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How to create a Minimalist Travel Wardrobe for Every Trip

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Want to pack like a minimalist traveller and create your own minimalist travel wardrobe? After many years of travelling on my own, I have finally figured out the perfect amount of clothing to bring for each trip.

I understand that packing for a trip can be difficult especially if you are trying to travel light. Often, overpacking is a result of bringing too much clothing. I know, I’ve been there!

And while I embrace minimalist travel, I want to make sure I bring enough clothes so I don’t have to constantly do laundry and look like I am always wearing the same clothes in photos.

So if you want to challenge yourself to pack less and create your own minimal travel wardrobe, then keep reading. I’ll show you tips on how to create a capsule wardrobe for travel.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the  disclosure for more info.

What is a Minimalist Travel Wardrobe?

A minimalist travel wardrobe or capsule travel wardrobe is a cohesive set of clothing where you can wear it anywhere on your travels. You can create multiple looks by mixing and matching different pieces of clothing .

But each of us will have different items in our minimal travel wardrobe because we are individuals and have our own unique style.

But ultimately, the travel wardrobe style is minimal , but not boring at all. The pieces of clothing are timeless and will work well with one another .

Benefits of creating a set of minimalist travel clothes

I love to travel light ! I love being able to walk everywhere comfortably with all my belongings on my back. I pack my capsule travel wardrobe, travel toiletries and other necessities into my favourite carry-on backpack . Then I weigh my bag to make sure it weighs less than 7kg (so I can skip the airline baggage fees).

Moreover, I don’t want to worry about what I will wear every day . I will admit I am not a fashionista – I’m not good at shopping and buying clothes. By selecting timeless pieces ahead of time that can easily mix and match, I can always wear something and feel great about it .

And I love how I can save time and save money as a minimalist traveller and focus on the trip and look stylish at the same time !

Minimal travel wardrobe capsule for women

As a minimalist traveller, I only bring 3 to 4 sets of clothing for each trip . It doesn’t matter if I am going for two weeks or a few months, I bring the same things for every trip.

Plus, the clothing I selected are the perfect pieces for a travel capsule wardrobe for summer weather .

And if I am not going somewhere with frigid temperature or places that I am doing a specific activity that would require me to bring particular clothing, my travel wardrobe stays pretty much the same.

This rule worked really well when I was packing for my trips to Bali , Singapore , Australia , Japan and Portugal .

How to create a minimalist wardrobe for travel

I actually follow this capsule wardrobe packing list every time I pack for a trip. I save a lot of time and quite honestly, a lot of headaches. And it also prevents me from overpacking .

For my minimal travel wardrobe, I roll each item into two  small packing cubes and put my shoes in a shoe bag. Here is my minimalist travel clothes list :

  • 2 Tank tops
  • 2 pairs of shorts
  • Set of clothing for sleeping/working out
  • 4 Underwear
  • 1 pair of socks
  • Nike Free RN Flyknit sneakers
  • Birkenstock Mayari Sandals
  • Havaianas Slim Flip Flop Sandals

How to use each item to create minimalist travel outfits

With the clothing list above, I can have at least 16 different outfits just by mixing and matching.

And if I want more options, I can use accessories and shoes to change up the entire look .

Plus, I have two tops that have multiple ways of styling , which will give me different looks as well.

So, this is what I bring for every trip. Of course, this is what I need. But what you need may be different. You can use this minimalist clothing list as your packing template and create your own capsule wardrobe for travel.

Here is a quick visual of what the travel capsule wardrobe for women looks like:

Use my packing list as a guide to create your own minimalist capsule wardrobe for your next trip

How to create your own minimalist travel capsule wardrobe

It took me a while to figure out what type of clothing and accessories I need for my trip. I have a comprehensive packing list where you can use it as a guideline to build the perfect packing list for your trip.

And here are additional tips that can help you to create your own minimalist capsule wardrobe.

1. Create a mix and match travel wardrobe with clothing in solid colours

The easiest way to create a mix and match travel wardrobe is by selecting clothing in solid colours . Which means don’t pick anything with pattern because it will look like you are always wearing the same thing in your photos (even though you are, but you don’t want to make it obvious).

Moreover, you don’t have to pick the same colour for every piece or wear everything in black. There are no rules as to what colour goes with what these days . But start with selecting a few pieces in neutral tones and add colour to show your personality .

My minimalist travel outfits has a blue palette (jean shorts, jeans) with neutral tops (black) and a pop of colour (pink top). The visual wardrobe clothing list template (see above) resembles how my actual travel capsule wardrobe looks like.

My Minimalist Travel Wardrobe

2. Layer your minimalist clothes for style and to stay warm

Build your travel wardrobe by selecting clothing that can be worn in layers . If your mix and match travel clothes can be worn in different combinations, you can potentially have a variety of looks just with a few key essential clothing pieces.

And by dressing in layers, it is easier to accommodate different types of climate and temperature changes . A tank top or t-shirt can be worn in a warmer climate and cooler climate. When the weather is cooler, put on a sweater or a jacket. There is more flexibility with travelling in different climates when you are dressed in layers.

3. Buy quality essential pieces

High-quality clothing   will last longer than clothing from fast fashion clothing stores. Even though you pay a little bit more upfront but your clothes will last much longer. Quality clothing will endure wear and tear, many cycles in the washing machine and still look pristine every time you wear it.

So do yourself a favour, invest in quality clothing . You will save more money in the long run , and you will help reduce the amount of old clothing going to the landfill . Your wallet and the environment will both benefit from you investing in quality essential pieces.

4. Choose pieces that have multiple looks or purposes

Your minimalist travel clothes should create various looks or have numerous functions .

For example, I have a strappy top where one side is a v-neck, and the other side is a round neck (see photo below). It creates 2 different looks. And it is long enough where you can tuck in your pants or skirt or leave it out. One tank top can create four different looks !  

And I also travel with a sarong , which I use as a swimsuit coverup, a skirt, and a scarf . Sometimes I might even use it as a towel to dry off or a beach towel for suntanning on the beach.

Some pieces from my minimalist travel wardrobe

5. Try not to bring any clothing in white

There were a few times I brought a white t-shirt or white bra on my travels. And somewhere down the road, the pristine white t-shirt and bra were stained with the dark colour dyes from other pieces in my travel capsule wardrobe (I bet it was from my jeans!)

Even though it is nice to have light colour pieces as part of your capsule travel wardrobe, but in reality, it is not practical for a minimalist travel wardrobe . You’d have to separate your laundry or handwash your white top.

So if it is possible, don’t bring anything in white .

6. Choose clothing that is easy to wash and maintain

Since I always travel light, it means I have fewer items of clothing . And it also means I am always washing my clothes .

And because I am regularly doing laundry, I want to make sure my clothing is easy to wash and maintain .

I like clothing where I can throw into a washing machine , that doesn’t need ironing and completely wrinkle-free . And it goes without saying that my clothing does not require dry cleaning .

Moreover, quick-dry clothing is especially appealing to me because I don’t have to leave it out to dry for a long time and I tend to visit places with high humidity, i.e. takes longer for clothing to dry.

So when you are putting together your travel wardrobe, make sure your clothing is easy to wash and maintain, so you are not spending all your time worrying about your laundry.

7. Love every piece of your travel capsule wardrobe

If you love every part of your wardrobe, you will enjoy what you wear and take care of every single piece of clothing that you have. And you will feel great and confident every time you are out wearing your favourite pieces.  

If you love every single piece of clothing, you will love creating different outfits and looks . And you will feel confident wearing them. And just think of all the amazing photos you will have for your Instagram!

