How to Pack Like a Minimalist

I Promise it Can Be Done,

HERE’S HOW:

Ever come home from a trip to unpack nearly half of your belongings you didn’t touch? All of those cute dresses wrinkled and extra shoes crammed at the bottom of your luggage?

We have all been there. On my first trip abroad to Italy, I remember packing tons of different outfits with shoes, jewelry, and bags to match. I even had three different bathing suits for the three separate days I would be at the beach, and hiking boots just in case I decided to hike the Cinque Terre trail! I quickly realized I didn’t need HALF the things I packed, and that on my next trip I would not be caught lugging anything through airports, onto trains, or up cobblestone paths that I did not need. 

That next year on a backpacking trip through Nicaragua, packing minimally was not just necessary, but something I totally embraced. Everything in my backpacked served a purpose and I felt free from the material items that were taking up space in my bag, and space in my life. That trip changed the way I looked at all material things, and led me to embrace a more minimal life at home and especially traveling abroad. 

The backpack I used for years! This bag got me through two weeks in Nicaragua, three weeks in Thailand, and Vietnam.

Whether your are going for a few days or few months, packing minimally has some major benefits besides having to deal with the hassle of checking bags and lugging them around. You already have a million things crossing your mind abroad… when the train departs, where to go to dinner, how to get to that museum. By keeping your bag simple, you eliminate one less thing to worry about. Overall, less stuff means less stress.

Your travels are about enjoying your experiences and seeing new places, so stop rummaging through your bag. Go see that place and go do that thing!  

only a carry on- this bag has got me through a month in Europe, a month in India, and a month in Asia. YES a month’s worth in a carry on.

To save your arms and keep your travel simple, here are my favorite packing tips: 

THINK LIKE A MINIMALIST

First off, as mentioned, you need to change your mindset. The more you let go of your attachment to material possessions, the more space you will create to make memories and experience new things. No one will notice (or care) if you re-wear an outfit, so be realistic about what you need. Each item you pack should have a purpose and you should LOVE that item! If you are looking for more motivation on going minimal, watch this documentary from The Minimalists, or check out their blog or podcast.

Yes, these are the only pieces of clothing i used for a whole month in asia!

ORGANIZE, ORGANIZE, ORGANIZE 

Use small bags and containers to keep everything organized and fit. Each compartment within the luggage should be like opening a drawer- one for clothes, one for toiletries, electronics, first-aid, etc. 

GET STRATEGIC

Now think of your bag like puzzle. Try to avoid any “dead” space by rolling clothes (this also reduces their chance of getting wrinkled), folding socks and underwear in shoes/purses, and using compression cubes.  There are plenty of hacks on youtube for packing a suitcase, including my favorite way to pack a hat. You may need to play around and rearrange to find the perfect fit. 

it’s like a puzzle! find small spaces to fit items perfectly

compression bags for clothing

you may need to rearrange a few times to find the perfect fit!

CHECK THE WEATHER BEFORE YOU GO

Is it going to be rainy season when you go to Thailand? Winter in New Zealand? Look ahead for the general weather conditions and pack accordingly. Do not prepare for the crazy weather situation that could happen. That’s right you heard me, do not prepare for unexpected weather, as in don’t pack snow boots or a heavy jacket for that 1% chance it snows in southern Italy in August. If it does happen, you can buy weather related emergency gear when you get there- along with everyone else.

STICK TO A COLOR PALETTE 

By staying in a color theme, you can mix & match, layer, and get creative with top/bottom combinations. When I travel, I like to keep things solid in color, neutral, and of earthy tones so I can easily coordinate different outfit options. For example, pack a maxi skirt that matches all tops your bring, and pick tops that can match to multiple bottoms.  Before packing each item, ask yourself if you have a more versatile version.

here i stuck with a black and tan color scheme!

PICK THE RIGHT FABRICS

The last thing you want to do on your trip is waste time ironing or steaming clothes, so they will most likely take residence at the bottom of your bag the whole trip. Pick lightweight garments that don’t wrinkle like cotton and linen, which are also easy to wash and hang dry. This leads me to my next point…

DO LAUNDRY

No matter the length of the trip, try to pack for seven days and wash clothes along the way as needed. Hotels can usually wash clothes for a small fee, find a local laundromat, or wash items yourself in the sink using a wash bag, detergent and hang them dry. 

LIMIT SHOES

This will save you the most room so choose shoes that are comfortable, versatile, and lightweight. I like one pair of sneakers for the plane and for long walking days, one pair of walking sandals, and another pair I can dress up like black sandals, slides, flats, or bootie. Depending on the trip, I rarely pack heels or wedges, save your feet and the room in your bag!

shoes are lightweight, versatile, and able to dress up/down if needed!

CHOOSE ACCESSORIES WISELY

You will most likely end up wearing the same pair of earrings and using the same purse 95% of the time, so do not bring different accessories for every outfit. You also don’t want to worry about losing an expensive or sentimental piece of jewelry or hand bag! Go for one watch (so you are not always checking your phone for time), one pair of sunglasses, one hat, and one or two fun items like funky earrings or a neck scarf to dress outfits up. I always include one scarf that serves as a great makeshift pillow on the plane or shawl for visiting churches or temples. Stick with two purses- one larger tote or backpack for personal items, and one smaller crossbody bag for out and about. 

