are that I’ll be flying within Europe again sometime in the next year and the membership will pay for itself. If you plan to take multiple flights in Europe, a membership may make sense— specially if you travel with heavier checked luggage.

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How strict are Wizz Air with hand luggage 2024?

Last Updated on December 30, 2023 by Henry @ The Getaway Lounge

This post is reviewed on a regular basis to ensure a high level of accuracy.

How strict are Wizz Air with hand luggage?  

Just how strict are Wizz Air with hand luggage size and weight?

We sometimes feature the airline in our cheap flights newsletter, so it’s a question we’re often asked by our members.

Wizz Air are very strict and state that your bag must not exceed 40 x 30 x 20cm, and so be small enough to fit underneath the seat in front of you. The weight of this bag must not exceed 10kg. 

And if you’re happy to travel light, we recommend investing in a Wizz Air Maximum Allowance backpack which is the perfect fit and great value for money on Amazon.

Wizz Air’s hand luggage policy

Wizz Air’s hand luggage policy is one of the tightest in Europe as follows:

40 x 30 x 20cm (no wheels allowed), weighing no more than 10kg

Wizz Air hand luggage liquids  

Like most airlines, Wizz Air allow liquids to be carried in small amounts not exceeding 100ml per container.

You must place these in one transparent, resealable bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre, measuring 20 x 20 cm.

My main bag is slightly over-sized, should I risk it?

This is probably the most common question we hear when it comes to Wizz Air’s hand luggage policy.

And there’s only one simple answer.

Rules are rules and if you fail to comply you will run the risk of having to pay extras.

So if you’re really looking to avoid paying for Wizz Priority, we recommend something like this bag on Amazon which fits perfectly within the limits.

With that said, if you have a soft-edged bag which is only slightly oversized, you have a better chance of being able to squeeze your luggage into the caged sizer, if required to.

My main bag is slightly overweight, should I risk it?

Whilst it’s rare for airlines to investigate the weight of your hand luggage, it’s worth checking your main bag just in case – as you should stick within the limits if possible.

But don’t worry too much if it’s slightly over – just be prepared to stick on some of your bulky clothing to bring the weight down in the unlikely event you’re checked and over the limit!

What’s the penalty if I’m caught out?

If you decide to take the risk and get caught out with a carry-on bag which exceeds the limits stated above, an oversize bag fee of around 25 euros will be charged at the gate.

So, you’re better off investing in a decent bag for about the same price which you can use over and over again.

You can find out more details on Wizz Air’s website here.

Where can I find a good bag which fits within their limits?

These Cabin Max backpacks have been designed especially for Wizz Air’s free hand luggage allowance. Currently available on Amazon for around £35 – you’ll be glad you invested in a great bag for years to come.

So, in conclusion, unless you pay for Wizz Priority, or indeed purchase a checked-in bag, you’ll be very much limited as to what you can take on board for free.

And from our experience, and what we’ve researched online – Wizz Air don’t take any prisoners.

With that said, it’s hard to say exactly how strict Wizz Air are going to be with hand luggage on the day you travel because airlines operations are changing all of the time.

If you are to risk it with an over-sized bag, and hope they’re not checking on the day you travel, we would recommend using a soft-edged bag which gives you more room for negotiation with the sizer at the gate.

If after reading this you think you may need to purchase hold luggage, you can find all the details about this on Wizz Air’s website here.

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All About Wizz Air Baggage Allowance: Size, Rules & Best Bags

Who’s behind these travel insights? I’m Sebastian, your luggage expert since 2017. On my site, you’ll find comprehensive information and recommendations for the perfect travel baggage.

Wizz Air Baggage Allowance

The amount of baggage you’re allowed depends on the fare you’ve chosen:

Basic Fare (without WIZZ Priority):

• 1 small under-seat cabin bag: max. 40x30x20 cm, 10 kg

With Add on WIZZ Priority:

• 1 large cabin bag: max. 55x40x23 cm, 10 kg

WIZZ Go / WIZZ Family Go

• 1 large cabin bag: max. 55x40x23 cm, 10 kg (guaranteed in cabin area)
• Checked-in bag: 20 kg

WIZZ Plus / WIZZ Family Plus

• Checked-in bag: 32 kg

Basic Fare (without WIZZ Priority)

In Wizz Air’s Basic fare, only a small piece of hand luggage with maximum dimensions of 40x30x20 cm is included as standard. This luggage is stored under the seat and has a weight limit of 10 kg .