8. The pieces in your minimalist travel wardrobe can be changed at any time

Just because I only bring 3 to 4 sets of clothing each time, it doesn’t mean I bring the exact pieces for every trip. Whenever possible, I swap a different top or different pair of pants to create different outfits .

Also, when some of my clothing is a bit worn out , I would donate it at a local charity and buy something else to replenish my travel wardrobe.

For every trip, I use the same packing template as a guide. I bring the same amount of clothing each trip , but I may bring different tops, bottoms, outerwear, shoes, etc . It can get pretty dull to wear the same things over and over again. So between trips, I switch it up and have fun with creating new looks with new pieces.

Check out my top 10 items for my minimalist travel packing list

Do you want to create your own minimal travel wardrobe for your next trip?

Hope you can use some of my tips on creating your own minimalist travel wardrobe. It is a lot of fun finding key pieces where you can mix and match and create different looks.

Do you like the packing list template? Or would you bring anything else? Let me know in the comments below!

Thank you for reading my post on minimalist travel wardrobe

You might also like these other posts on minimalist travel:

  • How to pack 7kg carry-on luggage
  • My minimalist packing list for every trip
  • How to pack the perfect minimalist travel toiletry kit
  • My 10 must-have essential travel items for every trip
  • How to find the perfect minimalist travel backpack
  • Minimalist backpacking: 10 packing tips to help you travel light
  • Minimalist hiking: my minimalist hiking gear list
  • 10 best gifts for minimalist travellers
  • How having a minimalist mindset helped me save money to travel

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minimalist travel outfits

queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Christmas Gifts for Minimalists: top 9 minimalist gifts for travellers

Christmas Gifts for Minimalists: 9 Gift Ideas for Minimalist Travellers

Take a peek at my minimalist toiletries packing list so you can use it as a guideline and build your own travel toiletries kit.

Minimalist Toiletries: How To Pack The Perfect Minimalist Travel Toiletry Kit

Learn how to pack 7kg carry on luggage and travel like a minimalist traveller.

Pack like a Minimalist: How to Pack 7kg Carry on Luggage

15 comments.

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Hi! I was just wondering, why do you only pack one pair of socks? Do you wash them daily? Do you find they dry over night?

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Hi Sam, I tend to wear open-toe shoes more than sneakers. And my socks are quite thin so its easy to dry when I wash them. Hope this helps! 🙂

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Hello! I find this blog helpful because I like to travel light in 7 kg. baggage. I have traveled solo also and I like to bring timeless and not trendy pieces of clothes that are easy to wash and dry. I am looking for ideas that makes my travel light and convenient. I am looking forward to travel again once this pandemic is over. Stay healthy.

Hi Christina, thanks so much for your comments! It feels really nice to pack very little and only travel with a backpack only. I’m happy you were able to find some inspirations for packing for your future trips. And I also can’t wait to travel again! Until then, stay safe! 🙂

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Hello! What’s your packing list for cold weather travel? And do you wear some items from list on plane? Or have separate travel clothes? Thanks!

Hi Nicole! This is more of a general packing list for warmer climate (because I tend to travel to warmer places). As for cold weather, I would use the same tips (no pattern, quality clothing, mix and match) and find clothing that is lightweight ie. down vest or down jacket. And I would definitely wear the bulkiest/biggest item on the plane so they don’t take up a lot of room in my backpack. The packing list should be tailored to a specific trip, weather, activity, etc, so it can best support whatever you need during your trip. But you can use the tips in this post as a starting point and build a perfect packing list for what you need. I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any more questions 🙂

Appreciate it! Thanks!

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Hi there! I’m curious to know where you got your reversible tank tops from or if you could link something similar? Those are exactly what I’m looking for in my minimal travel capsule wardrobe!

Hi Kaitlin, I got the tops from a store called Seed Heritage. I bought it in Australia and have seen stores in Hong Kong and Singapore. Not sure if they sell online but worth checking out. I hope you can find the perfect top(s) for your travels! 🙂

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Gloria Miller

Hi, I enjoyed and benefited from the article. Just wanted to say, JJill has a camisole “top” the is similar to the one described and the tag is easily removed Thanks for your tips. Gloria

Thanks so much, Gloria! That’s great to know – I am actually not that great at shopping so always welcome suggestions and advice. Thank you for your comment! 🙂

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Banana Republic sells a reversible v neck scoop neck tank top

Oh really, Stacy? I’ve always liked Banana Republic – I wish they have stores in Asia!

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I agree with everything you said. I am a big fan of reversible travel clothing. I have been collecting pieces for years from different designers. My favorite is a new company called Splice Clothing out of Las Vegas USA. I would encourage you to check out their website and Instagram account.

Hi Gail, I love my reversible top! I wish I can find more (but I am not an avid shopper). So whenever I do come across good travel clothing pieces, I get one or a few. Thanks for the recommendation I will definitely check it out! 🙂

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How to Find the Perfect Minimalist Travel Backpack and experience One Bag Living

Rhino rock hike: see a rocky rhinoceros head in stanley, hong kong, ms travel solo.

minimalist travel outfits

Wear When What Why

ULTIMATE Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe

ULTIMATE Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Want to create a minimalist travel capsule wardrobe but don’t know where to start? In this guide we teach you how to put together the ultimate minimalist travel wardrobe that works for every season no matter the destination. 

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

But before we get into the specifics of making our minimalist travel capsule wardrobe we first thought it would be a good idea to explain what exactly a travel capsule wardrobe is, why you should pack one and how to put it together.

Table of Contents

What is a Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe?

Clothes flat lay

So what is a minimalist travel capsule wardrobe? In some ways you could say that all capsule wardrobes whether for travel or not are a minimalist way of buying and wearing clothes.

Any capsule wardrobe uses a few key pieces of clothing to make up several cute mix and match outfits. It basically means that every piece of your wardrobe, can be used in multiple outfits to create completely different outfits. And it is a great way to make sure that you pack light do not overpack for your travels.

A minimalist travel capsule wardrobe takes these a little more extreme and has 10 or less basic wardrobe items that can make multiple different outfits.

Depending on the length of our travels and the destination we also use other packing techniques to create our capsule wardrobes such as:

  • The 54321 packing method
  • the Sudoku packing technique (3 x 3 packing method).

However this minimalist travel capsule wardrobe aims to have a few key pieces that can be used wherever you are traveling for whatever season and is the perfect base for all your travel capsule wardrobes.

Having said that however if you want to have more seasonal or destination specific minimalist travel capsule wardrobes you may want to check our other more specific travel capsule wardrobes for more specific guidance:

  • Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe
  • Fall Travel Capsule Wardrobe
  • Winter Travel Capsule Wardrobe
  • Spring Travel Capsule Wardrobe
  • Beach Vacation Capsule Wardrobe
  • Business Travel Capsule Wardrobe
  • Cruise Capsule Wardrobe
  • River Cruise Capsule Wardrobe
  • Safari Capsule Wardrobe.

So now you know what a minimalist travel capsule wardrobe is how do you begin to put one together?

How to put together a Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Red and black clothes flat lay with leather jacket, shoes and jeans

Whenever I am putting together a capsule travel wardrobe I always start with the same principles for narrowing down my selection. The first being:

Select a color palette

Having a clear color palette is essential for creating any successful capsule wardrobe for travel. Without a clear color palette your items will not mix and match correctly and therefore will not create multiple cohesive outfits.

But a color palette does not have to be boring or monochrome in order to create a successful capsule wardrobe.

However for this example of the perfect travel capsule wardrobe for minimalist travelers we have stuck to a relatively muted color palette using neutral colors. That is because we aim to have only c.10 clothing items in this minimalist travel capsule wardrobe. However if you have a signature color or palette you prefer go for it!

Plan out your outfits in advance

Folded Linen Clothes for Travel

Whenever I am packing my travel capsule wardrobe, I always lay my clothes out and plan my outfit combinations in advance.