SIMPLIFY YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE

First, decided if you can temporarily cut any non-essential beauty practices. Do you need to bring all eight steps of your skincare routine? Can you maybe embrace your natural hair and leave bulky hair dryers and irons at home? If that is out of the questions, check ahead if your hotels/airbnb/hostel provides a hair dryer, or see if a friend has a travel sized one. I am currently obsessed with this cordless and tiny travel straightener that I also use to curl to get the job done! Keep makeup minimal by only bringing one of each product- one foundation, one bronzer, one blush, one mascara, etc. Of course, everything- toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and face wash should be travel sized. I like to refill my own products in clear containers, just remember to keep it under 3.4oz!

travel sizes for the win!

USE PRODUCTS THAT DOUBLE DIP

I love getting creative and finding products that double up for other uses- like my scarf that works as a neck pillow, shawl, or blanket. My other go-to’s include coconut oil that can be used as a moisturizer, eye make up remover, and shaving cream. Dr Bronners soap can be used as a facial and body cleanser, shampoo, laundry detergent, and more! I am currently obsessed with Honest Beauty’s magic balm to tame my brows, and also as a highlighter and moisturizing lip balm. A small microfibre towel can be a face towel, back up towel, and used to dry hair or clothing.

Other Pro Tips: 

• Before packing each item ask yourself: is this comfortable? Does it have a purpose? Do I have a more versatile option? Do I LOVE this item? If not, keep it at home. 

• Layer and wear bulky or hard to pack items like sweaters, jackets, or your hat on the plane. 

• Consider packing a compact bag or foldable tote in your suitcase to use for things you buy on your travels (if you plan on it). You can check your suitcase on the way home, and use the duffle as your carry on. 

• Download audio books (I love audible) onto your phone instead of bringing bulky books. 

• Downsize your wallet before you leave. Bring only ID’s and cards that you NEED, and leave old crinkled receipts and your Crate & Barrel gift card at home. 

• At the least, remember leaving extra stuff at home gives you space to purchase that hand-knit scarf or piece of art that steals your eye on your trip! 

Do you have any other tips on packing minimally? I am always looking for other tips and hacks to make travel easier! Please comment below or share with me on social media. Bon Voyage! 

Female Solo Travel Guide

Your Complete Guide

To Solo Travel

Maybe after reading Why I Travel Solo, you’re thinking, “I think I can do this...maybe...but HOW”? With five years and over twenty countries traveled around the world, I have collected all of my best tips and tricks to answer your questions:

WHERE DO I START ?

• Well...where do you want to go? If your heart is calling you to a foreign land, by all means GO! But, if you are feeling a little nervous, start small- within your country or one that speaks the same language. For example if you live in the USA/Canada, start domestic or with Ireland, England, or Australia.
  

• If you still don’t have a great starting point, head to Skyscanner where you can choose your travel dates and see the cheapest flight by searching destination “Everywhere”. This is also a great resource if you are traveling on a tight budget.
  

• Although I have never done one, I have heard great things about Solo Group Travel Tours where although you are technically heading out on your own, you travel with a group the whole time. Or, you can plan to do a hybrid of these options.

• Consider the weather when and where you are going. Be aware of natural disasters, rainy season, or scorching hot temps before you book!
  

• Once you pick dates and location, look up if your destination country requires a visa. Most just require online paperwork, a small fee, and a few weeks of processing if you do need one. Make sure you do this with enough time and don’t fall for scam visa sites- go through the country’s government site (look for .gov)

• Overall, half of being a good traveler is just being a good and thorough googler ahead of time.

WHERE DO I STAY?

• Hostels, hostels, hostels. Did I say hostels? Hostels are the BEST way to meet interesting and adventurous solo travelers like yourself. They offer the best knowledge of the area and most can set you up with tours and transportation. Depending on your budget, you can choose a dorm (I prefer female dorms) or room all to yourself.
  

• READ REVIEWS to get what you want. Some hostels are geared more to the young, partying backpackers while some appeal more to families.
  

• No matter if you decide on a hostel, hotel, airbnb, or guesthouse, try to find accomodation that’s close to the attractions you want to see and easily accessible from the train station, airport, or wherever you are arriving.
  

• See if your hostel or hotel can arrange transport for you, or ask what is the best method to arrive.

WHAT DO I DO?

• This totally depends on what you LIKE TO DO, but it may take some trial and error to figure out your travel style. For example I am a city girl at heart, but I prefer to only spend a few days at the most in big cities like Bangkok or Rome. Instead, I prefer to spend more time in towns outside the big cities.
  

• To start, use books like Lonely Planet or google itinerary options. For example, “10 days in Germany itinerary”. Look at the map and see what common routes people take, and how long they recommend in each stop.
  

• Now this is the fun part, do your research and look at options, tours, and experiences. Sure TripAdvisor and Yelp are helpful, but I look to other travel bloggers such as Nomadic Matt or Be My Travel Muse for recommendations.
  