A larger cabin bag measuring 55x40x23 cm is not included in the fare but can be added for an additional fee with the “WIZZ Priority” option.

Find Suitable Products

WIZZ Priority

With the additional WIZZ Priority option, you’re allowed to bring a large cabin bag up to 55x40x23 cm on board. It must weigh no more than 10 kg and is stored in the overhead locker.

A small cabin bag up to 40x30x20 cm and 10 kg is also permitted. It must be stowed under the seat in front of you.

With the WIZZ Go fares, WIZZ Priority is already included. Additionally, one piece of checked baggage is part of the package.

For hand luggage, both a large cabin bag up to 55x40x23 cm , and a small cabin bag up to 40x30x20 cm are allowed. Both can weigh up to 10 kg each .

Additionally, one piece of checked baggage up to 20 kg is included.

Under the WIZZ Plus package, WIZZ Priority comes as standard. Alongside this, passengers are entitled to one checked baggage piece.

Regarding hand luggage, passengers can bring a large cabin bag up to 55x40x23 cm , and a secondary smaller bag up to 40x30x20 cm . Each of these items can have a weight of up to 10 kg .

In addition, the package includes one checked baggage allowance of up to 32 kg .

Wizz Air Small Cabin Bag 40x30x20

Recommendations for the underseat bag

Here you’ll find the latest bestsellers for the small Wizz Air hand luggage. These suitcases, backpacks, and bags precisely meet the 40x30x20 cm specifications, allowing you to make the most of the permitted storage space of up to 24 litres.

Last update on 2024-05-26 at 14:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet

Wizz Air Large Cabin Bag 55x40x23

Recommendations for the perfect carry-on suitcase

I recommend a carry-on suitcase with dimensions of 55x40x20 cm . This size is accepted on board with nearly all airlines (provided that a large cabin bag is included in your fare).

🏆 Since 2016, I’ve been testing carry-on suitcases and have created a list of top picks . All ‘size S’ models are suitable for Wizz Air.

Wizz Air Cabin Luggage – What’s Allowed Inside?

Heed these hand luggage restrictions

Hand luggage undergoes meticulous security checks for safety reasons. With Wizz Air, the same rules apply as with all airlines: Dangerous items are prohibited on board. This primarily includes items with the potential to cause significant harm. Occasionally, the classification of an item as dangerous can be ambiguous, and the final judgement rests with the airport security personnel . Here’s a guide for an initial overview:

A detailed list with explanations and graphics can be found in this post:

Liquids in Wizz Air Hand Luggage

What is allowed?

At most british and international airports, liquids in hand luggage are currently limited by the 100ml rule , requiring them in containers no larger than 100ml within a transparent, 1-litre bag. By June 2024, the UK plans to abolish this rule , with London City, Teeside International, and Jersey airports already allowing up to 2-litre containers.

However, as many international airports haven’t yet upgraded to the necessary technology, the 100ml rule will also remain vital for future travel outside the UK. Here’s a brief overview of the 100ml rule:

• Only containers with a maximum capacity of 100ml are allowed.
• All containers must be packed in a transparent, resealable 1-litre plastic bag.
• The plastic bag must be fully sealed.
• Each passenger is allowed only one bag.
• The number of containers is not limited as long as the total volume does not exceed 1 litre.
• Liquids in a container larger than 100ml are prohibited.

To adhere to the 100ml rule as effectively as possible, consider purchasing dedicated toiletry bags for your liquids . Bags that come equipped with bottles are particularly useful for decanting personal care products.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Wizz Air hand luggage

How strict are Wizz Air with hand baggage?

The stringency of hand luggage checks at Wizz Air can vary and depends on factors such as location, staff, flight capacity, and available time. To avoid additional charges, it’s advised to adhere to the prescribed dimensions and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage.

What happens if hand luggage is too big?

If you exceed the permitted hand luggage dimensions at Wizz Air, even slightly, you might face additional check-in fees. While minor deviations are often tolerated, this varies greatly depending on the staff and is by no means guaranteed. Hence, it’s prudent to strictly abide by the stipulated dimensions. Ultimately, you’ll need to decide if you’re willing to take the risk.

How is the hand luggage size checked?

