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Pack Light Guide

Traveling to 22 countries all over the world in less than 10 months will teach you a thing or two about what is & what is not essential to bring with you. After experiencing this with a 50 pound backpack stuffed with clothes, I have definitely formed an opinion on the topic of overpacking .

Let's just say that I vowed to never travel that way ever again.

Instead, for my own sanity, I learned the art of packing light & converted to #TeamCarryOnOnly.

If you're a frequent flyer, a digital nomad, a backpacker, a van-lifer, or just don't want to deal with the hassle, stress, & inconvenience of extra baggage, this pack light guide is here to help you figure out what you need, what you don't, & how you can start adventuring easier from your next trip forward.

Why pack light?

Simply put, packing light makes any adventure easier.

And by easier, I mean packing light saves time & money, is more convenient, & is much less frustrating than overpacking all the 'what-ifs' & 'just-in-case-I-have-tea-with-the-Queen' items.

• It's easier on your body since you won't be lugging around an unnecessarily heavy bag
• It takes less time to pack (& unpack) and wash your clothes
• You'll save money on checked bag fees
• You can carry it on a flight & don't risk the airline losing it
• Since it doesn't need to be checked, you can skip baggage claim and get right to the adventure
• You never have to leave your bag behind since it's light enough to sight-see with
• You can spend more of your trip making memories & less time focusing on your baggage

So what do you say? Are you ready to join #TeamCarryOnOnly so you can pack light & adventure easy?

The first step would be to build your  travel capsule wardrobe  to keep your packed bag to a fashionable, functional, & comfortable minimum.

What is a capsule wardrobe?

According to the   Cambridge Dictionary , a capsule wardrobe is "a small collection of clothes that can be put together in different ways and includes everything you would normally need to wear."

A capsule wardrobe is the easiest way to pack tons of outfit combinations & still be able to pack light.

SPLICE clothing   makes it easy to build your capsule wardrobe, by offering   pre-built capsules . Packing reversible clothing means you can more than double your outfit options. You can start your capsule wardrobe with  SPLICE clothing  & then build on it with other items of clothing or accessories to make it your own.

Although different destinations may call for different clothing, a  travel capsule wardrobe  is like your starting point for what you could pack for anywhere. The items in your capsule are your go-to basics so you don't have to toil over what to pack before every trip.

To create your  travel capsule wardrobe , you should choose clothing, shoes, & accessories that are all in the same color families & can easily be mixed and matched and layered to create a variety of looks. 

Your  travel capsule wardrobe  should include things like:

• one basic tee you can dress up or down & wear with nearly anything
• one pair of pants that are comfy & cute
• something to keep you warm on the plane or if it gets chilly
• something that makes you feel confident

Create your  travel capsule wardrobe  in the combination that would work best for your travel style. SPLICE clothing has combinations such as:

• tee + joggers = The Lounge Capsule
• tee + joggers + snap-up shirt = The Weekender Capsule
• tee + joggers + sweatshirt + snap-up shirt =  The Layover Capsule
• tunic +joggers + sweatshirt + snap-up shirt = The Globetrot Capsule
• tee + joggers + poncho + dress = The One-the-Go Capsule
• tee + joggers + dress + poncho + snap-up shirt = The In-Flight Capsule
• tee + joggers + tunic + dress + sweatshirt + poncho + snap-up shirt = The Around the World Capsule

Your  travel capsule wardrobe  is basically your adventure uniform, so create one that you love & that will work for nearly all of your adventures. It will cut down on the amount of time it takes you to put together outfits & pack for your trips, so it's important that the items in your capsule are clothes you could see yourself always wearing while traveling.

There are a few more things to keep in mind when picking out your  travel capsule wardrobe  & other clothing you'll pack in your carry-on.

How to pick clothes for packing light?

ACTIVITIES - Take into consideration what sorts of activities you typically partake in when you travel. If you enjoy a lot of active activities, you should include more activewear or clothing that is functional for those types of activities.

FABRIC - Be mindful of fabrics when picking your travel wardrobe. Choose clothing with wrinkle-resistant, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, & lightweight fabrics if possible. Polyester, bamboo, nylon, lyocell, modal, & wool are typically good fabrics to choose in travel wear. Read the tag or the care label inside the garment to find out the content of the fabric. Definitely don't pack clothes that are dry-clean only.

POCKETS - Pockets are great for securing your most important items such as your passport, cash, credit cards, keys, documents, etc. Having clothing with hidden and/or zippered pockets is definitely beneficial, especially when traveling with all your stuff in tow.

COMFORT - Comfort is paramount when traveling, so pick clothes that don't make you uncomfortable after wearing them for a long time. Look for soft materials with no seams or stitching in weird places, items that aren't super hot or heavy, & make sure you purchase clothes in the right size that fit comfortably.   

PURPOSE - Clothes that are functional & serve a definite purpose are they only clothes you should be packing. Don't pack items that you aren't sure why you're packing them. Pack items you know you'll get use out of. Because in most cases, if you didn't pack something that you absolutely need, you can probably still buy it at your destination.

Now that you know how to build the perfect   travel capsule wardrobe  and pick the right clothes to pack light for any adventure, it's time to get to packing!

How to pack light for any any trip:

The more prepared you are, the easier it will be to pack light. Here is what I would suggest:

Do your research

This includes researching:

• the airline requirements & policies for carry-on luggage if you're flying
• the weather of your destination(s)
• the culture(s) of your destination(s)
• what activities you plan to do while traveling

Knowing all of this will help you decide what you can leave behind & what are non-negotiables.

Gather your packing equipment

It's important to have your bag ready before you start getting your clothes together, because it gives you parameters. Make a point to only pack what can fit into that bag or suitcase.

What type of luggage you use is totally your preference. Some people love using a backpack so they can sling it on their back and be hands-free. Some people would rather go easy on their back & use a rolling suitcase. Choose your preferred carrying vessel wisely.

No matter what big bag you pack in, I always recommend using packing cubes as they are a great way to keep your things organized. You can organize by clothing type (tops in one cube, bottoms in another, & undergarments and socks in another) or by outfits (which is a great way to pack a   travel capsule wardrobe ).

If you'd like, bring a small bag to keep dirty clothes separate from clean clothes. I always did this so when it came time to wash those dirty clothes, especially if I was bringing it to a laundromat, it was easy to just grab and go & keep them all together in one place. 

If you don't want to carry all your things with you day to day, bring a small daypack or purse you can use for daily outings or excursions when you leave the bulk of your belongings behind. Throw your wallet, your keys, sunglasses, phone, jacket, etc. into it while you explore. If you're flying and the airline allows you to have a personal item, your daypack or purse can be that. It's also useful for carrying-on large electronics such as laptops or tablets.

Lastly, bring a bag or something to store your toiletries in such as your toothpaste, soaps, make-up, etc. I like to keep these separate so they are easy to remove when going through airport security if they're liquids & so I can just grab it out of my bag after arriving in a destination & keep it in the bathroom the whole time for easy access to whatever I need.

Gather what you plan to pack

This includes your travel capsule wardrobe , any other clothing items you have deemed necessary for this trip, your accessories like shoes, glasses, hats, scarves, jewelry (limit all of these things!), your toiletries, your electronics, any medications, airplane entertainment, & whatever else you plan to pack.

Remember that some things, if needed, can probably be purchased where you are traveling to if you aren't able to fit it in your bag or if you forget it. 

Some things you don't need to bring are:

• physical books (I know page turning in real life is different than electronically, but they're just too bulky)
• more than 3 pairs of shoes (try to limit it to 3 pairs that all have a definite purpose and will match with your wardrobe items)
• full-sized toiletries (buy small travel sizes or transfer some from your big bottles to travel-sized containers - most liquids can not be carried on a plane if they are more than 3 oz.)

So if you have any of that laid out, put it back right now & leave it at home. And remember this famous quote:

“When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money” – Susan Heller

Packing Methods & Tips

Give yourself plenty of time to pack before take off. If you decide to pack last minute, chances are you won't have enough time to cut back on what you don't really need & will end up taking 'what-if' and 'just-in-case' items and then lugging them around your whole trip, maybe not even using them. But if you give yourself ample time to prepare a well-packed bag, it'll be easy to pack light.

Here are a few different pack light methodologies & how to do them.

Army Roll Method

Bundle Packing Method

Washing Your Clothes

One caveat to packing light is that depending on the length of your trip, you might need to wash your clothes as you go. This is probably the worst part of traveling long-term. Whether you have to wash on the road or you come back from a trip with a mountain of dirty clothes to get through, it always sucks. By packing light, you may have to wash a little more often, but its less you need to wash each time. It would take me over an over to hand wash all the clothes I packed when I traveled around the world, & that is way too much time spent not adventuring.

In many places, you can find laundromats who will wash your clothes for you or maybe the hotel you're staying at has a laundry facility. If neither of these are the case, you can always hand wash in the bathroom sink. This is why it is important to choose quick-drying fabrics in case you need to hang dry your clothing after washing. So make sure to choose clothing that is easy to wash and care for. For more information on how to wash your clothes while traveling, check out this post . Packing lighter travel-friendly clothing makes washing them a much smaller load to bear.

Join #TeamCarryOnOnly

So did I convince you that packing lighter will make any adventure easier ?

Take it from me, you don't need to spend months on end with 50 pounds of luggage to find out for yourself. Join #TeamCarryOnOnly and start implementing this advice and using the tools to pack light, so you never waste your time and energy overpacking again.

At SPLICE clothing , our goal is to make adventures easier for women travelers and one way we do that is by designing reversible clothing to help them pack light. If you're ready to start building your perfect travel capsule wardrobe , check out our capsules or if you just need to add one or two new versatile pieces to your closet or suitcase, check out our whole collection !

If there is anything else we can do to help you pack light, or if there is any questions we can answer, please contact us ! Feel free to send us your feedback and suggestions as well!

Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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The best travel clothes | guide to high-performance & fashionable travel clothing.

We talk about our favorite travel clothing and help you find the perfect travel-friendly clothes to keep you comfortable on the road.

I’ve been a nerd about travel clothes since my first trip to Europe back in 2006—now I have a closet full of travel pants and shirts and jackets (you get the idea). It’s been refreshing to watch travel clothing evolve from hideous outdoorsy gear to stylish clothing made from high-tech fabrics.

In this guide, I’ve gathered some of the most popular travel clothing brands to help you find the best travel clothing so you can stay fashionable and comfortable while traveling.

The Current State Of Travel Clothes

In the old days, travel clothing used to look like this…

But now travel clothing looks like this!

So what’s the deal with travel clothes these days?

I’d argue that the “travel clothing” market hasn’t changed much but the “performance clothing” market is actually what’s pushing the category forward—so these days, I consider travel clothing and performance clothing essentially the same thing.

And it makes sense because many of these new high-performance fabrics offer a ton of benefits that complement both everyday wear and travel.

Even mega-brands like Levis, Gap, Dockers, Lululemon, and Uniqlo are starting to offer fashionable “travel-friendly” or “performance” clothing but small niche brands are pushing the boundaries (which I’ll cover later in this article).

The Good Things About Travel Clothing

Travel clothes are finally being designed to be fashionable and stylish so you can easily wear them in Paris, Milan, or New York without looking out of place.

My #1 travel clothing rule is that I’ll never wear any “travel clothing” that I wouldn’t wear in my everyday life.

Second, high-tech clothes continue to evolve because more companies are developing better fabrics and competition is driving innovation.

The Bad Things About Travel Clothing

Unfortunately, high-tech travel clothing tends to be expensive.

First, many of the fabrics used are high-end so the raw materials are expensive. Second, a majority of travel clothing is made by small companies so they can’t mass produce their products—which pushes prices higher.

Another negative thing about travel clothing is that there are many options for men but fewer for women. This is probably because guys tend to stick to very basic items and they nerd out on “high-tech fabrics more than women.

So what can you expect to pay for travel clothes?

• Nice merino wool socks will be $10-$20/pair
• A pair of travel pants will range from $70-$180+
• A wool shirt will be $50-$100+

Do You NEED Travel Clothing?

Do you really “need” to shell out your hard-earned cash for these high-end garments?

I’ll be the first to say that you certainly don’t need clothes made out of technical fabrics when you travel. Many of these fabrics can make certain aspects of traveling easier and more comfortable… but they’re more of a “nice-to-have” than a “must-have.”

In my opinion, there are a few key pieces that I think deliver a ton of value and there are other items that are more optional — I’ll cover both throughout this article.

The Benefits of Travel Clothes & Performance Wear

What’s so great about travel clothing? Let’s take a look…

Durability & Multi-Day Wear

One of the main benefits of travel clothing is that you can wear them multiple times without having to wash them. This means you can pack fewer items so you can travel lighter.

Odor-Resistance

Many of the fabrics used in travel clothes have anti-odor properties. Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant but some synthetic materials are manufactured in a way to reduce odor.

Quick-Drying Abilities

If you plan on washing your clothes while you’re traveling it’s nice to have items that can be hand-washed and air-dried quickly (i.e. washing your socks and underwear in the sink). Quick-drying fabrics can also be beneficial if you get caught in the rain.

Wrinkle-Resistance

While it’s hard to completely prevent wrinkles when you’re living out of a suitcase, many materials have anti-wrinkle properties. In general, synthetic materials resist wrinkles better than natural fabrics but it depends on the fabric.

Lightweight & Packability

Performance fabric tends to be lightweight so it won’t weigh down your luggage as much — for example, a pair of tech pants will weigh half as much as a pair of jeans. Lightweight fabric also tends to dry quicker than something like cotton jeans which absorb water.

Moisture Wicking & Breathability

One of the most important factors in keeping comfortable is keeping dry. Moisture-wicking fabric helps pull sweat away from your skin and its breathability lets the moisture escape from the fabric.

Stretch and Comfort

Every fabric will have a different amount of stretch. Unsurprisingly, fabric with more stretch tends to be more comfortable since it allows you to move with less restriction.

But you’re always making a compromise when it comes to stretch because, in general, you sacrifice durability/water-repellency for stretchability.

Water Repellency

Certain fabrics are naturally water-repellent and others have chemical coatings which help keep water from soaking into the fabric. In my opinion, water repellency isn’t super high up on my “must-have” list (unless it’s a rain jacket) but it’s a nice bonus.

Note: The chemical water-resistant coatings aren’t permanent so they will become less effective the more the garment is washed.

High-Tech Performance Fabrics Explained

There are multiple different types of fabrics that travel clothing companies use to make their products. There is a lot of nuances and technical/marketing mumbo jumbo when it comes to each fabric but we’ll start with the three main fabric categories — natural fabrics, synthetic fabrics, and natural/synthetic blends.

Natural Fabrics

There are a handful of natural fabrics but the most common are merino wool and cotton.

Merino Wool

The best kind of natural fabric is fine merino wool because it has many natural benefits. Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant, soft, fairly durable, wicks moisture well, dries quickly, and works well in both hot and cold weather.

However, merino wool does have some downsides. First, it’s expensive so even a “cheap” merino wool t-shirt will cost around $50.

Second, thin wool has a tendency to develop holes much more quickly than a more robust fabric like cotton or synthetics.

And third, most wool can’t go in the dryer since heat will make it shrink so it does require a little extra care.

Cotton Should Be Avoided

Most travelers highly recommend avoiding cotton when it comes to travel clothing because cotton holds moisture and doesn’t dry quickly. For example, a cotton pair of socks will trap sweat which will cause odors, blisters, and sweaty feet.

That said, I’m not as militant when it comes to wearing cotton so I still wear cotton jeans and t-shirts. However, I still generally avoid cotton for socks and underwear.

Synthetic Fabrics

Things get a little more complicated when it comes to synthetic fabrics because there are dozens of different variations and each has different performance properties.

That said, synthetic fabrics are usually much cheaper to manufacture but some of the high-end technical fabrics are still expensive.

Synthetic fabrics are very durable, they can be highly water-repellent or even waterproof, many resist wrinkles, they dry very quickly, and they’re lightweight. Some synthetic materials also have a lot of flex so they’re comfortable to wear.

However, there are some negatives. First, synthetic fabrics can become smelly after one or two wearings. Some synthetic fabrics are treated with anti-odor chemicals so that helps.

Next, cheap synthetic fabrics have an ugly “synthetic sheen” and feel fake. Most of these cheap synthetics also make that “swish swish” sound when you walk. Advanced synthetic fabrics can look and feel very similar to natural fabrics but these fabrics are expensive — so you’ll have to pay if fashion is a concern.

Some cheap synthetics also don’t breathe well so they can get pretty balmy in the heat. That’s why you should look for “breathable” fabrics.

Another issue with synthetics is fabric flexibility. The most durable fabrics tend to not have very little flexibility. So if you’ll have to sacrifice a bit of durability for comfort in some instances.

Natural/Synthetic Blends

Travel clothing brands are starting to combine fine merino wool and synthetic fabric to give you the best of both worlds — performance and durability. I heard from someone in the wool industry that there is no performance loss as long as the blend includes at least 70% wool.

You’ll usually see blends in socks, underwear, and shirts.

The Best Travel Clothes and Recommended Travel Clothing Brands

Okay, okay… calm down. I’ve broken down each type of garment (socks, underwear, pants, shirts, etc.) into its own section.

I’ve tried giving specific recommendations when possible (and I’ll try my best to keep the recommendations up-to-date), but sometimes I can only point you towards companies that make tech-wear travel clothes.

I will also do my best to recommend options for all budgets since I know not everyone wants to drop $100 on a t-shirt.

Socks for Travel

In my opinion, a few nice pairs of socks (along with comfortable shoes) are the most important travel accessory. So, if you have a limited clothing budget, spend it on socks.

Boring, I know… but it will be your best bang for the buck

Fine merino wool socks are my favorite and preferred style of socks. Merino wool socks with a bit of synthetic material also work well because the synthetic fibers help the socks keep their shape/fit.

From my experience, 100% synthetic socks aren’t great but they’re not terrible.

Avoid cotton socks if you can.

Obviously, you’ll want to match your socks to the season — i.e. thin, no-show socks for the summer and longer/heavier socks for colder weather.

My Favorite Sock Brands:

• Smartwool : The most famous wool sock company. They offer just about every style. Check Amazon to see what’s available.
• Darn Tough Vermont : Darn Tough socks are made in the USA and they offer a lifetime warranty so that’s awesome. Check Amazon to see what’s available.
• Unbound Merino : This small company makes merino wool basics but we really dig their all-season ankle socks. They don’t contain as much wool as we’d like but this helps keep the cost down. Check them out at Unbound .
• Farm To Feet : This is another 100% USA company that makes a small but quality range of wool socks. Take a look at Amazon to see their offerings.
• Wigwam : Wigwam makes both merino wool and synthetic socks. While they’re not our favorite socks, their prices are pretty good so they’re worth checking out if you’re looking to save a little money. Check Amazon .

Travel Underwear

Ahh, yes. Travel underwear.

I’ve already written at length about the many benefits of travel underwear , but I’ll briefly cover them again below:

• Quick Drying: Wash them in the sink and they’ll be dry by morning.
• Moisture Wicking : This helps keep your skin dry.
• Breathable: This helps stop you from getting all sweaty down there.
• Odor Blocking: Stop the stink (or at least delay it)
• Comfortable: You don’t want to spend your time thinking about your uncomfortable underwear.

Synthetic Underwear

Most travel underwear is made from synthetic fabric which is designed to be soft, lightweight, and breathable. It isn’t the best at controlling odor since some synthetic material holds in odor but many brands have various manufacturing processes that help combat odor.

The most popular travel underwear is made by ExOfficio (you can read our Exofficio review but these guys essentially invented travel underwear). We tend to find the best prices on Amazon and REI .

