Top 8 secrets to packing light when you travel

Minimal Baggage: Top 8 secrets to packing light when you travel

Lim Han

17 Mar 2017

1/8
Roll & Band trick
Everyone knows the rolling-clothes hack. But many of us forget to seal the deal by securing the rolls with rubber bands. This way, your items will remain immaculately arranged no matter how carelessly it is handled throughout your trip.
2/8
Plan your outfits
Strategising your fashion choices for the trip is a crucial step. Picking articles of clothing which you can mix and match throughout your holiday allows you to greatly reduce the quantity of clothes you’re bringing. The key is to go for a neutral palette, allowing your pieces to be cross-compatible. Just be extra meticulous during mealtimes – you don’t want any sauce splattering on your shirt.
3/8
Only a pair of jeans
The temptation to bring two or even three pairs is always real. But, what are the chances of you soiling your jeans beyond salvation in a short span of time? Denim, originally worn by woodchoppers, is way more durable than you think. You really need only a pair, unless you’ll be on holiday for over a week (or chopping some heavy amounts of wood).
4/8
Pack layers not bulks
No one wants to be a freezing block of ice in the winter snow. But, neither does anyone want a hulking coat taking up half their luggage space. With this tip, you don’t have to experience the tragedy of either. Wearing multiple layers such as thermals and long-sleeved tops will keep you toasty and warm while thrusting you with greater flexibility.
5/8
Solids over liquids
Whether it’s your shampoos or perfumes, carrying bottles of liquid can be a tedious feat, considering that they're bulky and prone to leakage. Why not opt for their solid counterparts? They save space, packaging, and time (from cleaning up the leaked mess). Not to mention, it makes your bathing experience that much more nostalgic.
6/8
Lightweight shoes
When it comes to shoes, you should stick to a pair (with leeway for a set of slip-ons). Opt for lightweight ones, if possible, like sturdy sandals. If you’ll be travelling to a cold area, slim sneakers are a good option. You can compensate with extra pairs of thick wooly socks.
7/8
Ditch any paperbacks
Travel guides and language booklets are always great resources to have on a trip. But in this digital era, do we really need physical copies on a trip? All these information is compressed into our compact smartphones, relieving us of the burden of lugging around cumbersome books. Maps and guides? They’re all a mere click away.
8/8
Bring a small carry-on bag
With a small carry-on, you're left with no choice but to bring your absolute essentials. There's no way you can overpack if you don't even have the space to begin with. It's as simple as that.

It’s time to stop the luggage abuse. Lighten up! Here are 8 tips to taking some load off your suitcase.

Few things can compare to the mystical enthrall of travelling – immersing yourself in an alien yet invigorating environment which captivates your entire being and kindles a renewed wonder at the world. But, tailing right behind this riveting adventure is the drab chore of packing. Packing, to say the least, is not the most thrilling task, especially if you’re a heavy packer. Are you having trouble zipping up your near-exploding luggage with sleeves and socks peeking out of the edges? No problem, just get a larger suitcase. Kidding, we’ve got the 411 on how to pack light and tidily while still bringing all your must-have essentials.

Head up to our gallery where you’ll find some helpful tips to becoming a minimal packer. You can then unleash your traveller’s spirit without having your baggage weigh you down. Just remember to zip up your luggage.

Lim Han

Photos: Getty Images

Travel Guide: 15 Things every first-time visitor to Tokyo must do

Heading Abroad: 6 Chic essentials for cold weather travel

Parents Abroad: 10 Essential things to pack if you’re travelling with kids

Natural Beauty Hacks: 9 Ways to use avocado in your...