Typically, the check for the size and weight of hand luggage occurs at the check-in counter. A metal frame (baggage sizer) is used for this purpose, in which the luggage piece must fit. However, not every piece of luggage undergoes rigorous scrutiny. Often, staff rely on their judgement. Moreover, checks can be conducted during boarding or upon entering the aircraft. The exact procedure is influenced by the specific airport, personnel, and flight occupancy.

Does hand luggage size include wheels?

Contrary to most other airlines, at Wizz Air, the luggage’s handles and wheels aren’t included in the allowed dimensions. However, wheels shouldn’t extend the size by more than 5 cm.

Can I take a handbag as well as hand luggage on an Wizz Air flight?

Each passenger is only allowed to bring on board the cabin luggage included in their fare. Strictly speaking, an additional bag is not permitted. However, carrying a small handbag or belt bag with a wallet, smartphone, and identification documents is usually not an issue and is often tolerated. It’s best to keep some space available in your cabin bag, so you can stow the additional bag inside if necessary.

What is Wizz Air hand luggage weight?

With Wizz Air, each piece of hand luggage is permitted to weigh up to 10kg. This applies to both the small hand luggage of 40x30x20 cm and the larger hand luggage of 55x40x23 cm.

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Travel Light In 2024 - Simple Yet Life-Changing Tips

Most of us tend to overpack when getting ready for a trip. We know how tempting it is to squeeze the entire home into the luggage, as this gives us a feeling of security. Yet, if you already arrived here, it's probably that you want to grab the basics to travel light.

Packing and travelling light are all about seeking comfort somewhere far away from home without letting excess stuff weigh you down. This usually means you will travel with a carry-on only , with wiser choices of what you should take and what you don't. 

Once you have mastered the art of travelling light, you won't have to worry about extra fees for overweight bags at the airport. Less stuff in your luggage gives you more freedom and mobility when hopping between planes, trains, and buses.

15 Tips For Travelling Light

Whether you're hopping on a budget flight without checked baggage or simply aiming to travel more sustainably, mastering the art of minimalist travel can transform your experience. Here are essential packing tips to help you travel lighter, smarter, and more freely.

1. Go One Bag

View this post on Instagram A post shared by CABINZERO (@cabinzero)

One bagging lets you see the world in a new light.

One suitcase and one day bag is what most would recommend for a light trip. That’s a great way of travelling light. However, have you ever thought about travelling with one bag only? Check-in fees, delayed or lost luggage, and cucumbersome loads will become a thing of the past.

This approach allows you to move freely and explore destinations with ease and hands-free. You can breeze through the airports and public transportation, take last-minute detours, hop on unexpected buses, or take day trips without worrying about luggage logistics.

Pro tips : Consider expedited programs such as Clear if you want to spend less time at the airport and more time for travelling.

2. Your Choice of Material Matters

Merino wool is the best choice for your base layer, all year round. Photo By Ruta Gudeliene on Unsplash

Invest in a few well-made, versatile clothing items that will last. This is more sustainable and reduces the need to pack a lot of "just in case" options.

Choose lightweight and quick-drying synthetic fabrics. If your clothes dry quickly between washes, this means you can have more outfits available to choose from.

Meanwhile, lightweight material won't weigh you down. Also, you should choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics. There's no breaking out the iron to straighten your clothes when unpacking the luggage.

Merino wool is unbeatable when it comes to the best travel fabric. The material will keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Merino wool is also wrinkle-resistant, breathable, and odour-resistant, making it ideal for travelling. The only catch is the material is a bit expensive. 

Synthetic performance fabrics also do a good job of wicking sweat, if you want to add more items without spending a lot of money. 

3. Learn The Art Of Layering 

Layering helps you feel comfortable no matter where you are. Photo By Khamkhor on Unsplash

If you're a seasoned backpacker, you already know layering clothes works amazingly with different types of weather. 

Layering is also the key if you want to travel light. This way, whether you are heading to the beaches or backpacking your way through a snowy trek , you will worry less about protecting yourself from the weather.

Winter might call for heavier stuff to keep your body warm. If you travel in cold seasons , it's worth using merino wool as a base layer. It can be a short or long shirt made of the material.

Then, add a light sweater on top of it, and another outer layer of puffer coat or a jacket, and put on your gloves, and wool hats. That’s enough to survive the temperate cold. 

When the weather gets hot, it’s easy to take off one or two outer layers. This way of layering will give you more flexibility when travelling across multiple climate zones. 