Patagonia (i.e. everyone’s favorite outdoors brand) has a handful of nice underwear options for both men and women.

Another very popular option is Under Armour underwear . They get a ton of great reviews on Amazon , many people swear by them, and they’re sometimes cheaper than ExOfficio.

For budget travelers, Uniqlo has their Airism line of underwear which isn’t bad but I’m not a huge fan of their cuts. But they’re very affordable so they’re worth looking at.

If you’re on a tight budget, you should check out Target and discount stores like T.J. Maxx or Marshalls because you can find “athletic” underwear for decent prices.

 Merino Wool Underwear

Merino wool is actually a very solid choice for underwear — even in the summer. It’s soft, it’s lightweight, it breathes well, and it’s the best option for resisting odor. The two main downsides are the high prices and durability.

There are a few different brands that sell quality merino wool underwear:

• Allbirds : Allbirds (the company famous for their merino wool shoes) also makes quality underwear and socks for both men and women. Check them out at Allbirds .
• Wool & Prince: This is our current “go-to” brand when it comes to anything merino wool. They currently only offer men’s underwear. Check them out on Wool & Prince .
• Icebreaker: Another popular wool brand is Icebreaker and they make everything from underwear to coats. Browse their selection on Amazon to find a cut that fits your style.

The Best Travel Pants and Jeans For Men

The number of companies making travel-friendly pants and jeans has exploded over the past few years. It’s actually kind of overwhelming but I’ll help you sort it all out.

And don’t worry — all the pants we recommend are actually fashionable so you won’t be looking like a mountain climber while city hopping.

The main thing to remember is that each of the pants on this list has different performance properties so that’s something you’ll want to match the performance to your needs.

Bluffworks Ascender Chinos

Bluffworks, which makes a range of travel garments, recently released their new Ascender Chinos . These are made with lightweight high-performance fabric. The polyester twill fabric has a nice amount of stretch and it has a minimal amount of “synthetic sheen”. The fabric is lightweight so it breaths well, resists wrinkles, and has water-resistant properties.

It’s also nice that these come in both a regular and tailored fit. I own the tailored fit but it certainly isn’t constricting.

The Ascender Chinos have multiple security features like multiple secret zipper pockets to keep all your stuff safe (so you can throw away that terrible money belt).

The Ascender Chinos sell for $125 via Bluffworks

Bluffworks Departure Jeans

There are a lot of people who think jeans make a terrible choice when it comes to travel pants… and they kind of are (they take forever to dry, they’re heavy, and can be hot). But I love traveling in jeans.

Well, Bluffworks helped address many of the “negative” things about denim with their Departure Jeans. These are made from 68% Cotton, 22% COOLMAX Polyester, 9% Rayon, and 1% Spandex so they are super stretchy and much more lightweight than normal denim.

And they included two cleverly designed hidden pockets that don’t interfere with the normal pockets.

But I’ve saved the best for last… these look like normal jeans and they’re legit comfortable. I wear them even when I’m not traveling and that’s about as good an endorsement as I can give.

The Bluffworks Departure Travel Jeans retail for $98

Western Rise AT Slim Rivet Pants

Western Rise is a small performance apparel company from Telluride, Colorado that wanted to make clothing that performed well on the trails but still looked good in town. We think the AT Slim Rivet Pants do a really nice job of walking this balance.

The AT Slim Rivet Pants look very similar to standard five-pocket pants. The fabric is durable yet fairly lightweight and breathable (97% nylon, 3% spandex). Western Rise describes the fabric as “air-texturized fibers” so while it is nylon, the fabric has a cotton feel so there really isn’t any of that synthetic fabric sheen (but it does make a swishy noise).

The fabric also has a DWR coating to help repel water in case you get stuck in the rain or spill beer all over yourself. Additionally, there is a hidden zippered pocket for security.

As for the looks, these come in a slim but not skinny cut. They look like normal pants — which is a top priority. I wear my mine even when I’m not traveling.

The Western Rise AT Slim Rivet Pants retails for $128.

Outlier Slim Dungarees

Outlier designed their Slim Dungarees as a “five-pocket pant that we could travel the world in” and they’ve found their way on many of our trips to Europe. These have a great look and I think they’re some of the best-looking/most stylish travel pants. unfortunately, they’re also some of the most expensive so that’s something to keep in mind.

The Workcloth Doubleweave Canvas is both soft and lightweight yet very durable. The fabric has a nice amount of stretch and it dries very quickly. It also has a self-cleaning” NanoSphere® treatment that helps it repel water, coffee, wine, and dirt.

The Outlier Slim Dungarees sell for $198

Prana Brion Pants

PrAna is a well-established outdoorsy company so most of their stuff is better suited for things like hiking and rock climbing. That said, their Brion Pant  is one of their best-sellers thanks to its fairly modern cut and the fact that they look similar to jeans/chinos.

These are constructed from their durable and quick-drying ‘Zion’ fabric that’s actually stretchy (4-way stretch) so provides a good amount of movement. It’s also coated in a water-repellent (DWR) coating so it will withstand a little water.

So, these might not win any awards for fashion, they’re a solid choice at a solid price.

The  PrAna Brion Pant  retails for $79 via  PrAna .

Everlane Performance Chinos

Everlane recently released their Performance Chinos which I’m also really digging. I own a pair so I can attest that these are very comfortable and they’re probably the most stylish pants on this list.

That said, their Performance Chinos are made from 94% Cotton, 6% Elastane so these are the least “technical” pants on this list as well. But I still think these are a nice option if you’re more concerned about comfort than technical features.

The Everlane Performance Chinos cost $68 and come in four colors.

Ministry Of Supply Kinetic Dress Pants

If you’re looking for a formal/dressy look, but still want a ton of comfort, then look no further than Ministry of Supply Kinetic Pants . These have been described as “dress pants with the feel of sweatpants”.

The Kinetic Pants are made from Japanese Primeflex polyester that has a ton of stretch, resists wrinkles, wicks moisture, and repels water.

The Ministry of Supply Kinetic Pants sell for $145

Travel Pants & Jeans For Women

As we mentioned before, there is a lack of travel pants for women but we’ve tried to find some of the best of the limited choices that are available. One thing to note is that most women’s travel pants tend to focus more on comfort than “technical” fabrics.

Ministry of Supply

Of all the travel clothing brands, Ministry of Supply makes some of the most fashionable and best-performing clothes. Their stuff certainly isn’t cheap but the prices aren’t totally outrageous either.

Their flagship travel pants are their Slim Kinetic Pants which get rave reviews for looks, comfort, and performance. And they can be machine-washed and tumble-dried.

The Slim Kinetic Pants sell for $145.

Anatomie is a high-end women’s travel clothing company that’s one of the few brands which puts a heavy focus on fashion. Most of their travel-friendly pants are expensive at $225+/pair but they have a ton of different styles and cuts for just about every body type.

Check out Anatomie to see their travel pants and other travel garments (shirts, shorts, dresses, jackets, etc.).

Prana Travel Pants

PrAna is one of the few companies that make women’s pants made out of legit technical fabrics. Most of their stuff falls into the “ugly hiking pants” category but they have a few different styles of pants and jeans that are actually cute. And most of their pants are priced around $80 so they’re not crazy expensive.

Check PrAna to see all their styles.

Lululemon may be known for its yoga clothing but they’ve also branched out to more fashion-conscious athleisure wear that works fairly well as travel pants.

Check Lululemon to see the different styles they have available.

The Best Shirts For Travel

Alright, moving right along to shirts made from high-performance fabrics that actually look stylish.

Wool & Prince Tees

I practically live in t-shirts so a few solid-color tees are a staple of any travel wardrobe. While pricy, I love my Wool & Prince merino wool tees . These can be worn for multiple days and I don’t have to worry about washing them.

They have both 100% wool tees and 78% / 22% merino nylon blends. I recommend the blend since it’s cheaper, more durable, and requires less care when washing.

The Wool & Prince Tees sell from $68-$78

Bluffworks Meridian Dress Shirt

If you’re looking for a sharp-looking yet no-fuss button up then look at the Meridian Dress Shirt from Bluffworks. It’s made from 98% polyester and 2% spandex so it won’t wrinkle and the fabric will dry very quickly. The fabric can take a beating and there aren’t any special care instructions. We also like how it comes in both a classic and slim fit.

The Bluffworks Meridian Dress Shirt sells for $98

Bluffworks Piton Polo

I’ve only had my Bluffworks Piton Polo for about a month but I’m already seeing why this is an excellent travel shirt. First, it looks great and I love how it comes in a classic and slim fit. Next, the breathable pique knit is breathable and it only has a very slightly noticeable synthetic look even though it’s 100% polyester. And like all Bluffworks clothing, the fabric is tough, wrinkle-resistant, and doesn’t require any special care.

The Bluffworks Piton Polo sells for $68

Wool & Prince Polo

My Wool & Prince Polo always finds itself in my backpack. I love the cut and the quality is top-notch. It’s a nice “dressier” change from a t-shirt while still being casual. And you get all the benefits from merino wool fabric.

Wool & Prince offers has two types of polos — a 100% merino wool version and a 78% merino wool, 22% nylon blend. I own the blend version and I love it.

The Wool & Prince Polo sells for $78-$98.

Bluffworks Threshold Performance T-Shirt

You might be seeing a pattern here… but Bluffworks is back with their Threshold Performance T-Shirt. This ultra-lightweight t-shirt is made from a blend of 66% Polyester, 29% Lyocell, and 5% Elastane so it has a ton of stretch, wicks moisture well, and is very breathable. The fabric is thin (which is why it’s airy/breathable) so if you like a little more heft to your shirts then you might want to look elsewhere.

The Bluffworks Threshold Performance T-Shirt sells for $45

Wool & Prince Button-Ups

Wool & Price has a number of both short-sleeved and long-sleeve button-up shirts made from merino wool. I own one of their button-down oxford shirts and the fabric is very sturdy — I’d say it makes a nice choice for cooler weather as I can see it getting a little warm in the hot weather.

They also have a new wool/linen blend which will be more airy and breathable so these look great for warmer weather (I’ll be testing these once they get back in stock).

The Wool and Prince Button-Up Shirts sell for $98-$138

Outlier Merino T-Shirt

Outlier is another high-end brand that makes excellent products and one of my favorite items is their Ultrafine Merino T-shirt. It’s made from 17.5, 195gsm Merino Jersey Wool so the fabric is sturdy and drapes a bit better than many other merino t-shirts. And it comes in a lot of nice colors. But like all other Outlier products, the ultra-high-quality comes at a very high price.

The Outlier Ultrafine Merino T-shirt costs $110 each or three for $295.

Unbound Merino Wool T-Shirt

Unbound is another small company offering 100% ultra-fine 17.5 microns, 190g Merino wool shirts at affordable prices. I own a few of their shirts and while their shirts might not be quite as nice as other 100% merino shirts on our list, the price is a bit cheaper.

The Unbound Merino Wool T-Shirt sells for $65

Uniqlo Airism Shirts

When it comes to budget basics, it’s impossible to beat Uniqlo’s Airism line of shirts. We own a few different Airism items and they’re not terrible but they certainly aren’t nearly as nice or perform as well as the other items on this list — but they’re cheap.

Check Uniqlo to see what they have because always changing their stock.

Women’s Travel Shirts

Ok, here’s the deal… there aren’t a ton of “performance” shirts for women that aren’t ugly. But here are a few decent items we’ve found:

• Bluffworks Womens : Bluffworks has recently released a line of women’s travel clothing that looks very promising.
• Ministry of Supply is a great choice for high-performance clothing that still looks fashionable. And while their prices aren’t cheap, we consider them very reasonable. They also have nice dresses and other items.
• Unbound Merino has a black v-neck 100% merino shirt in a women’s cut for $65.
• Anatomie has a number of high-end cute tops made from travel-friendly fabrics but they’re expensive.
• Lululemon has some decent options but many of their items lean heavily into athleisure.

Cold Weather Travel Clothing

Most of the items on this list will work well in colder weather but you’ll want to pair them with other items to achieve maximum warmth. The key is layering—which basically means combining a few lighter layers to achieve warmth without the bulk.

Base Layers

A base layer is technically anything that is worn directly on your skin. Socks and underwear fall into this category but it also includes items like shirts, undershirts, and long underwear.

In the winter we’ll throw on long-sleeve merino wool or synthetic long underwear and this helps keep us warm and dry when we’re outside all day.

For the best selection, I recommend checking out REI as they carry all the major long underwear brands. If you’re trying to save a little money, check out Uniqlo’s  HeatTech  line of long underwear since it is cheap.

A mid-layer is anything that is worn between your base layer and your outer layer. Its main purpose is insulation and it can be a sweater, vest, down jacket, hoodie, or just about anything. Sometimes the mid-layer can act as an outer layer if the weather isn’t too cold.

When it comes to tech-wear, the main pieces are Merino wool sweaters/jackets, fleece jackets, and down (or a synthetic variation) jackets. The piece just needs to allow internal moisture (sweat) to evaporate through the fabric. It’s also nice if the piece is lightweight and durable.

Fleece is always a popular choice because it provides a good amount of warmth, durability, and breathability without being too bulky. There is also a variation of fleece called hard fleece — which is basically a fleece with a smoother and more durable exterior. Most hard fleece garments are also more water-resistant than normal fleece.

There are hundreds of fleece jackets available on the market at all price points, so we’d check out the selection at REI and buy whatever fits your budget.

Another popular choice is down jackets — although a lot of companies now use synthetic down ( Primaloft , Coreloft, etc.) and many people prefer synthetic material to natural down. Synthetic down is incredibly lightweight, compressible, breathable, and it retains warmth even when wet.

It is crazy how compressible natural and synthetic down jackets are — some can compress to the size of a shoe. When compared to a fleece jacket, a synthetic down jacket is more water-resistant , wind resistant, packable, and lighter. 

Nearly every outdoor brand makes lightweight down/synthetic down jackets. One of the most popular and fashionable brands is Patagonia — check out both Amazon and REI for the best selection. The  Patagonia Nano Puff jacket is probably the most popular lightweight puff jacket on the market so it’s no wonder it’s a favorite among experienced travelers (it’s what we use).

Outerwear is generally the final layer and it is what protects you from the elements (wind, rain, snow, etc.). The problem with outerwear is that it encompasses a huge range of garments that perform a huge range of functions. It can be anything from a simple waterproof jacket for summer showers, to large winter coats capable of withstanding a harsh Scandinavian winter.

I’ll start off by diving into  waterproof jackets since that is probably what most people are interested in learning about.

Most traditional waterproof jackets are called hard shells . These are 100% waterproof and they have that plastic-y feel and sound. If you want the ultimate protection from the elements, this is your choice.

However, being impermeable to the elements means that the material doesn’t breathe — this is less than ideal because it doesn’t allow your body’s sweat to evaporate. Basically, it traps moisture and makes you feel all clammy.

Some high-end hardshell jackets have breathable fabric, but even those aren’t as breathable as softshells (which we’ll talk about later).

Unsurprisingly, most waterproof jackets are made by outdoor companies, so trying to find a stylish one isn’t super easy. However, there are plenty of decent-looking options by Marmot, Patagonia, and The North Face.

However, in the summer I generally recommend that a traditional rain jacket is unnecessary — mainly because it doesn’t rain a lot and most jackets are too heavy for summer travel.

However, Ultralight Rain Jackets are super lightweight (they only weigh a few ounces) and they can be packed into a pocket, so they’re easy to carry around in a daypack. Ultralight rain jackets won’t have very good breathability, but you’ll only be wearing them in the rain, so it isn’t a huge issue.

The best ultralight rain jackets are the  Outdoor Research Helium II , Marmot Super Mica , and the  Montane Minimus  (they all weigh under 10 oz).

When it comes to breathability, it doesn’t get any better than a softshell jacket. Softshell jackets aren’t technically 100% waterproof, but they’re essentially waterproof. They’re well-suited for urban travel because they’re more comfortable than a hard shell and they’re more stylish.

Again, there are hundreds of softshell jackets, so I recommend visiting REI (click here for Men’s and Women’s ) to see which ones fit your budget and style preference.

Heavy Coats

If you’re traveling during the winter, you may consider bringing a heavy winter coat . In some instances, you may be completely comfortable by layering a base layer, a few mid-layers, and an outer layer. But, sometimes, you need a heavy coat — especially if you’re traveling to Northern or Eastern Europe in the dead of winter.

Puffy down coats provide an amazing warmth-to-weight ratio — which is always something to consider when traveling. Combine that down coat with a base layer and a warm mid-layer, and you’ll be staying toasty. Natural down is the warmest, but it becomes ineffective if it gets wet.

On the other hand, synthetic down isn’t quite as warm, but it still works if it gets wet and it dries quicker. Different coats have different amounts of water-repellant, so this is something to take into consideration.

For the best selection of insulated coats , I recommend checking out REI  simply because they have the best selection. Look for one that fits your personal style.

If you’re looking for the ultimate protection from the elements, you’ll want a standard waterproof, winter coat. A lot of coats have a 3-in-1 system that contains a waterproof outer shell and an interior insulated lining. Again, REI is a good place to start your search because they have the best selection.

More Travel Gear Recommendations from The Savvy Backpacker

Here are some more helpful “best of” travel gear guides that we think you’ll find helpful!

• Best Travel Backpacks
• Best Travel Backpacks for Women
• Best Carry-On Backpacks
• Best Travel Shoes
• Best Waterproof Boots for Men
• Best Waterproof Boots for Women
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How to Pack Light for Europe (or Anywhere): the Guide You Need to Actually Make it Happen

Do you always plan to be a light packer, but then you just can’t ever seem to make it happen when you’re getting ready for vacation? Then this guide is for you.

And it isn’t just about what to pack to keep your suitcase or backpack lighter. It’s about how to think about packing light in a way that will help you to actually pack light.

This is my own personal strategy, developed over a decade of every kind of travel – from following backpacker trails through Southeast Asia and Central America , to living abroad and traveling as often as possible (with the tiniest carryon possible), to my current schedule as a full-time travel blogger – often traveling for two or three weeks in Europe with just one carryon .

But you don’t need to be on the road for weeks to make use of the packing strategy.

These tips can work for anyone . Regardless of your personal style, or even the type of trip you’re taking – a weekend getaway close to home, or a year around the world. Regardless of the weather, or your destination. And this isn’t a “packing list.” What you wear is up to you.

Instead, this is a guide for how to decide what to pack, and how to be okay with choosing to pack less.

Because I get it – packing less is hard. I’ve been there. For years, I wasn’t any good at traveling light, and I consistently packed way too much. Until I realized that more stuff usually just made travel worse.

This is a complete guide, so it’s a long read. If you want to jump around, here are the main sections:

Less stress, packing light saves you money., easier to get around (without feeling like an awkward tourist)., less baggage = more secure., less pollution., 1. outfit repeating is okay., 2. mixing and matching is mandatory., 3. you don’t have to be prepared for every situation..

• 4. Just in case you spill a plate of pasta on your pants, bring one extra pair – not three.

5. Doing laundry is easier (and less awkward) than dragging huge luggage.

6. only pack comfortable, good-looking, appropriate clothing that you enjoy wearing., 7. don’t pack last minute..

• 8. The Best Packing Test: What do you reach for in the morning when you’re getting dressed for a normal day?

9. (Almost) everything is replaceable.

10. it’s easier to buy something on the road than leave something on the road., 11. you’re not alone on the side of a mountain., 12. everything is temporary., use packing cubes., pack merino wool clothing., pack light toiletries, too., the packing strategy:, use decent luggage., want to put these packing tips to use, the why: this is what you gain by packing less.

Seriously, every time I switch hotels and have to spend more than 5 minutes getting my things back into the one configuration that makes everything fit in my bag, I swear to myself I’m going to go even lighter next time.

