In 48 hours I am going to leave the country for a two-month trip to Vietnam. And, you guessed it from the title, I'm only packing one bag. One carry-on bag. A small bag with a 20 pound limit. That's right: for two months I am living out of my trusty Tom Bihn Aeronaut.
Step One: Plan
For each item you are planning to bring ask yourself:
1. Do I really need this?
A.K.A is it a necessity?
2. Where will it go?
Is there an obvious space for you to keep it?
3. How much room will it take up?
Is it clunky? Will it use more space than it is worth?
4. How often will I use it?
Is it useful and often used?
If an item does not pass the test above, don't pack it.
If you are questioning how many of an item you should bring (for example shirts or pants) this is a good rule to follow: If your trip is two-three weeks long or more bring 7 tops and 4-5 bottoms. If your trip is less than two weeks long bring 4 tops and 3 bottoms. But, always bring extra underwear and socks. ALWAYS.
Step Two: Pack
Here is the golden rule of packing tight: roll or fold.
Personally, I roll my clothes because I find that way they have less wrinkles and are more compact. Once I roll my clothing I put similar items in packing cubes
Another key to packing light is mastering organization. Packing cubes help with clothing, but toiletries should always go in a toiletry case and cables are best packed in an internal pocket.
When it comes to your "under the seat" bag (purse or small backpack), that is where you should put anything valuable a.k.a laptops, tablets, e-readers, glasses, wallets, passports, ID documents, money, keys, phones etc.
+ Another Tip: if you want to cheat the weight limit, pack your heaviest items in your personal "under the seat" bag.
Step Three: Travel
Enjoy your trip! See, it wasn't that hard!
Comment if you have any secrets to packing small & light!