4. Prioritise Items With Multiple Purposes

With wise choice, a piece of clothing can multitask. Photo By Cavan for Adobe on Adobe

Multi-functional clothing and items are another key to minimalist packing . If you’re sitting between a raincoat and a poncho, go for the latter. Not only ponchos will give you more coverage, but they can also double as a backpack cover, a groundsheet or a tarp.

For ladies travellers out there, try travelling with a sarong next time instead of towels. There are multiple ways to wear a sarong as a dress. But did you know it can also be a great beach towel or headscarf whenever you want?

If you're not particularly picky about toiletries, let us tell you there are such things called multipurpose soap. It can be a body wash, handwash, shampoo, and face wash in one. Every toiletries you can think of may have a multi-purpose version somewhere.

5. Have Your Customised Packing List 

Have a packing list to cross things off as you load your luggage. Photo Liza Summer By on Pexels

Packing lists on the web are useful for you to get started. But let's be honest, they're normally too long, so you will unavoidably overpack if you follow them to the letter.

Instead, use these sources for inspiration and narrow down to what works for you. We know that it might be tempting to throw half of your closet into your backpack, as it gives you more security. Yet, this only weighs you down and adds up to hefty fines for the airlines .

Furthermore, try to refine your personal packing list after every trip. See what you barely used and set them aside. Items you used regularly throughout the journey are keepers for future packing lists. If you encountered situations where you wished you had a specific item, add it to your list.

CabinZero tips : Beside the good ol’ pen and paper, there are many mobile apps that can streamline your packing list, give them a try.

6. Next, Try to Bring Half of Your Packing List

Try to switch from “what if I need this?” to “what’s the worst that could happen without this item?”. IG: @deddyhuang

When venturing into an unfamiliar place, we easily turn on our survival mode. This means that we might think about the worst-case scenario. What if I'm stranded in the middle of the hike? What if I'm getting blisters from my shoes? This will drive you straight to overpacking. 

As a golden rule, cut half of the items on your packing list, and bring the “ most essentials ” only. We can't stress this enough. If you need anything during your trip, remember you can always rent or buy it.

7. Weigh Your Luggage

Weigh your backpack with a luggage scale before heading to the airport

It's easier to go over the weight limits of your airliners if you don’t know how much you’ve already packed. Therefore, throw your bags onto the scale and check the figure. This helps you avoid surprise upcharges at the airport. 

Plus, weighing your luggage also makes you prioritise the lighter items, for the sake of your back. If you're in for a thru-hike in the backcountry, your loaded pack shouldn't weigh more than 20% of your body. It's simple maths: if you weigh around 150 pounds, your backpack should be less than 30 pounds. 

Rent Gear Locally Or Ship Yours To The Destination

You can save some space and a few pounds by renting gear at your destination. IG: @alessandrosimon

Renting specialised sports items, like skiing or scuba diving gear, sometimes makes great sense. They're normally cumbersome to pack and carry on the plane. Airliners also have strict weight and size allowances in place, which means you have to ship them as cargo sometimes.

For long-distance hikes, consider renting camping gear, sleeping bags, tents, or even hiking poles. This is especially true if you’re a beginner and cannot stretch the budget to cover all the gear. You also have fewer things to worry about when packing.

8. Plan For Some Souvenirs

Bringing home souvenirs is the true joy of visiting a new place. IG: @mbusyliving_esibitzky_

Leave some room for your souvenirs and holiday keepsakes, too. The general rule is to never pack your luggage to its full capacity. Instead, you should leave out ¼ of the bag empty for some gifts and souvenirs. You can also bring a lightweight, collapsible bag to pack your souvenirs home. 

Going overboard when shopping and struggling to fit too many gifts into your carry-on? Consider shipping them home instead. After all, lugging around heavy luggage and dealing with complex customs are not how we want to end a trip.

9. Use Packing Organisers

Packing cubes are serious game changers for chronic over-packers.

We love packing cubes. Not only do these organisers help to maximise the space , but they also help you stay organised and keep everything in check. These cubes also keep dirty clothes away from the clean ones.  And there also won't be fumbling to find your stuff anymore. Depending on your preferences, you can pack clothes in each cube by day or pack each cube according to the type of clothing. 

