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Packing light: the one-bag method

Two weeks, three climates, one 35-litre bag. A tested packing list and the rules that make carry-on-only travel easy.

Tomas Lindqvist2 min read

Hikers with backpacks walking along a green ridge
iMahesh · CC BY-SA 4.0

I have travelled with a single carry-on bag for six years, including a month that went from Swedish winter to a Portuguese spring. The bag is not special. The method is.

The rules

  1. Pack for one week. Whether the trip is seven days or seven weeks, you will do laundry. Plan for it.
  2. Choose one colour palette. If every top goes with every bottom, five pieces make a dozen outfits.
  3. Layer instead of bulk. A thin base layer, a fleece and a waterproof shell beat one heavy coat in almost every climate.
  4. Wear the heaviest things on travel days. Boots and jacket on your body, not in the bag.
  5. Leave space. If the bag is full when you leave home, it will not close on the way back.

The list

Clothes

  • 3 tops (merino if possible)
  • 2 trousers, 1 pair of shorts
  • 4 socks, 4 underwear
  • 1 fleece or light jumper
  • 1 waterproof shell

Shoes & extras

  • Walking shoes (worn)
  • Light sandals or trainers
  • Packable tote bag
  • Travel towel
  • Reusable water bottle

Tech & admin

  • Phone and one charger
  • Universal adaptor
  • Small power bank
  • Copies of documents
  • A paper notebook

Liquids and toiletries

Solid shampoo, soap and toothpaste tablets avoid the liquids bag entirely. Everything else can be bought at your destination, which is also a nice excuse to visit a local pharmacy.

Common questions

What size bag?

Something between 30 and 40 litres that meets most airlines’ cabin limits. Check the smallest airline you plan to fly.

What about cold destinations?

Add a thermal base layer, a warm hat and gloves. Wear your insulated jacket on the plane.

How do you do laundry?

Sink-wash small items every few days with a little soap, and use a laundrette once a week.

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