Bonus tip: Don’t pack your bag full . Leave some space, either for shopping, or just breathing room. (It’s no fun when it’s a struggle every time you have to zip it up.)

Never pay another checked-bag fee again. Plus, size and weight limits are often different (smaller) for European airlines. So if you’re packing for a Euro trip, as I often am, less stuff will definitely mean less stress and fewer fees.

Again, especially for trips to Europe, nothing makes me feel more like an unwanted tourist than dragging loud, heavy roller bags over cobblestones and making an absolute racket in a quiet alley. The less the better. (And when I want to really go stealth, I’ll go for a good travel backpack. My favorite is the 40L Tortuga Pro , for all the reasons I outlined in my review .)

UPDATE: In April, Tortuga released a less expensive, lighter version of their travel backpack . I’ve traveled with both, and wrote up a detailed comparison of the Pro vs Lite backpacks . In short, it’s a great budget option that reduces the weight of your luggage by 1 pound, and still uses quality materials and construction.

Good to Know: Many European destinations have ancient historic centers – where you’ll likely want to book your accommodation – where the streets are too narrow for cars. Plan on walking some distance with all your luggage.

Your luggage will be much safer from thieves if you can keep it with you for bus, train and ferry rides – stashed under the seat or in an overhead rack. (Large suitcase usually don’t fit in these places and have to be stored at the entrance to the train car, or in the bays underneath a bus.)

The more stuff you pack, the more fuel the airplane has to use to get off the ground. (Same goes for every form of transportation – more weight means more fuel.) I know it may seem like a drop in the bucket, but it adds up when everyone is checking two giant bags for two weeks in Europe.

Okay, that’s the motivation to travel lighter. Now for the mindset tips (and a few realistic packing tips, at the end) that have made packing light actually possible for me.

The Golden Rules of Packing Light

These are my 10 packing tips that can change the way you travel.

This is my number 1 tip for packing lighter, for any travel, anywhere. To be honest, I’d like you to read the entire article, but this is probably the only advice you really need. Repeat. Outfits.

And that’s coming from a woman who likes to look nice, and is aiming not to stick out as an obvious American tourist in Europe. (Believe me, it’s a look most Europeans recognize easily: Ugly running shoes. Shapeless, synthetic “travel clothes.” Athletic wear outside the gym. Big ugly logos.)

But that look isn’t required to pack light!

Don’t pack any item of clothing that only works with one other item. This is essentially the idea of a capsule wardrobe for travel – a small collection of interchangeable items that you can mix and match.  

My go-to strategy is to have one or two pairs of pants or shorts , depending on the weather, and two tops that go with both of them. I alternate between the tops every other day. That way it doesn’t quite feel entirely like repeating.

Those are the basics, then I add little bits of flair: A nice dress, a fancier top to alternate in with the t-shirts, etc.

But the flair items still have to go with multiple basics. A dressier top that only works with one pair of pants, but not the other, and not the shorts or skirt? Leave it home. Same goes for layers – one sweater, sweatshirt, coat, etc. needs to go with every outfit.

But what if we go to a really – like really, really – fancy restaurant? Well, is that something you’re likely to do? Have you ever done it before? Do you really think this trip will be the first time?

Okay, maybe you’re right. Maybe it will.

If a highly specific and unusual situation comes up on your trip, won’t you have time to go shopping? (Plus, that’s what the extra space in your suitcase leaves room for.)

4. Just in case you spill a plate of pasta on your pants, bring one extra pair – not three.

Your backup does not need a backup. Everything will be okay.

I always have a hard time convincing people of this at first, but once you try it, you get it. Moving around with heavy bags is a pain. Squeezing everything back into an overpacked bag every time you change hotels is also a pain.

But doing laundry is pretty easy, and you’ve got options:

• Utilize the laundry service at your hotel – sure, it’ll cost more than it would to do laundry at home. But it’ll probably cost less than the airline’s fee for a checked bag. What you’re paying for is the simplicity and ease.
• Wash a few key items in the sink of your hotel room and let them dry overnight. I’ve been doing this for years!
• Go to a local laundromat .

For either the sink washing or the laundromat, I always pack a few of these laundry detergent strips . They’re plastic-free, and the epitome of light-weight and packable. (They’re what I’ve used at home for years now, too.)

This is the second biggest secret to packing light: Every piece of clothing you pack for a trip should be a piece of clothing you love to wear. Be strict on this – it has to check all four boxes:

• Comfortable to wear all day.
• Looks good.
• Appropriate / Makes sense – for the local culture, the weather, and the activities you have planned.
• Joyful! If you could wear it, but you just aren’t excited about it, leave it home! (Or better yet, find a friend who wants it or donate it.)

The sweater you always want to wear, but somehow it never feels quite right with any of your outfits? NO. DO NOT PACK IT.

I’ve written before about a phenomenon called wish-cycling (throwing non-recyclable items in the recycling bin, just hoping it’ll help). Well, I think this is a similar concept: Wish-packing. Don’t take the bait.

If you’re packing in a rush, it’s almost impossible to be as strategic as you need to be to pack light.

But… I have a confession. Despite knowing the risks, I still do pack pretty last-minute sometimes. I’m literally typing this while sitting on a train to NYC, where I’ll be for 8 days.

When did I pack my suitcase?

About two hours ago.

How much did I pack?

Probably twice as much as I needed. (But yes, it still all fits in one carry-on.)

8. The Best Packing Test: What do you reach for in the morning when you’re getting dressed for a normal day?

If that sounds like a boring way to pack for a trip, then consider this: Are you “saving” the clothes you most enjoy for special occasions or big trips, thinking, “oh, I can’t wear that for just a casual dinner, it’s too dressy” ?

Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, so wear the dress today! There are no rules anymore, anyway. Wear what you enjoy.

Learning to pack lighter has really helped me think about living lighter, too. Why keep stuff around that I don’t enjoy and find useful? (Thanks, Marie Kondo.) If the clothes you reach for every morning are clothes you really love wearing, then packing them for a trip should be a no-brainer.

(For me, these top-quality merino wool t-shirts are a go-to that have simplified this a lot. More about those in the packing list section below .)

If you forget something you really need, you can almost always pick it up on the road, in almost any country.

Here’s what you really do need to pack:

Yes, there are a few items I’d rather not deal with replacing during a trip. Here they are:

• Credit and debit cards , including extras stashed in separate bags that are not my wallet. (One in a day pack/ personal item on the flight; one in the bottom of my suitcase, etc. Don’t keep all eggs in one basket.)
• Anything prescription, or any meds you take regularly , including extra contact lenses, birth control pills, or anything else you can’t pick up in a drugstore. (Ibuprofen, allergy pills, aspirin etc. can all be purchased just about anywhere in the world. If you know you’ll need them, pack them. But don’t pack the entire medicine cabinet “just in case.” )
• Camera equipment. Generally, I’d say don’t plan on buying a new camera/ iPad/ computer on your trip.
• Charging cables. Don’t forget them! (But don’t pack all the extras, either. You can replace them, if needed, just about anywhere. I’ve done it more than once.)
• Special clothes. Your super special dress for a wedding you’re attending, or date night on your vacation? Yeah, pack it if you have it. But don’t pack six of them.
• Comfortable shoes. There’s a special bond between a traveler and her good walking shoes (especially when those shoes are also good looking for fashionable European cities). Same goes for comfortable hiking boots. Don’t leave these to be replaced on the fly, if you can avoid it.
• Clothing you just love wearing. As I mentioned above, these items should be your entire packing list anyway. So when you start planning travel outfits, start with these items.
• Travel documents. Obviously. I’m not going to remind you to pack your passport.

And that’s it. Nothing else is irreplaceable, or will ruin your trip if you forget it.

If you carefully pack the items on the list above first, you can rest a little easier knowing that nothing else is truly necessary. Not for survival, and not even for comfort – since you’ve already packed your favorites.

(This one is mostly about packing for long-term travel.)

So we agree now that we can replace almost anything during a trip. But I always find it much harder to abandon unneeded things once I’ve put them in my bag.

This is a lesson I learned from several multi-month trips across Central America , Europe and Asia with just a backpack. Each time, I realized early in the trip that I’d packed too much. And each time, it was really hard for me to just give things to someone in a hostel, or donate them locally.

Once you have an item in your bag, it can just be tough to get out of the trap of thinking, “ but what if I need it for something…? ”

Let me paint a picture with a true story: A friend of mine in Montana went on a long-haul, ultra-light backpacking trip in the Canadian Rockies. The “ultra-light” part meant analyzing every ounce of her gear and cutting what you might never have thought you could actually cut – she literally cut off the handle of her toothbrush to take an ounce of weight off her back.

Creative, yes. But she ended up slicing her wrist open while chopping the toothbrush, and had to pack a whole bunch of extra first-aid supplies to keep her wound clean while it healed on the trail.

When I was thinking about this anecdote, I thought it would be a cautionary tale about trying to pack too little. And I guess it is that, but there’s another point, too:

Are you planning a backpacking trip where you’ll be alone in the wilderness for weeks at a time? If not, then remember #9. There’s very little you can’t replace on the road, if you want to.

Packing light can be scary at first. It requires rethinking habits that are very culturally ingrained, and that’s not often easy.

Feeling awkward about repeating outfits more than you normally would, or anxious about not having multiple options for every day of your trip? If you are, it’s okay, and it’s temporary. (You’ll be back to your full closet before you know it.)

And who knows, you might even get used to it, and start loving the freedom of less stuff.

Remember that learning how to pack lighter is a process. You’ll get better at it and feel better about it with practice.

Packing list: the items that will actually help you travel lighter.

That was the philosophical part. Now, let’s get to the concrete part.

Again, what you pack is up to you. I don’t need to tell you how to dress, and there isn’t much that I think you need to buy to pack lighter and better.

The items below are the only ones I really recommend and use constantly. They definitely are helpful, and they work for me.

I thought they were a waste of time and money for so long, but I’m now a total convert. Packing cubes keep your clothes organized in your suitcase, and keep them neat and un-wrinkled .

And both of those things will help you feel better about packing less.

(I used to roll my clothes carefully, which is another option. But now I find packing cubes make it easier to rearrange items in your suitcase without messing everything up.)

I usually use one small packing cube for underwear, and one larger one for my t-shirts, tank tops, and sweaters.

I rarely pack more than two pairs of pants, so I don’t usually need a separate packing cube for pants. (Unless I’m traveling to a conference, or somewhere else where I know I’ll need more pants and skirts, or dressier ones.)

The Brands to Buy:

My favorites are a previous version of these cubes from REI , which I’ve been using for years. I love that they have mesh sections for a bit of ventilation, and an extra zipper that lets you compress or expand the contents . (Which means you can keep everything snug and neatly folded, whether you’re packing less or more.)

Here are a couple more options that I’d look at if I were shopping for them now:

• New: I’ve just added one of these compression packing cubes to my collection, and I have to admit, they’re the best I’ve ever used. The construction is high quality, the shape is perfect for folded shirts, sweaters and dresses, and they fit a ton!
• These packing cubes from Cotopaxi are made of recycled fabric. (Also on Amazon .) They have colorful fabric that looks useful for organizing, but no compression.
• If I ever need to upgrade, I’ll probably go for these cubes from Peak Designs . They have lots of bells and whistles, and the brand is known for high quality. (Also on Amazon .)

In the past year, I’ve become a true believer in the value of merino wool clothing for travel.

It’s not cheap, but merino has so much going for it for travel clothing.  It doesn’t wrinkle , and it stays smelling fresh after lots and lots of wears. (I tested that pretty extensively in this merino travel clothing review , and later on a one-week summer e-bike tour in Italy .)

Plus, merino wool is versatile – it keeps you warm in cold weather, and cool in hot weather (I promise). It still insulates when it’s wet, and it’s naturally antibacterial .

I usually pack two or three merino tops (between t-shirts, tank tops, and long-sleeved tops, depending on the season) and I mostly just wear those for an entire trip.

I’ll usually wash everything once in the middle of a two or three-week trip, but it’s often not even necessary.

Even when I pack other tops, usually cotton or linen, I find they only get one or two wears because they’re so much higher maintenance. While the merino tops just keep looking and smelling good, day after day.

The Brand to Buy:

I think Unbound Merino makes the best merino wool clothing for travel, because it’s actually designed for travel. (Not for outdoor sports, as many merino clothing brands are. These pieces are instead extremely multi-use.)

There are no logos or loud designs on their clothes, so they go with everything and look elegant, not dorky. And the cuts are simple and classic . They work just as well for hiking and biking as for visiting museums and touring cities. (I regularly wear them for all of those.)

Wearing my active merino tank top in the heat of Prague in June, and my merino travel dress during my October trip tasting organic wineries in Napa Valley .

I started down this road for environmental reasons, but solid toiletry swaps are brilliant for travel, too.

(Yes, I will forever be that friend who’s trying to get you to try a new shampoo bar, solid skincare product, or anything else plastic-free. But honestly, the friends who I manage to convince tend to like my recommendations !)

Solid toiletries let you pack months’ worth of products in a fraction of the space, with no chance for leakage in your bag.

They also simplify my packing lists, as I can skip buying (or bottling) “travel size” versions of all my products. (I use these same products at home, and they’re automatically ready to travel.)

And the formulas have improved so much in the past few years that it’s hard to even find an excuse not to try them. You can now get the best available hair and skincare ingredients in solid formulas with refillable packaging – which just happens to be perfect for travel!

No more bad hair days from bad hotel shampoo, or dry skin from leaving your favorite products at home.

These are some of my favorites solid toiletries that I pack for every trip:

• More on Dew Mighty here . Read my full review of SBTRCT skincare here. Discounts: Save 10% on Dew Mighty, and 20% on SBTRCT, with the code TILTEDMAP
• Solid toothpaste and mouthwash tablets . Despite lots of comparison testing , Bite remains my favorite brand for both of these. Discount: Save 10% on any Bite order with the code TILTEDMAP10 .
• Alternative: If you really don’t want do go the bar route, these concentrated products are also excellent and nearly plastic-free. (Check out my Everist review here . Discount: TILTEDMAP10 for 10% off any order.)
• Face wash bars . My go-to from Earth Harbor lasts forever and is harder than most bars. (AKA – easier to pack without it breaking or getting squished.)

For details and the other products I use, here’s another blog post with my full plastic-free travel toiletry list .

Or, if you want to keep it short and sweet, sign up for my email list below. The first email includes a PDF checklist with just the highlights and exclusive discount codes.

I don’t think you need to get too picky about this. If you already have a suitcase or travel backpack that works for you, there’s no need to reinvent the wheel.

The only reason I’d even recommend replacing luggage is if you’re missing some really essential, functional features. The ones I think matter are weight, pockets/ organization, smooth-rolling wheels (or comfortable straps for a backpack), and easy access. More on those below:

Whether you’re packing carry-on only or not, if you’re flying, you’ll have a weight limit for your baggage. ( Train travel is much easier going on this.) Ideally, you don’t want to eat up too much of it with just your bag while it’s still empty.

Suitcase Example: I’ve almost never seen carry-on bags weighed in the US, but I’ve had it happen regularly on flights in Europe. Once, while flying out of Lisbon, there was apparently an 8 kg (17 lbs) weight limit for carry-on bags. The airline asked to weigh mine at the gate, even though the dimensions met their requirements.

It clocked in at a way, way overweight 23 kg (51 lbs). And the airline fined me 125 euros on the spot.

A lighter bag definitely wouldn’t have helped that time, but it’s worth paying attention to.

Organization

Packing less gets way easier when you know where everything is, and can keep your clothes neat and wrinkle-free and by making sure they don’t get scrunched into knots in your bag. Packing cubes and decent pockets are both useful for this.

Backpack Example: I’ve taken several multi-month trips with the Osprey travel backpack that you see so often in airports. (If you just automatically notice these things the way I do… occupational hazard, I suppose.) It has a detachable day pack, and it comes in multiple sizes. There’s also a men’s version .

I loved the concept, but the main bag didn’t have a single pocket to organize your stuff. And the day pack was just so tiny, I found it almost useless. (For details on this, read right here .)

Osprey has since added at least one interior pocket to the updated version, but I still went for this Tortuga backpack instead, on a recent trip to El Salvador . (As I wrote in my review , the bag definitely exceeded my expectations.)

UPDATE: Check out Tortuga’s even-lighter new Travel Backpack Lite , and their excellent, packable daypack . I’m traveling with both right now to test them, and have been impressed! (Here’s my comparison of the Tortuga Pro vs Lite backpacks .)

Comfortable Wheels or Straps

Smooth-rolling wheels are important, too, just like a comfortable strap system if you’re traveling with a backpack. Straps that make your shoulders hurt, or a roller bag that’s always flipping over behind you, or doesn’t roll straight, will get old fast.

For a suitcase, upgrading from an old two-wheel bag to a newer one with four wheels will make a huge difference.

For a backpack, make sure you have a sturdy hip belt system , which takes the weight off your shoulders and makes it much more comfortable to carry, even if only for an hour at a time. (This is one many reasons I decided the Tortuga 40L Pro backpack was worth the price for me.)

Easy Access to Your Stuff

This is mostly an issue with travel backpacks , not suitcases. I’ve never felt the need to try a clam-shell suitcase (the kind with the main zipper in the middle, dividing the storage into two equal halves). Traveling with a small carry-on, I don’t find it necessary.

Backpack example: There are a lot of good reasons not to travel with a backpacking backpack (which will likely have top-access, as opposed zipping all the way open, as a suitcase would). You don’t want to have to pull everything out of your suitcase to get to one thing, and that’s pretty much how outdoor backpacks are designed.

So the full-access zipper was one of the things that drew me to that Osprey backpack , above. But then the lack of organization made it a failure in my book.

The Brands to Buy: (Best Carry-on Luggage )

If I were to go back to backpack travel regularly, I’d stick with either the Tortuga Pro backpack or the new Lite version , both of which I’ve used on several trips lately. They’re purposefully designed for traveling light, with lots of organization and security features, plus the suitcase-like full zip.

[ Details: Here’s my full review of the original Pro Tortuga travel backpack , including my comparison with similar bags from Cotopaxi and Osprey. My thoughts on the Pro vs. Lite bags are here .]

For a light-weight and really well-made carry-on suitcase , I’ve been using an early version of this Victorinox global carry-on for years. I’d definitely say it’s a good buy, at least if you travel as much as I do, but it is an investment.

That being said, it doesn’t have any broken zippers, holes in fabric, or really any signs of wear after more than five years (and I’ve lived out of it almost half of that time).

And in the long-run, buying something good once is always better than buying cheap and having to replace it. (It’s a better experience, and it’s less of a toll on the environment.)

(My “global” carry-on is designed to pass as carry-on size on European airlines, too. So it’s slightly smaller and squarer, as opposed to rectangular, compared with larger US carry-ons . My husband has the larger version , and we can confirm from many EU flights that his often has to be checked at the gate , while mine always makes it on.)

I hope my travel tips for packing less have been helpful for you! Do you have questions? Leave them below in the comments and I’ll get back to you.  

How about in one of these gorgeous destinations:

• The Azores – a beautiful, quiet escape in the middle of the Atlantic. (Including the island of Terceira , which I wrote a more detailed guide to.)
• An Italian bike trip through a lesser-known region (and you can join me on this trip , too!)
• The Mississippi Blues Trail
• Adirondack State Park , upstate New York

Help more people find this article! Share on:

Sustainability and Sustainable Travel Writer

I’m Ketti, the founder of Tilted Map – an award-winning travel blog! – and a Sustainability Editor for the UK's most-read travel magazine. Originally from Montana, USA, I moved to China with a job teaching English, a side-hustle writing for magazines, and just one word of Mandarin. That turned into five years abroad, a Master's Degree in Sustainable Business & Energy, and a passion for finding realistic ways to travel and live more sustainably. I created Tilted Map to share what I'm learning along the way – I hope you're finding it useful!