This way you know that everything you have goes in your outfits and can be used multiple times.

Have machine washable items

Although part of the success to many capsule wardrobe is having fewer but higher quality pieces there is a word of caution to be had when putting together a minimalist travel capsule wardrobe.

We recommend buying items of as high a quality as your budget can afford as you will only be selecting a limited number of clothes. But do check the washing instructions before purchase.

If you are going on a longer trip with a minimalist travel capsule wardrobe you are going to need to do some laundry. It will be easier if you can put items in a washing machine rather than sending them out for dry cleaning constantly.

Avoid lots of patterns

Although I LOVE patterns, and usually have at least one patterned item on my packing lists, I recommend avoid lots of patterns when doing minimalist packing. That is because it is harder to coordinate lots of bold patterns together and can restrict the number of outfits you can take.

Check weather and itinerary before travel

Obviously this is a generic minimalist travel capsule wardrobe. However a word of caution is to always check the weather at your destination 7 days before travel and keep an eye on it up until departure.

That is because you can always get heat waves and cold snaps no matter when and where you are traveling and may mean you need to alter some of the pieces on this packing list.

Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe Essential Items

So now you know the principles of how to put together a minimalist travel capsule wardrobe we will look at the essential pieces to include:

Best Pants for Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobes

Usually when I start putting together my capsule wardrobes I start with the pants / trousers first. I generally speaking own more tops than bottoms, therefore I like to pick our the pants first as I have more tops to play with.

Black Pants

No packing list or capsule wardrobe is complete without a pair of black pants in my opinion.

My absolute favorite travel pant of the moment has to be the Athleta Brooklyn Pant which happily come in black as standard (though there are also some great bold colors too).

These pants have a stylish but comfortable elastic waistband which for me make them my go to airplane outfit.

But not only that the fact that they do not wrinkle, along with the ability to machine wash and dry make them perfect for traveling and including in this minimalist capsule wardrobe.

I like to wear these as part of my airplane outfit which again saves room in your luggage and means as a minimalist traveler you may be able to travel with carry on only / hand luggage only.

Click here to shop the Athleta Brooklyn ankle pant for travel.

A Pair of Jeans

Although a pair of jeans may not be an essential as part of a summer capsule wardrobe they are absolutely an essential item for my minimalist travel capsule wardrobe at other times of year.

Although black jeans are super versatile pieces, the fact that you are traveling with a black pant means that you may want a different color.

Personally I prefer to travel with a dark blue pair of jeans as part of this minimalist wardrobe for travel. They are more versatile and hide stains better than light wash jeans. Also you will find in Europe in particular that dark blue are a popular style and more in keeping with more local fashion.

To have a pair of jeans that works in most locations around the world I would personally also go for a style that is more fitted or even a pair of skinny jeans as opposed to ripped or boyfriend style jeans.

I recommend packing your favorite pair of jeans where possible, however if you are looking for the best jeans for travel we don’t think that you can go wrong with the Eddie Bauer Voyager jeans! These jeans have amazing flex that mean they are comfy even on long haul flights, but are also completely machine washable.

Click here to shop the best jeans for travel.

Note : if you are traveling to a warm-weather trip these could be swapped out for a pair of shorts instead.

My final essential bottom has to be a skirt. I recommend trying to stick to a neutral color pallette again. I tend to select something in black, tan or navy.

Although you can go with any skirt style you like, my preferred length when traveling minimalist is a midi length skirt. This is because mini skirts are not allowed at religious sites such as the Vatican, Italian churches and the Sagrada Familia to name but a few.

While a maxi dress or skirt on the other hand can drag on the floor and can become a hazard especially when doing activities such as cycling in Amsterdam .

For this reason we think a midi skirt if the perfect compromise. I personally like these black pleated skirts however tulle skirts are also very popular amongst the digital nomads and travellers today and is great for getting that perfect instagram shot! However this is a personal style choice and you should pack the style you are most comfy in.

Click here to shop best skirts for minimalist travel wardrobes.

Dresses are a hard one to include in a minimalist capsule wardrobe as you will need accessories to style them differently, and they can be quite seasonal.

However one type of dress I love for a capsule wardrobe is the classic little black dress. This is one of those timeless pieces that every woman should have in their wardrobe, for travel or not.

While you can pick any style of little black dress (LBD) that you want, I personal think the most versatile style for a capsule wardrobe has to be the classic wrap dress. I tend to select a midi dress for the same reasons as above.

This can be paired with white sneakers for a daytime look, but can be smarter with some statement jewelry and a pashmina or cardigan etc.

Click here to shop wrap dresses for travel.

Best Tops for a Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe

So now you know the best pants and dresses to take for your minimalist travel capsule wardrobe we will turn our attention to the best tops to pack for travel.

No capsule wardrobe, no matter the destination or season is complete without a basic tee. Now you could go with a white t-shirt, however these show marks very quickly. For this reason I tend to avoid a plain white tee as part of a capsule travel wardrobe.

Instead opt for something neutral like tan or grey, but if you are looking to put some color in your wardrobe you can add something really bright. And because all of your bottoms are neutral you can really go with any color you like!

You could also pack a black top but I find this personally to be a little to monotone.

Note : you could go with something with a graphic or illustration. Personally I am partial to a band tee. However for Europe you will find that plain t shirts are more in keeping with local styles.

Also you could select a tank top over a tee with a cap sleeve. But as there are places where you have to cover your shoulders i.e. churches and temples I prefer to go with a cap sleeve t shirt.

Click here to shop tees for travel.

Patterned blouse

Although I limit the number of patterned items that I take when putting together a minimalist capsule wardrobe, I like to include a patterned blouse. It is a great way of adding a visual statement to your wardrobe and can be worn for both day and night looks.

Click here to shop blouses.

White Shirt

Although I don’t tend to pack too many white items in a capsule wardrobe, I think a crisp white button down shirt is a must have statement piece.

Personally I love to have an oversized blouse but this is a personal choice.

Click here to shop white shirt for travel.

Best Layers for your Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Camel cardigan.

For me a camel cardigan is one of those timeless pieces that everyone should have in their wardrobe as they are great for year-round capsule wardrobes.

They pair well will denim and black pants and are an elegant top layer for dinners and evenings out.

Click here to shop camel cardigans.

A sweater is another great day to night transition piece. I particularly like sweaters made of merino wool as they are light and easy to pack, but also look very stylish.

Click here to shop sweaters.

Although a casual item, my capsule wardrobe is never complete without a hoodie and is often worn as part of airplane outfit.

I tend to wear this for more day time sightseeing as opposed to nightwear.

Click here to shop hoodies for travel.

But I would also pack some top layers / Jackets. You won’t need all of these but it is best to pick in relation to the weather at your destination.

Best Jackets for a Minimalist Travel wardrobe

As you are traveling in a minimalist way, I recommend packing one of the below. However depending on the destination and type of year of travel / season will depend on which jacket is most appropriate. However here are our favorite jackets for travel.

Leather Jacket

I personally prefer a leather jacket over a denim jacket. That is just because I hate denim on denim and there are always jeans in my capsule wardrobe. However this is just my style.

For the color combinations in this minimalist capsule wardrobe a black leather jacket is most versatile. However if you go for a navy base color then a brown leather jacket would be a great pick.

Click here to shop leather jackets.

Trench Coat

A trench coat is a particularly stylish item that I usually include on my Europe travel capsule wardrobe.

Personally I like to have one that has at least some water resistance.

Shop trench coats here.

Waterproof Coat / Jacket

If you are traveling in the cooler months of late fallthen a heavier jacket or puffer is a good idea for chillier temperatures. In some rare occasion you may need a full coat but this is destination specific.

