How to Pack Light when Traveling

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10 Ways to Pack Lighter when Traveling

Tip #1: Limit Your Bags
The first step how to pack light is rather obvious, but if you don’t bring multiple suitcases, you can’t fill them. A good size suitcase should be no more then 30 pounds and no larger then 25” x 17”. It should also have plenty of separate travel compartments. By bringing only 1 bag you also avoid extra luggage charges and avoid overweight bags.

Tip #2: Minimize Toiletries
Most hotels offer many amenities such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and other toiletries so there is no need to bring these items. If you are staying somewhere that doesn’t provide these amenities, simply purchase them when you get there. You’ll travel lighter and be surprised how much space you save.

Tip #3: Lose the Shoes
Shoes take up the largest amount of space when packing. Before you decide to pack multiple pairs of shoes, see if some of your shoes can perform “double duty” and be adequate for every day activities as well as evening wear. Also, be sure to wear the bulkiest ones on flights to save valuable suitcase space and weight.

Tip #4: Mix and Match
Bring outfits that can be mixed and matched so you pack less. For example, 1 pair of pants can work with 2 shirts rather then bringing 2 pants. Try to avoid the “wear once” items that you may only use for a few hours.

Tip #5: Cut Down on the Extras
Do you really need the entire travel guide for Europe or just the country Austria? Why not photo copy the pages you need. This goes for entertainment too. Bring a soft cover book or a magazine or a newspaper rather then hard cover book. Do you need the whole bottle of aspirin or medication or just a few pills? Think about the items you are packing and see if you can reduce them in size.

Tip #6: Use Packing Systems
Many travel gear suppliers have packing systems to compress your clothes. These include vacuum bags and folders that allow you to get every inch from your suitcase.

Tip #7: Less Heavy Clothes
Bulky clothing such as heavy winter coats, sweaters, sweatshirts, etc. not only weighs you down, but also takes up huge amounts of space. Synthetic or lighter material clothing can keep you just as warm and takes up about half the space.

Tip #8: Maximize your Carry-ons
You’ll be surprised to see how much you can fit into that pocket book or laptop or brief case. You’re bringing it on the flight anyway so get the most out of it and fill it.

Tip #9: Don’t Pack Based on Length of Stay
Just because you are staying 4 weeks, don’t pack more. A traveler should never pack more then what he or she needs for a week. You do not need your entire wardrobe with you. Besides, you never wore it at home so why start now?

Tip #10: Plan to do Laundry
Use your hotels laundry service or use the washer and dryer if you’re staying at a vacation rental. Washing your clothes is a simple way to reduce the number of outfits you pack.

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