Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ets and it's amazing how light and packable some of them are. For example, the Outdoor Re-
search's Helium II jacket weighs in at a trivial 6.5oz. Marmut, Montane, Patagonia, Arc'teryx,
REI, and a handful of other companies make quality waterproof jackets that weigh in the
range of 7oz. to 14oz.
I generally don't cut back much on underwear and socks since they don't take up too much
space in the first place. Many minimalist travelers swear by their ExOfficio travel underwear
and only bring two pairs for their entire trip. I bring three or four pairs but that's just personal
preference. If you're disciplined about washing socks every night, you can get by with two pair
but I bring four or five pairs.
Most minimalists only bring one pair of shoes so make certain they're comfortable. A pair
of travel sandals can also be nice since they don't take up much space and they're comfortable
in hot weather.
MINIMAL ELECTRONICS
It's easy to be a minimalist when it comes to electronics, but there are really only two things
you need to bring—smartphone/tablet and a camera. If you really want to cut down, you can
probably forgo the camera in favor of a smartphone with a nice camera. Personally, I'd still
bring a compact camera because the photo quality is much better.
Most electronics can be charged via USB, so bring a travel power strip that has USB ports.
This way you can leave the power plugs to your devices at home and charge everything though
USB.
TOILETRIES
It's commonsense, but you really don't need that many toiletries and anything that you forget
you can easily buy on the road. Just bring the basics—toothbrush (with brush cover), tooth-
paste, deodorant, shampoo, and bodywash. I pack my liquids in a handful of travel-size
GoToob containers. If you're bringing makeup, only pack the essentials. All your toiletries can
be packed away in a plastic bag or you can use a toiletry bag—whatever you prefer.
ULTRA-LIGHT ACCESSORIES
Opt for a
travel towel
instead of a bulky bath towel because it will save a huge amount of space
in your bag. Do purchase the large or extra large version because the small and medium sizes
are too small to really be useful.
A
keychain flashlight
will always come in handy. The Streamlight 73001 Nano is a favorite
among travelers because it's super small but incredibly bright.
That's all you really need to travel. I do encourage you to look through the regular packing
list to pick other items you may want to bring but everything else is extra.