And dependent on the weather will depend on whether you need something that is water resistant or fully waterproof.

Click here to shop jackets for travel.

Want to know how to pack coats for travel? Check out this post?

Best Shoes for Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobes

So now you have the main staple items of our travel capsule wardrobe for minimalists we will turn our attention to the best pair of shoes to pack. I often find that shoes are the easiest item to overpack . However for my minimalist travel capsule wardrobe I recommend just two pairs of shoes. They are:

I never travel without a pair of sneakers. Some of my favorite travel sneaker brands are Hoka and All Birds for vacations that will involve lots of walking. Ecco are another good brand if you want a sneaker with some waterproofing.

However overall the most versatile sneaker for Fall travel has to be plain white sneakers. My current favorite brand is the  Addidas Cloud Foam  as they are just so comfy for walking in and work well worn with dresses, skirts, jeans and more.

On top of sneakers I also recommend packing one of the following two items depending on time of year and weather at your destination:

Ankle Boots

Ankle boots or chelsea boots are great for travel in the Winter or shoulder seasons and for destinations that won’t be hot. They look smarter for dinners than sneakers and can also cope with cold and even rainy weather if you pick the right pair.

For the color scheme of this minimalist travel capsule wardrobe I recommend packing a black pair.

Shop ankle boots here.

However if you are going to a warm weather destination, or beach location then sandals should be your choice instead of ankle boots.

Click here to shop comfortable walking sandals.

Note : flip flops really aren’t comfortable shoes for walking in, so I only pack these if I have plenty of room in my case and if I will be spending lots of time on the beach rather than sightseeing in a city.

I like to pick a pair that is good for walking and has arch support for walking too. Brands I love for this are Teva and Birkenstock but you should pick the style and look you are most comfortable with.

What else to Pack for your Minimalist Travel Wardrobe

All of the above are essentials in my minimalist travel wardrobe however the items in this section are nice to haves that can dress up and style outfits differently while not taking up much space in your case.

How much underwear you need to pack as part of your capsule travel wardrobe will depend on how long you are traveling for and what access to laundry facilities you will have. Therefore pack appropriately.

However one item we always include is a flesh colored bra. This will go under any color top and as is an essential in my book.

Pashminas are my number one  travel essential for women  as they are so versatile as a great layering piece and are always part of my perfect fall capsule wardrobe.

They can be used as an extra layer in the cooler weather or even as a scarf, and can also make outfits more modest at religious sites. And of course they are a great day to style an outfit differently for a day to night transition.

Click here to shop pashminas.

Traveling with jewelry can feel a bit like a minefield especially if you are worried about traveling with expensive or precious jewelry.

The type of jewelry you travel with is really a personal choice about what you feel comfortable with. However we think even traveling with some costume jewelry is a good idea to help you make your capsule wardrobe outfits look a bit different.

For more information on how to travel with jewelry check out this post.

Crossbody Bag

A  crossbody bag,  the anti theft type is actually always on my packing lists especially for traveling in cities such as Rome and Barcelona.

It can add peace of mind for travellers by making you a harder target for pickpockets. When selecting a crossbody bag I would pick something in a neutral color such as brown, black or navy depending on the palette of your capsule wardrobe and think about one that can be sued throughout your seasonal capsule wardrobes.

Shop  crossbody bags here.

Again, a hat is by no means an essential but they can transform an outfit and can make for some great instagram worthy photo.

For Summer I would pack a wide brimmed straw hat for extra sun protection, for the shoulder season a suede type floppy hair is a great idea but for Winter a beanie for added warmth is my go to.

Bathing Suit

Only required if you plan on swimming on your vacation.

Good Deodorant

As the point of a minimalist travel capsule wardrobe is to reuse items to create many different looks it is absolutely essential that you have a good deodorant that works for you. Otherwise you may find yourself short on the top front.

We hope this has helped you put together your own Minimalist Capsule travel wardrobe . But if you have any questions about how to create a minimalist travel capsule wardrobe leave us a comment below and we will do our best to get back to you as soon as we can.

And we always love to see your capsule wardrobe photographs so do send them in or tag us on Instagram or Facebook.

How To Travel Like A Minimalist: Packing List And More

how to travel like a minimalist

Traveling like a minimalist means striking the balance of finding comfort while away from home, but not being weighed down by excess stuff either. Choosing minimalist travel has changed my packing process entirely and made everything easier for me.

ryans tiny house

Hi, I’m Ryan

Having a minimalist mindset while traveling has taken all the hassle and headache out of my traveling experience. Packing light allows me to have what I need without being weighed down, and focus on the experience of the trip itself.

ryan mitchell simple living expert

What Is Minimalist Travel?

What Is Minimalist Travel

Minimalist Travel Packing List: Essentials Only

Minimalist Travel Packing List

When I’m packing for any trip, I divide my needs into smaller categories to make the packing process more manageable and keep track of what I actually need. I start with my travel capsule wardrobe, then pack my toiletries. I prefer to organize things into packing cubes to keep the chaos at bay while on the move.

Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Traveling with a well-planned capsule wardrobe is the move for any vacation, especially if you’re trying to travel like a minimalist. Clothes are a major culprit that take up a lot of space in a suitcase or bag. Create your own capsule wardrobe to minimize your luggage.

minimalist packing for travel

To do this, you’ll want to think through several things. Check the weather for the entirety of your trip, and choose items that will work with the climate you’ll be in. It’s also important to pack high-quality, staple pieces that can be worn more than once, especially for longer trips where you’ll have access to a washer and dryer.

Similar to personal uniforms , capsule wardrobes work best when you have a few base pieces like neutral shirts and pants, and then accentuate with only a few pieces that can give the outfit an entirely new look.

A Basic Travel Capsule Might Include

  • Two T-shirts
  • Two long sleeves or tank tops
  • Two pairs of shorts or jeans
  • One dress or suit
  • Sweater or swimwear
  • Four pairs of underwear
  • Four pairs of socks

how to build a capsule wardrobe

My own capsule wardrobe is pretty simple, but you can make it as decorative or basic as you prefer. Of course, this basic list will need to be adjusted based on the weather on your trip, if you have plans to go out somewhere fancy, or any other trip-specific clothing needs that might come up.

Minimalist Travel Toiletries

Minimalist Travel Toiletries

Toiletries are probably the second biggest category of travel items that can suck the space from your suitcase. Of course, it’s different for women and men, and it also depends on how basic your daily routine is.

Ryans Minimalist Travel Toiletries

If I’m going to a place that doesn’t provide basics, I tend to pack a two-in-one bar that can I use as my shampoo, bodywash and facewash — my favorite is the Duke Cannon’s Midnight Swim Bars or their Shampoo Pucks in Gold Rush Scent .

For the larger bar, I cut a chunk off to suit the length of my trip put in a Matador flat pack soap bar bag . The pucks come in a small tin which is super convenient. I’m not one to overcomplicate things with multiple products, but I also don’t have temperamental skin or hair.

Basic Toiletries To Pack As A Minimalist

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Conditioner
  • Facial cleanser or wipes
  • Razor and shaving cream
  • Basic makeup
  • Daily medications
  • Feminine products

Basic Toiletries To Pack

When it comes to packing my toiletries as space-consciously as possible, I use Gotoobs to hold my liquid toiletries , which have never leaked on me, and I put that in a bag inside my larger toiletry bag where I keep everything else. This saves me space and keeps my liquid toiletries separate to help prevent leaks or spills in transport.

