Minimalist packing tips for effortless travel

The era of travel's golden age, where a plane ticket included luggage as standard, has faded into the past. Nowadays, airlines frequently tack on additional fees for checked baggage that often end up more expensive than the air fare itself. Fortunately, carry-on luggage tends to be an exception; it is often either included for free or for a small additional charge.

This shift in the travel landscape has given rise to the strategic approach of adopting the minimalist principles of packing light. Exclusively relying on hand luggage has been a game-changer. Not only does it cut down on travel expenses, but it also facilitates seamless navigation through bustling airport terminals and enables effortless transitions between various modes of transportation.

Streamlining your belongings to the essentials ensures you spend less time at baggage carousels and more time immersing yourself in the wonders of your destination.

Know the rules

Check your airlines hand luggage policy. Airlines rules vary and what is perfectly acceptable hand luggage for one carrier, might cost you an expensive fine with another. Pay close attention to the permitted dimensions and weight of hand luggage. Ensure that the bag you plan on taking meets the criteria. Airlines are very hot at checking hand luggage meets their requirements. Weigh your luggage before you travel if the airline limits hand luggage weight. Investing in luggage scales is a good idea!

Create a capsule wardrobe

To create a capsule wardrobe for your trip research the climate during the time you plan on visiting and think about the type of activities you will be doing and the dress codes of the places you plan on visiting. If you are visiting somewhere with a pool, remember to pack swimwear, but see if pool towels are available at the destination. Wear comfortable and versatile footwear.

If you are only taking one larger piece of hand luggage, remember to pack a smaller handbag or rucksack to use once you have checked in at your accommodation.

When creating a capsule wardrobe write a list of everything you will need and shop your own wardrobe first! When buying new items think quality over quantity.

How much should you pack? For a long weekend a minimalist would normally pack one top for each day of the trip, one to two pairs of neutral bottoms and fresh set of underwear and socks for every day. In Autumn or winter add in two neutral layer pieces and a coat, hat, gloves and scarf if the climate requires. In spring or summer add in a pair of sunglasses, a sunhat and sunscreen.

Bulky items

Ditch bulky items such as DSLR cameras and heavy books embrace the digital life! Use a smartphone camera for photos and download an audiobook to your device.

Healthcare

If you are on regular medication, always pack extra. Plan what you think you will need on your trip and take double is often a good rule of thumb. Remember that whilst healthcare is free at the point of access in the UK this is not the case abroad. Apply for your free Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) and make sure you purchase travel insurance. Good to Go travel insurance are specialists in quoting for existing medical condition cover and have no upper age limit!