The Great Traveling Light Discussion

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Some people have managed to backpack with one bag the size of a carry-on. There are obvious advantages to ultralight travel:
  • Greater security: you can stay with your bag at all times.
  • Saves time: no need to check-in or wait for your bag at airport carousels.
  • A lighter load: increases your mobility for running after a bus that's just pulling away from the curb... or escape muggers and dodge sniper bullets better.
  • You will still look like a tourist, but at least not as obvious as the person with a 70L pack next to you.

There are disadvantages too:
  • Regular clothes washing: ultra-light travel relies on only having a few sets of outfits.
  • Sacrificing "luxury": half your toiletries, heels, and your favorite pair of jeans may not be conducive to light packing.
  • There's some risk of leaving something behind that you end up needing.
  • No multi-tool or pocket-knifes are allowed in airplane cabins.

Here are some things to consider when you're deciding what to pack on a trip:
  • Can you get it there? Chances are they sell toothpaste, shampoo and clothes where you're going. Do you need to pack your bulky sweater, or can you buy a cheap one overseas and then donate it to someone needy when you reach warmer destinations? 
  • Do you really need it? You're not really going to bring your hair dryer, are you?
  • Are there miniature or compact versions you can bring instead? Many things come in travel sizes, are inflatable or fold down.
  • Bring multi-purpose things like a multi-tool instead of a pair of scissors, a knife, tweezers, bottle opener, spectacle screwdriver... Use baby oil to serve as moisturizer, shaving oil, hair conditioner... Bring a sarong to use as clothing, table cloth, beach towel, privacy curtain, modesty scarf...

How much you leave behind will depend on how willing you are to compromise on comfort for light travel. Remove yourself from the comfortable mindset and remember that when you're backpacking, you're roughing it a little! You can make-do, and always remind yourself of the advantages of light travel.

There is quite a bit written about packing light. Here are some sites to get you started:

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