• Always leave a little wiggle room in planning just in case you find somewhere you love and don’t want to leave, hear a new recommendation along the way, or you want to join other travelers in an unexpected adventure.

WHAT DO I WEAR?

• Pack minimally. YOU and only YOU are carrying your bags, so be mindful and only bring what you really need. If you need some motivation, find out How to Pack Like a Minimalist.
  

• Now that you packed minimally, remove three articles of clothing. You’ll want room to bring home a hand-crafted scarf, blanket, or piece of art so leave room!
  

• Dress like a local and try to not stand out. Stick with neutrals, stay modest, and blend in. Save your flashy jewelry, stilettos, and booty shorts for home.
  

• Use a cross-body bag that has a good zipper, keep it in the front of you at all times.
  

• Only bring shoes you are comfortable walking miles in.

ARE YOU SURE THIS IS SAFE?

There are always situations where you can be unsafe, at home or abroad. To ensure you don’t get in any uncomfortable or unsafe situations:

• Keep your itinerary on a google doc or Google Trip and share it with someone you trust- your mom, friend, partner, whoever. Let them know where you are and check-in.
  

• Arrive during the day. I mean WHEN THE SUN IS OUT. It’s much safer anywhere you go to walk or use transportation and arrive while businesses are still open. I learned this lesson the hard way arriving in Vietnam at 3am with zero transport and ended up sleeping on the airport floor until daytime. Don’t do that.
  

• Use your street smarts. Don’t walk down sleepy streets, especially at night. Walk with confidence and a purpose.
  

• Most hostels have lockers so bring your OWN lock to keep valuables safe when you leave/when sleeping. Also, don’t forget the combo. Write it on a post-it or on your arm. Just don’t forget it.
  

• Keep your money, cards and passport safe. Yes, I am also a proud supporter of money belts that go under your clothes. Beware of pickpocketers and learn more on how to protect your documents.
  

• Screenshot your hostel/hotel address, passport, ID, visa, credit/debit card and e-mail them to yourself just in case. In the chance you get everything including your passport stolen, you may need a trip to your embassy. This might take a few hours and lots of paperwork, but good thing you have copies of everything in your e-mail!
  

• Same rules at home apply if hitting bars and clubs- don’t leave your drink out. Overall keep drinking to a minimum...stumbling home alone late at night is not a good idea no matter where you are!

• Be aware of common tourist scams.

• Most of all, if something feels off trust your gut. Walk away, leave, say no, or ask someone for help.

• Most likely your trip will run smoothly, but it’s always best to prepare. If you need more on safety, head to Traveling Safe Tips for Solo Travel.

WON’T I GET LONELY? OR BORED?

I promise, traveling alone is never really traveling alone!

• Don’t make me repeat myself...stay in a hostel and I guarantee you will make friends to accompany you on your adventures.

• Book a walking tour (most big cities have free ones) when you first arrive. This will help you meet people, but also make you more aware of your surroundings and learn from your guide about local places to eat/drink and the culture.

• Yes, even if you meet wonderful people you will most likely have some solo downtime. Bring a journal to reflect, a new book, and download your favorite podcasts to pass time on long plane/train/bus rides.

OK...I FEEL BETTER. WHAT ELSE BEFORE I GO?

• Call your phone service and see if they charge for roaming. If they do, find out what options are available if you want full data. If not, make sure your hotel/hostel has free and good WiFi and download the app WiFi Map which uses crowdsourcing to make a map of all nearby WiFi sources.

• Check the CDC's Travel Page for up-to date information on which vaccines or precautions your may need to take. If you need a vaccine, medication, or have any questions, schedule an appointment with your primary care or walk-in clinic. Some cities even have travel specific clinics.

• Call your health insurance to see what they cover for you abroad. Regardless, I would still get travel insurance. World Nomads is the most popular, easy to use, and reasonably priced. They offer different plans covering emergency accident and sickness, robbery, last minute cancellation, and have on-call 24 hours assistance.

• Download the Maps.me app for free offline directions when you are out of WiFi range.

• I always like to learn the language basics, but also use Google Translate which can translate signs/menus using your camera, and/or iTranslatevoice app to help with the language barrier. WayGo for signs in Chineses, Japanese, and Korean.

• Do a google search to find out if you will need a power adapter and/or converter. If so, buy one on amazon and consider a universal adapter so you are covered for your future travels.

• Call your bank so they can put a travel notice on where and when you will be going. Download the XE Currency app which doesn’t need internet to calculate foreign currencies on the go.

• Look up common culture customs & etiquette of where you are going.

ALRIGHT I’M BOOKED! NOW WHAT?

Congrats on your solo adventure! I promise this is all easier than you think. Don’t let anyone question your decision, people who have never done it will probably think you are nuts. You are going to get some butterflies before you go, and there will be moments you may feel scared and uncomfortable. Be patient and embrace it.

Have you traveled solo? I would love to hear about your experience and any advice you have. What are your favorite solo travel tips and tricks? Please comment below or share with me on social media. Bon Voyage!