Quit Over-packing

You’re packing too much when you travel, and your luggage is to blame

How often do you pack, and start by pulling out your suitcase?

Seeing the space available, you continue to pack garments and gadgets until no more will fit. You wind up with over-stuffed baggage full of things you likely don’t need. Next time you are preparing for a trip, select your bag last.

Pull out only the most essential items you will need, and select the smallest bag that will accommodate them.

This is especially prudent if your trip involves air travel.

As you’re doing this, think about your time at the airport. I will never understand the motivation to bring everything on the plane as a carry-on. Personally, I prefer to check as much as possible, to be able to stroll the airport as unencumbered as possible.

I only bring the barest of essentials in a small day-bag onto the airplane.

This means fewer things going through security, less to haul around, and no competing with other passengers on the airplane for space in the overhead bin.

Another thing: stop using a backpack as your primary luggage

You look like a vagabond carrying all your stuff around in an over-sized hiking backpack. And anyways, why carry everything on your back?

Get a small- to medium- sized suitcase – one with four wheels. If you don’t over-pack it, you will have no problems picking it up when needed. Also, suitcases tend to be sturdier, and better able to withstand potential rough handling by airline staff. Lastly, a suitcase is easier to organize and access, especially if you’re using packing cubes (which you should be). 

With a small suitcase and a small day bag, you will find that you have everything you need and that travel is very comfortable.

Small suitcase helps put you in a minimalist traveler mindset.

Leave everything else at home.