10. Wear The Bulkiest Items

Wear the bulkiest items during transit. Photo credit: Kasia K

Here's the simplest rule: If it's bulky or heavy, wear it on the plane. When layering everything in front of your eyes and ready to stuff, put the bulkiest aside. We always suggest wearing jackets, bulky tops, and booties on the flight. This helps save plenty of precious room for other pieces of clothes and gear in the suitcase.

11. Plan For A Week Of Clothes

You can look fabulous every day of your trip without the extra baggage. Photo by Shopping King Louie - stock.adobe.com

No matter how long your trip is, only pack for a week’s worth of clothes. If you pack more, chances are your belongings will weigh you down. Plus, this approach ensures you have at least one outfit every day. You are saving both space and time as you don’t have to think of what to wear every morning.

The key here is choosing versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different looks. Want to go from exploring the city during the day to a fancy dinner at night without having to change your entire outfit? Pack a versatile dress or a pair of trousers that can be dressed up with a nice top and accessories. Voila! Instant evening look without the extra baggage.

12. Plan To Do Laundry

Wash your clothes on a long trip to avoid overpacking. Photo by taoty - stock.adobe.com

If you go on a long trip , let's be prepared to do some laundry. It's hard and cumbersome to carry over seven days' worth of clothes, especially when you're moving a lot. 

In addition, that amount of clothes is enough if you know a bit of mixing and matching to refresh your look. Even when you repeat wearing the same outfit combination, you usually go unnoticed on the road.

What if there’s no laundromat at your destination or the hotel you’re staying at? You can opt for travel-sized laundry detergent and a travel wash bag, handy travel accessories that allow you to handwash clothes anywhere. You can also use hotel shampoo and sink in a pinch.

13. Pack A Capsule Wardrobe

Pack a wardrobe with outfits that you can mix and match easily. Photo by July P - stock.adobe.com

If you want to travel light, bring a capsule wardrobe. Never bring a top just because it only perfectly matches one bottom. We recommend only bringing a top that you think you can mix it up with more than one bottom. This will create more outfit layouts to refresh your look on a long trip.  

Use the colour palette to create more outfits for your on-the-go wardrobe. We love to start with a base colour, normally a neutral one like black, grey, white or beige, and build your wardrobe from it. 

Accent pieces, like buff neckwear or bandanas, will bring wild patterns and bright hues to your overall look. You can pack many of them, as they won't take up much space in your backpack.

Pro tip: Jeans are not for light travel, to be honest. They weigh as much twice as travel pants and also take much longer to dry. So, ideally, you should leave your favourite denim at home.

14. Master the Art of Rolling

Adopting the rolling method for packing helps you travel light.

You can save more space with rolling than with flat folding. Rolled clothes allow you to pack more in your suitcase or backpack than folded ones. The method also leaves you with fewer wrinkles and creases.

After rolling your clothes, you can organise them into packing cubes can add an extra layer of compression and organisation. For ease of dressing, consider rolling complete outfits together. This way, you don’t have to search through your bag for matching items.

15. Focus On Experience Instead Of Things

Your packing list is a means to an end; not the end itself. IG: Alexandra M

Travelling is beautiful and one of the best things you can do for yourself . The best souvenirs are memories, not extra baggage. Free yourself from the burden of "things" and focus on exploring new places, trying new foods, and making unforgettable experiences.

What Do You Need To Travel Light?

Another secret to minimalist travelling is to be mindful of what you pack. Sure, there’s no cardinal rule that requires you to leave your favourite outfit at home just because it takes some more space. But with some thoughtful consideration, you can still travel light while rocking a killer outfit.

When it comes to underwear, avoid overpacking and underpacking. Photo By ONNE Beauty on Unsplash

An over-packers can bring up to 18 pairs of underwear for their 2-week trips, but this is too much. On the other spectrum, there are also the minimalists who pack 3 pairs, 1 to wear, 1 to dry, and 1 to wash.

We love to strike the sweet spot and stop at 7 pairs of underwear. This means you can regularly have clean underwear while not wasting much space in the backpack. 

If chosen wisely, 3 pairs of shoes or fewer are enough to explore the world. IG: @andicomia

Shoes are among the most difficult items to pack. They're oddly shaped, and can’t be rolled or folded to save some space as you would with clothes. 

For a 10-day trip, for example, you can get by with 2 pairs of shoes. If you travel longer than this, you can add one extra pair. Never pack more than 3 pairs of shoes, as the space they take isn’t worth what they offer.

