As seasoned travelers well know, the advantages of packing lightly are manifold. Comfort, convenience, thriftiness, flexibility, and reduced stress are part of the appeal. But these advantages disappear if packing poorly, however little one may pack. Leaving out necessities will, in fact, create more stress, inconvenience and expense. Finding a happy medium may take some experience, but you can take advantage of space saving tips and tricks that other travelers have learned through their own experiences and speed the process.

Minimize the number of items you are packing to begin with. Think in terms of what you can do without, or what is purchased just as cheaply at your destination as it is at home. This often includes toiletries, writing supplies, and so on. Take enough of these things to suffice for a few days, and then purchase as needed after arrival.

Also, take a closer look at items you pack automatically but may not actually need. Women tend to pack many more cosmetics than necessary, for example. With clothing, choose things that coordinate and can be worn in different combinations. Pack only a few days worth of clothing which can be easily laundered. A few basic pieces that mix and match and a small variety of accessories can provide a wardrobe without repetition for two weeks.