Travelling light – Minimalist packing

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This summer we’ve been experimenting with packing light. (with thanks to Zen Habits for the idea). In fact, we’ve been going super light and it's been fantastic. In August we took two trips and this was my clothes packing list. 

Trip 1- 1 pair of shorts, 2 t-shirts, 1 dress *

Trip 2- Three dresses *

(*plus underwear for 4 days.)

J had 1 pair of shorts plus 3 t-shirts, the boys had the same but with added spare shorts. J and I just had our Merrell sandals (which we've both worn for 6 summers straight, totally recommended).

The only weight really came from J’s SLR camera and novel; I had my kindle and a notebook. The boys had a couple of books and pens and paper which F (4 years old) carried in his little school bag. We had a little bottle of travel wash so I washed clothes after 2/3 days in each destination. We didn’t bother with PJs, we just wore the next day’s clean t-shirt and pants. I also took very simple make up (wish I could say I didn’t bother) and a few basic first aid supplies (bandages, paracetamol, antibacterial cream). We didn’t carry shampoo or shower gel, we just used hotel supplies or bought sachets in hostels. 

I can’t tell you how nice it was. Our bags were so easy to carry and it made travelling so much simpler. I actually felt relaxed while on holiday with my children (okay not always, but certainly a lot more than before!)

With less stuff you can do more.

With small bags you can,

-explore your destination first rather than go straight to a hotel because you just have to put your bags down. 

-run through an airport or train station without being slowed down by your luggage.

-go somewhere for the day, wander about and if you like it, stay the night. If you can carry your bags so easily there’s no need to leave them in the hotel.

-grab the suncream/ bug spray/ hand gel easily without having to rummage.

-With space in your bag you can throw in snacks and drinks without having to lug extra carrier bags (my hungry boys are 2, 4 and 26- they need a lot of snacks on journeys! :) )

Obviously summer packing can be simpler than winter, there are fewer layers and everything is fairly flimsy and light. Also, living in Sichuan, there was no question over the temperature but we did have waterproofs in case of rain. The next trip we take, it’ll be much colder but I’m determined to keep our packing super light. We may have slightly heavier clothing but I’m confident we will manage. 

My sister today set off on a 2 week trip with a friend. After travelling with us and trying super light packing too, she’s ditched her rucksack for a small day bag for this longer trip. The friend she’s meeting I know has a huge backpack, I’m interested to see how they get on. 

What do you think, does travelling lighter appeal, or would you miss having a choice of sunglasses and outfits? I certainly didn’t. It might be back to school season, but next time you take a trip however long or short, I urge you to give it a try, or at least really consider what you actually need to have a great holiday.