Again, choose a really great pair of shoes, your feet will thank you later. This is especially true if you travel to Europe as you are likely to “out every day walking on cobbles, climbing ruined castles, etc.,” as Rick Steves put it .

Depending on what’s on your itinerary, here are what to pack for a trip:

• A pair for most occasions : Choose a pair of shoes you’re comfortable with to explore the city, visit temples, and go out for dinner. 
• A pair for a higher level of exertion : If you venture into the backcountry, you’ll need reliable footwear to meet your needs. This can be a pair of running shoes that are usually ideal for walking, hiking and running.
• A pair of flip flops or sandals (optional) : They’re for wandering along the shorelines strolling for a sunset, or simply matching your favourite dress. This footwear is normally lightweight and flat, so feel free to add them if you can afford the space. 

As for socks, it’s n

If you want to travel light, let's forget about the luxury of choice when packing toiletries . Even when you can't live without some of your favourite toiletries, let's just pack them in sample or travel size.

Full-size bottles are too bulky, and you can’t take more than 100ml of liquid in your carry-on anyway (yes, you can bring them in your checked bag but we doubt you will use them all during your 2-week travel).

Otherwise, most hotels have almost anything you’ll need. This means that you can leave your deodorant, toothpaste, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, and hand soap at home. Even when budget hostels don’t offer, you can get an excuse to shop around local markets and department stores.

Solid toiletries are a game changer when it comes to packing light . They’re especially helpful if you plan to fly with carry-on only, as there’s no need to think about TSA’s liquid allowances . They’re also mess-free, so you won’t have to deal with any spilling during transit.

Try swapping to a soap bar, solid conditioner, shampoo or even deodorant on your next trip, and see how much space you can save. 

Electronics

If you're not travelling for work, don't bring your laptop along

Like with packing clothes, we love to take electronics that can do multiple jobs. Unless you’re on a business trip , leave your laptop at home (yes, you can bring it on board ). It takes up too much precious space, and it's also stressful to fear that it gets stolen.

Try to digitalise your entertainment. Smartphones can do most things like a laptop but with a smaller footprint. If you read, try swapping books with Kindle, as you can get more titles with a single device. Use travel apps and and digital maps to replace your guide books or physical maps.

Also, forget about the iPod, and transfer your music to the smartphone. If you’re thinking the gadget won't take much room, remember that it needs cords and chargers as well. Again, it's all about space-saving. 

Anything else should travel light with you? A battery bank is a must to fuel up your devices when you're on the go. You'll also need a versatile adapter, to plug in your dead gadgets in the hotel or cafes. 

Even if you're a bare minimum backpacker, don't skimp on a first aid kit. Painkillers, anti-mozzie spray, bandaids, self-adhesive wrap, etc. are all must-have items for your trip.

If you need to take medication, only bring prescription drugs. Unless you're in the middle of nowhere in a secluded mountain, it's easy to get non-prescription medication in almost any pharmacy in any country. 

If you still feel insecure, pack some rehydration sachets or headache pills. They will cover you until you find the nearest pharmacy.

A Quality Bag - The Key To Travelling Light

One good bag is all you need to start to travel light and travel right.

It all starts with the type of luggage you choose. Choosing the right one means you are on the very first step to light packing and travel. Let's do some size talk first.

We've found some folks who began with a huge backpack. They went for almost the biggest size, like the 80L, and ended up…. carrying the whole world on their shoulder. While you can't blame the backpack's capacity, the space available means you easily have the urge to stuff more. 

So, the first step is to figure out exactly how long you’re going on your trip. Next, choose the right size of a backpack. Regardless of the length of your trip, if you wish to pack light, stay around the size of 35-40 litres. 

This cap allows you to pack enough gear and clothes for your trip. We found heavy packers still can get by with this size on their trip for a weekend. This range also falls into the safe zone of most airliner's carry-on limits. 

For the sake of organisation, prioritise a pack with built-in pockets and compartments. This lets you precisely locate a necessary item, without feeling like searching through a black hole. 

CabinZero backpacks and rucksacks come in just the right size and minimal weight. We made these light travel backpacks to help your packing chores become more easy and breezy. If you set off to travel light, our Cabinzero 36L or 44L can be a great way to start!

Light Packing Checklist for Two Weeks

With our suggestions and tricks above, packing light for the freedom of a two-week adventure is no big deal. Here’s a simple packing guide to help you get started. Remember, it’s just a point of reference, you can personalise it however you like to fit your travel style.