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I just found your blog and your travel tips are the best I’ve ever read. But I have a question. My husband and I will be going on an extended trip from May to July, starting with biking in France and Germany, followed by an 11 day cruise in the Greek islands, and some stops in between to see Italy. My big dilemma is shorts! I will pack at least two pairs of bike shorts but I’ve no idea what type of shorts I should pack for southern Europe. Linen does not hold up well. Any suggestions?

Hi Kathleen,

Thank you so much! That makes my day. 🙂 And that sounds like an EXCELLENT adventure you’ve got planned!

For shorts, I usually pack pairs when I travel in the summer: One pair of board shorts , which are great for the beach but can also blend in not on the beach. And one twill pair for cities/ everything else. (Thin, summer-weight – lighter than denim, heavier than linen – so it’s not too bulky to pack. And they go with everything.) I have a cute striped pair from Carve Designs that I’ve been wearing for nearly a decade! The specific design is long discontinued, I’m afraid, but I’m still a huge fan of the brand. Almost everything I wear in summer is from them – very mix and easy, easy, casual/slightly sporty, packable but still stylish.

Also, their reversible swimwear is great!! I have two of this bikini top , which can easily double as a sports bar and is great for being both cute and not letting your boobs fall out if you’re actually planning to move.

Now you’ve got me thinking about shopping and summer weather lol. Anyway, I hope that’s helpful! You might also want to check out my sustainable clothing brands list, and – since you’re biking, too! – this story about the bike trip in Italy I did last year.

Have a good one! – Ketti

How to Pack Light When You're Only Traveling With a Carry-On

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Packing for a trip always feels like a dance between art and science—and attempting to pack light complicates things even further. As a travel journalist, I often find myself on the road several times a month—sometimes for weeks at a time navigating various modes of transportation. This means being self-sufficient with my luggage is key. I also don’t want to be concerned about lost luggage when I travel, so I opt to bring only a carry-on whenever I can. My mantra while packing for any trip, whether it's a domestic weekend getaway or a weeklong international adventure, is that every piece of gear has to be multi-functional to maximize space. Below, my tried-and-true tips for packing light with only a carry-on.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Our best tips for packing light:

Choose the right luggage, don't skip the packing cubes.

• Opt for multi-functional fabrics

Pick versatile pairs of shoes

• Adjust your body care routine

Travel hacks are a game-changer

A key consideration for any trip is choosing the right luggage to fit all your essentials without weighing you down. If you're traveling with just a carry-on-sized bag, you want it to be lightweight yet roomy—expandable options are always helpful. My go-to is the Monos Carry-On Plus, a 7.8-pound hard-shell suitcase sized to fit in overhead bins. The wheels have a 360-spin, making it a breeze to maneuver in tight spaces, and the side handle makes it easy to lift into the overhead bin and in a rental car. The padded front compartment fits my 15-inch laptop, a scarf, and a book in there easily. The suitcase comes with an antimicrobial laundry bag and two shoe bags that further help with packing and organization.

Another smart carry-on option is the Cotopaxi Allpa Roller Bag. The hybrid look of a hardcover back and adjustable softcover front brings the right amount of support and expandability of a traditional carry-on suitcase. It only has two wheels but when I saw how easily the bag moved on different surfaces, I was hooked. Cotopaxi’s fun and vibrant colors also make these suitcases easily identifiable among a sea of like-looking bags at the airport.

Next up: choosing a functional personal item . I paired my suitcase with the Chelsea Backpack from Antler. As a professional photographer, I always travel with my gear and I find the Chelsea is spacious enough to pack my camera, an extra lens, and in-flight essentials: snacks, my Otterbox 3-in-1 MagSafe charging station that helped cut down on extra cords, and my insulated Camelbak water bottle . It even has a zipped, padded laptop area with a separate slip pocket for a tablet. The backpack’s trolley sleeve is a lifesaver, slipping onto my rolling suitcase and allowing me to keep one hand free. And I always pack my Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole tote as an extra bag (for souvenirs or as a daypack for a quick hike). It folds down into a small pouch, making it both packable and functional.

Anyone who struggles with optimizing space when traveling knows that packing cubes are the ultimate solution. Not only are they perfect for organization, but compression ones like these from Monos and Béis save space in your bag. I routinely use about three to five cubes and organize my essentials by category. The bigger cube is for bulky items like jeans, pants, and sweatshirts, the medium is for shirts, and the smaller one is for undergarments and socks. The clear-view window on the Monos packing cubes allows me to see what's inside at a glance, making it easier to get ready. I also carry an extra one to separate dirty laundry on my return trip home.

Opt for lightweight, multi-functional fabrics

I will admit that choosing the right clothes for a multi-week trip is the most challenging part of packing, especially when dealing with different climates. My Duer jeans are my favorite denim. With the right amount of stretch, softness, comfort, and a water-repellent fabric, I wear them on planes, around town, and even hiking. My top picks are these fleece-lined relaxed Girlfriend fit for flights, and the mid-rise performance slim straight for backup. Another new favorite is the Freeflex Roll-Up pants from Kühl. The roll-up feature quickly converts it into a capri, increasing the usability. Plus, they are quick-drying, moisture-managing, and water-resistant.

For daily wear, I pack a few classic, mix-and-match pieces from Prana in neutral colors. Foundation rib tanks and simple short-sleeve tees are versatile, comfortable, and perfect for layering. I recently discovered hemp fabric, a natural fiber that is breathable, antibacterial, and seems to get softer with every wash. Adding Jungmaven tees to my travel wardrobe was a no-brainer because it wicks moisture away from the skin keeping clothes odor free longer so you can get more wear from your tees. A few moisture-wicking UPF 50+ bras that double as sports bras, merino wool breathable natural briefs from Ibex , and Comrad compression socks complete my essentials.

As a runner from the Midwest, I can never pass up the opportunity to tackle trails wherever I go. My Hoka short-sleeved performance tee and multi-pocket jogger tights from Oiselle are ideal because of their quick-drying fabric, which means I don’t need sweatshirts to keep me warm while running outside.

Keeping up with the theme of packing multi-purpose clothing, I chose between two outerwear pieces depending on the season—the Stretchdown light vest from Mountain Hardwear or a Silent Down Jacket from Patagonia. The vest is a lightweight layering piece that packs down to a pouch for convenience. The jacket, which I wear on the plane (another tip: don't pack your bulkiest pieces; wear them in transit), is incredibly soft, warm enough for 30 to 40-degree Fahrenheit weather, thanks to the down insulation, and not too technical—the perfect outerwear for a nice dinner.

Deciding on what shoes to bring on any trip is always a bit tricky, but generally, you want to go classic and neutral. Because of space restrictions, I opted for a white walking shoe that would go with any outfit (worn on the plane) and packed my lightweight gym shoes as a backup. Clae’s white vegan leather sneakers have traveled with me across continents and continues to hold form even after hours of walking everywhere. For my running and training routines, I lean on my Agility Peak 5 running shoe from Merrell. It performs flawlessly on gravel and concrete and after getting caught unprepared in a sudden downpour one too many times, I always choose the Gore-Tex waterproof style. A cute pair of lightweight Tevas sandals that are also waterproof and breathable round out my footwear choices.

Don’t sacrifice your body care routine—just adjust it

After a lot of trial and error over years of extensive travel, I finally curated just the right selection of products for my Dopp kit . The key is to trim down your routine (and packing list) with multi-purpose products that still get the job done and leave you feeling refreshed. Everist plant-based waterless shower travel essentials are a game changer and the travel-size tins save a lot of space. I also recently switched to waterless moisturizers and lotion bars for travel after having to ditch many creams and bottles at security because of liquid restrictions. My go-tos are Glow Face Stone solid face moisturizer and Forest Sone lotion bar from Kate McLeod. And all this packs away in my carry-on-friendly Monos Metro toiletry case.

After traveling thousands of miles with just a carry-on, there are a few hacks I always rely on that make a huge difference to my overall outlook on traveling as lightly as possible. I always clip a few carabiners to my backpack or suitcase (if possible). In a pinch, these hold nicknacks like an extra jacket, a water bottle, or my sandals if I am running out of space. A buff is a must and an easy way to protect your face, neck, and head from the elements. It also acts as a neck warmer and mask on planes. And my Sea to Summit inflatable two-ounce camping pillow has been a lifesaver during many unscheduled airport overnights thanks to cancellations and delays—I never leave home without it.

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Carry-On Packing List: This Is How to Pack Light

June 11, 2024 by Janice Waugh

Packing light, getting everything needed into a carry-on bag, takes a bit of skill and a trim packing list. But, when you've done it successfully once, it becomes easy.

I believe that it is important to pack light, especially as a solo traveler. It puts you in control. You will:

• be more mobile. Walking a few blocks or carrying your bag up a few stairs is not a problem with a carry-on.
• face fewer lineups at airports . Arrival and departure are easier and faster with a carry-on.
• save money . A carry-on makes taking buses and trains rather than taxis possible.
• evade the attention of thieves . Someone who has a large suitcase or multiple bags likely has more stuff to steal than you.
• avoid losing luggage in transit . With you in control of your bag at all times, the hassle of lost luggage doesn't exist.
• save on extra fees . This is especially true on budget flights that often save the hold for commercial revenue.

For the last 15 years, I've only owned carry-on sized luggage. I have a roller bag and a backpack. That's it. They both work for trips of a week or a month. It doesn't matter. All my travel essentials are there.

As an example, a couple of years ago, I went to Los Angeles for four days (it was hot), then to London for four days (it was cool and damp), on to Wales for a lot of walking, then north to Liverpool and Edinburgh. I traveled for 19 days in total and for the first eight I was at conferences. Needless to say, the weather and activities between LA and Edinburgh were very different, but I had everything I needed in one carry-on and a day pack.

Below is my packing list. It is tried and true, developed from 15 years of writing about solo travel. I turn to it every time I'm going on a trip. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a month-long tour, this post is my resource every time.

Use this packing list and you'll be hooked on an easier way to travel.

Table of Contents

The 3 Rules of Packing Light

Below are the three packing rules to live by if you want to travel light. This approach allows you to have all the travel essentials and a bit of fashion too.

• Everything must be pack-worthy. Pack-worthy means multi-purpose. Everything must go with many things. Nothing can have a one-time, one-purpose use.
• Your feet are of prime importance . Shoes make the outfit but they can also break a trip. Take shoes that have proven to be comfortable.
• One color palette only. To have clothes for a range of activities that work together, choose one color palette. Working with a base color like black, navy, or brown, along with a contrasting color such as gray or beige, plus an accent color makes sure that everything you're carrying works together.

One-bag packing tips:

• Follow carry-on rules according to your airline. Be really careful about the weight. Just because you can fit it into a carry-on suitcase does not mean they will let you on the plane with it.
• Watch the restrictions on the size of bottle liquids and other items you are allowed to carry on board.
• Pack the bulky items rather than wear them so that you know you'll have space in your bag when traveling around. However, if the bulky item is also heavy, wear it to beat the weight limit.
• Be considerate of other passengers and don't hog the overhead space.
• People rave about either rolling or folding. I don't think it actually makes that much difference. Do what works for you.

Clothing List for Women Wanting to Pack Light

Here is your carry-on packing list .

• Take a pair of light flip-flops if you're staying in a hostel. Best to wear them around and in the shower.
• For hiking, I'm now more inclined to take hiking shoes rather than boots. These are my Merrell Hiking Shoes . If space is a problem, wear them on the plane and tie them onto your carry-on or backpack at your destination.
• Pants . 3 pairs total or two pairs and one dress or skirt (wear your most comfortable on the plane).
• Tops . 4 tops, including 1 light sweater, and 1 camisole that works as an under layer for hiking and under a jacket for a dressier look.
• Cardigan or light jacket . Something that you can dress up or down depending on jeans/pants and accessories.
• Accessories . Belt, inexpensive jewelry, one scarf to dress up casual clothes.
• Jacket . I have my second Marmot Women’s Precip Jacket . It took me over 12 years to wear out my first one.
• Basics . Umbrella, scarf, gloves, rain pants , hat, vest, pair of sunglasses (depending on the weather of your destinations, you may not need all of these).
• Bathing suit . (Depending on your trip.)
• Fundamentals . Pajamas, 5 pairs of underwear that are breathable and quick-drying, 2 bras, 3 pairs of socks (fresh socks every day if hiking).

It sounds like a lot, but it’s not. Rinse clothes out when necessary. When you return, take note of what you didn’t use and don’t pack it next time.

Travel Essentials Packing List

• Hotel confirmations
• Flight information
• Passport and visas as necessary
• Travel insurance . I'm proof that travel insurance is essential. Read A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers .
• Cash . It's always good to have some cash with you. The US dollar is the most commonly accepted currency worldwide.
• No foreign transaction fee credit card. If you're outside your home country this will save you 2-4% on everything you put on your card compared to the typical credit card. When I travel outside Canada I prefer to use a card with no foreign transaction fees. The only no fee, no foreign transaction fee, Canadian credit card I know of is the Home Trust Visa card . In the US, Chase is known for their no foreign transaction fee cards, but check with your own financial institution.
• Backup card with no annual fee.  I have a basic free Visa card that is a backup to my backup. And yes, I have had to use it.
• Roadside assistance. If you have AAA or CAA, you'll be fine in North America. If you don’t, it may be worth considering or, if you're renting a car, you could purchase from the rental agency. However, watch the price. It could be more than an annual price from AAA and CAA.
• VPN . I have a VPN on my phone, tablet, and computer so I can safely use public Wi-Fi. I would never travel without it. For more details, read Best VPN for Travel: What, Why, How & New Recommendations .
• Universal travel adapter with USB ports
• E-reader, Kindle, iPad (whatever you use)
• Journal and pen
• Phone and charger
• Camera and charger (To be honest, I've cut this from my personal list. Phone camera images are so good now that I hardly ever pull out my DSLR.)
• Computer and ac adapter, if you're so inclined
• Prescription medication, vitamins, supplements, water bottle (whether you check luggage or not, these need to be on your carry-on packing list.)
• Small first aid kit
• Your bathroom essentials: conditioner, hair product, face cream, makeup, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, brush, razor, shave soap
• Hand sanitizer
• A few feet of duct tape
• A couple of resealable plastic bags

Carry-On Packing List for Men

A men's packing list is not a lot different from a women's except that it's easier. There is not as much nuance in a man's wardrobe. Throw a blazer onto a guy wearing jeans and a t-shirt, and he looks great. So, here's the men's packing list – all the travel essentials to cover just about any trip.

• Shoes . 2 pairs total. One pair street shoes (or sandals) and one pair of dressier shoes. If you need hiking boots, wear them on the plane and only bring shoes that have proven to be comfortable.
• Pants/shorts . 3 pairs total. You know your style but one pair of pants should be long and not denim.
• T-shirts . 4 (make sure at least one of them is white to wear under a dress shirt). If you're going someplace tropical or humid, make sure that they are very light and pack more of them.
• Collared shirt . 1 golf shirt or other casual shirt with a collar.
• Dress shirt . 1 for dressier occasions.
• Blazer . This is optional, of course, but really useful. Choose a light fabric.
• Belt and tie . (If you're into that look.)
• Basics . Umbrella, scarf, gloves, rain pants, hat, vest, pair of sunglasses (again, depending on the weather of your destinations, you may not need all of these).
• Bathing suit . (If needed.)
• Fundamentals . Pajamas, 5 pairs of underwear, 4 pairs of socks.

Rinse clothes out when necessary. When you return, take note of what you didn’t use and don’t pack it next time.

Travel Product Reviews

Luggage Trackers – Review by King

A luggage tracker has become a travel essential. AirTags  are the most widely known tracker that people use for their luggage, but they only work with iPhones. Android users have many alternatives, and in this article, I will review the  Tile Mate  which is compatible with both Android and iPhone.

No doubt you have heard about the chaos at the airports and the horror stories of lost luggage. Many travelers have turned to technology to help take some of the anxiety out of checking luggage. While I recommend only using carry-on, those who cannot avoid checking bags can use a tile luggage tracker and other electronic tracking devices.

King's review is detailed, explains how luggage trackers work, and includes his and Tracey's personal experiences using them while traveling solo. Read the full luggage trackers review here.

Messenger-style Bag from Travelon – Review by Tracey

I don't like to buy many products that are only for travel. I prefer to invest in things that I can use all the time that are also useful when I'm on the road. When looking for a new bag I settled on a messenger-style bag from Travelon , for a number of reasons, including the fact that I can (and now do) use it as much at home as away. It is an essential part of my carry-on packing list strategy.

Travelon bags have a 5-Point Anti-Theft Security System which includes:

• Lockdown Straps which help prevent grab-and-go thieves from dashing off with your bag. You can secure your bag to a stationary object or chair when seated.
• Locking Compartments help prevent pickpockets from getting into your bag. Locking zippered pulls secure your bag contents. (These are really cool.)
• Slash-resistant Body helps prevent slash-and-grab theft in busy areas with a slash-resistant mesh barrier in all 4 sides and bag bottom panel.
• Slash-resistant Straps help prevent slash-and-run theft with a stainless steel wire inside the strap.
• RFID Blocking Pockets help prevent against electronic identity theft with RFID blocking card slots and passport pockets.

I don't know how valuable the RFID technology actually is, but the pocket and slots for cards was a bit of a game-changer for me. Transferring my cards and passport to slots inside this bag, which I wore across my body meant that my hands were always free and there was no chance of me leaving my wallet behind.

The water-resistant material kept everything inside dry as I wandered around Ireland in off-and-on rain and drizzle. The messenger bag is very compact, which was really good for me and meant that I never became loaded down with extra stuff that I “might” need.

I found the quality of the materials and the utility of the organizational components to be excellent. I would not hesitate to recommend Travelon products. They offer many different styles of bags for everyone, in addition to things like packing cubes , backpacks , and a tech organizer ( I just ordered this one in lime green so it will be easy to find in the sea of black that is my suitcase).

Noise Canceling Earbuds for Travel – Review by King

If you don't have them already, you have probably considered noise canceling headphones or earbuds at some point. You may be wondering if they are worth the extra money. This is understandable as they can be double the price of regular ones, but I’m here to tell you they are worth every penny. For me, they are now a travel essential. These devices do an amazing job of completely eliminating engine noise and can reduce the sound of crying babies to barely a whisper.

After much thought and research, I chose a pair of the Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise Canceling Earbuds. There's a newer model now–without the pesky cords to deal with–called Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II . These wireless, bluetooth earbuds intelligently personalize the noise cancellation and sound performance to your ears and are going on my Christmas list.

Sony also gets high praise in the marketplace for their noise cancelation headphones, and Apple’s Airpod Pro (not the entry-level model) gets the job done well if you’d like something more stylish and are willing to pay a premium for that style.

One additional benefit, if you turn on the noise cancelation feature without any music, you’ll create your own cone of silence that will muffle the voices of annoying co-workers or that person seated next to you on the plane who can’t quite understand that you don’t want to hear about how much they made on cryptocurrencies.

Sharing is caring!

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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101 Tips For Packing Light

To help you learn how to pack light I’ve complied a list of 101 methods you can use to reduce the weight of your luggage and the amount of stuff you bring on your next trip.

By using these packing light tips to design a packing list you’ll be able to ditch that checked baggage, save money by avoiding excess baggage fees, and travel with just a small carry-on bag.

Whether you want to learn how to pack light for a week, 2 weeks, a month long trip, or for perpetual travel these hacks will teach you to travel lightly.

