Ever wish that you didn’t have to bring so much stuff with you when you’re traveling? I will tell you right now that you totally can keep it light! It’s possible! Have you ever had those times when you had no idea what to pack? Or, has it ever taken you more than three hours to pack? For some travelers, packing can lead to a big ol’ headache! No bueno!
When I am on the road or flying somewhere, I try to pack as LIGHT as possible! Meaning, I only bring the bare minimum necessary items. The intention is to keep what I pack down to practical uses and to things I need for the intended style of adventure.
I planned a trip to visit my friend in Las Vegas. No No…this isn’t going to be a post about packing for a party. The trip was to spend three days with my friend and go hiking. What will I need:
- 3 pairs of shorts
- 5 tank tops
- 4 sets of undergarments
- 3 pairs of socks
- one pair of trail running shoes
- A set of pajamas
- Bikini (just in case)
- A pair of pants and a sweater
- Small toiletry items
- Leave the dress at home.
While thinking about what I was going to bring with me on my trip, I knew I wanted to pack everything into my yoga mat bag! Not a backpack or duffel bag, but yes, a yoga mat bag! Yoga is a big practice in my life and I wanted the way I pack to be reflective of my practice. Packing lightly is also a reminder to myself that I am already in abundance of all there is in my life.
So yes I packed all my belongings into my yoga mat bag, and I also brought my small hemp back-sack with me to carry my wallet, water, ID, lotion, chap stick and a few other small traveling items.
There I was, standing in the airport with both my back-sack and yoga mat bag on my back. It wasn’t heavy at all. I am a fan of carry-on items! Keep it simple! You’ll be going in and out of the airport quickly and with such ease!
I also had no problems during the trip losing or organizing my belongings. All I had to do was keep everything in my yoga mat bag while I was out for the day hiking. The back-sack was great on trail for bringing energy bars, a sand-which, and to hold water.
Here is a picture below of my gear while I was waiting at the San Francisco International Airport.
Cool bags huh? =) The yoga mat bag is made through Michael Franti’s clothing company, Stay Human! The back-sack is by Kathmandu Imports! Both totally organic and eco-friendly. I’ve provided the information below for those who are interested in the bags!
Yoga Mat Bag: http://www.stayhumanstore.com/animalprintcanvasyogabag.aspx
Back-sack: http://www.kathmanduimports.com/index.jsp
I also do not use a purse; just to give you another idea of how I try to keep my days simple. I do suggest if you are having a hard time packing, just try to keep it simple. You’ll save yourself a lot of time and stress. Plus you will feel a lot lighter and free while you are traveling with fewer items!
My challenge for you is: Go through your backpack or purse and take out the things you do not need. Travel with it for a day and see how it makes you feel. Going on a bigger trip? Try to pack under 30 lbs. =) See how it makes you feel and then let me know!
See you soon!!
=)
-Cindy
Cindy Manit 
