How to pack like a minimalist! Sounds fun, right? (I’m not making a joke…anything related to minimalism excites me!) 🙂 My husband and I consider ourselves minimalists (and most of our loved ones would agree). Minimalism can be defined in so many different ways, but ultimately, we try to live intentionally and avoid clutter. We have plenty of items, but each item brings us joy and has a purpose.
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I’m excited to share my tips for packing like a minimalist! But first, let me tell you what this blog post is not about. It is not about packing for a month-long trip with 1 shirt. It is not about wearing the same sweater for 3 weeks. I’m not going to tell you stick to a specific number of items. If those limits work for you, then great, but I think it is important for each traveler to determine their limits on their own. It is not about refusing to check a large suitcase (although I prefer using carry-ons when possible!).
It is about planning ahead, thoughtfully considering what you pack, and determining what you actually need.
I haven’t always packed like a minimalist, and I sometimes still struggle to avoid over-packing (especially now that I have a baby!). Some trips are easier to pack minimally for than others. Packing minimally for warm weather destinations has always been easy for me. I packed for an entire week in Kauai in a carry-on and still had room to spare, but I struggled to fit into that same carry-on when I packed for 3 days in Washington, D.C. in the winter (I did it but didn’t have room to spare). Swim suits and flip-flops are easier to pack than winter coats and boots, but packing minimally is always an option.
My hope is that you’ll find some inspiration. Whether you’re planning to pack in a small backpack, a carry-on, or a large suitcase, this post is for you!
How to Pack like a Minimalist
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Plan To Do Laundry
Just Do It!
I have read countless blog posts and travel discussion threads on how to keep clothes fresh after multiple wears, how to avoid getting clothes dirty on excursions, etc.
…And I’m over here wondering why people don’t just plan to do a load of laundry? This is one of my biggest tips for packing like a minimalist. Just plan on washing your clothes! Don’t feel like you need to pack 30 shirts for a month-long trip to Europe or even 7 shirts for a week.
Are you going on a trip for a month? Plan to pack 7 days worth of outfits. Going for a week? Pack for 4 days. I do realize that there are situations in which this won’t work. Some travel destinations simply won’t have laundry options available, and that’s ok! My point is, if you can do laundry, plan on it. It’ll make packing and traveling so much easier.
Research Your Options Before You Go
When we travel for more than a few days at a time, I almost also filter my Airbnb rental search by selecting a “washer” and “dryer”. It is so convenient to have access to laundry machines while traveling. Having them inside your accommodations allows you to wash and dry while eating breakfast, getting ready for the day, or while you sleep.
If you aren’t staying in a vacation home, you still have options. In Killarney, Ireland, we paid 5 Euro at our hostel for them to wash, dry, and fold one load of laundry for us. We dropped off our bag of clothes at the front desk before we left to explore the town, and it was ready when we got back that evening.
Many hotels also offer laundry services (for a fee). Some hotels have laundry rooms on each floor for self-service (usually coin or credit card operated). If all else fails, you can always go to a laundromat. These tend to be why people don’t want to do laundry on vacation, and I get it. First, you have to sit there and wait while your clothes wash and dry (when you really want to be out exploring). Second, they can be expensive in areas with high tourist volumes. But at the end of the day, I would rather spend a few hours doing laundry than over-packing and lugging around a huge, heavy, uncomfortable suitcase as I move from place to place (or possibly worse, wear dirty clothes for a majority of my trip).
What about detergent?
Many places with laundry services (whether its an Airbnb, hostel, hotel, or laundromat) will have laundry detergent. In a vacation home, it’ll probably be free to use. At a laundromat, you’ll probably have to pay a little extra (or purchase it out of a machine). If you’re like us and are picky about our laundry detergent (I have an allergic reaction to nearly all typical laundry detergents), you can bring along some laundry detergent pods. They are typically very small and easy to pack. We do not use pods at home (they aren’t eco-friendly), but I will bring them along (we often get free samples, so I hold on to them for travel).
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Make a List & Create a Capsule Wardrobe
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
Capsule wardrobes are often key to a minimalist lifestyle. Capsule wardrobes typically consist of clothing items within a similar color scheme, so the items can be easily mixed and matched. I personally tend to purchase items that are black, navy, burgundy/maroon, and olive green. A person with a serious capsule wardrobe wouldn’t want to hold on to a pair of pants that only matches one shirt.