Toiletries You Can Travel Without

  • Extra lotions or skin creams
  • Entire makeup bag
  • Multiple hair styling tools
  • Hair accessories
  • Nail polish
  • Essential oils or perfumes

Toiletries You Can Travel Without

Ryan’s Minimalist Toiletries

Ryans Minimalist Toiletries

My personal toiletry kit has a two-in-one soap puck, deodorant, razor, comb, tooth brush, toothpaste tablets, and a nail clipper. I use the shampoo puck as body and face wash, then also use it for shaving.

minimalist travel convenience items

The two white tablets in the photo are mini hand towels that expand — those along with the face wipes are a godsend when you’ve been traveling for a long time and need to wash up when you don’t have access to a shower. The Purell packets are also good because their size won’t bring much attention as a single use packet going through airport security.

For longer trips, I’ll often add shaving cream, a mini sewing kit, and lotion.

Minimalist Daily Travel Essentials

Minimalist Daily Essentials For Travel

One of the best things to do when it comes to packing the rest of your miscellaneous daily items is to have a central location in your home where these items live regularly. This could look like a catchall tray, a storage bin, or a backpack or travel bag.

Keep daily essentials like chargers, electronics, a water bottle, and more in this spot. Then, when you’re preparing for a trip, you can move all of your essentials to your luggage quickly. You’ll save yourself the mental space of having to fish through your closet or under your bed for your lesser-used items that are still essentials.

Daily Essentials For Minimalist Packing

  • Charging cords
  • Keys and wallet
  • Cash and credit cards
  • Identification (license/passport)
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Book/notebook
  • First-aid kit

minimalist travel essentials

Ryan’s Daily Minimalist Essentials

Ryans Daily Minimalist Essentials

When I’m packing my minimalist travel bag, I usually put all of these daily essentials in a separate travel bag than my clothes and toiletries. If I’m flying, this is what I fill my carry-on with for easy access. Even if I’m road-tripping in a car or travel van , I usually put these items in a carry-all pouch that goes in my backpack.

Ryan’s Daily Items Packing List

  • Modern Coup Admin Pouch
  • Benchmade Bugout Pocket Knife
  • Smooth Precision Pens – Bolt Action Pen V2.2
  • Anker Compact737 Charger
  • Herschel Slim Men’s Wallet
  • Field Notes Notebook
  • Griffin Mini-Cable Kit
  • Human Gear Go Bites Duo Utensil Set

Ryans Daily Travel Items Packing List

Trip-Specific Items For Minimalist Travel

Trip Specific Items

Once I’ve covered all my daily essentials and basic needs, I usually have about half a suitcase of room left to focus on items specific to my trip. This could be anything from ski gear to a surfboard to your bridesmaid dress to a nylon tent and off-grid camping cookware .

I don’t know about you, but the process of packing always feels super tedious and mentally draining to me. Covering all of your basics first is one of the best ways to pack like a minimalist and make the packing process way less daunting. You knock out all the more thought-intensive categories first, then just focus on the fun stuff.

How To Pack Like A Minimalist: Best Travel Gear

Best Minimalist Travel Gear

In addition to having a packing strategy and following a packing list, using savvy packing gadgets can help you travel light. Investing in these simple products can make your minimalist packing life a whole lot easier.

Amazon Basics 4 Piece Packing Travel Organizer Cubes

Four Piece Packing Cube Set

GoToobs by Humangear

GoToobs And GoTubbs By Humangear

Packism Clear Toiletry Bags

Packism Clear Toiletry Bag

Like I mentioned in my advice above, when I pack my toiletries, I like to separate my wet toiletries from my dry toiletries. These small, clear toiletry bags by Packism are an ideal size to store all my liquid toiletries and then nestle into my larger suitcase or carry on.

Matador Toiletry Bag And Soap Bar Case

Matador Toiletry Bag And Soap Bar Case

General Medi Store First Aid Kit

General Medi Store First Aid Kit

Nomader Collapsible Leak Proof Water Bottle

Nomader Collapsible Leak-Proof Water Bottle

things you only need to buy once in a lifetime

Build A Minimalist Travel Backpack For Solo Travel

Minimalist Travel Backpack For Solo Travel

For me, traveling solo has been something that has set me free and given me experiences that I could never have had by just staying home. In the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of traveling 23 countries including Canada , Australia , and several European and Latin American countries .

Minimalist Travel Backpack

Best Minimalist Travel Backpacks For Solo Travel

Best Minimalist Travel Backpacks For Solo Travel

Fitting all of the belongings I need into a simple travel backpack always provides me with a deeply freeing feeling. Choosing a minimalist travel backpack that will support you fully, last for years without tearing, and have room for all your travel gadgets and gizmos is a must.

I have a couple of personal favorite travel backpacks that I would recommend for regular use. The first one is the GoRuck GR1 . The GR1 is ridiculously sturdy and ideal for strenuous hikes or camping trips. I also love the Osprey Porter 46 Travel Backpack . It has an extremely strong hip belt and sturdy shoulder straps, and multiple compartments for storing all the gear you might need.

Other Popular Minimalist Travel Backpacks

  • Minaal Carry-on 3.0
  • Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L
  • Matador SEG42
  • Zpacks Nero 38L ROBIC
  • AER Travel Pack 2

Minaal Carry-on Backpack

How To Pack Your Minimalist Travel Backpack

How To Pack Your Minimalist Travel Backpack

Figuring out how to pack your travel backpack is a whole other can of worms. Of course, this will also heavily depend on where you’re going on your trip, how long you’ll be gone, and what your essential needs will be.

There are a few things I make sure to always have with me when I pack my minimalist travel bag for camping, off-griding, or any kind of basic travel.

Travel Backpacking List

  • Basic hygiene supplies
  • Sleeping bag and sleeping pad
  • Water treatment supplies
  • Snacks/food
  • Map/compass/GPS
  • Small tools/repair kit

Travel Backpacking Items

Does Minimalist Travel Make Life Better?

Does Minimalist Travel Make Life Better

  • How will you pack like a minimalist on your next vacation?
  • What items will you pack verses go without?

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Thanks for this article. I’m planning to visit some family living in Mexico and bought a overhead suitcase to use for traveling..made a stateside trip and and stuff it with what I thought I’d need for a 3week trip..with your list ideas, I’ll make smarter packing & weight decisions..looking forward to hassle freely out of country trip more now..

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Great post. Very helpful. Thank you.

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The Portable Wife

Home Âť Travel Âť Travel Tips Âť How to Create a Minimalist Travel Wardrobe That Isn’t Bland

How to Create a Minimalist Travel Wardrobe That Isn’t Bland

How to Create a Minimalist Travel Wardrobe That Isn't Bland

If baggage fees and heavy luggage are weighing you down, it’s time to embrace the minimalist travel wardrobe trend. Before I created my travel capsule wardrobe, packing felt stressful. It was a guessing game of what outfits to bring, and how much I could stuff into my suitcase before the zippers split open.

Flat lay of travel capsule wardrobe, including striped shoes, straw hat, and tank top.

Today, I can pack for a week in a backpack in under 10 minutes!

Before we go any further, I’d like to clear up a common misconception about minimalist travel clothes. Your vacation wardrobe does not need to be black, white, and bland.

I’ve read too many articles that push colorless clothes as the ultimate mix and match travel wardrobe. While it’s certainly easier to pair monochromatic items, it definitely takes the fun out of it. I don’t know about you, but I enjoy wearing colorful pieces when I’m on vacation!

Fortunately, you can look great and still travel ultralight if you’re strategic about what and how you pack. I’ll be sharing my super-easy rule for coordinating vacation clothes later in the post.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, click here .

Steps to Build Your Minimalist Travel Wardrobe

Start with an ultralight travel packing list, my travel capsule wardrobe for europe (and beyond), invest in travel capsule wardrobe essentials.

  • Use a carryon backpack for traveling without luggage

Stack of vintage suitcases.

