How to pack light for long trips: One-bag travel essentials
I used to be a “maybe I’ll need it” packer.
The kind of person who once packed a full-size hair dryer… for Vietnam. In July.
After my third “sprinting-through-airport-with-sweat-dripping-onto-laptop” experience, I became a one-bag convert. Here’s how I made it work—without looking like I gave up on the last leg of my trip.
Step 1: Invest in a Bag That Forces Discipline
I downsized to a 40L carry-on with no expansion zipper (because I don’t trust myself). I pair it with this digital luggage scale to avoid overweight baggage fees and airport repacking disasters. The first time I wore two coats on a flight home, I knew I had to find a better solution.
Step 2: Compartmentalize or Cry
My savior? These compression cubes. They squeeze the bulk without ruining my shirts, and I can actually find things without unpacking in a frenzy. They’re flexible enough for an extra shirt or two that you find on your trip, but still act as a guide to limit overpackers.
Paired with this makeup bag, I have a dedicated beauty zone and a makeshift medicine cabinet that doesn’t explode every time I unzip.
Step 3: Prioritize Sleep (Always)
I used to think I was just “a light sleeper.” Turns out I just needed:
- A melatonin and lavender spray to induce sleep quickly
- A sound machine the size of a pancake, with white noise and rainfall options (I love both equally)
This duo saved me during a month in shared hostel dorms and long train rides. Worth every cent.
Step 4: Hack Comfort
A few other tools I now swear by:
- This rechargeable fan: Night sweats? Solved. Jitneys? Misty and breezy.
- The best water bottle: I once took the advice of another traveler and got a collapsible water bottle. But in my opinion, it makes my water taste weird and really isn’t the most convenient thing to empty to pack back up. Even though it’s not as low profile, I have been loving this one. I have dropped it plenty but it has no dents, it’s leak proof, and the perfect size. Plus, it’s cute!
- Better than baby powder anti-chafe stick: I used to think that these were only for people who run. But for all of my hikes, my trip to Japan, the Philippines, Mexico City and everything in between, this anti-chafe stick has saved my thighs for over 100,000 steps.
If you’re looking to pack lighter, sleep better, and travel with 70% less stress… this setup will get you there. (Or at least to your gate on time without sweating.)