• Research your destination . I mean really research! I like to get on google Streetview and have a look around. Knowing exactly where you can get hold of everything will put your mind at rest and keep stuff out your bag. Check out what the locals wear. Make sure you anticipate the weather and pack accordingly.
• For most people overpacking clothes is the main problem. So  rediscover hand washing . Washing machines are not the only way to wash clothes. Go try it now in your bathroom sink, it’s not so hard. Washing your clothes while traveling sucks. But it sucks way less than carrying a huge heavy bag.
• And if you clean clothes while traveling  you won’t have a huge pile of laundry when you return.
• Bring your own  travel laundry line .
• Bring a  universal sink plug .
• You can even wash clothes in shampoo  to save packing detergent.
• Speaking of shampoo… when packing  pay close attention to any liquids . Most liquid items that you pack are available in lighter dry versions. Replace shower gel with a bar of soap. You are literally packing water weight. Shampoo, Insect Repellant, Toothpaste, detergent, sunscreen, and cosmetics all have light-weight solid versions.
• Go digital  wherever possible. If “there’s an app for that” then don’t pack it. Not packing books, cameras, maps etc if your phone can do it will save so much space.
• Do pack your smartphone . But keep it in your pocket to keep the weight out of your bag.
• Go where or when the sun is shining.  You’ll need fewer clothes if it’s warm and dry.  Winter wear is generally heavier.
• Pack Layers  – Don’t take that heavy jacket, a sweater plus super light windbreaker gives you more options.
• Choose quick-drying, odor-resistant fabrics.  They need washed less frequently and if you do wash them they dry fast. Merino wool is my favorite for shirts. You can wear the same merino shirt multiple times without washing. If you insist of washing after every wear synthetic fabrics dry the fastest. Linen is also a great choice of fabric for travel clothing.
• Pack versatile  neutral colors  and styles for your outfits. Packing light actually begins long before your trip. Building a travel capsule wardrobe begins with choosing the right styles and fabrics long before you think about packing your bag.
• If you don’t like neutral colors  choose 1 single bold color  like red to form the basis for your entire wardrobe.
• Wear your heavy, bulky items on the plane.  This will leave extra space in your bag.
• A marked item is a waste of space. So  pack clothes turned inside out  to avoid getting visible marks and stains.
• Jeans are heavy.  A single pair of jeans can weigh almost 1 lb. So take only 1 pair or even better choose lighter pants.
• Pack shoes sparingly.  1 stylish pair of boots and 1 pair of sandals can cover most footwear occasions. Hiking boots are for hiking vacations only and should be worn on the plane.
• Toiletries — Don’t pack any. Buy them at your destination or use those tiny travel bottles if you must. Your liquids allowance is a maximum not a target. Solid toiletries are more weight efficient that liquid toiletries.
• Pick the right luggage.  This is one of the most important packing tips. Choose a smaller, lighter carry-on size bag that sets your limits. Then compress and compromise like a manic to make things fit inside. A rolling suitcase can weight over 10 lbs before you even pack anything in it!
• Choose a smaller bag  made from lightweight materials. Leather might be durable but it’s heavy. Ballistic nylon is extremely strong and light.
• Excessive compartments, gadgets and padding sells bags but it makes bags heavier too.  Keep it simple.
• If you can,  lose the luggage wheels and hard-shell case . They add weight and with these tips, your bag will be light enough to carry. A 30 – 40 liter  carry-on sized backpack is the sweet spot for hand luggage .
• Don’t take your laptop . This is a game changer. You can do a lot of things on a smartphone or a tablet these days.
• Check out Sentio Desktop for  an app that turns your android phone or tablet into a desktop experience . Pack a travel bluetooth keyboard and mouse if you must.
• Audio Books offer the best entertainment per gram or gigabyte. I know you like to watch a movie on the plane but the book is always better than the film right? And these days with big name actors narrating often  the audio book is often better than the book.
• Get a porter, your husband or  your kids to carry your things for you.
• Plan in advance! Or even better actually  trial pack the main bag . If you pack at the last minute you’ll overpack. Do some test packing in advance.
• Go for a  trial walk locally  with your luggage. Better to learn the error of your ways while you are still at home so you can make corrections. Remember to test carrying your bag upstairs and running for a bus!
• Take only what you know you need.  No “what ifs” .
• Beware the packing system.  Adding compression packing cubes, compression bags, compression sacks, toiletry bags, and other organizers. While they may help organize and save space they don’t make your bag weigh less!  You can do a lot of organization and compression with rubber bands and polythene food bags.
• Rolling clothes  allows you to take a smaller lighter pack.
• Use  the space inside shoes , bras etc. Keep your bag size and weight down.
• Leggings  are lightweight and versatile.
• Raincoat plus sweater plus hat plus gloves beats a heavy jacket. 10% of your body heat is lost through your head.  Pack a woolly hat  if you’re going to cooler climates.
• Sleep naked  and leave the pajamas behind.
• Take cheaper lightweight accessories  and jewelry or none at all. You can leave behind fears of losing your most precious gold and diamonds too!
• Leave behind cash  and take a prepaid travel money card. TD Bank doesn’t charge you for worldwide ATM fees and offers a great exchange rate if you keep a balance of $2500. Also, a Schwab Bank High Yield Investor Checking Account automatically reimburses you for ATM fees worldwide. You don’t need to carry cash.
• You don’t need to print out everything.  Most airlines will let you board using a barcode on your phone. Your hotel has a record of your reservation. You don’t need to bring a filing cabinet. Just take photos of any important documents.
• There will be snacks available at the airport and on the plane.  You don’t need to pack snacks  unless you have some special dietary need. Save those calories for a nice meal at your destination.
• Never pack a towel.   Sorry Douglas Adams . Hotels provide them and besides, you will dry naturally even without one. A beach towel might be appropriate for a beach vacation but they are usually very cheap to buy on location.
• Pack only things that make you happy . You like to wear your favorite clothes again and again right?
• Ladies…  Lace boxers  are sexy, lightweight and easy to wash in the hotel room sink.
• Mail your dirty laundry home.  Mail cheaper clothes you could afford to lose forward to your hotel before you arrive.
• Take those  old holy socks  on a final journey. Throw them in the trash once worn.
• Hide your house keys  under a rock or leave them with a friend or neighbor. You don’t need to take your house keys around the world with you.
• Avoid over-sized headphones and opt for  earbuds .
• If you do take a laptop replace the charger with a small lightweight  dart laptop charger.
• Buy shorter versions of any cables  you take with you to reduce weight.
• Get your eyesight corrected with  laser eye surgery . You won’t need to carry your glasses or contact lenses with you anymore. (NOTE: Packing light is a dumb reason to get laser eye surgery)
• A diva cup . As I guy I can’t really comment on this but just throwing it out there.
• Wear thin,  short ankle socks  rather than full length. Or better still  no socks.
• Thongs  are lighter than knickers.
• Heck… why not  go commando !
• If you are an American remember you have the right to bare arms. Short sleeves rather than long. Vests rather than t-shirts.  Who needs sleeves anyway  )
• Crop tops .
• Invent your own uniform . Steve Jobs famously wore a black turtleneck, blue jeans and New Balance sneakers every day. Mark Zuckerberg wears jeans and a grey t-shirt to work every day. These guys didn’t waste time deciding what clothes to wear and I’m sure they could pack light if they needed to! What do you look best in? Why not wear that every day?
• Always remember…  the most attractive thing you can wear is a smile.
• If you can reduce your luggage down to a small backpack  you won’t need to take a day bag . Just leave the heavy things at the hotel and use the said small backpack as the day bag.
• If you do pack a day bag  make sure it’s a tiny lightweight one .
• Share things  with your travel partner. Would 1 phone charger suffice?
• Visualize your over-packing pain . You are dragging your heavy checked bags up those stairs. You are lifting that bulky carry-on suitcase into the overhead compartment try to find a space to squeeze it in.
• A smaller lighter travel backpack  fits under the seat in the plane . Hurrah! No more fighting for space in the overhead bin.
• Remember….  lost luggage IS A THING . Get your weight down to carry on only and never lose a bag.
• Let experience be your priority . For this pack your eyes, ears, nose and taste buds. Let the sun beat down on your skin, let your feet feel the earth on which you walk. Let the rain wash away your troubles and let the wind blow through your hair. Amen.
• If you don’t know people where you are going. It won’t matter if you  wear the same clothes 2 days in a row .
• Use a  manual toothbrush  rather than electric.
• Don’t like doing hand laundry in the hotel sink? Ditch the hotel and  stay in an airbnb  that has a washing machine.
• Or book a hotel that is  near to a launderette.
• Phone your hotel and ask what amenities they have available? Don’t pack anything you can  borrow at your destination.
• Tiny perfume samples  are great for traveling. Get some before you go!
• Not going somewhere with a sink?  Pack a scrubba wash bag .
• Dry clothes quickly by laying  rolling them up in a towel then dancing on them . It really works!
• Are you a travel jogger? Then  try “barefoot” minimalist running shoes . Fewer injuries and lighter to pack than sneakers.
• Work out!  Make your bag SEEM lighter by getting bigger muscles!
• Lose some weight  if you can do so healthily. A smaller body means smaller clothes and that means a smaller and lighter pack. It will help with those speedo vacation snaps too!
• Don’t pack loads of travel security gadgets i.e. body wallets etc  The world is not as scary a place as you think . Pack your common sense instead.
• Solid stick antiperspirant deodorant will  stop your clothes from becoming smelly.
• Pay attention to the fees  you might pay for checking luggage. They will make you think twice about heavy checked luggage.
• Large bags often mean taking a taxi. And taxi drivers the world over just love a tourist because they can take them the extra-long scenic route! With a small light bag,  you can just hop on public transport .
• Multi-functionality is good . Items that have more than 1 use get you bonus packing points.
• Empty your purse or wallet  of all the membership cards, receipts etc that you don’t need. Make sure you have a small wallet or purse. A money clip is a good idea.
• Tear or photograph the interesting pages from your guidebook . Leave the book.
• When you come home from a trip. Separate your things into two piles. All the stuff that you needed and  all the stuff that you didn’t. Take a photo , print it out and pin it to your suitcase to remind you next time.
• Change the experience of your load by  distributing the weight . A backpack spreads the load across your back and hips. Take items from your pack and put them in your pockets.
• Ask advice  from people familiar with your destination. Do you think I’ll need this?
• Your ego and fear about what other people think about you weighs the most. It’s responsible for most of what you pack in your case. To really travel light…  don’t care so much what people think .
• Do  pack your inner self-confidence . You don’t need “that thing” to make you feel good, look good or be special. You are special without it all and you’ll do just fine!
• A  vaccination  weighs less than a hefty medical bill.
• Remember, if you are carry-on only you won’t need to wait at the  baggage claim .
• Listen to Rick Steves . “There are two types of people in the world. Those who pack light and those that wish they had.” Thanks Rick!
• Use  lockers in train stations  to stash your luggage and collect later.
• Travel often . Because the more you travel the more you will learn to jettison things you don’t use or need.
• You can  use a sarong  as a towel and a blanket.
• If you  grow a beard  and you won’t need to pack a razor.
• Waxed legs  will stay smooth for 3 to 6 weeks. If your trip is shorter you won’t need a razor for your legs. Or just go natural.
• Tie  helium balloons  to your backpack. But not too many or you will float away ????
• Ask a impartial friend to pack for you  or hire a wardrobe consultant to help you pack. Yes that’s a real thing ))
• Study the  packing lists  of light packers.
• Ignore other people’s rules. It’s your bag put what you want in it!
• And lastly the final tip…. and the only 1 that you really need.  Take less stuff with you!

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10 Tips on Packing Light for Summer Weekends

Stick to the essentials for an easy, breezy getaway.

Lois Joy Johnson,

Summer is weekend getaway time, and we can't wait to go! So, here's the problem: We're terrible packers. We stuff our suitcase, take too many clothes (or the wrong ones), forget essentials and end up making a pit stop at Target or CVS. Well, here's a chance to change all that. Here are 10 tips to lighten the load, upgrade your packing skills and guarantee a “sun-sational” vacation.

1. Take a suitcase that's easy to pack, lift and roll

Whether you're  flying  or  driving , keep the “you-haul” small but sturdy. An airline-size carry-on — about 22 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches high — is ample for a four-day weekend (check exact dimensions with your airline if you fly) but keeps you from taking too much. Look for bags that specify being lightweight, such as the American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 21-Inch in Navy ($70, amazon.com), Delsey Paris Sky Max 2.0 Softside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels Carry-On 21-Inch in Steel Blue ($78, amazon.com) or the TravelPro Maxlite 5 21” Expandable Carry-On Spinner in Midnight Blue or Slate Green ($127, travelpro.com) — so worth a splurge if your old bag is big, heavy or wheel-less. FYI: A hard-side case is squash-, water- and stain-resistant and opens like a book; a soft-side case makes last minute cramming easy and has outer pockets for jackets and travel essentials. Your back, shoulders, neck, hips and clothes will thank you, either way.

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2. Swap your leather bag for a nylon one

A nylon bag can double as a chic beach and sightseeing bag. Sturdy nylon styles like the Baggu Cloud Bag in Lentil, Pinto or Black ($56, baggu.com), Everlane The Oversize Carryall in Black or Breen ($68, everlane.com) or Longchamp Le Pliage Club Small Shoulder Tote in Gun Metal/Silver or Black/Silver ($140, bloomingdales.com) have a clean modern shape, secure zip-top closure and come in sophisticated colors that are polished enough for everyday life. It will hold all your essentials — like wallet, keys, glasses, cell, masks, water bottle,  sunscreen , hand sanitizer, e-reader or tablet, swimsuit and hoodie — as needed. too. And the water-resistant fabrics mean no worries about spills.

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3. Create a where, what, when checklist

Get practical. What are you planning to do during those days and nights? Are you staying with family, at an Airbnb, a cozy B&B or a resort? Is this a super-casual barbecue, pool and beach thing, or more of an antiquing, restaurant and sightseeing trip? Check the weather app for your destination's forecast. If showers are possible, make a superlight hooded utility jacket part of your travel outfit. Anticipate cool mornings and chilly air-conditioning with a sweatshirt. Add in must-haves like charger cords and prescription meds, and the most-missed items women forget include a swimsuit (even if only for a dip in the hot tub) and a light oversize scarf that works as a wrap, pareo, pillow, blanket or dress-up piece for a tee. Remember the goal is to take as little as possible, with maximum versatility as the plan. See tip number 5 for a perfect list.

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4. Pick a comfy stylish travel outfit

Slim jeans, loafers and a blazer still make a great first impression (especially if traveling to a big city). But let's be honest: You're on a summer vacation and you'll sitting in one place for a long time en route. You may love leggings,  jeans , jumpsuits and maxi dresses, but they're not ideal for travel — too tight, too voluminous, and too hard to walk in, run to the gate or deal with in the restroom! Instead, wear slip-on  sneakers  or closed-toe espadrilles, ankle pants with stretch and a seasonal sweatshirt or jacket. This is your travel outfit, but the pieces work with all your packed items, too, to max out your options.

5. Pack 12 pieces of clothing total that mix and match

The items you pack depend on your trip and preferences, so adjust this list to get your ideal dozen but keep that magic number. A base of  neutral colors  is best, but don't just think black or navy. Lighter neutrals like khaki, tan, olive and light-wash denim add a warm sunny vibe — and so does white. Add a pop of bright color in a dress or top. In addition to your travel outfit, pack: two bottoms (your combo of pants, jeans, pull-on skirts or shorts); two swimsuits; five tops (your combo of tanks and tees); one day/night T-shirt dress (your preferred length); one loungey nightie that doubles as beach coverup; and one hoodie sweatshirt.

6. Take fewer shoes and accessories, more underwear

This is where we usually mess up. Estimate two pairs of underwear for each day (so doing laundry isn't always on your mind), and take an extra bra besides the one you wear to travel. They're weightless and easy to stash. However, limit  shoes  and  accessories . We always take too many. Go “lite” here, too, and skip big clunky wedges or heavy sneakers. Figure on one pair of day/night sandals, one pool slide, one pair of light flat walkable shoes like espadrilles, one pair of raffia or beaded statement earrings, one packable broadbrim sun hat and one pair of  sunglasses .

7. Plan for pieces that multitask

For packing light to be successful you need to get more creative about styling your clothes. In other words, make less do more. The best pieces easily pivot from day to night, hot outdoors to chilly indoors, super casual to polished without looking over or under done. Just be picky about choosing your favorite neckline, sleeve length and hemline. White tees like the 3/4 sleeve boatneck Hanes Women's Stretch Cotton Raglan Sleeve Tee in White ($7-22, amazon.com) or V-neck Hanes Women's Short Sleeve Nano-T V-Neck Tee in White ($14, amazon.com, not pictured) brighten up everything and add inches to your neck and torso. T-shirt dresses like the midi Ava & Viv Women's Plus Size Short Sleeve Knit Swing Dress in Blue ($20, target.com) or above-the-knee Ava & Viv Women's Plus-Size Short Sleeve T-Shirt Dress in Pink ($15, target.com) work with sneakers and a hoodie, sandals and statement earrings or espadrille flats and a cropped denim jacket. Get the idea?

8. Roll and pack in pouches like pros do

Packing your stuff neatly in separate bags inside your suitcase keeps clothes tidy and wrinkle-free while you travel and after arrival. Make stacks of like items —  underwear , tops, bottoms. Then roll or fold everything (your preference) and slip into a bag. Compression bags with a double zipper like the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes 4 PC in Deep Gray ($29, amazon.com) slim down stacks and save space, and noncompression pouches like the Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Tech Cube Set in Brilliant Blue ($40, amazon.com) keep you organized. But here's my cheap fashion-editor trick: I use gallon-size see-through Ziploc plastic baggies ($10, target.com) instead. And don't forget to pack shoes at the wheel end of your suitcase for weight distribution and balance when the case is upright.

9. Bring travel-size toiletries and minimal makeup

Do not pack standard-size bottles and tubes of moisturizer, cleanser, perfume, shampoo and conditioner. Instead, pop by any department store beauty counter or Sephora and ask for samples (all it takes is a few minutes of browsing and a chat with a sales associate). Or pick up some travel-size bottles and decant a small portion of your everyday liquid beauty essentials. Cream blush, a lipstick and mascara are all you need. If you are flying, remember  TSA rules : If you bring carry-on luggage (see tip number 1), liquids must be under 3.4 ounces and fit into a quart plastic bag. When it comes to makeup, aim for low effort, high payoff.

10. Prep for the grubby stuff and return trip

Traveling and vacationing are not sparkling clean situations. A scented dryer sheet tucked inside the suitcase keeps all smelling fresh. Always keep a spare plastic baggie or two for dirty laundry, wet swimsuits and shoes to prevent dirty soles from contact with clothing. Keep liquid or cream beauty items (including sunscreen) away from clothes and slip them into separate pouches before repacking. Note that altitude and air pressure changes (if you are flying) as well as heat (if you are driving) often cause products to expand, contract, leak or drip. You don't want to arrive home to find your belongings and suitcase a mess.

Lois Joy Johnson is a beauty and style editor who focuses on women 50 and older. She was the beauty and style editor at  Ladies’ Home Journal  and a founding editor of  More  magazine.   She has written three books:  The Makeup Wakeup, The Wardrobe Wakeup  and  The Woman's Wakeup.

Lois Joy Johnson is a beauty and style editor who focuses on women 50 and older. She was the beauty and style editor at  Ladies’ Home Journal  and a founding editor of More  magazine. She has written three books:  The Makeup Wakeup, The Wardrobe Wakeup  and  The Woman's Wakeup.

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How to Pack Light & Travel with Less (Like a Pro)

Last Updated: August 31, 2024

Want to travel light? Then you’d better pack light!

