5 tips for packing light

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1. The number one secret to traveling light: make a proper personal packing list.

And follow it to the letter, as if it were a contract you signed with yourself.

For most people, such a list don't need to include more items than will fit in a single carry-on bag.

Remember to bring a refillable drinking bottle

2. Learn about luggage.

Not all bags on the market are designed to be practical.

Study up on design (shapes, configurations) and construction (fabrics, zippers).

3. Avoid liquids; they are the bane of the light traveler.

Liquids (and gels) are heavy, bulky, prone to leakage (particularly on planes) and suspicious to security. Did I mention heavy?

4. Plan to do some laundry.

If you do this regularly, it is no stress at all. Washing a couple of items at a time, can spare you a lot of space. With the right gear (travel clothesline, detergent sheets, universal sink stopper), you can do with three pairs of underwear for a long journey.

5. Coordinate your colors.

Just ensure that every item goes with every other one. That way you can mix and match everything regardless if any of your clothes gets dirty or ruined turing your journey.