ID Documents

• Plan tickets
• Passport, driver's licence, ID, visa (if required)
• Credit cards and a small amount of cash
• Travel insurance documents
• Bottoms: 2-3
• Shoes: 2-3 pairs
• Socks: 3-6 pairs (if your closed-toe shoes ask for)
• Underwear: 7-8
• Lightweight blazer/jacket/sweater
• A pair of functional shoes: trainers or running shoes depending on your itinerary
• A pair of sandals (optional)
• A pair of flip-flops (optional)

Travel Tech

• Mobile phone and charger
• Camera/charger
• Travel adaptor if you’re on an international trip
• Memory card
• Spare batteries.

Miscellaneous Items

• Day bag/handbag
• Buff neckwear, bandana (optional)

Backup Clothes for Cold Weather

• Base layer clothing
• Wool neck warmer
• Two packable down jackets

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lisa G (@gallivantinglens)

See how a wanderlust travels with only a Classic 36L for her 6 weeks across Europe.

1. What Is The 5 4 3 2 1 Packing Method?

The 5 4 3 2 1 is a mantra you may need when packing for a week-long trip. The rule guides you to streamline your wardrobe by limiting to: 

• 5 sets of socks & underwear,
• 2 pairs of shoes

But this is just one variation of this rule. Here's another version that allows you to pack enough for 3 weeks:

• 3 dresses or rompers and three pairs of shoes 
• 2 swimsuits and 2 bags 
• 1 hat, 1 watch, and 1 pair of sunglasses

While these variations are slightly different, they offer a mnemonic countdown for you to easily prep your wardrobe. They also show that you'll need more tops than bottoms for your trip, and some add-ons, to complement your outfit.

You can apply both these packing rules and tailor them to suit your style, needs, travel length, and destination.

2. What Is The 3-Shoe Rule For Travel?

The 3-shoe rule is what seasoned holidaymakers swear by. It simply means any trip will need only 3 pairs of shoes and never more. 3 pairs include 2 pairs of casual, comfortable, and functional that you can wear on most occasions. Another pair of formal shoes that you can match with a nice dress and a suit for an extravagant night out.

3. How Many Bras Do I Need For A 10-Day Trip?

Three bras would be plenty for a 10-day getaway. On a short trip where you won't do the laundry, bring one pair of underwear for each day, plus one spare in case of an accident. 

For a longer trip, like a 10-day or two-week trip, laundry is a must if you want to regularly have fresh bras without overpacking. That's why 3 bras would be enough until you have to do some handwashing in the hotel room.

What if you don’t want to do any laundry? Then the magic number is 7 bras and twice the amount of underwear. It's best to choose bras with quick-drying fabrics so they can easily dry. 

4. How Many Pyjamas Should I Pack For 2 Weeks?

Two to three sets of pyjamas would be enough for almost any trip, either two weeks or longer. This gives you enough time to wash and dry the dirty set, while always having fresh pyjamas to sleep with. We say three is the good middle ground, while four is a good option for hot weather, if you sweat a lot, or if you prefer not to re-wear pyjamas.

Less Is More!

If there are gear or outfits you’re not sure about, leave them at home. You won’t likely miss them. Embracing light travel means your luggage is no longer your burden. You can enjoy the vacation from start to finish with all of your travel essentials. 

Once you’ve got that hands-free mobility with carry-on-only travel, you will no longer turn back to your past habit of overpacking. If you find this article helpful, please share it with your fellow travellers. Don't forget to let us know if you have any tips on how to pack light for a trip by commenting in the box below! 

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The Art of Traveling Light

Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Packing Tips

Can you bring deodorant on a plane in your carry-on luggage, can you bring eyeshadow palettes on a plane (tsa rules), is cream makeup considered a liquid by the tsa (blush, foundation, face cream, concealer), travel tips, can you bring a hair dryer on a plane, first time flying alone our step-by-step guide for first time fliers, can you take an umbrella on a plane: carry on baggage rules & regulations, can you bring a vape on a plane the rules about electronic cigarettes on airplanes, can you bring food on a plane through airport security (tsa food rules), can you wear flip flops through airport security and on a plane.