This simple bit of advice will fix most of problems if you’re a traveler who is weighed down with a suitcase that’s bursting at the seams and endangering anyone in its path.

Beyond bringing less, there’s more to the art of one bag packing and travel.

If you’ve already slimmed down your luggage, there’s still plenty more you can do to lighten your load.

I’m a steadfast one-bag traveler with years of experience under my belt, and would love to share some of my best advice with you.

Here are my best tips for packing (and traveling) light.

Pack Light, Travel Light

Make a Packing List and Stick to it

Learn how to ranger roll.

• Maximize Your Carry-On Size
• Know When to Utilize Packing Cubes

Pack Multi-Functional Clothing

Invest in merino wool & technical fibers, wear your bulky items at the airport.

• Leave Unnecessary Items at Home
• Don’t Overpack Toiletries

Bring Packable/Collapsible Gear to Save Space

Select your luggage for dimensions and weight, pack high-use essentials at the top of your bag.

• Final Thoughts on Packing Light

If you don’t, completely unnecessary items will magically appear in your bag.

How did that novelty travel mug get in your luggage?

Well, it probably snuck in while you were packing without a packing list!

Make a thoughtful list of your necessities, and once you’ve dialed it in, don’t deviate from it as you pack.

Know that your destination will almost always have anything you chose to leave behind, so don’t stress.

If you need some lightweight travel inspiration, check out our one-bag packing list to get started.

Or, if you want to really dive deep into lightening your load, peep our minimalist packing list , or check out our YouTube video above as well.

Whatever you do, avoid copying someone else’s packing list item-for-item.

There will always be something you need that they don’t (or vice versa).  

If there’s one thing we travelers can do to make packing light easier, it’s learning how to ranger roll .

What was once a way for soldiers to pack efficiently is now a favorite technique for travelers and nomads looking to utilize every square inch inside of their bag.

The ranger roll helps us travelers to make the most of our space, and the incredibly tight rolls also minimize wrinkles.

There’s certainly an art to it, but it’s a skill entirely worth learning.

Maximize Your Carry-On Size for Optimum One-Bag Travel

I recognize the irony for this piece of advice.

Joe, you just said to slim down your luggage, and now you want me to buy a bigger carry-on?

Fair enough, but stay with me.

You certainly don’t want to overpack, but you also want to balance comfort with ease of travel.

That’s where your carry-on comes in.

Unless you’re braving the budget airline realm and going personal item only , you’ll need to know carry-on regulations.

Even if you’re barreling headlong into the Spirit Airlines budget travel world — I do routinely and have lived to tell the tale so far — every square inch inside your luggage matters.

Most domestic airlines have identical carry-on regulations (and at least very similar personal item regulations).

For carry-ons, the standard in the US tends to be around 22″ x 14″ x 9″. European carriers, on the other hand, can be a bit more stringent .

If you swear by one carrier exclusively ( for better or worse ), know their carry-on and personal item regulations and how they compare to other airlines.

Know When to Utilize Packing Cubes (and When not to)

Packing cubes are a favorite among organization-minded travelers, so why would you ever travel without them?

The one downside of packing cubes is they’re, well… cubes.

Unless your pack is completely made of 90-degree angles, they won’t actually fill up every square inch inside.

Backpackers may be familiar with the idea of taking their sleeping bag out of its stuff sack and jamming it into the bottom of their pack, Doing so allows it to move naturally and fill every little crevice.

The same is true when travel packing.

For traditional travel, packing cubes are worth their weight in gold.

However, when you’re one-bag traveling, you may find that packing cubes may not maximize space in your bag and you’ll have to get creative to fill the empty spaces.

If you want to give packing cubes a shot, be sure to analyze their dimensions to ensure they fit well into your travel bag before making a purchase.

Let’s split “multi-functional” into two categories: style and utility.

In terms of style, aim for a simple wardrobe that matches well and can be dressed up or down.

Considering your itinerary is crucial to dialing in your clothing.

If you plan on visiting beautiful European churches with dress codes or heading out to fancy dinners, your needs will differ wildly than if you’re spending a relaxing week in Bali or splashing around in the ocean.

It’s not strange to pack only one set of nice clothing for your trip. If you’re on the move, nobody will know that you re-wore a certain outfit already anyway.

As goes for all things one-bag travel: less is more.

The second element to choosing a travel wardrobe is utility.

You want to consider your specific travel needs and which combination of clothing can solve the most needs at once.

Swim trunks and workout shorts do not have to be different pieces of clothing, for example.

They can also act as casual shorts on travel days, if nothing else.

Shoes often present a potentially tricky element to travel packing.

Even if you have size four feet, extra shoes will still occupy a significant amount of space in your bag.

In an ideal world, I recommend wearing one pair of versatile shoes and packing some thin flip-flops for showering and warm weather destinations.

Can you bring two pairs of shoes? Sure you can, but you’ll have to be at peace with cutting a significant amount of usable space from your bag’s volume.

Ultimately, everything you put in your luggage has an opportunity cost, so prioritize as you see fit.

The longer you can wear something without washing it, the fewer items you’ll need to pack.

Makes sense, right?

Merino wool travel clothing is ideal when it comes to stretching time between washes since it wicks sweat from your body and is incredibly anti-microbial and odor-resistant.

When you’re traveling for a week or more, you’re bound to get a little ripe.

That’s just how travel goes.

So, why not pick items that are made to keep your travel musk at bay for a few more days than usual?

Merino wool doesn’t need to be washed nearly as often as cotton (or polyester and other technical fibers, for that matter).

Wearing the same socks and underwear for days at a time would be a gnarly endeavor if they were cotton.

Merino wool though? Perfectly fair game and completely hygienic.

Merino clothing can be quite expensive, so it’s not for everyone.

For what it’s worth, my favorite Merino brand, Smartwool , frequently runs promos on their socks and underwear.

Keep a close eye on their clearance section, and you’ll find some serious discounts. Darn Tough is also great.

If you can’t find a sale or swing the cost of Merino, other synthetic technical fibers can simulate many of Merino’s benefits at a lower cost.

What should you do with boots, jackets, travel jeans , and other bulky items that hog precious space in your bag?

Simply don’t pack them; it’s a rookie mistake.

Wear them onto the plane instead.

Who cares if you look like the Michelin man going on vacation?

Freeing up valuable space in your bag is worth it.

Airports and airplanes tend to be over-air-conditioned anyway, so it’s a win-win.

Leave Unnecessary Electronics at Home

Stay with me, digital nomads.

I’m not saying leave all of your precious tech gadgets behind.

I’m simply encouraging you to pare down your setup to the absolute essentials.

Maybe you already have, but just in case you haven’t, let’s talk.

You may not be able to get a full day of work from just your phone, but do you really need a bulky laptop?

Could the combination of a smartphone and a capable tablet get the job done?

A phone stand, compact tablet, and mini Bluetooth keyboard can work wonders for digital nomads and free up a bunch of weight in their packs.

Don’t Overpack Toiletries

If you’re short on space in your bag, buy toiletries when you arrive at your destination or simply use what they provide at your hotel, hostel, Airbnb, or other lodging.

If you aren’t short on space, pack your favorite travel-sized toiletries to save some time and money.

A local pharmacy or general store is never too far away to stock up on toothpaste, soap, and other essentials.

Hotels and hostels usually have extras on hand that they’ll give away if you ask politely.

The same goes for those chargers and other odds and ends in the lost and found (if you’re extra charming).

Disclaimer : Your favorite toiletries won’t be available everywhere you travel. If you require a specific brand or type of toiletry, don’t chance it – bring it with you. The same goes for prescriptions and medicine beyond the basics.

Packable down jackets, crushable travel hats , power banks with built-in wires, and other compact travel accessories will maximize storage in your bag.

Invest in efficient, space-saving gear and watch your pack-size shrink.

One of my favorite packable pieces of travel gear is the Klymit X Inflatable Pillow , which I’ve used for several years.

Sure, it’s a bit of a luxury but frequent travelers will find it to be worth every penny.

It takes up no space, inflates in a few seconds, and is far more comfortable than resting your head on your backpack.

You can pack lightweight items, but a heavy piece of luggage will nullify all of your weight-conscious decisions.

Remember, just because a bag is small doesn’t necessarily mean it’s lightweight.

I mean, have you seen those Fjallraven backpacks?

They aren’t that large, but they weigh practically as much as a toddler.

There are loads of benefits to traveling with a smaller, lighter bag .

That said, the more technical and lightweight a bag is, the pricier and (sometimes) more delicate it can be.

Some travelers are fine with the tradeoffs, others aren’t.

If you want durable luggage you can toss around without worry, buy a more burly bag and enjoy the little extra workout you get as you trek around the globe.

Within your mind, there’s a Venn diagram that pinpoints the optimal balance between your bag’s size, weight, durability, and price.

There are going to be trade-offs no matter which direction you lean, so choose a bag that falls perfectly within your sweet spot.

Admittedly, this piece of advice won’t help you travel lighter in and of itself.

But, a thoughtfully-packed bag will significantly elevate your one-bag travel game.

When traveling, having your most essential gear immediately accessible will be a game-changer.

Think travel documents, power banks, and in-case-of-emergency cash. Whether you stash these items at the top of your pack, inside a fanny pack, or on your person is up to you.

When heading towards the land of one-bag travel, ensuring your essentials are easy to find is absolutely crucial.

How you pack your bag is almost as important as the items you bring along.

Pack Light, Travel Right & Keep Perfecting Your Craft

As you spend more time trying out one-bag travel and traveling light, you’ll naturally continue to dial in your gear list and travel packing routines.

The only way to see what works for you is to pack a bag, get out there, and go for it.

If you haven’t quite perfected traveling light when you head out on your next trip, don’t stress.

You’ll likely never be completely smitten with your packing list.

Along your journey, put your packing list to the test, figure out what works through trial and error, and forever fine-tune the gear you bring along, even if just incrementally.

Joe Coleman

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The Pros (Our Readers) Reveal their 36 Best Ever Packing Light Tips

Packing , Packing Tips

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It seems there are no limits to the number of travel tips out there about how to pack light. However, we wanted to know the single most important packing light tip so we reached out to our readers to find out what they thought. From luggage to shoes and toiletries to laundry, find out what our readers shared as their all time best tip for packing light!

Best Packing Light Tips

We share a lot of travel tips, which come from a mixture of our own experiences and our readers’ packing tricks. So when we asked them, “ What is your number one best tip for packing light?” we were so excited to hear their responses.   Here they are!

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

How to Pack Light: Luggage

• Packing cubes and pouches for organization so you have a place for everything and everything in its place.
• Take along a few extra gallon Ziplocs. They can hold wet items, liquids, food, etc.
• Take along some shower caps to use as shoe covers to keep your clothing in your luggage clean.
• I wear my jewelry when traveling so I don’t have to pack it. I love the security of this, too!
• I always take a ‘space bag’ for my dirty clothes that I can squeeze the air out of. A great space saver!
• Roll and rubber band your clothes in packing cubes to save space when packing.
• My top tip is to roll your clothes. You use less space and fit so much in.
• Put white tissue paper between every layer of clothing. Fold as little as possible laying each item out flat one on top of the other. Include extra lightweight throwaway cheap hangers.

Watch the packing tutorial on  Youtube !

In 2017, I launched Compass Rose Travel Accessories and my very first product was a  4-Piece Set of Carryon Packing Cubes . These are the only packing cubes  sized to fit the exact width of a carryon suitcase  and they also have a  unique color-coded and numbered organization system  – the only kind currently available anywhere on the market.

I put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing you the different methods to use packing cubes. If you use  this  specific packing strategy, they can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carryon only!

These packing light tips can change the way you travel:

• The Ultimate (Printable) Packing List for Vacation
• The Ultimate (Printable) Packing List for Toiletries
• The Secret to Carry-on Travel Packing Video
• What’s the Best Luggage Organizer

eBags Pack-it-Flat Large Toiletry Kit

How to Pack Light: Luggage Organizers

• I have a toiletry bag packed with small versions of my favorite needs. Then I can throw makeup and a hairbrush in and off I go. It’s great for unexpected travel or a busy schedule right before travel.
• Pack for one week no matter how long you’ll be gone.
• Pack items that look good, are able to be worn multiple ways, and are able to be hand washed in the sink.
• I recommend planning several days or weeks in advance! Plan outfits based on activities and account for weather. Everything MUST coordinate with everything, write it all down, don’t deviate.
• Plan to hand wash clothing ! Pack a little detergent. Once you realize you can rewear clothing often, you also realize you need much fewer clothing items.
• Keep searching until you find your perfect combo of bag/ packing cubes /whatever and absolutely do not stress if you hate something that other people think is fabulous. It’s your trip and it has to work for you!
• If you’re asking yourself if you really need to pack it, the answer is categorically no!
• After packing your bag, make sure you can lift the bag. Trains and hotels require a lot of lifting.
• If you are short on space, take the smaller version of some things where appropriate: a midi skirt instead of a maxi skirt, a waist-length cardigan instead of a long one, capris instead of long pants, three-quarter length sleeves instead of long sleeves, tank tops instead of T-shirt, and flats instead of wedge heels.
• Take half of what you think you need but take what you really love.

Here’s more tips to help you pack light :

• Top 10 Toiletry Bags
• The Best Hanging Toiletry Bag for Women?
• How to Choose a Suitcase

Travelon Anti Theft Cross Body Bag   – best seller!

How to Pack Light: Product Must-Haves

• Choose the smallest piece (and type) of luggage you think would be appropriate for your trip (carry-on only!), and pack no more than what can fill it. The more I travel, the smaller my packs are getting. My last trip was a 17L backpack and a purse.
• Take along a large bag for your personal carry-on/under the seat stow, and get as much in it that’s allowable. I take a backpack with my electronics and a sweater that can be used as a rolled up pillow or an extra layer.
• Downy anti-wrinkle spray! It helps refresh clothes by taking out the smell of smoke and food as well as refresh rooms while you travel.
• Always pack a package of facial tissue or Kleenex in your purse or backpack. They are handy when you encounter a restroom that’s out of toilet paper.
• A travel warrior friend recommends shaving cream to take out stains. She swears by it.
• Facial cleansing wipes. Try them before your trip, as you don’t want to get caught with breakouts on your vacation. Carry more than your travel days count to use on the days you travel in the plane to refresh, and even for personal hygiene.
• Take a prescription of antibiotics just in case!
• Bose noise canceling headphones . They’re a bit high maintenance but they’re so worth it on long flights!

Here are suggested travel gear for travel:

• Best Under Seat Luggage
• Best Lightweight Suitcases
• Best Travel Shoes
• Best Travel Purses

Conchlusion Tan Gladiator Sandals

How to Pack Light: Clothing and Shoes

• Pack clothing items that coordinate together so you can use each piece in multiple outfits. Learn more in my guide !
• Bring ‘double duty’ items, such as pieces that work for day and night, hot and cold weather, tops and bottoms, etc.
• Color coordinate your clothing so everything works together.
• I always have a scarf. Always. For warmth, for decoration, for whatever. I love cashmere or alpaca for warmth, softness, and light packing.
• I bring a pashmina. I can look semi put-together in it when I’m walking around or use it as a blanket on chilly flights.
• Bring a sarong with seams all the way around. You can use it as a scarf, dress, towel, beach blanket, blanket, sheet, and skirt.
• Make sure all your clothes coordinate, are light, suitable and wash and dry quickly.
• Bring three shoes and one bag that match each other and all your clothing.
• Try on all of your clothing and outfits you planned out before you go. You might discover that what looked so good together laid out on the bed doesn’t really work well on your body. This helps ensure you are only packing outfits and pieces you love!
• I always keep a long-sleeved quick-dry black tee in my bag for cold hotel rooms, snorkeling in Zanzibar, long (unscheduled) winter layover in Amsterdam when I was packed for Uganda, kayaking in California, and other unexpected events.

Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently:

• 4 Capsule Wardrobes for Travel
• Travel Wardrobe Essentials
• Learn How to Pack Light Stylishly
• 10-Step Guide to Packing One Suitcase for any Trip

What’s your absolutely best tip for packing light? Share in the comments below!

For more packing strategies, please read these posts:

• How to Pack in Less Than 15 Minutes: My 3-Step Strategy
• The Fashionista’s Guide to a Luggage-Free Minimalist Packing List
• This Packing Video Will Completely Change the Way You Pack

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I hope you liked this post on our reader’s best packing light tips. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

To pack medications: put each separate med in a small ziplock like you get at a craft store, get an extra label from the pharmacy and attach to outside of ziplock. Then put all of them in a larger quart bag. Be sure and put it in your carryon. Saves space and weight over bottles. Take extra of each med in case you get delayed.

Hi Sue, that’s a great tip! Thank your for sharing it 🙂

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• Travel Products
• Trends + Deals We Love

My Job Is Online Shopping, and These Are 92 Travel Clothes Deals You Can't Miss This Weekend — Up to 70% Off

Expect big savings from Vuori, Madewell, Athleta, and more.

• Amazon Deals
• Nordstrom Deals
• Lululemon Deals
• Madewell Deals
• Vuori Deals
• Athleta Deals
• Spanx Deals
• Everlane Deals

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

Labor Day isn’t just about a long weekend or honoring the achievements of the American Labor movement — it’s also the perfect time to snag some of the year’s best travel deals ahead of the new season. As a travel e-commerce writer, shopping and traveling are both huge parts of my life (professionally and personally), so I’m always on the lookout for discounts on comfortable clothes for my next adventure (or visit to the office). I'm happy to report that I've spotted incredible savings from top retailers and brands (think: Nordstrom, Madewell, Athleta, and more up to 70 percent off). 

Whether you’re prepping for an upcoming trip, getting a jumpstart on holiday shopping, or just refreshing your everyday wardrobe, these Labor Day sales are too good to miss. To elevate your shopping experience, I’ve rounded up the 92 best deals on everything from comfortable sweatpants to adorable flats Trust me, you’re bound to find something you love — but act fast; sizes are already selling out!

Best Amazon Deals

Amazon offers a wide range of fashion options at reasonable prices , and the convenience of having your order delivered within days is unbeatable — especially when you're in a pinch before your next trip and need those last-minute essentials. Below, are the best Labor Day finds for fall, like the PrettyGarden Women's Two-piece Set , which is the perfect, effortless airport look and 35 percent off. Plus, you’ll want to take a look at the Zesica Midi Dress , a versatile transitional piece that’s currently 62 percent off. 

• Levi's Men's 501 Original Fit Jeans , $39 (originally $80)
• Trendy Queen Women’s Oversized Hoodie , $30 (originally $53)
• PrettyGarden Women's Two-piece Tracksuit Set , $40 (originally $61)
• Zesica Women's Midi Dress , $26 (originally $67)
• Levi's Women's 725 High-rise Bootcut Jeans , $31 (originally $70)
• Automet Women’s Half-zip Cropped Pullover , $26 (originally $53)
• Anrabess Women's Long Cardigan , $30 (originally $50)
• Gofiep Women’s Tennis Dress , $20 (originally $50)
• Lillusory Women's Striped Cardigan , $30 (originally $60)
• Baleaf Women's Bike Shorts , $14 (originally $27)

Gofiep Women’s Tennis Dress

Best rei deals.

REI is also treating shoppers to incredible deals on activewear and accessories this Labor Day weekend. While it's known for outdoor gear, the fan-favorite retailer has an impressive and under-the-radar clothing selection. Scroll on to find deals on new hiking boots , a lightweight jacket to ease you into fall, and everything in between; REI has you covered with savings that are hard to pass up.

