Traveling Light

It is easy to travel light. Begin with two simple questions.

• What to pack?
• What to carry it in?

What To Pack

Look for lightweight and compact travel products and travel clothing. Once you have determined what travel items are necessary, then look for the small, lightweight versions of those products. These items are often less expensive,  higher quality, and have higher technical performance. Consider clothing made with 100% merino wool. Merino wool clothing has natural anti-microbial properties. Even after several days of use they do not stink. Merino wool clothing also has excellent thermal regulation capabilities. In hot weather it can keep you cool, and it cool weather it keeps you warm, even when wet. Cotton isn't a good material for travel apparel. It becomes soggy from sweat or rain, loses virtually all of its insulating properties when wet, and takes a very long time to dry out.

Look for multiple "use" in your travel kit. Many items of travel gear and apparel can be used for multiple purposes. The practice of using one item for more than one purpose will often allow you to leave other items at home. Again, take the time to scrutinize each piece of your travel kit for opportunity to reduce quantity and weight. A great example is to select a rain waterproof breathable rain jacket. Worn over a short sleeved shirt it can act as a wind braker, or pair it with a warm mid-layer article of clothing like a fleece pullover to keep you warm and dry in cooler temperatures. Remember - layers are good.

What To Carry It In

Soft sided duffel bags or a backpack are the preferred choices for traveling light. Travel Packs are are made of durable material, and have multiple lash points for attaching additional items. Read our article on Travel Packs for more information.

Continue to improve your travel kit. During and after each travel adventure think of other ways you can reduce the amount and weight of the items you pack, and consider ways to improve the versitility and performance of those items. Chances are you will find ways to improve your travel kit every trip, and travel light.