When I left for a year-long missions trip five years ago, I had one of the biggest, heaviest backpacks on my team. We did a lot of walking over 11 months and I learned what I needed vs what I could do without.
I remember going to Target before I left, the ultimate trap. There were only one or two things I needed, but ended up walking around the entire store (as you do), scanning every department for things that might be useful during my 11 months journey. Many of those items were left in random countries overseas because I found that much of what I took not necessary. I couldn't justify the space or weight in my luggage.
By the end of the 11-months, I had cleared out everything I didn't need and returned with one of the lightest packs in the group.
Three years later, I spent six weeks in Europe (in two different climates) with only a 22-inch carry-on and a small Kavu backpack. Last year, I went on a two week trip with just a small daypack. If I can do it, anyone can.
Here are my TOP FIVE TIPS for cutting the excess and packing light:
1) Choose your wardrobe strategically
Even if you're not accustomed to planning your wardrobe, taking the time to decide what you will wear on your trip will save you a ton of time and space. At home, I never plan what I'm wearing ahead of time. Here is the exception. Have some sort of color scheme so that you can mix and match which multiples the outfit variety. I like to stick with threes: three tops and three bottoms. That's nine different outfits!
2) Layer for travel day
Wear your bulkiest, heaviest clothes on travel day. Layer up. It's going to be cold on the airplane and in the airport anyway. This saves room and baggage weight.
3) Minimize Toiletries
If you're staying longer than 2 weeks, buy more soap and shampoo at your destination. If your trip is less than two weeks, you should be able to make 3 oz bottles last. Yep, you can do it (or buy what you need when you get there). Pack all of your liquids in a quart-size see through bag, including liquid makeup. It is possible!
4) Invest in Quick-Dry Items and Packing Cubes
Underwear. Shirts. Shorts. Towels. You obviously don't want to spend your whole trip in athletic apparel, but remember, choose your wardrobe strategically. Not only do they dry fast, but they are lightweight and easily packable. Bring items in threes so you can wear one, wash one, dry one. Roll them and put them into packing cubes.
5) Utilize and Organize Technology
You don't need all of your tech on a trip. Leave the laptop at home and be where you are! Your smart phone does it all anyway: boarding pass, books, maps, music and movies, flashlight, etc. Just don't forget your charger and a good adapter! Put all of your electronics in a small bag or a Ziplock to keep them together and easy to access.
