How to travel with only the bare essentials.

How much do you really need to pack for a week at the beach?

  Do you need more than a swimsuit, dress, flip-flops, book and some sunscreen for a week at the beach?  That's a question that I have wondered about many times. 

It is very tempting to overpack and have this doomsday approach where you fill your bag with things that you think you might need just to regret it in the end.

Well, to be honest, my packing habits are still a work in progress, to say the least, but I feel that I have come a long way since my first overpacked backpack trip.

 Moreover, my journey toward becoming a minimalist traveller has taken on a much deeper meaning. Once you are able to "do without" and realise that you need way less than you think your life is filled with freedom.   

But it takes time and some lifestyle changes to actually achieve that minimalist mindset.

Minimalist travel starts with a Mindset - It's a process over time to

To be a minimalist traveller you need to be comfortable with simplicity and separate the "want" from the  "need" in your life and travels.

Minimalist travel actually goes way beyond just packing. 

It means you are more focused on experiences and not consumption, and being satisfied with what you can do in a single day rather than doing too much. 

For me a lot of times it is being able to go to a place and just be happy to be there. 

What are the benefits? 

• A lighter bag can save you money with no check-in fees.
•  Carrying the lighter weight is beneficial to your body - no strain on your back or arms.
•  It's convenient to have only one small bag for easy storage.
•  You are in complete control of your belongings. 
•  It easier to pack because you have fewer choices.
•  You don't take out innocent bystanders when you turn around with your BIG backpack.
•  You can save money by sharing a taxi with another person instead of your extra luggage.
•  Freedom means less luggage = fewer things to worry about = stress-free holiday.

 Tips for travelling with just the bare essentials. 

 1.  Downsize your bag.

By intentionally using smaller luggage you won't be tempted to think that you got some more room.

So you will be forced to make do with the space that you have.
You will be amazed once you get into the habit of downsizing how light you can really travel.

 Strip down your packing list to the bare minimum first and then add the rest.

 2.  Your absolute essentials will include:

  Your Passport                 
  Credit card and cash
  Phone and Charger.
  Toothbrush +toothpaste
  Sunscreen

  Water bottle

 3. Reduce makeup and toiletries:

 Toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste and soap can be bought in travel sizes at a local convenience store at your destination.
 But if you have to take them with you then consider taking the multipurpose ones. That way you can save space and money.
As for make-up and face creams, you can take it in travel size containers or leave them behind and be naturally you.

4. Pack 2 or 3 things that make you feel happy and confident.

Well, there are always some things that we just can't be without.   Narrow down the list, to one or two things so you won't feel completely deprived.


5. Pack clothes that are simply you:
Pack the clothes that you feel most comfortable in and nothing more.
Depending on if you are travelling somewhere cold or warm the list of clothes should be the most minimalist version you can pack for the destination.

6. Electronic Gadgets.  How low can you go?

In terms of electronics the most minimalist version is:

 Mobile phone

Charger 

Headphones

Digital Camera (optional)

However, there are so many cool electronic travel gadgets on the market that I am sure would probably fit into the minimalist version. As a writer, I might also consider taking my small laptop, camera or drone with me on longer trips in future. But that is still a grey area for me and I will have to explore it more.

Here is an example of my version of minimalist packing for the warmer climate.

• Flip flops for walking everywhere 
• Running shoes for activities
• 3- Pairs of underwear 
• 2- Sport Bras
• 3- T-Shirts
• 2- Shorts
• 1- Shirt  
• 1- Skirt/dress 
• 1 - Sarong
• 2 -Pairs of socks
•  1-Swimsuit
•  1- Pair of light (linen) pants (optional)
• 1-Water bottle with filter
• Toiletries - I normally buy the basics at a convenience store at my destination but in any other case I would do as listed above.
• Absolute essentials is a must - as listed above

Final Words

With less physical baggage comes less mental baggage and you are able to feel free and enjoy life.

However, embracing minimalism means you have to march to the beat of your own drum, figuring out the best system for you instead of adhering to strict rules or guidelines set forth by a consumption-driven society. 

Rather seek out efficiency, quality and simplicity over luxury and appearance.

I hope you find these tips useful and I invite you to embrace the minimalist approach on your next travel. 

Do what you love, Be happy and Be free.

Greeting from Bangkok

M

.