Multiple trips and 11 countries later I’ve got my packing grind. Some people cringe when I say I prefer traveling with a carry-on. Here’s why I love it.
1. It’s not getting lost.
A giant benefit of carry-on baggage is you have full control of it getting on and off every flight. You have access to anything you might want inside it- as long as you aren’t that jerk dropping everything on other people’s heads.
2. You don’t have to wait at the baggage claim.
Major time and stress saver here. You can walk right off your plane, breeze through customs, and grab a bus or walk to your next destination. Sure you still have to wait to file off the plane, but then you’re free!
3. You aren’t tied down.
You can hitch hike or live in a car/tent/hostel/castle. You and your stuff are ready to roll with multiple scenarios. It’s convenient to bus and you don’t take up a massive amount of space while traveling between beds.
4. No excessive fluff.
Now I’ve still managed to fit: multiple books, snorkel mask and flippers, horseback riding gear, and soccer cleats on various trips. So don’t think there isn’t room for fun. However, having a limited amount of space helps you get clear on what STUFF is actually important to you and for you.
So when I sit down to actually pack there are a few things I want on every trip.
-socks (always more than I think.)
-reusable bag (heaven sent in more than one situation.)
-journal and pen (absolute requirement for me, although I’ve bought them during trips as well.)
-reusable water bottle (always helpful. Even in countries where the water is commonly potable.)
-travel lock (even when I’m not planning to hostel hop these come in handy.)
-multi use scarf (it’s a dress, it’s a head cover, it’s a scarf, it’s a towel. You name it.)
Otherwise it’s clothing that can be combined in any possible combination and layered for any situation. A light beanie can do wonders. Same with a light coat, under armor, and pants that unzip into shorts. Sometimes I feel the need to pack sunglasses and chapstick. A photocopy or important documents. Usually I never bother with soap, shampoo, towels and the lot until I’m actually someplace and I can get a normal size. I almost always pack a swimsuit. Usually I wear one pair of boots and pack one pair of tennis shoes. I’ve usually brought a photo or two of pets and family for sentimental value and sharing. I’ve brought along gopros and nice cameras- but I don’t end up using them a significant amount of time and have to make sure they’re secure. Happy packing!
findingmyownpath 