Franz ElizIt’s almost the end of the year, and many people (including me) look forward to spending their holidays with their loved ones.
I always travel as lightly as possible to save on baggage costs and travel quickly. What I pack matters, as the right essentials will help me travel light. Unless I’m hiking or doing a long-haul adventure in remote places, I don’t see why I should carry a heavy bag.
In this post, I’ll share 6 minimalist travel essentials to help me travel light. Keep reading. Maybe you’ll find something useful for your next trip.
1. Small and Lightweight Waterproof Toiletry Case
I’ve kept my toiletries in various ways, from using resealable plastic bags to proper toiletry bags with hooks. While keeping hygiene and grooming essentials in plastic bags is the cheapest and lightest option, it’s not long-lasting or eco-friendly.
I have used toiletry bags for female travellers, but they’re usually bulky. Men’s toiletry bags tend to be simpler and smaller, with many looking like pencil cases. These cases usually use heavy fabrics. When it comes to the perfect toiletry bag, I look for one that is small, lightweight, waterproof, high-quality, and long-lasting.
I am currently using the Matador FlatPak™ Waterproof Toiletry Case.
It’s small and lightweight, weighing only 33.2 g (1.17 oz). This toiletry case is made of waterproof 30D Cordura® ripstop nylon. That said, I don’t worry about my toiletries wetting my bag’s contents. The case can be rolled when not filled and clipped for secure storage. Once rolled, I can carry the case around or hang it on hooks or doors.
This excellent product, however, might not suit everyone due to its small size. It’s only 2L, which is not much. With this toiletry case, I can keep a toothbrush, toothpaste, a small comb, a small perfume, tissues or toilet paper, a sanitary pad, lip gloss, and a few makeup essentials. For me, it’s perfect. It prevents me from overpacking.
2. Waterproof Soap Case That Won’t Make a Mess
Even if your hotel provides soaps, you might still want to pack your own. Maybe you have sensitive skin and only use scent-free soaps. Or maybe you need a bar of soap for washing your clothes on the go. Perhaps you carry a special all-purpose soap for your around-the-world backpacking trip.
Depending on where I travel, sometimes I need to carry my own. With a bar of soap, I don’t have to worry about liquid limitations when flying.
I use the FlatPak™ Soap Bar Case in the colour charcoal. Like the Matador FlatPak™ toiletry case, it is waterproof and lightweight. This case fits standard-size soap bars and only weighs 11 g (0.39 oz). It uses Cordura® nylon with proprietary Matador® Dry-Through™ coating that helps wet soap dry in the case without leakage.
3. Padded Camisoles
Padded camisoles are my favourite, especially the seamless kind. They’re so versatile that I can pack light and still be fashionable on the road.
With padded camisoles, I don’t need to pack many bras or any at all. Be it a short or long trip, 2 to 3 padded camisoles are enough. Mine are usually black or light colours; it’s always easy to match them with the rest of my outfit and accessories.
I don’t stick to a specific brand of padded camisoles. Any padded camisole will do. I recommend choosing quick-drying camisoles. Avoid padded camisoles with heavy fabrics. Sure, they usually look fashionable, but they can eat up space and add more weight to your bag.
Uniqlo’s AIRism camisoles might be worth checking out. They’re similar to the camisoles I wear but more expensive. For cheaper options (quality may vary), visit online platforms that offer seamless padded camisoles.
4. Lightweight Puffer Hoody Jacket for Cooler Seasons
I usually avoid travelling when it’s cold, but sometimes I have to. A warm jacket is necessary, especially at night. Whether I travel in spring, autumn, or winter, I will pack my black Patagonia Nano Puff® Hoody. I’ve travelled with it for over 5 years, and it’s still holding up.
This jacket also comes in a non-hoody version. Although the non-hoody one looks cooler, I prefer the hoody version for extra warmth. It would be better if the hoody were detachable, though.
Because of its high price, some people call the brand Patagucci. Laugh out loud! To me, the Nano Puff® Hoody is a bang for one’s buck. I’m glad I picked it up. It’s very warm despite being lightweight, thanks to its 60-g PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation. Yes, it’s synthetic, not goose down. But that was also why I bought it.
While down is extremely warm, I prefer synthetic as it retains its warmth better when wet. I would wear a down jacket as a mid-layer and my Patagonia Nano Puff® Hoody on top of it. My Patagonia Nano Puff® Hoody can also be worn on its own. Even if it gets a bit wet, I don’t have to worry.
This jacket is packable. Roll it into its pocket and store it when you don’t need it. I usually keep mine hanging even when I don’t need it – this will preserve its longevity. The Nano Puff® Hoody comes in different sizes. I got the smallest size to suit my petite stature. XXS fits me well!
The jacket weighs 306 g (10.8 oz) and can tolerate temperatures below 10°C (50°F). Many agree this jacket is comfortable to wear in temperatures between 4°C and 15°C (40°F and 60°F). I have worn mine below 0°C
5. EVA Foam Sandals for Hostels, Summer, and Beaches
Should you travel with slippers or sandals? After years of travelling, it’s hard not to travel without them. There’s always time for sandals, especially when backpacking.
Maybe your hostel doesn’t provide bathroom slippers. Or maybe you suddenly want to go to the beach.
Maybe you think buying one on the go is easier. Sure. But this might not always be an option for some people, especially those with certain foot conditions. I always struggle to find the right fit. Plus, I don’t see why I have to spend money buying a new pair of sandals when I can easily carry my own.
With sandals like Birkenstock EVA foam sandals, weight is not an issue.
I’ve had the Gizeh and Arizona. The Gizeh has always been my favourite. It’s pretty and provides good arch support. It also looks great with any outfit, be it a dress or a pair of jeans. Heck, I’ve worn mine to the beach, a fancy restaurant, hostels, and more.
My Gizeh looks good even after years of constant use.
6. Sturdy Packable Nylon Bag
Are you one of those people who bring a handbag while travelling? That’s understandable. Most of us need a small bag to store small items in when we’re exploring cities.
I usually avoid carrying my regular women’s handbag. Instead, I always carry a packable nylon bag for cities, hiking, and the countryside. Why nylon, though? Well, nylon is light and strong.
When it comes to bags, I am spoiled for choice. But my go-to bag has always been the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole® Tote Pack 27L. It’s versatile and sturdy. I carry it all the time, even for groceries. It has also travelled the world with me.
Read: I Take This Ultralight Black Hole® Tote Pack 27L Everywhere
Alternatively, you can always look around for other packable nylon bags that will do the job. Remember that the cheaper the bag, the less durable it will likely be. That said, take your time when researching the right one for you.
Final Thoughts
While the products on this list aren’t cheap, they’re designed to last. I always recommend choosing quality items as they’re better for the long run. But don’t hesitate to choose anything that suits your current budget.
When I started backpacking, I used mostly cheap gear. Upgrading my gear seemed worth it after I realised how much I enjoy travelling and how I needed better ways to travel light while also getting the most for my buck.
