As kids we were told to pack, “whatever you think you might need,” for the family vacation and many of us still follow that advice. When traveling I would pack a large bag full of clothes and other things only to realize upon return that about a third of what I’d taken had stayed in the suitcase. Why do we travel with more than we need?
With this in mind I decided to try packing less. First I stopped lugging a laptop on non-work related trips. Next I purchased clothes and underwear designed for traveling which could be washed in a hotel sink or tub and be dry the next morning. Unless I was visiting a remote area I could easily purchase some items locally if necessary. On a week long trip to London in 2006 all electronics and the camera stayed home, although I now have a pocket camera. Last year just one small 20″ bag and a daypack accompanied me on a two week holiday in Scotland. Last month I took a Sony eReader device, rather than the two or three books I usually carry, to Florida.
Initially convinced I would either miss or forget something essential I have been pleased with the results. Having fewer personal items allowed me to be more focused on enjoying the trip. Limiting the available wardrobe simplified clothing choices and nightly laundry in the tub took less than five minutes. Did not miss the internet or email and now all my vacations are computer free. Traveling with less has resulted in some of the most relaxing and memorable trips to date. Try it.
March 14, 2009, 12:00am Link
