Traveling “light” is something that travelers want for a number of reasons, from ease of movement to foregoing any additional fees that many airlines are now charging for having “overweight” luggage. No matter where you’re going and when, here are some tips on how you can travel light this summer:
Choose Light Weight Luggage
Forget the old clunky luggage that your parents used to use; luggage companies have now come up with a number of light weight luggage options that will help you cut down on the weight while still providing the same protection and durability that the larger and more cumbersome luggage of the past afforded. You can find these luggage pieces in a number of different colours and styles, so don’t worry – you’ll still be able to pick out your pink zebra-striped luggage out on the turnstiles of any airport. For UK readers, have a look on Luggage Superstore, as they have a nice range of lightweight luggage. For American readers, there are some nice ones on the Walmart site, here, but you have to sift through a lot of other luggage to find it.
Bring A Smaller Bag
While some airlines are starting to charge for luggage that you bring on board, the vast majority of them aren’t. It’s always a good idea to bring a small bag and stuff it away in your other luggage in case you need to bring some additional items on as “carry on” items. A backpack is always a great light weight option, and it also tends to be far easier on you shoulders and your back. You can also choose a shoulder bag, however, if that better suits your style.
Get To Know The Weather
Right before you take off, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast for that region. Though weather forecasts are never 100% accurate, they’ll give you a good idea of what you can expect and how you should pack for your trip. If the weather’s going to be fairly warm, then you know that you can leave the wool jacket at home. If it’s going to be sunny, throw in a hat and a bathing suit.
Be Smart About Your Wardrobe
Speaking of what to pack, once you know what “type” of clothing to pack, you can then look at the clothing itself. Try to choose pieces that will match with one another. This will help you keep your packing to a minimum and keep things extremely lightweight. For example, a pair of denim jeans can go with almost any shirt that you wear, as can a pair of khakis which are less bulky and will take up far less room in your baggage.
That being said, depending on where you’re visiting, you also have to take the culture into consideration. If you’re visiting an area where only one certain type of attire is appropriate (i.e. holy sites), make sure that you pack clothing that will allow you to visit such areas.
Bring The Right Shoes
Traveling is hardly about being fashion forward, so while those beaded flip flops may look great, think about the amount of walking that you’ll be doing and what the other activities you hope to partake in are. Those sneakers may be the better option after all. Bring at least two pairs of shoes that you can comfortably walk in for an extended period of time, and if you have room to throw in those beaded or jeweled thong sandals, then go ahead and throw them in your bag.
There’s a great little article on traveling light on WikiHow. Give it a read.