5 tips for traveling light and avoiding hassle

5 Important Tips for Traveling Lightly and Avoiding Extra Worries

Nobody likes to carry a heavy suitcase. Therefore, it is very useful for every traveler to learn to take only the most necessary things on a trip and abandon excess baggage. To do this, you should follow these recommendations:

**1. Make a list of the most necessary things and optimize it**

At first, this may seem like a tedious and time-consuming task. However, making a list will help you pack faster and avoid the situation during the trip of "I have everything, but I don't have the most necessary thing."

The list can be divided into the following main sections:

* documents;

* equipment;

* clothing;

* shoes;

* accessories;

* medicines;

* hygiene products;

* cosmetics.

If you are traveling with children, add additional sections, such as "children's things".

If the list gets too long, try to shorten it. For example, instead of separate chargers for your smartphone, tablet, and smart bracelet, you can get one universal charger. Or instead of several creams for your face, choose one cream with moisturizing and sun protection properties. And some paper documents can be replaced with electronic copies pre-loaded on your phone or tablet.

When packing your suitcase according to the list, think about each item:

* **Did you buy it before and use it a lot?** Then feel free to take it.

* **Did you buy it, but used it once or twice?** If the suitcase is light, you can take it. But if it is already difficult to close, look for an alternative option that will replace the item. If necessary, you can also buy it at your destination.

* **Did you not buy it before, but you realized that you will need it on your trip?** Then definitely take it.

* **Did you buy it before you used it?** Feel free to cross it off your list.

If you pack this way, your suitcase may be much lighter than you think.

**2. Check the weather conditions in advance**

The weather forecast will help you determine what clothes you need for your trip. If the weather is expected to be warm and sunny, it is enough to pack only one warm item of clothing. If rain, cold or a change in the weather is expected, you should take more warm clothes.

To avoid overloading your suitcase, choose lightweight options for warm clothes. For example, a light jacket or hoodie can be lighter than a long wool sweater, but still keep you warm enough. Also, choose your shoes wisely. For example, you can wear sneakers during the trip, and pack light sandals or other shoes for warm weather.

**3. Choose clothes and accessories in a capsule way**

No one wants to wear the same clothes every day. Therefore, choose clothes that are easy to combine with each other. Then you can create several different looks from a small number of clothes. Clothes that can be worn in several layers are also very convenient. If necessary, you can wear them over and protect yourself from the cold.

Jeans are universal for travel. They go well with different styles of clothing. However, jeans can be heavier than light pants, skirts or shorts. Therefore, it is better to wear them instead of packing them in a suitcase. When choosing jewelry, choose those that match as many outfits as possible. Instead of heavy and bulky accessories, choose lightweight options. For example, instead of a large metal bracelet, you can get a light leather bracelet.

**4. Use mini-packaging for cosmetics**

You can take small versions of shampoo, cream and other products on a trip. Or use a set of special mini containers designed for travel. It is also useful to take laundry detergent with you. Then you can take fewer underwear and socks. Nowadays, you can also find washing powders in small disposable packages. You can wash several clothes with one package.

**5. Optimize your medicine cabinet for travel**

If you are going to a forest or other remote area, it is better to take any medications that you may need. However, if you are traveling to a city where pharmacies are easy to find, you can take only the most necessary ones.

If you have any medications that you take regularly on the advice of a doctor, first pack a sufficient amount of them. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers, antispasmodics, allergy medications, and plasters of various sizes. If necessary, other medications can be purchased at a local pharmacy. But if the medicine you regularly use is only available by prescription in the country you are traveling to, it is better not to take risks and take at least a small amount with you.

**Pack your luggage the day before the trip**

Prepare your suitcase and medicine cabinet the day before the trip. This will give you time to remember if you forgot something important or to buy the missing items. The most important thing is to prepare for the trip not with the thought that "everything may be needed", but with the question "Will I really use this?"