This site covers a broad range of topics to help you travel light. We also produce a range of packing checklists and help you stay compliant with aviation rules. To navigate check the index below:

• Do Compression Packing Cubes Really Save Space?
• Can You Take An Umbrella On A Plane?
• How To Pack Shoes In A Suitcase
• Tips For Your First Time Flying Alone
• Leave Behind Your Expectations With The Upside Down World Map

Choosing A Travel Bag

• The Best Carry On Backpack
• The Best Minimalist Backpack
• The Best Compression Packing Cubes
• The Best Travel Rain Poncho
• 101 Packing Light Tips

About TravelingLight.com

Hi, I’m James . There is nothing more frustrating than packing all your travel items into a small travel bag and then getting to the airport and finding out that your idea of carry-on luggage is different from your airline’s idea of carry-on luggage.

As a regular flier that happened to me a few times, and I saw it happen many times to other unsuspecting travelers in airports around the world.

So TravelingLight.com started as a place to store information about what different airlines around the world deem to be carry on luggage . But as time passed this website evolved beyond that.

When packing you are forced to decide what is essential and what you can leave behind . Over time my packing light mindset started to spread into other areas of my life and naturally I wrote about those topics too.

I no longer write everything myself, TravelingLight.com became too popular for that. Our team now covers a broad range of topics but the goal is always to sort the wheat from the chaff to create concise web content that helps our readers.

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Simple Flying

Wizz air tests wifi ‘lite’ for messaging and contactless payments.

Wizz Air is working in partnership with connectivity specialist AS-IP Tech (ASIP) to bring ‘WiFi lite’ to its passengers. ASIP installed the first Bluetooth connectivity kit, known as fflya, back in March, and has now completed ground testing of the concept. Rollout to passengers is coming soon.

Window antennas for Wizz

In March this year, inflight connectivity specialist AS-IP Tech (ASIP) installed the first Bluetooth connectivity kit on a commercial aircraft. The kit, consisting of a dual window antenna, is set to provide basic WiFi connectivity for passengers onboard for things like messaging and contactless payments.

The airline testing out the solution is European low-cost carrier Wizz Air. The kit, named fflya, was installed onboard a Wizz Air UK Airbus A321 , in cooperation with Storm Aviation and Wizz Air UK Technical Services. AS-IP’s President Ron Chapman commented on the installation, saying,

“A key component of the installation is our revolutionary window antenna system. We wanted a certified system that was simple to install with minimal components. The installation was carried out by Storm Aviation Limited in co-operation with Wizz Air UK Technical services.”

ASIP selected Iridium’s NEXT satellite service to supply its fflya with connectivity. The company stated that it was considered to be the perfect solution for delivering the high bursts of data packages required for messaging and other activities. At the time, ASIP said that the next step would be to ground test the product, something it has now completed.

Ground testing successful

Three months after installation, ASIP has finished the ground testing component of its fflya Bluetooth system. The tests included network performance, functionality and electromagnetic interference elements, and all were completed with great success. Speaking with Runway Girl Network , President Ron Chapman said,

“Notably was the block 1 performance of the new generation Iridium satellites. Not at any point in time during the entire 8-hour test period, did our dual-window antennas not have satellite reception.”

He went on to say that, even during multiple satellite handovers, there was only one instance where the antenna signal dropped below two bars. When the signal did drop below the threshold for successful packet transmission, the loss was only for around 30 seconds.

Even then, the clever antenna switching algorithms used by fflya ensured the service was always online.

Inflight WiFi lite

With ground testing complete, the company is now readying the system for rollout to passengers. For Wizz Air UK passengers, that means connectivity will soon be available on flights. However, this is not WiFi as we know it, as all the bells and whistles are stripped back.

fflya has been specifically designed with low-cost carriers in mind. It’s not a huge capacity, high-speed network, the likes of which are found on full service and long-haul airlines. Rather, this is a needs-based system, providing the most basic connectivity for the most essential and low capacity functions.

For passengers, it means messaging in flight could become a possibility, as the service supports 20 messages per second. Later, when it upgrades to Iridium Certus, it will support as many as 200 messages per second. Text messaging and telemetry will be the primary focus of fflya, as well as the processing of credit card transactions.

For low-cost airlines, fflya is attractive as it does not involve expensive modifications of their aircraft. It claims to be fully self-funding, which means it can be implemented at no cost to the airline. Added to this, being able to process contactless payments and market to passengers through customized apps gives airlines new streams of revenue generation .

This article is brought to you by Simple Flying Connectivity, a category on Simple Flying dedicated to inflight connectivity. Click here to read all of our inflight connectivity content.