Extended Stay America

Travel Light

Travel Light

When we take friends on our trips, we tell them they must travel light.  Just one carry-on suitcase each is our  rule... well, one carry-on and a "personal item."  Just like the airlines!  

We've had people moan and groan... and say, "I just can't travel that way."  But they do... and when we get home from our trips, they're usually converted.  Now THEY are telling everybody that the only way to travel is to travel light.

It seems easy to say and hard to do, but it really isn't that hard.  It just takes a little extra thought and planning.  We've always traveled this way...  and I think we're pretty normal.

The first thing that you have to get over is that deadly "just in case" syndrome.  For instance, say there's a possibility you'll go to an opera.  Suddenly you think you'll need a dress "just in case"... but do you really need another outfit or can you just dress up something you're already taking?  OK, maybe the opera wasn't the best choice, but you see what I mean.

Are you worried about wearing the same shirt for ten days straight?  No need to worry.  Take only four or five shirts and two or three slacks; take things that mix and match to make different combinations.  And just remember, you're traveling, most people will never see you again.  People who will be seeing you as you travel, traveling companions for example, will understand... probably even think you're pretty clever for packing light!  

We don't wear the same clothes everyday, though we do wear the same outfits over and over... making them look different with different combinations of tops and slacks and sweaters.  Ladies can take scarves to change the looks of things.  Scarves can help when it gets a little chilly out too.

If you're traveling with carry-on luggage only, you'll be carrying less of your liquids, creams and gels.  Oh no, you're thinking.  "What will I ever do without enough shampoo?"  First of all, that 3 ounces or 100 ml will get you through a few days if you're frugal with the shampoo.  

Many hotels provide shampoo.  OK, so it's not your favorite brand... it'll still get your hair clean.  And if you still run out, you'll probably be able to buy it wherever you travel.

Almost any travel guru you listen to will tell you to evaluate what you plan to pack... Are you going to use or wear something often enough to carry it around for your whole trip?   If you don't think you will... leave it out of your suitcase.

One thing that almost all experienced travelers agree on is that you will probably enjoy your trip more if you travel light.