When did packing light become an Olympic sport? Smug travel writers everywhere can’t seem to resist a humblebrag about their perfectly packed Marie Kondo-ed hand luggage that allows them to skip the baggage carousel. “I’m travelling to (insert destination here) for three weeks with only seven kilograms of carry-on.” Say what you will about packing light, more is always better.
Credit: Karlie Kloss / Instagram Give them a medal! When it comes to packing, this kind of militant minimalism hurts my brain and makes me want to stay home. I’m more of a whimsical Mary Poppins-meets-the-Scouts’ “Be prepared” kind of packer. For me, 32 kilograms of checked luggage helps me soak up a destination’s romance and charm.
Loading I like to have plenty of wardrobe options and twirly dresses. I also like certain creature comforts – a hair straightener, a travel iron, a yoga mat, binoculars for birdwatching and opera viewing, and at least three books. Then there are practical necessities – two pairs of bathers (who wants to put on soggy swimmers?) a light jacket, a heavier coat, sunscreen SPF 50+, a first aid kit, wet weather gear, a Keep Cup and, finally, the coffee snob’s ultimate survival item – a French press.
The experts say the key to travelling with only carry-on is neutral-coloured clothes. Vomit. Pack a lot of beige, and it will set the tone for your entire trip.
Loading It’s impossible to anticipate your mood on any given day, so why not bring the broadest c.