Packing light is often presented as an exercise in ruthless efficiency, but its appeal runs deeper than fitting everything into a cabin bag. Travelling with less means fewer decisions, fewer lost items and less time locked in a wrestling match with an overstuffed suitcase. More broadly, it encourages a more thoughtful approach to what we actually wear, use and need – perhaps even to be carried into life in general, not just our hols. These, then, are the principles the seasoned traveller swears by.
The Art Of Packing Light: How To Travel With Less (& Enjoy It More)
From capsule wardrobes to clever organisers, here's how to pack lighter, smarter and with far less holiday stress.
There are two kinds of travellers: those who return home having worn every carefully chosen item in their suitcase and those who spend a fortnight dragging around clothes they never touch. If we're honest, we belong firmly in the sorry second camp.
Packing light is often presented as an exercise in ruthless efficiency, but its appeal runs deeper than fitting everything into a cabin bag. Travelling with less means fewer decisions, fewer lost items and less time locked in a wrestling match with an overstuffed suitcase. More broadly, it encourages a more thoughtful approach to what we actually wear, use and need – perhaps even to be carried into life in general, not just our hols. These, then, are the principles the seasoned traveller swears by.
Packing light is often presented as an exercise in ruthless efficiency, but its appeal runs deeper than fitting everything into a cabin bag. Travelling with less means fewer decisions, fewer lost items and less time locked in a wrestling match with an overstuffed suitcase. More broadly, it encourages a more thoughtful approach to what we actually wear, use and need – perhaps even to be carried into life in general, not just our hols. These, then, are the principles the seasoned traveller swears by.
Start With A Colour Palette
We love a bit of zingy brightness, especially on holiday. But for your basics it can be useful to stick to a tighter colour palette, enabling everything to go with, well, everything. Navy, cream, olive and black all work well together – and set off sun-kissed skin beautifully. You can always pack a neon hat or some arresting earrings for a pop of colour.
Pack For Your Actual Holiday
We’ve all done it: packed six evening outfits when, frankly, we’ll be spending all our time lolling about an informal beach cafe. Remember the rule ‘lay everything out and remove a third’? Do that. And remember to pack sarongs and cover-ups that’ll satisfy every fashion editor’s annual beach-to-bar obsession, as well as cool dresses that be both beach casual and dressy.
Build A Five-Piece Holiday Capsule
If you want to be scrupulous, think about your packing like this: you will need two tops, two bottoms, one dress, one knit, one pair of sandals and one trainer. Make full use of you’re a washing machine if your accommodation has one. If not, remember your old gap year ways: handwash is your friend.
Decant, Don't Duplicate
Unless you're disappearing for a month, you probably don't need full-sized versions of everything. Decant toiletries into smaller containers, swap bottles for solid shampoo bars where possible and favour multitasking products over endless 'just in case' extras. Packing cubes, jewellery rolls and tech organisers may sound unglamorous, but they're often the difference between a calm suitcase and complete chaos.
Wear Your Bulkiest Pieces
You may not need a jacket when you’re sprawled out on a beach in Mykonos. But who’s to say it won’t be pouring when you touchdown in Blighty. Obviously you don’t want to squeeze any of this into your suitcase. The answer, then? Wear it.
Pick The Right Suitcase & Leave Room For Discovery
The best travellers don't arrive with a suitcase packed to bursting. They leave space for the book bought in a tiny shop, the market basket carried home from Provence or the shirt discovered on a side street in Palermo. Choosing the right suitcase helps, too. Look for lightweight styles with sensible compartments and smooth wheels, and resist the temptation to fill every inch before you've even left home.
FAQs: Travelling Light
How do I pack light without feeling unprepared?
Focus on versatile pieces rather than lots of options. A handful of clothes that all work together will serve you far better than a suitcase full of 'just in case' outfits.
What is the easiest way to start packing less?
Lay everything out a few days before you travel, then remove at least a third of it. Most people instinctively overpack.
How many outfits do I really need for a week's holiday?
Far fewer than you think. Two tops, two bottoms, a dress, swimwear, a knit and a lightweight jacket will cover most scenarios, particularly if you can do a quick handwash.
Are packing cubes worth it?
Yes. They don't magically create more space, but they keep everything organised and make it much easier to find what you need without turning your suitcase upside down.
Should I roll or fold clothes?
A combination tends to work best. Roll softer items such as T-shirts and swimwear, and fold structured pieces like linen shirts and dresses to minimise creasing.
How can I reduce the size of my toiletries bag?
Decant products into travel-sized containers, use solid shampoo and conditioner bars where possible, and prioritise multi-use products over single-purpose items.
What shoes should I pack?
As a rule, no more than three pairs: comfortable trainers, sandals and one smarter option if your trip requires it. Shoes are usually the biggest culprit when it comes to overpacking.
Is it worth travelling with only cabin luggage?
For many trips, absolutely. It saves time at the airport, removes the risk of lost luggage and forces you to be more selective about what you bring.
What's the biggest mistake people make when packing?
Packing for an imaginary version of their holiday. Be honest about how you'll actually spend your time and pack accordingly.
Why leave space in your suitcase?
Because the best souvenirs are often the unplanned ones. A little room gives you the freedom to bring home treasures without battling an overstuffed case on the journey back.
By
Nancy Alsop
·
Published July 2026
Nancy is a magpie for the best in design and culture.