People approach capsule wardrobes differently. For some, it means only owning 10 clothing items. For others, that number is 30. And for others, that number is 100. And for minimalists like me, I don’t keep track. I just make sure each clothing item sparks joy, has a purpose, is used regularly, and fits (with plenty of room in spare) in my closet and dresser.
How to Create Yours!
If you don’t already have a capsule wardrobe, creating one for travel is a great way to start! Choose a color scheme and select pieces that can be mixed and matched (i.e. 2 pairs of pants that can be worn with all 4 shirts or blouses). This will help you pack minimally, and you’ll leave the pair of shoes that only matches 1 shirt at home.
It’s important to make a list before you start packing. Consider how many days you need to pack for (keep laundry options in mind) and then list how many shirts, pants, skirts/dresses, suits, shoes, underwear, etc., you realistically need during that period of time. You will (obviously) need to consider the weather when doing this (don’t pack your favorite sundress if you’re headed to Antarctica). If you determine that you need 3 long-sleeved shirts, just choose 3 favorites. Never start packing by opening up your closet and just grabbing your favorite items. This is the fastest and easiest way to ensure that you’ll over-pack.
Since everything goes with everything, you can change up your outfits throughout the trip and avoid feeling like you’re wearing the exact same outfit over and over again.
What To Wear on the Plane
It’s common to suggest that people wear their heaviest items on the plane when they travel. Wear your tall boots and warm coat, and it’ll save space in your luggage. This is great advice, but I have a note to add: consider where you’re going over the entire course of your trip. Will you only need that warm winter coat for the first few days of your trip before you head to warmer weather? If the answer is yes, make sure you leave space in your luggage to add that coat later. You don’t want to get stuck wearing it (or carrying it) the entire time because you didn’t do this.
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Use Packing Cubes
Why They are Great!
If you haven’t already jumped on the packing cube wagon, don’t wait any longer! I cannot stress the importance of packing cubes enough! I love them. Packing cubes are great for so many reasons. First, they keep your suitcase organized and prevent things from getting lost. Second, they condense the amount of space your things will take up in your suitcase. Really, they are amazing!
My Recommendations
We use two different brands of packing cubes and love them both for different reasons. These ones by Eagle Creek were the first ones I ever bought (about 5 years ago). I love that they are high quality and durable. The material is breathable and machine-washable. I’ve used mine more times than I can count, and they are still like-new.
Our other favorite packing cubes are made by Gonex. I bought a set after reading multiple positive reviews. They are less expensive than the Eagle Creek ones and the material is more like canvas. The thing that makes them great is their ability to compress items even further with their extra, compression zipper compartment. I highly recommend both brands!
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Consider What You Can Buy There or Do Without
Can You Buy it There?
This is a great way to save space in your luggage! If you’re traveling somewhere for a month, then by all means, just buy your toiletries there (just pack what you need to get through the first day or two). If you must pack shampoo/conditioner/etc., consider using these silicone bottles. I have these and love them- they have held up well! Never, ever pack full-sized bottles of anything (unless it is a crucial item that cannot be re-bottled or purchased on your trip).
Food should be considered here. As someone who has multiple food allergies, I always travel with snacks (it is very hard for me to find snacks in airports and traditional grocery stores that I can eat). That being said, I also do my research ahead of time and see what I can buy once I’m on my trip. If they have stores that can fit my needs, then I know I don’t need to pack snacks items to last the entire trip.
What Can You Do Without?
On the same note, consider what you can do without. Can you survive without your luxury shampoo and just use what they offer at the hotel? Do you really need 3 full sets of eyeshadow palettes? What about those 5 pairs of shoes you have sitting by your suitcase? 3 different hats? You get the picture… scale down and be willing to go without.
People who live a minimalist lifestyle full-time will not struggle with this as much as people who don’t. I get it. I haven’t always been a minimalist. Bring the things you truly need, but try to consider what you can survive without. I promise that it will lead a more relaxed trip.
A lot of people fear that they will forget something important or regret not having something. In most cases, you’ll be traveling to a destination with stores. You can buy a hairbrush, socks, vitamins, or eyedrops there. If you’re traveling to a remote location and truly won’t be able to purchase any items there, then I encourage you to start making your list early on to avoid forgetting things during a last-minute packing fiasco.
The Road Trip Dilemma
A note about road trips: I find that it is hardest to pack minimally for a road trip, because we have a car that we can pack full of things (versus traveling by airplane). In these cases, remember to make a list and stick to it. Consider where you’re going and what you’ll really need. Our extended families love to play board games when we are together, so it’s not uncommon for us to travel with a few of our favorite games. That being said, I’ve recently start paying attention to the amenities listed on our vacation homes (Airbnb makes it so easy!). If the home has games listed, then we trust the description and leave ours at home. They probably won’t have our favorite games there, but we can discover new games together while we are there and avoid the clutter in our car during our trip.