• Hoka Women's Trail Code Hiking Boots , $92 (originally $185)
• The North Face Re-grind Women’s Hoodie , $42 (originally $85)
• REI Co-op Women's Trailmade Skort , $27 (originally $55)
• Carve Designs Women’s Dylan Tank Top , $40 (originally $58)
• Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Jacket , $150 (originally $300)
• Patagonia Women's CTA Ringer T-shirt , $22 (originally $45)
• Rei Co-op Women's Sahara Shade Hoodie , $35 (originally $50)
• Arc'teryx Rho Women's Heavyweight Base Layer Bottoms , $60 (originally $120)
• Nike Vomero 17 Women’s Road-running Shoes , $120 (originally $160) 
• Hoka Women's No-show Run Socks , $24 (originally $35)

Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Jacket

Best nordstrom deals.

At Nordstrom, narrowing down the best Labor Day deals was a challenge because its sale section is brimming with stylish, travel-ready items — just in time for fall, I might add. From the chic Elsie Weave Ballet Flats that are 50 percent off to the sleek Giselle Knee-high Boots for 40 percent off, there is bound to be something to complete your fall wardrobe.

• Nordstrom Elsie Women's Weave Ballet Flats , $45 (originally $90)
• Nordstrom Men's Solid Button-up Shirt , $40 (originally $80)
• Giselle Women's Knee-high Boots , $129 (originally $215)
• Miah Women's Water-resistant Chelsea Boots , $70 (originally $100)
• Moonlight Women's Eco Easy Rib Pajamas , $55 (originally $85)
• Nordstrom Strip Cotton Scarf , $30 (originally $59)
• Sam Edelman Michaela Mary Jane Flats , $70 (originally $130)
• Nike Women's Phoenix Wide-leg Sweatpants , $53 (originally $70)
• Caslon Wide-leg Linen Blend Pants , $33 (originally $59)
• Vince Camuto Women's Ruffle Neck Georgette Blouse , $47 (originally from $69)
• Loveappella Roll Top Maxi Skirt , $35 (originally $49)

Nordstrom Men's Solid Button-up Shirt

Best lululemon deals.

Lululemon's "We Made Too Much" section is another favorite of mine, thanks to the unbeatable selection. The only catch? These items are so popular, they sell out fast. So to save you some time before it’s too late, I've handpicked the best Lululemon finds on sale for traveling, staying active, or even just heading to work.

• Hold Tight Short-sleeve Shirt , $39 (originally $58)
• Bowline Short Cotton VersaTwill Shorts , $59 (originally $78)
• Scuba Oversized Half-zip Hoodie , $99 (originally $128)
• License to Train Classic-fit T-shirt , $49 (originally $68)
• Lightweight Mid-rise Barrel-leg Cropped Pants , $89 (originally $148)
• Narrow Waistband Tennis Skirt , $69 (originally $88)
• Align Cami Strap Dress , $99 (originally $148)
• Swiftly Tech Cropped T-shirt , $49 (originally $68)
• Define Relaxed-fit Jacket , $129 (originally $148)
• Align T-strap Tank Top , $49 (originally $68)

Lululemon Lightweight Mid-rise Barrel-leg Cropped Pants

Best madewell deals.

Madewell is offering one of the best Labor Day sales I’ve seen in a while — not only are hundreds of items on sale but with the code " LONGWEEKEND " at checkout, the discounts are doubled and up to 50 percent off . If you're shopping for work staples, a Saturday night out, or your next trip, these deals are too good to pass up. For example, with the discount code, the Cutaway Hem Polo Top is nearly 80 percent off, bringing it down to just $12.

• Pull-on Straight Crop Pants , $30 with code LONGWEEKEND (originally $78)
• Supima Rob Cutaway Tank , $12 with code LONGWEEKEND (originally $38)
• Drapey Rib Tee , $24 with code LONGWEEKEND (originally $48)
• The ‘90s Straight Jeans , $67 with code LONGWEEKEND (originally $128)
• Crewneck Thong Bodysuit , $12 with code LONGWEEKEND (originally $52)
• Cutaway Hem Polo Top , $15 with code LONGWEEKEND (originally $72)
• Knotted-strap Tank , $20 with code LONGWEEKEND (originally $38)
• Flex 2.0 Fitness Dress , $24 with code LONGWEEKEND (originally $88)
• Tank Thong Bodysuit , $12 with code LONGWEEKEND (originally $48)
• Puff-sleeve Babydoll Top , $36 with code LONGWEEKEND (originally $88)
• High-rise Straight Cargo Trousers , $30 with code LONGWEEKEND (originally $128)

Madewell Crewneck Thong Bodysuit

Best vuori deals.

Vuori has become a favorite brand among Travel + Leisure editors , and it’s easy to see why. It's known for its high-quality, stylish pieces that are perfect for any adventure. Right now, Vuori is offering some incredible deals in honor of the long weekend — like the Colorblock Corset Jumpsuit for 41 percent off; pair it with a fuzzy jacket for a cozy fall or winter look. Or, snag the Bayview Thermal Wide-leg Pants , which are great for staying comfortable whether you’re at home, on a flight, or hitting the road, while they're marked down. 

• Women’s Track Leggings , $54 (originally $108)
• Women’s Colorblock Corset Jumpsuit , $76 (originally $128)
• Women’s Halo Performance Shorts , $51 (originally $64)
• Women’s Dune Crop , $71 (originally $89)
• Cove Funnel Neck Tank , $46 (originally $58)
• Bayview Thermal Crop Tank , $40 (originally $58)
• Women’s Volley Dress , $54 (originally $108)
• Bayview Thermal Wide-leg Pants , $75 (originally $108)
• Men’s Zone Shorts , $54 (originally $78)
• Women’s Performance Leggings , $78 (originally $98) 

Vuori Women’s Volley Dress

Best athleta deals.

Over at Athleta, shoppers can enjoy massive savings on all things activewear and loungewear. Perfect for long travel days, treks, office commutes, and more, the brand's sale section is bursting with rare finds like the Elevation Ultra High-rise 7/8 Leggings , which are sitting at $60 right now. You can also upgrade your outdoor gear with functional outerwear picks like the Salutation Jacket , which is $40 instead of its normal $129. Hurry, items are selling out fast! 

• Elevation Ultra High-rise 7/8 Leggings , $60 (originally $99) 
• Brooklyn Utility Jumpsuit , $60 (originally $139) 
• Salutation Jacket , $40 (originally $129) 
• Brooklyn Heights High-rise Skort , $40 (originally $69) 
• Momentum Seamless Tee , $45 (originally $59)
• Boundless Popover , $95 (originally $129) 
• Renew Seamless Muscle Tank , $20 (originally $45) 
• Vital Built-in Bra Tank , $45 (originally $59) 
• Retreat Linen High-rise Ankle Pants , $50 (originally $79) 
• Expedition Jacket , $100 (originally $129) 

Athleta Retreat Linen High-rise Ankle Pants

Best spanx deals.

Spanx clothing has gone viral on social media multiple times in the travel sphere, and for good reason: every piece checks all the boxes of being stylish, comfortable, and flattering. While Spanx is best known for shapewear, the brand has expanded its offerings to include everything from ultra-comfy sweats (which are loved by Oprah ) to versatile blazers that would work for any fall dinner, work event, or date night — and they're all on sale!

• EveryWear Seamed-Front Wide Leg Jeans , $89 (originally $168)
• AirEssentials Tie-waist Tank Dress , $69 (originally $138)
• Butter Keyhole Tank , $35 (originally $68)
• Get Moving Core Luxe Skort , $55 (originally $98)
• Stretch Twill Cropped Pants , $75 (originally $128)
• AirEssentials Crewneck , $75 (originally $118)
• AirEssentials Polo Tank , $55 (originally $78)
• AirEssentials V-neck Mini Dress , $95 (originally $138)
• Seamless Shaping Leggings , $29 (originally $68)
• The Perfect Asymmetrical Blazer , $135 (originally $228)

Spanx AirEssentials Crewneck

Best everlane deals.

Everlane’s Labor Day deals are almost too good to believe. The brand's '90s Curvy Cheeky Straight Jeans , for example, are now just $22 — aka a whopping 70 percent off — and they’re a must-have for your fall wardrobe. Everlane also has plenty of neutral-hued dresses that are easy to pack for any destination. I recommend starting with the on-sale Rib-knit A-line Tank Dress and the Cotton-waisted Dress , both of which can seamlessly transition from day to night.

• Curvy ‘90s Cheeky Jeans , $33 (originally $110)
• Supima High-neck Riviera Dress , $35 (originally $118)
• Cashmere Classic Crew Sweater , $87 (originally $158)
• Boyfriend Linen Shirt , $49 (originally $98)
• Supima Form Spaghetti-strap Cami Shirt , $18 (originally $40)
• Rib-knit A-line Tank Dress , $35 (originally $118)
• Cotton-waisted Dress , $39 (originally $98)
• The Linen Side-button Jumpsuit , $38 (originally $128)
• Linen High-way Drape Pants , $77 (originally $128)
• Mini Jacquard Stripe Slip Skirt , $38 (originally $128)
• Linen Eyelet Maxi Dress , $53 (originally $178)

Everlane The Rib-knit A-line Tank Dress

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What to Wear in Russia

Top style tips for russia.

• Russia is fairly conservative, and if you choose to wear bright colors – particularly in the winter months – you will stand out.
• Jeans are always popular here and, teamed with lighter layers for the summer and warmer ones for the winter, will serve as a versatile base to your wardrobe.
• Add in a smarter outfit for more formal occasions , such as the ballet or opera. Whilst it's not compulsory, the locals do dress up for these events and you'll feel more comfortable if you do the same.
• The attitude towards wearing fur is very different in Russia compared to Western Europe. Fur is very common and relatively cheap, and you will see a lot of people wearing it.
• If you are looking for a highly versatile travel jacket to bring along we recommend the  SCOTTeVEST  range. Their range of jackets have been specifically designed with traveling in mind and include RFID security (to protect your passport information), 23 secure pockets and personal connectivity integration.

Shoes to pack for Russia

• If you're intending to see as many sites as possible during your trip (and there are a lot to see) you'll be doing a good deal of walking – so be sure to pack some comfortable walking shoes . We love Hotter shoes , for total comfort along with style.

Pack for the weather

• November, December, January, February and March are freezing so be ready to dress warmly. Our advice would be to pack warm layers.
• For extra warmth pack some long thermal underwear – you'll be grateful you did.
• light wool is a good choice to wear against your skin as it naturally helps to regulate your body temperature . It keeps you warm in the cold, wicks away moisture when it's hot, and doesn't retain odours – even after prolonged wear.
• Muscovites wear a lot of fur in the winter – for a reason. Whether your preference is for fake or the real thing, you are well advised to have a very thick warm coat, gloves and scarf. A hat and/or ear muffs are also a very good idea. A furry lining or trim will keep you even cosier.
• Wear really good boots with soft rubber soles . It's important that you get soft rubber soles because even medium soles get really hard in the freezing cold. Make sure too that they have large spaces between the tracks, or the snow will get stuck in them and make them very slippery.
• Dressing in layers will help you with the temperature changes during the day, whatever time of year you visit.
• Be sure to pack your swimwear if you want to join in the winter time ritual bathing in hot and cold pools, steam rooms and saunas.
• We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂

Clothing tips for women

• Moscow and St Petersburg are very much like any other cosmopolitan city ; women love to dress up and are rarely seen without make-up and high heels.
• But, with all the sightseeing to do, we suggest you save your high heels for the evenings.
• A few well chosen pieces of costume jewelry will transform any outfit.
• And a pashmina is a versatile piece too that will dress up any outfit – try it with a simple smart dress.
• If you are planning to visit an Orthodox Church be sure to cover your head with a scarf, and cover up bare arms and legs – your pashmina or wrap can come in handy for this too.
• If you are in Russia on business, pack a conservative skirt-suit with tights or stockings and smart shoes.

Clothing tips for men

• If you are in Russia on business men are expected to wear a dark, well tailored suit and tie, with smart shoes.

Regions of Russia

• No trip would be complete without sight of Moscow's palatial metro (underground) dripping with chandeliers.
• For travel on the Trans-Siberian railway you'll need to dress in layers. The train itself is very warm inside, but for the frequent half-hour stops you'll need to put on boots, warm coat, hat and gloves as it can be freezing outside. There are power outlets for charging your phone etc, but don't leave it unattended and you'll need an adaptor. Take soft drinks with you – it will be much cheaper than buying them on board, and snacks will be useful especially in the winter when there are fewer sellers on the platforms.

Other things to pack

• You'll need a visa for Russia, and arrange it well in advance to avoid paying a premium at the last minute. Remember too that you must carry your passport with you at all times.
• If you don't buy Russian Rubles before you go, take US dollars or Euros as they are far easier to change once in the country.
• To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug , and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for Russian voltage (220V) .
• A lightweight day sack or shoulder bag will come in handy to carry your sightseeing essentials.
• If you tend to buy bottled water , consider carrying a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle – fill up from any source and get clean, safe drinking water without wasting plastic bottles.
• Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! The ‘ Mastryoshka ‘ nesting dolls are famous of course, but look out too for amber jewelry and beautiful lacquer boxes . If you want to stock up on vodka , remember you will need to pack it in checked-in luggage unless you buy at the airport duty-free.
• And a final tip – note that it's considered bad luck to whistle indoors !

Community photos of Russia

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How to Pack for a Trip to Moscow

Last Updated: January 13, 2021 References

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 16 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 35,617 times.

Moscow is the heart of Russia. It is the center of the political, cultural, and economic workings of the country. In Moscow one can visit the Kremlin, Red Square, Saint Basil's Cathedral, which has the famous onion-shaped domes, the Tystsin Botanical Garden, and more. Following is a list of what you may need to pack when traveling to Moscow.

• Summer temperatures average 65 °F (18 °C), or 18 Celsius. If you are travelling to Moscow during this time, bring lighter clothing and light jackets for the evening. It is important to remember that Russian casual wear is slightly more formal than U.S. or western casual clothing. Shorts and a T-shirt could be worn in usual walks, but not in museums, theaters, etc.
• On the other hand, winters can be brutal in Moscow, with temperatures at 20 °F (−7 °C) or -6 Celsius. Moscow also experiences heavy snow fall, so when travelling to Moscow during the winter be sure to pack boots, heavy coats, gloves, and scarves and hats.
• Spring in Moscow is usually cold and wet, so bring umbrellas and keep heavy coats and gloves on hand just in case. Fall clothing is much the same. If you are visiting closer to December, bring heavier coats and clothing.

Community Q&A

• Moscow is considered to be one of the most expensive cities in the world, so be prepared to spend. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• People in Russia don't usually speak English. Therefore, it can be helpful to learn basic Russian or use a dictionary/translating app if you must communicate. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

Things You'll Need

• Proper clothing
• Power adapter

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://russiable.com/where-change-dollars-rubles/
• ↑ https://transferwise.com/us/blog/money-and-banks-in-russia
• ↑ https://www.climatestotravel.com/climate/european-russia/moscow
• ↑ https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/russia/
• http://www.lonelyplanet.com/russia/moscow
• http://www.visatorussia.com/russianvisa.nsf/visa_requirements.html

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Travelfornoobs

The Complete Packing List for Moscow

Moscow packing list – what you need to bring, how to pack for moscow.

You’ve booked your plane ticket and the time of departure is fast approaching? After the joys of such a decision, comes the question of knowing what to put in your suitcase to go to Moscow. No need to panic, we have prepared a very complete list of the essential things to bring to make sure you don’t miss anything once you are there.

In order to leave no room for unforeseen events, it’s of course preferable to go through this list a few days before leaving rather than the day before departure, as you might miss some items.

Take the time to read and download it in order to identify the things that you absolutely must pack and that you might miss and that could make you lose time and money if you forget them.

You will also need to think about packing according to the type of accommodation you will be staying in, the different modes of transportation you will use during your trip, the climate and the season, as well as the activities you plan to do.

In order to help you prepare your suitcase, this checklist of the essential things to bring in Moscow gathers several categories: clothes, accessories, various objects… It will allow you to have a concrete vision of a typical suitcase for Moscow.

An advice, think of keeping some space in your luggage if you wish to bring back souvenirs or to make some clothing shopping on the spot.

Thanks to this travel list, preparing your bag for Moscow will be a real child’s play and you will just have to enjoy your adventure!

Note : This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.

• Important hings to do before you go
• Essential documents
• Transport essentials
• Backpack & luggage
• Clothing and shoes
• Hygiene & Toiletries
• Photo, Video & High Tech
• Useful accessories
• Medication and first aid kit
• Activities and Useful Links (+ Printable checklist PDF)

1/ Important things to do before you go

 Prepare your travel itinerary  Apply for a visa (if necessary)  Make your vaccinations (if necessary)  Check-up at the doctor / dentist  Take out a travel insurance  Photocopy or scan important documents (passport)  Write down e-mail and useful phone numbers in your address book  Warn your bank about your trip abroad (if necessary)  Book accomodation for your first night ( Do it now before everything is fully booked! Check the best hotels on Booking )  Download offline applications and maps for Maps.me  Download movies offline   Prepare your favorite music playlist  Turn off or turn down the heat of your house  Empty garbage cans  Water the plants   Give a copy of your house/car keys to a family member or friend  Close doors and windows

2/ Essential documents

Even before you buy your plane ticket, remember to check the validity of your passport : it must be valid for at least six months after your return date (for some countries) and have a blank page. Another tip: send your important documents to a secondary email in case you lose them.

