Hive Hunt: Packing Light

Contributed by: Marty Sinclair, The Hive Team

More and more airlines are charging extra for luggage which can really add up! I decided to try packing light for a 4 day/3 night trip using only a travel backpack to try to avoid any additional fees.

Advice for packing light:

• Lay everything out that you want to take with you on a bed.

• Really evaluate if you need multiples of items (you probably don't :).

• Make sure you have travel size toiletries ready to go in advance.

• Reduce your items a second time!

Did everything fit into the backpack? Take a look and see the result plus the addition of an important item you will want when you arrive at your destination!

How the vacuum bags work:

Recommended Items for Light Packing:

Travel Backpack

These come in various sizes. There is a Large and an X-Large in the style I purchased. I am using the X-Large though it is a little larger than what the guidelines say online for some airlines (I have not had a problem to date). You do want to be careful not to overfill the bag or it will not fit under the seat as required for a personal item. The Large does fully comply with the required measurements and has the same pockets as the XL. Be sure to read all measurements before making your decision.

Travel Vacuum Bags

These Amazon Choice bags were a great help with compressing my clothing items down in the backpack. I used two of the medium sized bags which easily fit the clothing items I had to bring along. I was worried about the clothes being very wrinkled when coming out of the bags and I was pleasantly surprised that they were no more wrinkled than regular packing (maybe less because I folded more carefully!).

Travel Bottles

4 pack 3 oz silicone travel bottles, very suitable for shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, lotion, hand sanitizer and shower gel. It is equipped with a high-quality zipper transparent wash bag, which saves space and allows you to travel easily and without worry that things will spill. Compact for your travel bag as well!

Final tips for packing light for your next vacation:

Create a Packing List

Before you start packing, take the time to create a detailed packing list or lay out clothes as mentioned above. By having a clear outline of what you need, you can avoid overpacking and ensure that you don’t forget any essential items.

Choose Versatile Clothing

Select pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Neutral colors and simple patterns allow for easier coordination, while lightweight fabrics can be layered for varying temperatures. Consider packing items that serve dual purposes, such as a dress that can be dressed up for a night out or worn casually during the day. This approach not only reduces the number of items you need to take but also maximizes your outfit options.

Limit Footwear

Footwear can take up a significant amount of space in your luggage, so it’s important to be strategic. Aim to bring only two to three pairs of shoes that are suitable for different occasions. A comfortable pair of walking shoes for daytime activities, a pair of sandals for the beach or casual outings, and a dressier option for evenings out can cover all your needs. Wear your bulkiest pair of shoes during travel to save space in your bag.

Be Mindful of Toiletries

Toiletries can quickly add weight and bulk to your luggage. To pack light, consider transferring your favorite products into travel-sized containers or purchasing travel-sized versions of your essentials as mentioned above. Additionally, evaluate which items you truly need; many accommodations provide basic toiletries, so you may not need to bring your entire skincare routine.

Consider Laundry Options

By packing fewer clothes and planning to do laundry, you can significantly lighten your load. This strategy allows you to bring only what you need for the first few days and refresh your wardrobe as necessary during your trip.

Embrace Minimalism

Finally, adopting a minimalist mindset can greatly aid in your quest to pack light. Challenge yourself to leave behind items that you may think you need but likely won’t use. For instance, I could have left behind one of my jackets (did not need 2), two tops, one pair of leggings and the bathing suit which I knew I would likely not use.

Swap out Books for Audio/Kindle

Bringing my book took up space and added weight, next time I will opt for an audio book or Kindle (even though I prefer reading a real book :).

By implementing these strategies, you can successfully pack light for your next vacation, ensuring that your journey is not only enjoyable but also hassle-free. Traveling with a lighter load allows you to move more freely, reduces the stress of managing heavy luggage, and ultimately enhances your overall travel experience.