I’m a minimalist traveler.

And I totally understand that you may not have crossed over to the dark side with me just yet but for me, if it can’t fit on my back and inside a crossbody purse or in a small roller carryon and daypack, it simply just doesn’t get to join me for the party. I’ve been committed to this way of maneuvering the world for years. I’ve taught it to my girls. We’ve relaxed in the happiness of less bulk equaling less stress and lots more time to enjoy, and we have never regretted our light-weight decisions one single time. That’s why today’s newsletter is focused on bringing more people over to my much-loved minimalist way of travel. Once you try it I can almost guarantee you’ll never go back.

But what if I need something I had to leave behind?

Honestly, you won’t. But that one you’ll just have to try for yourself in order to become a believer. Beyond that, just let me reassure you that literally everything you could ever NEED can be purchased all over the world. And the things you fear you can’t get “out there”…well, those are the things you make sure to pack.

It might rain…and it might not. Pack a small, foldable rain jacket. Add an umbrella if you have space in the end. You’re good. Umbrellas are universal and can be bought at any tourist trap if necessary. I promise.

What if I get cold? Bring a sweatshirt. Bring two. But there’s really no need for eight. Be thoughtful about what you pack. Choose simply and choose quality pieces that can mix and match with everything. Also, choose clothes that can be easily washed by hand in a pinch. It’s simple to pack a trial size bottle of detergent and a travel clothesline for emergencies, and if you are staying in an Airbnb there is almost always a washer.

Shoes! What about my shoes?! For me, two pair is always enough. I typically pack a pair of white, leather, old-school Adidas sneakers and either a sandal or pair of weatherproof city boots, depending on the season.

I need my books and electronics and, and, and…. Everyone has their must-have items. That’s not a problem. Make them your packing priority. Just pack ORGANIZED, SMART and (in my opinion) with PACKING CUBES and it should be a breeze for you to adopt the minimalist traveler lifestyle, too.

So many of these packing tips can be found online that I won’t spend time sharing mine right now. What I will share is a great deal that can get you one step closer towards adopting the minimalist traveler way.

I LOVE Tortuga travel backpacks and they are on sale on Amazon now!

Tortuga is an outstanding company. I love their ethic. I love their products. I can’t rave enough about Tortuga travel backpacks. I honestly wonder if their packs could last forever. They are made of waterproof sailcloth that can take a beating and keeps your clothes dry in rain, sleet or snow. They also come in torso sizing for both men and women and when fit properly, all the weight is carried on your hips, not your shoulders and back. Plus, you don’t look like a you’re going wild camping every time you wear it. Can you tell I’m a fan? (not a sponsored fan, by the way).

We have the Tortuga Outbreaker 45L. It retails at $299 and when I purchased it I almost passed out. I’m a true Target clearance and Goodwill shopper kind of girl, but this backpack has been worth every penny.

Tortuga Setout • BRUTALLY Honest Review (2022)

And lucky for you, I discovered today that Amazon has some of their Tortuga products on sale for 40% off! Though it’s not the Outbreaker, I think these would surely be a fantastic option to begin your minimalist travel lifestyle.

Amazing DEAL for women on Amazon

Amazing Deal for men on Amazon

Tortuga Store on Amazon

Again, I am not sponsored by Tortuga or Amazon. I just LOVE this product and wanted to sing its praises today. I also want to save you from the cheap Target travel backpack I bought in a pinch when traveling to Europe a few years ago. I had to find a market and buy superglue to hold the seams together after 7 days on the road. I can’t imagine that ever happening with my Tortuga.

Whether you love the traditional roller or you’re up for a new hands-free travel lifestyle, I hope you’ll consider what it might mean to you to give a more minimalist way of exploring the world a try. I’m almost certain you’ll be glad you did!

Happy travels!

Amy

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The Minimalist Traveler