   Passport   ID card    Plane or train ticket (have a paper copy just in case)   Reservation documents (e-ticket, train ticket, hotel reservation)   Visa (if necessary)   International driver’s license, if you wish to rent a car   Health insurance card   Travel insurance   Credit card   Cash   Useful numbers in case of emergency   Itinerary and address of your accommodation (hotel / AirBnB / camping)   Vaccination certificate   Diving license, sailing license, etc.   Some business cards with your contact information, email, blog, website

3/ Transport essentials

The little things to have with you at all times during the flight or the trip by train or bus:

 Phone and charger  Book / Magazine / Kindle / Travel Guide  MP3 player   Chewing gum   Pen + notepad  Travel pillow ( my favorite )  Sleep mask ( my favorite )   Earplugs   Snacks / sandwich   Small water bottle  Nasal ointment for dry nose  Sunglasses   Glasses case   Watch   Hand sanitizer   Disposable face mask   Tissues   Motion sickness medication

4/ Backpack & luggage

 Waterproof dry bag ( my favorite )  Handbag   Travel laundry bag ( my favorite )  Carry-on suitcase ( my favorite )  Travel bag ( my favorite )   Luggage tag ( my favorite )   Travel Packing Organizers ( my favorite )   Rain cover for backpack ( my favorite )   Zippered carry-on bag   Shoe bag ( my favorite )   Fanny pack   Lightweight foldable backpack ( my favorite )

5/ Clothing and shoes

  Socks  Underwear (panties, thongs, bras, briefs, boxers…)  Tank tops  Skirt ♀  Dress ♀  Pajamas  T-shirts  Long sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Short sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Polo shirt ( for her , for him )   Sweatshirt / pullover ( for her , for him )   Jeans   Lightweight pants ( for her , for him )   Money belt ( my favorite )   Shorts   Jogging suit   Jacket / coat   K-way ( for her , for him )   Windbreaker ( for her , for him )  Hat / cap / beanie   Scarf / bandana   Swimsuit   Buff scarf ( my favorite )

For shoes, you will have to choose according to the activities you plan to do:

 Comfortable walking shoes   Shoes for going out (restaurants, bars, clubs…)  Flip-flops (for the beach, showers…) ( for her , for him )  Hiking shoes ( for her , for him )  Sandals ( for her , for him )   Water shoes for walking in water (beaches, waterfalls, rivers…) ( for her , for him )  Light trekking shoes ( for her , for him )  Crocs

6/ Hygiene & Toiletries

 Microfiber towel ( my favorite )   Toilet bag   Portable Travel Bottles ( my favorite )  Toothbrush & toothpaste  Dental floss  Soap   Shampoo   Facial cleanser   Nail clippers   Cotton buds (biodegradable)   Tweezers   Make-up   Deodorant   Comb / Hairbrush   Razor & shaving foam ♂   Biodegradable wipes ( my favorite )   Toilet paper roll   Perfume   Makeup ♀   Contact Lenses   Contact lens product   Pocket mirror

7/ Photo, Video & High Tech

For photographers and videographers:

 Camera  Lens  Memory card  Polarizing filters   ND filter   Extra battery   Charger + cable + plug adapter   Cleaning kit   External hard drive   USB key   Stabilizer   Drone ( my favorite )    Waterproof phone case   Flash   Solar charger ( my favorite )    Gopro ( my favorite )   Waterproof case   Selfie Pole  External battery / Powerbank ( my favorite ) 

Don’t forget:

 Portable speaker  Ipad / Tablet  Laptop PC  External battery  Headphones or noise cancelling headphones ( my favorite )

Useful apps to download before you go to Moscow:

 AirBnB  Booking  Couchsurfing  Flush – Public Toilet Finder (Useful for finding toilets!)  Google Maps  Google Translator  Google Trips  Lonely Planet Guide  LoungeBuddy  Maps.me  Meetup  Tripadvisor  Uber  Whatsapp  XE Currency

8/ Useful accessories

The accessories you will take in your bag for Moscow will depend on your travel style:

  TSA lock ( my favorite )  Headlamp ( my favorite )  Sleeping bag ( my favorite )  Sheets ( my favorite )  Swiss Army knife (not in the hand luggage!) ( my favorite )  Travel clothesline ( my favorite )  Powdered or liquid detergent  Clothes pegs  Spork ( my favorite )  Ziploc bags  Lighter  Folding umbrella ( my favorite )  Toilet paper  Mosquito repellent ( my favorite )   Mosquito net ( my favorite )   Sunscreen cream  Aloe vera gel   Waterproof pouch for smartphone    For hikers : GPS, map, compass, water bottle   Walking stick ( my favorite )   Anti-sweat talcum powder ( my favorite )   Beach towel ( my favorite )   Sawyer water filter ( must-have !)  Pills to purify non-drinking water   Mask, snorkel, fins   Diving accessories (gloves, dive computer, lamp, knife…)

9/ Medication and first aid kit

I suggest that you consult your doctor and dentist before leaving. Beware of unauthorized medication and remember to keep your vaccinations up to date!

If you have a treatment don’t forget to take your personal medication and your prescription if necessary (or medical certificate).

You can buy a first aid kit already prepared ( my favorite ).

  Cotton buds   Tweezers   Round-tipped scissors   Pairs of single-use latex gloves  Bandages   Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain   Sterile compresses   Disinfectant spray for wounds   Physiological saline solution in pods (wound cleaning)   Condoms and other contraceptives

For longer trips and higher risk locations, we can also add:

  Sterile adhesive skin sutures (steristrips)   Rehydration solutions (in case of dehydration)   Water purification tablets   Water decontamination tablets (Aquatabs or Micropur)   Medication for altitude   Medication for sore throat    Anti-malarial medication   Survival blanket   Tick tweezers   Ointment against itching (antihistamine)   Probiotics for the stomach   Corticosteroid pills and cream   Analgesics (painkillers)   Survival blanket   Cold medicine (decongestant)   Biafine (in case of burns or sunburns)   Broad-spectrum antibiotics without a prescription   Anti-diarrhea tablets (immodium, smecta)

10/ Activities and Useful Links + Printable checklist

You can download the complete travel list in PDF format and print it by clicking here.

Book your hotel in Moscow now on Booking.com

AirBnb : Get a discount for your first booking!

Book now your activities in Moscow on Getyourguide:

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Russia Packing List

Whether you're heading to Russia for vacation or business, there are a few absolute essentials that you can't forget to pack. Beyond the appropriate wardrobe, you should bring a power converter; your passport and visa; and much more. Make your list and plan ahead of time so you don't leave anything important behind.

You can't travel to Russia if you don't have a Russian visa. In order to get one, you should apply well in advance of your trip through an embassy. You will also need an invitation (issued by the hotel at which you plan to stay or through a travel agent), and you can use this invitation to apply for your visa. Double check that the visa is valid during the dates of your trip, and carry your visa with you wherever you go in Russia as sometimes police do random checks.

Bring some cash with you, as you will likely need it. Euros and USD can be exchanged almost anywhere in Russia. There will be ATMs in the airport (or wherever you are arriving), but it’s possible in Russia that they’ll be out of order—so don’t take that risk. It’s quite difficult to pay by credit card in Russia (and practically impossible to pay by debit card), so having cash is essential. Make sure the bills are in crisp, good condition, as it’s quite common in Russia for people (and even banks) to reject damaged bills.

If you’re traveling to Moscow or St. Petersburg and are planning on seeing the tourist attractions , make sure you have a good way of securing your money. Either wear a money belt or get a small bag that sits close to your body with a secure closure—and keep an eye on it!

If you are going to be staying with a host family, or interacting extensively with Russian people in general, it’s nice to bring some small souvenirs from your country (mugs, t-shirts, keychains, and so on). This is a small gesture that will be greatly appreciated.

Toilet Paper

Russian toilets are notoriously dirty and unkempt, and you will often not find toilet paper inside. Carry some with you (or a small pack of tissues) just in case. You may also want to pack a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer as well.

In general, it’s good to bring layers. A scarf will be particularly useful for covering your head if you’re a woman planning to visit religious monuments. This is usually not obligatory, but it is appreciated.

Russian weather is quite unpredictable, and even if you’re traveling at the height of summer, it would be wise to bring an umbrella. This is especially true in St. Petersburg or ​ northern Russia , where it's more likely to rain.

When you're packing your toiletry bag, make sure to include prescription drugs and contact lens solution. Although you can buy most household items in pharmacies and shops in Russia, these particular things are surprisingly difficult to find.

Fancy Outfits

If you plan on going clubbing, you'll need to bring nice clothes. Many clubs, especially in Moscow and St. Petersburg , have a strict dress code and will not let you in if you’re not up to their standards. So don’t show up wearing jeans and a T-shirt, which may be fine if you're  going to a casual, local bar  but not to an exclusive club.

Duffel Bags

Packing light is recommended no matter where you're traveling to. But in Russia, try to leave your oversized luggage and rolling suitcases at home. Instead, use a duffel bag that you can easily throw over your shoulder. Many Russian metro stations don’t have escalators but they do have huge staircases that must be climbed to get around the station, which is difficult to navigate with a bulky suitcase.

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Money blog: Oasis resale U-turn as official reseller lowers fee amid criticism

The Money blog is your place for consumer and personal finance news and tips. Today's posts include Twickets lowering fees for Oasis tickets, the extension of the Household Support Fund and O2 Priority axing free Greggs. Listen to a Daily podcast on the Oasis ticket troubles as you scroll.

Monday 2 September 2024 20:11, UK

• Oasis resale U-turn as Twickets lowers fee after criticism
• Millions to get cost of living payments this winter as scheme extended
• O2 Priority customers fume as Greggs perk scaled back
• Listen to the Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts

Essential reads

• 'This job has saved lives': What's it like selling the Big Issue?
• Eyewatering rate hike awaiting anyone coming off a five-year fixed

Tips and advice

• Money Problem : 'My dog died but my insurance is still demanding whole year's policy payment'
• Treat savings like monthly bill, says savings guru
• Young people doing 'big no-no' with holiday money - here are the golden rules

Twickets has announced it is lowering its charges after some Oasis fans had to pay more than £100 in extra fees to buy official resale tickets.

The site is where the band themselves is directing people to buy second-hand tickets for face value - having warned people against unofficial third party sellers like StubHub and Viagogo.

One person branded the extra fees "ridiculous" (see more in 10.10 post), after many people had already been left disappointed at the weekend when Ticketmaster's dynamic pricing pushed tickets up by three times the original advertised fee.

Twickets said earlier that it typically charged a fee of 10-15% of the face value of the tickets.

But it has since said it will lower the charge due to "exceptional demand" from Oasis fans - taking ownership of an issue in a way fans will hope others follow. 

Richard Davies, Twickets founder, told the Money blog: "Due to the exceptional demand for the Oasis tour in 2025, Twickets have taken the decision to lower our booking fee to 10% and a 1% transactional fee (to cover bank charges) for all buyers of their tickets on our platform. In addition we have introduced a fee cap of £25 per ticket for these shows. Sellers of tickets already sell free of any Twickets charge.

"This ensures that Twickets remains hugely competitive against the secondary market, including sites such as Viagogo, Gigsberg and StubHub.

"Not only do these platforms inflate ticket prices way beyond their original face value but they also charge excessive booking fees, usually in the region of 30-40%. Twickets by comparison charges an average fee of around 12.5%"

The fee cap, which the Money blog understands is being implemented today, will apply to anyone who has already bought resale tickets through the site.

Mr Davies said Twickets was a "fan first" resale site and a "safe and affordable place" for people to trade unwanted tickets.

"The face value of a ticket is the total amount it was first purchased for, including any booking fee. Twickets does not set the face value price, that is determined by the event and the original ticketing company. The price listed on our platform is set by the seller, however no one is permitted to sell above the face-value on Twickets, and every ticket is checked before listing that it complies with this policy," he said.

Meanwhile, hundreds of people have complained to the regulator about how Oasis tickets were advertised ahead of going on sale. 

The Advertising Standards Authority said it had received 450 complaints about Ticketmaster adverts for the gigs.

Some  expressed their anger on social media , as tickets worth £148 were being sold for £355 on the site within hours of release, due to the "dynamic pricing" systems.

A spokesperson from ASA said the complainants argue that the adverts made "misleading claims about availability and pricing".

They added: "We're carefully assessing these complaints and, as such, can't comment any further at this time.

"To emphasise, we are not currently investigating these ads."

Ticketmaster said it does not set prices and its website says this is down to the "event organiser" who "has priced these tickets according to their market value".

Despite traditionally being an affordable staple of British cuisine, the average price for a portion of fish and chips has risen by more than 50% in the past five years to nearly £10, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Sonny and Shane "the codfather" Lee told Sky News of the challenges that owning J-Henry's Fish and Chip Shop brings and why prices have skyrocketed. 

"Potatoes, fish, utilities, cooking oil - so many things [are going up]," he said. 

Shane also said that he is used to one thing at a time increasing in price, but the outlook today sees multiple costs going up all at once.  

"Potatoes [were] priced right up to about £25 a bag - the previous year it was about £10 a bag," Sonny said, noting a bad harvest last year. 

He said the business had tried hake as a cheaper fish option, but that consumers continued to prefer the more traditional, but expensive, cod and haddock. 

"It's hard and we can we can absorb the cost to a certain extent, but some of it has to be passed on," Shane added. 

After a long Saturday for millions of Oasis fans in online queues, the culture secretary says surge pricing - which pushed the price of some tickets up by three times their original advertised value to nearly £400 - will be part of the government's review of the ticket market. 

On today's episode of the Daily podcast, host Niall Paterson speaks to secondary ticketing site Viagogo. While it wasn’t part of dynamic pricing, it has offered resale tickets for thousands of pounds since Saturday. 

Matt Drew from the company accepts the industry needs a full review, while Adam Webb, from the campaign group FanFair Alliance, explains the changes it would like to see.

We've covered the fallout of the Oasis sale extensively in the Money blog today - see the culture secretary's comments on the "utterly depressing" inflated pricing in our post at 6.37am, and Twickets, the official Oasis resale site, slammed by angry fans for its "ridiculous" added fees at 10.10am.

The growing backlash culminated in action from Twickets - the company said it would lower its charges after some fans had to pay more than £100 in extra fees for resale tickets (see post at 15.47).

Tap here to follow the Daily podcast - 20 minutes on the biggest stories every day

Last week we reported that employers will have to offer flexible working hours - including a four-day week - to all workers under new government plans.

To receive their full pay, employees would still have to work their full hours but compressed into a shorter working week - something some workplaces already do.

Currently, employees can request flexible hours as soon as they start at a company but employers are not legally obliged to agree.

The Labour government now wants to make it so employers have to offer flexible hours from day one, except where it is "not reasonably feasible".

You can read more of the details in this report by our politics team:

But what does the public think about this? We asked our followers on LinkedIn to give their thoughts in an unofficial poll.

It revealed that the overwhelming majority of people support the idea to compress the normal week's hours into fewer days - some 83% of followers said they'd choose this option over a standard five-day week.

But despite the poll showing a clear preference for a compressed week, our followers appeared divided in the comments.

"There's going to be a huge brain-drain as people move away from companies who refuse to adapt with the times and implement a 4 working week. This will be a HUGE carrot for many orgs," said Paul Burrows, principal software solutions manager at Reality Capture.

Louise McCudden, head of external affairs at MSI Reproductive Choices, said she wasn't surprised at the amount of people choosing longer hours over fewer days as "a lot of people" are working extra hours on a regular basis anyway.

But illustrator and administrative professional Leslie McGregor noted the plan wouldn't be possible in "quite a few industries and quite a few roles, especially jobs that are customer centric and require 'round the clock service' and are heavily reliant upon people in trades, maintenance, supply and transport". 

"Very wishful thinking," she said.

Paul Williamson had a similar view. He said: "I'd love to know how any customer first service business is going to manage this."

We reported earlier that anyone with O2 Priority will have their free weekly Greggs treats replaced by £1 monthly Greggs treats - see 6.21am post.

But did you know there are loads of other ways to get food from the nation's most popular takeaway for free or at a discount?

Downloading the Greggs app is a good place to start - as the bakery lists freebies, discounts and special offers there regularly. 

New users also get rewards just for signing up, so it's worth checking out. 

And there's a digital loyalty card which you can add virtual "stamps" to with each purchase to unlock discounts or other freebies.  

Vodafone rewards

Seriously begrudged Virgin Media O2 customers may want to consider switching providers. 

The Vodafone Rewards app, VeryMe, sometimes gives away free Greggs coffees, sausage rolls, sweet treats and more to customers.

Monzo bank account holders can grab a sausage roll (regular or vegan), regular sized hot drink, doughnut or muffin every week. 

Birthday cake

Again, you'll need the Greggs award app for this one - which will allow you to claim one free cupcake, cream cake or doughnut for your birthday each year.

Octopus customers

Octopus Energy customers with smart meters can claim one free drink each week, in-store from Greggs (or Caffè Nero).

The Greggs freebie must be a regular size hot drink.

Make new friends

If you're outgoing (and hungry), it may be worth befriending a Greggs staff member.

The staff discount at Greggs is 50% on own-produced goods and 25% off branded products. 

If you aren't already aware, Iceland offers four Greggs sausage rolls in a multi-pack for £3. 

That means, if you're happy to bake it yourself, you'll only be paying 74p per sausage roll. 

Millions of Britons could receive extra cash to help with the cost of living this winter after the government extended the Household Support Fund.

A £421m pot will be given to local councils in England to distribute, while £79m will go to the devolved administrations.

The fund will now be available until April 2025 having been due to run out this autumn.

Councils decide how to dish out their share of the fund but it's often via cash grants or vouchers.

Many councils also use the cash to work with local charities and community groups to provide residents with key appliances, school uniforms, cookery classes and items to improve energy efficiency in the home.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: "The £22bn blackhole inherited from the previous governments means we have to take tough decisions to fix the foundations of our economy.

"But extending the Household Support Fund is the right thing to do - provide targeted support for those who need it most as we head into the winter months."

The government has been criticised for withdrawing universal winter fuel payments for pensioners of up to £300 this winter - with people now needing to be in receipt of certain means-tested benefits to qualify.

People should contact their local council for details on how to apply for the Household Support Fund - they can find their council  here .

Lloyds Bank app appears to have gone down for many, with users unable to see their transactions. 

Down Detector, which monitors site outages, has seen more than 600 reports this morning.

It appears to be affecting online banking as well as the app.

There have been some suggestions the apparent issue could be due to an update.

Another disgruntled user said: "Absolutely disgusting!! I have an important payment to make and my banking is down. There was no warning given prior to this? Is it a regular maintenance? Impossible to get hold of someone to find out."

A Lloyds Bank spokesperson told Sky News: "We know some of our customers are having issues viewing their recent transactions and our app may be running slower than usual.

"We're sorry about this and we're working to have everything back to normal soon."

We had anger of unofficial resale prices, then Ticketmaster's dynamic pricing - and now fees on the official resale website are causing consternation among Oasis fans.

The band has encouraged anyone wanting resale tickets to buy them at face value from Ticketmaster or Twickets - after some appeared for £6,000 or more on other sites.

"Tickets appearing on other secondary ticketing sites are either counterfeit or will be cancelled by the promoters," Oasis said.

With that in mind, fans flocked to buy resale tickets from the sites mentioned above - only to find further fees are being added on. 

Mainly Oasis, a fan page, shared one image showing a Twickets fee for two tickets as high as £138.74. 

"Selling the in demand tickets completely goes against the whole point of their company too… never mind adding a ridiculous fee on top of that," the page shared. 

Fan Brad Mains shared a photo showing two tickets priced at £337.50 each (face value of around £150, but increased due to dynamic pricing on Saturday) - supplemented by a £101.24 Twickets fee. 

That left him with a grand total of £776.24 to pay for two tickets.

"Actually ridiculous this," he  said on X .

"Ticketmaster inflated price then sold for 'face value' on Twickets with a £100 fee. 2 x £150 face value tickets for £776, [this] should be illegal," he added. 

Twickets typically charges between 10-15% of the ticket value as its own fee. 

We have approached the company for comment.

Separately, the government is now looking at the practice of dynamic pricing - and we've had a response to that from the Competition and Markets Authority this morning.

It said: "We want fans to get a fair deal when they go to buy tickets on the secondary market and have already taken action against major resale websites to ensure consumer law is being followed properly. 

"But we think more protections are needed for consumers here, so it is positive that the government wants to address this. We now look forward to working with them to get the best outcomes for fans and fair-playing businesses."

Consumer protection law does not ban dynamic pricing and it is a widely used practice. However, the law also states that businesses should not mislead consumers about the price they must pay for a product, either by providing false or deceptive information or by leaving out important information or providing it too late.

By James Sillars , business reporter

It's a false start to the end of the summer holidays in the City.

While London is mostly back at work, trading is fairly subdued due to the US Labor (that's labour, as in work) Day holiday.

US markets will not open again until Tuesday.

There's little direction across Europe with the FTSE 100 trading nine points down at 8,365.

Leading the gainers was Rightmove - up 24%. The property search website is the subject of a possible cash and shares takeover offer by Australian rival REA.

The company is a division of Rupert Murdoch's News Corp.

One other point to note is the continuing fluctuation in oil prices.

Brent crude is 0.7% down at the start of the week at $76.

Dragging the cost lower is further evidence of weaker demand in China.

Australia's REA Group is considering a takeover of Rightmove, in a deal which could be worth about £4.36bn.

REA Group said in a statement this morning there are "clear similarities" between the companies, which have "highly aligned cultural values".

Rightmove is the UK's largest online property portal, while REA is Australia's largest property website. 

It employs more than 2,800 people and is majority-owned by Rupert Murdoch's News Corp,.

REA Group said: "REA sees a transformational opportunity to apply its globally leading capabilities and expertise to enhance customer and consumer value across the combined portfolio, and to create a global and diversified digital property company, with number one positions in Australia and the UK.

"There can be no certainty that an offer will be made, nor as to the terms on which any offer may be made."

Rightmove has been approached for comment.

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