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Plan Ahead if You Want to Bring Home Souvenirs
What Souvenirs Do You Actually Want?
I recently wrote a blog post called “Souvenir Ideas for Minimalists”, and it has done really well! It’s been encouraging to see that minimalism to something that people are striving for. If you would like to bring home souvenirs but want to avoid clutter, I encourage you to check out that post for inspiration.
Leave Plenty of Space
Now, for the souvenirs that you do buy- plan ahead. If you’re traveling to Tuscany and know you want to bring home a bottle of wine, be sure to leave room in your suitcase. If you’re traveling to New York City or Paris and plan to splurge on a few new fashionable pieces for your wardrobe, make sure you leave space (and better yet, pack few clothing items with the intention of buy new, fun pieces there).
Whether your items are large or small, you need to make sure you can get them home. It would be a bummer to have to ship items back home separately (that could be pricey!) or purchase another bag to put it in on the plane (and pay the corresponding baggage fee) all because your suitcase is filled with a bunch of stuff you brought from home and possibly never even used.
When I do buy souvenirs, I try to buy them toward the end of my trip. That way I won’t have to lug them around from location to location. It also allows me to keep an eye out for items I might really want, and then only go back for the best options at the end.
I enjoyed sharing my tips, and I hope you’ve found some inspiration! I would love to hear what your thoughts are on packing like a minimalist. How do you approach packing?
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60 Comments
Anita
I love this article, so useful. I have never tried packing tubes, I must try that. For now i always take all the clothes necessary for one week and wash them on the way. I usually stay with locals so no problem with washing, otherwise i look for a public laundry. it’s easy to find and no point to carry so many clothes. Love minimalist.
Leah
I highly recommend the packing cubes! They will really transform your luggage!
Daniel
What a great list! I think all rookie travelers should read this before deciding to go for a trip. Personaly, I think that minimalistic is always the way to go and I always travel light.
Leah
Thank you! I agree- minimalism makes travel so much easier!
Amy Chung
Great tips! I cannot live without my packing cubes. they have literally changed the way I pack and i no wuse every ich of my luggage. So true about laundry too which is one of the many reasons i prefer to stay in air bnbs where there is a washing machine and even better, a dryer when travelling in the colder months. so true about being conscious about a colour scheme where you can mix and match so you can get more wear out of less.
Leah
Aren’t packing cubes the best? I totally agree with how important they are!
Jane Dempster-Smith
Great tips in this article thanks. we travel full time on the road with just a carry on and stick to the one or two colour rule. what made our packing great was using packing cubes last year. everyone who travels should bookmark this article.
Leah
Thank you! It is so great that you travel full-time with just a carry-on!
Alison
I love packing cubes, we used them in Italy! But I agree with you, it’s so much easier to pack less for warm weather trips! We packed tide pods in plastic bags on our last big trip. I find shoes to be difficult when you’re traveling Too.
Leah
Yes, shoes are always the frustrating thing for me. I’ve learned to pack fewer shoes and seek to get by with as little as possible. Packing laundry pods is the easiest way to prepare for doing laundry!
Annick
Great tips! I’ve al been an overpacker. I now use a capsule wardrobe and that has helped. I just tried packing cubes f the first time and i was impressed. Maybe i did stuff tgem en to get the compression? I’m going to China for 9 da in the spring a i only wa a carry on so time to figure this out!
Leah
Good luck with your minimalist packing experience! You can definitely stuff a lot into packing cubes.
David
Thanks for the tips. I always try and pack as lightly as possible and mostly succeed! Ive always been tempted by packing cubes though. I might have to try them now!
Leah
I think you’ll love using the packing cubes. You’ll never want to go back to packing without them. 🙂
Michael
A very enjoyable read with some good tips! The one about doing laundry is something I don’t usually consider but have had to do in the past. Now I have a much smaller wardrobe at home, it is something I will need to do on my next trip! Thank you!
Leah
You are welcome! I am glad you enjoyed these tips!
Highlands2hammockS
I could definitely get Better at the capsule wardrobe! SomEtimes realise i havent worn SOMETHING Cause i dont have ANYTHING To match it haha! Great tips though!
