Time-Tested Tips for Traveling Light

The next time you travel, make a pact with yourself to travel light. When you pack light, you'll free up your time when you travel. In some cases, you may be able to get away with taking all of your items in a carryon and avoiding baggage check entirely.

The key to getting your luggage reduced to one or two bags is to pack only what you need. While you are packing, continually ask yourself these questions: “Do I really need this or just want it?” or “Do I need to carry this or can I buy it cheaper while I'm traveling?” Think twice before you place anything in your bag. You can always purchase what you need when you arrive at your destination.

Start with your toiletries. Many hotels offer complimentary shampoo and soap, so you may be able to save some space by not packing those. (This also avoids having the bottles leak en route to your destination.). You can buy these items cheaply in most destinations in the world. Buying when you arrive may be a smart idea when it comes to toothbrushes, toothpaste and even deodorant. At the very least, you'll want to purchase small sizes for packing, so you aren't lugging around a full size shampoo and conditioner, for example.

The next area where people tend to over-pack is clothing. Your clothes are important, but not so important that you need to take more than one or two bags with you. Choose a few neutral pieces that coordinate well together. Two pairs of pants and three shirts should be enough to get you through a week-long journey, or even longer if you have access to laundry facilities. Women can take a sarong or long scarf to dress up a plain looking outfit, cover up a swimsuit or use as a blanket on the plane. Limit your color choices to just one or two so you can coordinate the pieces together.

Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs while you are traveling. Pack a smaller, empty bag into your bag to carry items you collect along the way. Or you can leave space in your bag when you start out with the intention of filling it with souvenirs.

As long as you focus on getting by with the minimum of what you need to carry, you'll be able to pack lightly and enjoy your trip. Keep looking for ways to reduce your bulk and you'll be able to decrease your luggage when you travel. And if you are embarking on adventure travel, eheck with your tour provider for more tips on proper packing.