Updated On: 28 May, 2024 04:23 PM IST | Mumbai | Aakanksha Ahire
One suitcase or backpack is enough for an ideal vacation. Travel experts say, packing light when travelling is key for a hassle-free vacation. Packing smart with the right hacks can help keep the luggage items to the minimum

Image for representational purposes only. Photo Courtesy: iStock
Legends are those who go on long vacations with just a backpack and a waist pouch. They are also the ones who make the most of their vacations. However, most of us in India believe in packing heavily, be it for a weekend getaway or a long summer vacation. Most of us, even after planning to pack light, fail miserably because we believe carrying ‘essentials’ is important to avert anything unpleasant when travelling.
Following this, Richi Shah (@richi.shah) a travel digital creator who is currently busy packing for her next trip shares, “I met a fellow Indian traveller on a three-day cruise trip who was carrying a 23-kilogram suitcase. Intrigued to know why someone would carry a huge bag for a short trip, I asked them the reason. They told me it was because they weren’t sure what clothes to wear. So just to have enough options, they had packed heavy. My parents, too, used to pack heavily for vacations. Many Indian travellers continue to pack more than they need. I have travelled across Europe for 60 days, with a 25 kg luggage, and didn’t repeat a look. So you can pack light when travelling, especially in summer and yet look cool on vacations.”
The influencer shares, “Imagine not having an escalator or elevator at a train station, and then having to lift and drag two large suitcases weighing 25-30 kgs, without any help! Sounds dreadful, right? That’s precisely why I love packing light and tight. It’s not only easy to carry around but also convenient to pack and unpack. It makes travel simpler and more enjoyable.”
If you struggle to pack light when travelling, we have travel experts dole out tips and tricks to help you pack very little and make the most of your vacation.
Factors to consider before packing your bags
Sandeep Arora, Director of Brightsun Travel Private Limited, India shares a list of factors to consider when packing.
Destination and climate: Research the weather and climate of the place you’re going to, to pack appropriate clothing and gear.
Duration of stay: Consider the duration of your trip to decide how many outfits and essential items you would need. Also, think of the activities you’ll indulge in, whether it`s hiking, swimming, or sightseeing, and pack accordingly.
Baggage restrictions: Check baggage allowance for your flights or other mode of transportation to avoid extra fees.
Hotel amenities: Take into account whether your accommodations provide certain amenities like toiletries, towels, or hairdryers to avoid unnecessary packing.
Medications: Make sure to pack any necessary medications, along with a first aid kit, and other essential items like sunscreen.
Electronics and chargers: Don`t forget to pack electronic devices, chargers, and adapters you will require for your trip.
Travel documents and currency: Organise important documents such as passports, visas, and tickets in a secure, easily accessible place. Also, bring sufficient cash or debit/credit card for alternative payment methods.
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