In the world of minimalist travel, there’s only room to bring the essentials. And the best way to keep yourself from over-packing is to create an ultralight travel packing list.

Your list will be unique to you, because everyone has their own special needs. For example, I’m fine with using any provided hair products, but I have to bring my own face wash. I also have to wear supportive shoes, so I can’t just walk around in a pair of flats for a whole trip.

Here’s an example of what goes in my minimalist travel backpack  for a one week trip:

  • 4 pairs of socks (two of which are re-wearable SmartWool )
  • 2 sets of pajamas
  • 7 pairs of underwear
  • Hairties and bobby pins
  • Eye makeup (I don’t typically wear anything else)
  • Face cleanser
  • Moisturizer
  • Dry shampoo ( Living Proof’s Perfect Hair Day is a must for my oily hair)
  • Portable battery pack (I don’t travel without my Anker PowerCore )
  • Universal travel adapter ( Dandelion and BESTEK are my favorites)
  • Headphones (ditching wired headphones for Jabra bluetooth earbuds changed my life)

Choose coordinating minimalist travel clothes

The real secret to creating a minimalist travel wardrobe is learning to think outside of “outfits”.

Many people I know pack individual outfits for each day, and maybe an extra dress and a pair of heels “just in case”. But the beauty of a travel capsule wardrobe is that everything can be mixed and matched.

Instead of 7 distinct outfits, you have 7-10 pieces that all work together no matter how you pair them.

The easiest way to do this is by following the neutral rule.

With the neutral rule, you either wear all neutral on top, or all neutral on bottom. That means there’s plenty of room for color in every outfit!

Personally, I travel with black and grey jeans, and I pack brightly colored tops. But if you have a favorite floral skirt or red pants, bring along some black, white, or grey tops to match.

Woman wearing mix and match travel wardrobe of black jeans, red hat, and blue backpack.

Another option is to choose complementary colors.

These are hues that sit opposite one another on the color wheel, like blue and orange. And when you pair them together, they create outfits with impact.

You should still mix some neutrals into your minimalist travel wardrobe. But focusing on complementary colors means you can bring a pink skirt and green top without fear of clashing.

Red and white top with blue jeans make great minimalist travel clothes.

Finally, pastel hues make great minimalist travel clothes.

The softness of the colors makes them easy to mix and match. When choosing pieces, stick to faded greens, pinks, blues, and yellows. Some people think pastels are only for spring, but who could say no to a powder blue sweater in winter?

Close-up of pastel colored sweaters on white hangars.

If you follow me on Instagram , you know I mostly travel around Europe. I also carry a camera bag and tripod, and tend to clock over 20,000 steps every day. As you might imagine, I don’t fill my bag with dresses and heels!

Comfort is #1 for me, but I don’t want to stick out in a city of well-dressed people. Thus, my travel capsule wardrobe for Europe balances comfort and style.

Here’s what I pack for a trip to Europe (and pretty much everywhere):

2 Pairs of Jeans

Instead of traditional blue, I opt for pairs of black or grey skinny jeans. They go with any top and can be dressed up or down.

If you’re more into relaxed fit, these Levi’s are super comfortable and look cute with a tucked-in or cropped top.

Casual Dress

If the weather is right, I like to bring a fun yet casual dress. Having a dress on hand also means I won’t feel out of place if we decide to have a nice dinner.

Black Cardigan

When exploring Europe’s beautiful cathedrals and scenic overlooks, a cardigan is a must. Sometimes I’ll tie it around my waist on the plane to save space in my bag.

Black & White Striped Long Sleeve Shirt

This neutral staple is in heavy rotation for my everyday and travel wardrobes. I like the long sleeve option, because you can wear it all day without getting too hot or cold.

3 Colorful Tops

I follow the “neutral rule” for bottoms, so I brighten my outfits with vibrant tops. I tend to wear 3/4 length sleeves, or pair a short/sleeveless top with my black cardigan.

Ballet Flats

I wear tennis shoes on the plane and for most of my trips. But I always keep a pair of nude ballet flats in my backpack for nicer occasions.

Save me for later!

Minimalist travel wardrobe flat lay with jeans, sweater, and accessories, with text overlay - "how to stop overpacking and travel light".

If you’ve embraced the minimalist lifestyle , you know the value of investing in versatile, quality items. Having things like wrinkle free travel clothes or convertible dresses are key to packing light.

I always shop my closet before adding any new purchases. But if you don’t already own the right pieces, here are some travel capsule wardrobe essentials to buy:

  • Three-in-one jacket : Look for one that’s weather-proof and hooded so you can skip the umbrella.
  • Comfortable & neutral shoes : Choose a pair that work with pants and skirts/dresses, like classic white Adidas .
  • Wrinkle-resistant fabrics: Materials like wool, polyester, and knits naturally repel wrinkles, so no wasting precious vacation time ironing!

Use a carry on backpack for traveling without luggage

Black carry on backpack with items for traveling without luggage.

The best thing about having a minimalist travel wardrobe is that it can easily fit into a carry on. I can pack for a week in a backpack, which is far more comfortable to carry around than a roller bag.

I’ve written an entire post on my favorite minimalist travel backpacks , along with dozens of tips for traveling without luggage.

My Tortuga Setout is spacious, comfortable, and opens like a suitcase. It was an investment, but it’s built to last and makes traveling with only a backpack a real joy.

Check out my review of the Tortuga Setout vs. Osprey Farpoint for more details.

I hope I’ve convinced you that creating a minimalist travel wardrobe is easy! Say goodbye to heavy suitcases and monochrone outfits, and hello to traveling light and colorfully.

17 thoughts on “How to Create a Minimalist Travel Wardrobe That Isn’t Bland”

I am preparing to take an 8 month contract at a resort in Alaska. I will part of the administrative team which requires a business casual wardrobe. I will be living on the property in a small studio and will not have much room for storage. Any suggestions that you may be able to offer, or guidance points to look for as I prepare to embark on this incredible journey.

What an amazing opportunity, Betty! Under-bed storage boxes are great for small spaces. If you have a closet or a narrow space, you could add a tension rod (like the ones for shower curtains) to create additional hanging space.

You could also use the shower organizers to hang from under the mattress to put shoes in also. Would have to cut it some to fit under mattress and hang over / under the mattress but it works.

Great article! Where did those brown shoes in the photo with the yellow sweater come from 😍

Thanks Kaitlyn! Sadly this is a stock flat lay, so I don’t know where to buy those cute shoes. I believe they’re brown leather Oxfords, so maybe you’ll find some in a shop near you!

Finally a minimalist packing list that is minimalist. Just last year I went to southern Africa for 3 months and took nothing more. I’m not a kid either – 69 and it is still highly doable.

Thanks for your feedback, Karen! I’m always glad to hear stories from other minimalist travelers.

Thank you, Chelsea! Every overseas trip has taught me to pack lighter and lighter. What I love about your suggestions for the wardrobe is bringing in color. I do not like the minimalists lists that use only drab colors. I am in my 70s now and with pain issues I can no longer do the backpacking but I did invest in a very lightweight roller suitcase (carry-on size) that I use for even my 3-month Europe trips. The other item is a small daypack that works as my personal item for flights and contains purse items and essentials for the plane so that I don’t have to get into my suitcase on the plane.

Those are great tips, Jane! I don’t think people realize how much unnecessary stuff they pack for travel. Most are baffled that I can travel for weeks with just a backpack.

I want to hear more about your three month Europe trips! You’re living my dream…

Hi, Chelsea

Personally, I never pack pajamas for trips that are 7 days or less, even for my 12-day trips to Europe and Japan.. I mostly packed no-wrinkle T’s with shorts that could be used for sleep as well as regular outfits.. This was specially helpful when we flew low cost flights to Europe with only 10kg of total carry-on allowance..