Leah
I think that is a common problem, and I don’t think you are alone! Good luck with your packing on your next trip! 🙂
Yukti Agrawal
I too believe in minimalist packing as we can enjoy more if we carry less things during travel. I too follow capsule wardrobe as during mix and match we also creat many new styles during the travel. Laundary is also another useful tip as it saves money and we can reuse our favorite clothing again.
Leah
I completely agree! It is nice to hear that these things work for you too!
LaZiaRo
I lovE THE IDEA of Capsule Wardrobe! I always try to do it, I didn’t know it actually had a name! 😀
Leah
Yes- that is what it is called! 🙂 They are so helpful!
Lieselot De Brauwer
That’s some great advice! I’m usually quite good in travelling light, but it takes a bit of time getting organised 🙂 Thanks for providing a clear list, it might go faster next time 😉
Leah
I’m so glad you enjoyed my tips! Good luck next time! 🙂
Amie holt
i’m always out and about traveling and im so useLess aT packing. This is really helpful!!
Leah
I’m glad it was helpful! Good luck on your next packing adventure! 🙂
Medha Verma
I have never used packing cubes but i think i should give it a shot if it really is useful. i agree with choosing between what you can buy and what you can carry. for example, i prefer to buy toothpaste, sunscreen etc while on the go rather than carry it. however, i cannot imagine doing laundry in the place i am travelling to!
Leah
I recommend giving packing cubes a try! I have yet to meet a person that doesn’t like using them! 🙂
Gracia
I really appreciated this article; I’m the queeeeen of overpacking! I’m going to have to try the packing cubes! How useful! Thanks girl!
Leah
Oh yes, you must try packing cubes then! Even if you still struggle with over-packing, the cubes will help you stay organized!
Zoë
This pretty much encapsulates my packing method and philosophy. Minimalism is definitely the way to go!
Leah
So happy to hear! Thanks for stopping by! 🙂
Farrah
Great post! I’m trying to be more of a minimalist (in light of the fact that I have wayy too many things…) since I tend to be an over-packer. Packing cubes are awesome! Photos/postcards/stickers are my souvenir go-to’s lately!
Leah
Thank you for stopping by! 🙂 Good luck on scaling down your packing. I know it can be difficult!
Marjie Mare
Thank you for your precious tips which I will use as I am traveling next week. Packing like a minimalist will be my goal for that next trip.
Leah
You are so kind- you’re welcome! 🙂 Good luck! It isn’t as difficult as it may seem!
Talva Lockhart
I really loved this post. Great packing tips.
Leah
I’m so happy to hear that! 🙂
Ray
As an over-packer, this post is SO helpful!
Leah
I’m so glad! Thanks for stopping by!
Amanda Patsey
That part about doing laundry is key – if you have access to washer/dryer and it isn’t inconvenient than you are golden…
Leah
Definitely! I don’t mind doing it at all, and it makes both packing and traveling easier!
Jamie
So many helpful tips, thanks for sharing! I really need to try the packing cubes!
Leah
Yes! Packing cubes have revolutionized our packing- really!
Sharon
I love this! Over the years, we’ve gotten soooo much better about minimizing our packing — and you provide even more tips for us to try to get our packing down further. Thanks!
Leah
So great to hear! Good luck! 🙂
Sarah Wilson
Great and useful post! Thanks!
Leah
I’m so glad!
Liona
I need these tips so bad. I’m a terrible packer. I always intend this type of packing and end up overpacking!
Leah
Good luck on your next trip! It is very freeing to pack minimally!
Kelly
Great tips! I love my packing cubes too. Makes it so much easier!
Leah
There are definitely a must-have for us!
Karen
I’m about to start packing for next months 3 week trip, I’ll be trying to use these tips to improve on my usual over packing! Thanks Leah!
Leah
Have a wonderful trip! Good luck with your packing! 🙂
Hollybee
I always plan on doing laundry when I’m away more then a few days. That way I can just do a carryon and I don’t have to worry.
Leah
Yes- we do this too!
Brooke of Passport Couture
I totally agree with everything you suggest in this post. When it comes to packing and minimalism, it’s all about using what you have. Deciding what you really need is important when you travel. I often go through my suitcase a few days before and realize there are certain items I don’t need and can find wherever I’m traveling to. Traveling with less makes me feel refreshed and lifts a weight off of my shoulders.
Leah
I couldn’t agree more! Packing minimally is very freeing!
Sharon
This is great post with so much info! I like your suggestions on souvenirs. I should think about it more ahead of time. We usually pack carry-on only, so we end up getting bookmarks and calendars — and always one more mug!
Leah
Bookmarks are nice and small! Mugs are a lot of fun too! 🙂