Thanks for the useful list. Just finished a multi-week French adventure and packed with this list! Did laundry once, and my bag is currently full of funk but that would have been easily correctable if I’d stayed longer and needed to do more laundry. I bought a corkscrew/bottle opener tool for about 3 euros at a grocery store when I first arrived. The little foil cutter knife worked for sausages too, so that plus a spoon was all I needed for all kinds of picnics. Therefore I’d add a grapefruit spoon (serrated, for scooping melon or whatever else you like), and a corkscrew as an optional item if checking the bag and inclined to use one. Travel-sized Febreze was a huge help too, and my cute scarf was ideal for dressing up the basics.

I would add a silk scarf. My husband has gifted me a few and I always take one. If it’s cold, it warms my neck. If it’s 94 in Rome (last month), it can be dipped in the fountains and draped on my neck. If I want to dress up my outfit, it works. If my neck is chafing against my purse strap, it provides a buffer. If I want to portage a snack, it can be the wrapper. If you have an accident, (ahem, of many types in my family), it can help wipe/clean/bandage.

What a fantastic idea! I always considered silk scarfs a frivolous accessory (unless I’m going to Paris!). Thank you for the tip!

I wish I could be that carefree. I am going to Scotland in September and the weather can change in an instant. I am going to pack some summer clothes and some fall clothes. Rain coat, rain boots, silk as well as a warm scarf. I tend to get a soar throat easily. Also PJs, T-shirts, a couple sweaters, underwear, socks, walking shoes, slacks, leggings and lots of Anti-acids for my poor wee tummy and Tylenol for my arthritis. To me that is packing light! He! He!

I think when you go to a climate like that, you do have to pack for two seasons! Everything you mentioned can cross over a bit or can be used several ways. Scarves are always my favorite thing for warmth or cute accessory instead of jewelry (and I’m a jewelry lover!). Suggestion: I like to lay everything out on the guest bed for several days. See what’s really needed. It’s also a great way to see what color theme you might have going and pick scarves accordingly! By laying things out you can see what mixes and matches, too, and gives more outfits if needed! I’ve been to Ireland and England many times but would love to try Scotland! Have an amazing time!

Europe has the best antacids called Reni! Beats Tums any day. I stock up on them when I’m in Ireland. I know they have them in U.K. too.

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  • > Travel

How-&-What-to-Put-in-your-Minimalist-Travel-Capsule-Wardrobe

How & What to Put in your Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe

I’ve probably written the digital equivalent of a novel on packing. But even armed with a near obsessive mental library of tips, hacks, and destination lists, I still found myself, 12 hours before a flight last December, scrambling to get everything in my backpack for a trip to Mexico.

Under that pressure (and a strong desire to catch a few hours of sleep before waking up at 5am), I realized just how time-inefficient my packing process was. Light, yes. Prepared, yes. But efficient? Not really. Especially when it came to choosing what clothes to pack. But after years of writing about packing, I had at least learned:

  • Having go-to items on hand can speed up your packing process
  • Clothes are the biggest variable in any packing list

Meaning: I needed a set of clothes I could quickly choose from whenever I was about to take a trip. They needed to be easy to mix and match, layer, and have options for any destination. In other words, I needed to build a travel capsule wardrobe.

Travel capsule wardrobe

What’s a travel capsule wardrobe?

A minimalist trend that began in the ‘70s, a capsule wardrobe is a wardrobe comprised of a limited number of clothes and shoes, refreshed at the beginning of each season. It’s the antithesis of fast fashion, relying on quality staples you can wear year after year, rather than having to frequently buy new clothes that quickly go out of date.

It has other perks too. By carefully selecting clothes as a set, it makes it quicker to choose outfits you always look good in. And by focusing on quality, timeless pieces, it’s meant to reduce the amount of time and money spent on fashion (a core principle some capsule wardrobes have gotten away from).

Since the trend began transforming closets, it’s been adapted for our suitcases as well. Similar to the original idea, a travel capsule wardrobe is an even more pared-down version of the original. It’s meant to make packing quicker and easier, since you’ll always have a set of trusty items you can reach for. At the same time, it helps travelers be more prepared and pack well.

How to build a travel capsule wardrobe

Capsule wardrobes have rules. Here are those rules, adapted for a travel capsule wardrobe:

  • Choose 10 items or less : Limit your travel wardrobe, including shoes, to 10 items or less (more on that in a minute).
  • Focus on quality . Choose timeless, quality pieces that don’t go out of style and work for most situations. For travel, you’ll want to focus on durable, quality fabrics as well.
  • Choose a color palette . Center everything around a color (blues, blacks, greens, greys) with one or two statement pieces to add personality to your travel closet.
  • Build two wardrobes : one for cold-weather travel, and one for warm-weather. They don’t have to be completely different (you might, for example, still use the same t-shirts) but you will swap out a few items.
  • Limit your accessories, PJs, and workout clothes. Capsule wardrobes allow you to have as many accessories, PJs, and workout clothes as you’d like, but not the travel version. Aim for one set of PJs, one set of workout clothes, and a small number of accessories. One scarf, one hat, and three pieces of jewelry is a good number to aim for.

What to include (and how many items) in a travel capsule wardrobe

The internet tends to agree that 10 items – 8 pieces of clothing and 2 pairs of shoes – is a good number to focus on for a travel capsule wardrobe. It’s restrictive but, speaking from experience, totally possible. Here’s what a 10-item travel capsule wardrobe for women would look like:

  • 2 bottoms (pants/shorts/skirts)
  • 1 dress or jumpsuit
  • 1 cardigan/sweater
  • 2 pairs shoes

As long as you stick within the 10-item rule, you can adjust the specifics according to your needs or trip. For example, I might pack a skirt instead of a dress on a warm-weather trip. Or, for cold destinations, I’d pack 2 tops and 2 sweaters, instead of 3 tops and 1 sweater.

To help you get a sense of what a women’s travel capsule wardrobe would look like IRL, I’ll next cover four different example wardrobes – a warm and cold weather wardrobe for travelers on a budget, and the same for a more premium wardrobe – and clothing recommendations. Then, we’ll dive into brands to look at when building your own wardrobe.

And if you’re keen on men’s brands make sure check out Mike’s ‘Best Clothes for a Men’s Capsule Wardrobe’ article here .

Travel capsule wardrobe

Warm-weather women’s travel capsule wardrobe examples

For warm weather travel capsule wardrobes, focus on pieces that are breathable and sweat-wicking. In terms of style, opt for pieces simple enough to work just as well for a night out as they would on the beach or trail. You’ll also want to include a layer or two for chilly plane rides, unexpectedly cold evenings, and rain. For shoes, go for a pair of comfortable sneakers and sandals — or swap one out for flats if you want to look a little dressier.

Travel capsule wardrobe

Budget example

Quality doesn’t mean breaking the bank. For those of you on a budget, here’s what a summer capsule made up of items under $80 USD (all prices from here out are in USD) might look like:

  • Shoes : TOMS Slip-on Sneakers or flats ($40-80)
  • Shoes : Teva classic sandals ($50-70)
  • Top : Woolly merino wool tank top ($40)
  • Top : Everlane cotton tank ($20)
  • Top : Everlane cotton t-shirt ($16-28)
  • Dress : prAna Paulina Dress ($80)
  • Bottoms : DUER shorts ($69)
  • Bottoms : prAna capri leggings ($65)
  • Sweater : Uniqlo Merino cardigan ($40)
  • Jacket : Columbia rain jacket shell ($40-50)

Premium example

If you have a little more wiggle room in your budget, expand your search to brands specializing in women’s technical clothing. While not necessarily built just for travel, they have the functional-fashionable qualities you’ll want in travel clothes. Here’s what a more premium summer capsule with items under $200 USD would look like:

  • Shoes : Rothy’s flats ($145)
  • Shoes : Soludos sandals ($65 – 90)
  • Top : Western Rise t-shirt or tank ($92 / $69)
  • Top : Everlane GoWeave cami ($68)
  • Top : ADAY Shell Yes Tank ($68)
  • Bottoms : ADAY Cut it Out Pant ($110)
  • Dress : Everlane Japanese GoWeave dress ($98)
  • Sweater : Betabrand cardigan ($80 -130)
  • Jacket : lululemon Deep Inhale rain jacket ($128)

Travel wardrobe capsule premium cold weather

Cold-weather women’s travel capsule wardrobe examples

When building a travel capsule wardrobe for cold weather trips, you can reuse a few of the items from your warm weather capsule. But, of course, you’ll need to swap in some warmer layers, a heavier jacket, and shoes that can stand up to long walks in the snow (not the beach).

Travel capsule wardrobe

While you can build a winter wardrobe for travel on a budget, prepare to make your shoes and coat your “big ticket” items. You may end up spending a little more on those than you did for your summer shoes and jacket:

  • Shoes : TOMS Boots ($100)
  • Shoes : Keds lace ups ($30 – 75)
  • Top : Patagonia cotton t-shirt ($39)
  • Top : Woolly t-shirt ($50)
  • Top : Everlane long-sleeve t-shirt ($16-28)
  • Bottoms : Uniqlo legging pants ($30)
  • Bottoms : prAna leggings ($75)
  • Sweater : Muji sweater ($40)
  • Sweater : Columbia sweater ($30-70)
  • Jacket : Uniqlo puffer jacket ($70 – $120)

Especially for winter wear, spending a little more will get you pieces that (usually) hold up better to the environment and last longer. It also means you can tap into some very stylish, technical outerwear brands like Alchemy Equipment and Betabrand , who offer options outside of your standard puffy jacket for cold weather travel.

  • Shoes : Sorel Boots ($120-300)
  • Shoes : Soludos Sneakers ($120-130)
  • Top : Western Rise t-shirt ($92)
  • Top : Everlane Japanese GoWeave Tee ($68)
  • Top : Woolly long-sleeve ($60)
  • Bottoms : ADAY Leggings ($100 – 135)
  • Bottoms : AT Slim Rivet Pants ($129)
  • Sweater : ADAY Like a Boss sweatshirt ($125)
  • Sweater : Patagonia crew ($99)
  • Jacket : Patagonia Micro Puff Jacket ($250 – 300)

Women’s brands to look at for building your travel capsule wardrobe

Style is so personal and every woman’s travel capsule wardrobe will look a little different. And while the above examples hopefully gave you some inspiration and help in visualizing a woman’s travel capsule wardrobe, you probably won’t use our exact recommendations.

To give you some direction on where to find great pieces when building your own collection, below are some of the best women’s shoe and clothing brands for travel:

Best for : Shoes

It’s no secret that TOMS slip-on sneakers are great for travel. Comfortable, small to pack, and affordable, their classic sneaker will keep your feet happy as you wander new destinations. Plus, it’s more fashionable than your typical sneaker, and doesn’t scream tourist (the only downside is that they lack arch support).

For business trips or travel where you need to look fancier than normal, they also have flats and low boots that are just as comfortable as their sneakers. Plus, with dozens of patterns to choose from, it’s an easy way to add a little color or flair to an otherwise basic outfit.

When I did Peace Corps, everyone I knew was obsessed with their Teva sandals   –  and it’s easy to see why. They’re sturdy, comfortable enough to hike in, pack down easily, and are simple in design. True, they’re not the most fashionable – though they are making a comeback – but they are one of the best-looking functional sandals out there.

Also, if you’re a Peace Corps volunteer or student, you can get an additional discount ( students get 10% , and “Pros” get 40% ).

Rothys-travel-shoes

Rothy’s

If you haven’t heard of Rothy’s yet, watch out. They may be taking over a city near you soon with their recycled, “just as comfortable as sneakers” flats and loafers. While on the pricier side, they live up to expectation in terms of comfort and quality. For travel, grab a pair in a basic color or opt for one of their more vibrant styles (bright yellow, anyone?) to make a statement.

How could you not love a shoe brand with the tagline, “inspired by our travels, made for yours”? Clearly, wanderlust-inspired shoe brand  Soludos  knows a thing or three about the kind of footwear our travel adventures require. Both comfortable and cute, Soludos’ sandals, mules, loafers, boots, and sneakers beautifully strike the balance between function and fashion. Just be sure to break ‘em in before your adventure.

Travel wardrobe capsule

Best for : Winter shoes

Like Teva, Sorel’s boots tend to lean more functional than fashionable – though they have some basic styles, like their low-heeled Chelsea boot , with a more street wear aesthetic. But when it comes to function, their sturdy, water and weatherproof boots are hard to beat. Their shoes will be your secret to spending a full day adventuring in even the shittiest winter weather. If you can afford the $100+ price tag, they’ll be a much-loved addition to your cold weather capsule.

Western Rise

Best for : Wool tops, pants

Both fashionable and functional, Western Rise ’s clothing sits between outdoor wear and streetwear. “We believe the outdoors starts right when you leave your house,” says co-founder Kelly Watters, and their clothes reflect that.

Their women’s tees and tanks are stylish enough for everyday wear (sans athleisure aesthetic), but have the performance of active wear. Same goes for their AT Slim Rivet pants (noted as the best women’s travel pants by Carry HQ). These slim-fitting pants are made of a breathable, water-resistant fabric, and, unlike any other pants you own, are equally ready for biking through a quick rain drizzle and a day at the office. They’re a great option if you can only pack one pair of pants.

Best for : Wool tops

Breathable in hot weather, but insulating in warm, merino wool layers are versatile and an ideal fabric for travel clothes. They’re also comfortable, soft, and don’t get smelly as quickly as synthetics or cotton – meaning you can go longer between washes.

For quality wool tees, tanks, and long-sleeves, Seattle-based Woolly is a wonderful brand to stock up on all things merino wool, especially if you’re on a budget. Compared to most other merino wool brands, they’re more affordable but don’t shirk on quality or performance.

Best for : Tops and bottoms

Every item from technical clothing brand  ADAY  fits beautifully within a travel capsule wardrobe. Well-made, functional, and modern in design, they work for any season and situation. Personally, I live in their Crop & Roll leggings , whose shiny fabric makes them look more fashion-forward than your standard leggings and comes with a generous-sized side pocket.

Further, the fabric on all of their items is breathable, soft, and impossible to wrinkle. After many wears and washes over the past 6 months, both the leggings and their futuristic-looking Like a Boss sweatshirt  have held their shape and color, making it worth the investment.

dish-and-duer-skinny-jeans

Best for : Bottoms (denim)

If you’ve ever tried to bike in super stiff denim, you know it doesn’t usually work out. DUER , however, has set out to solve this problem by giving us denim jeans and shorts that are more than a sturdy pair of good-looking pants. They’re actually comfortable enough to bike, walk, or run around town in. Which, obviously, is good news if you’re only able to bring one pair of travel jeans.

Best for : Jackets, bottoms, and dresses

Quirky, San Francisco-based Betabrand  first hit the scenes with their “yoga work pants”. Exactly what you’d think, they’re pants that look like work pants but feel like yoga pants — every office worker’s dream, right?

But in addition to giving office workers of the world pants they can do lotus pose in (perhaps in one of those ergonomic swivel chairs), Betabrand has designed some pretty cool jackets, dresses, and tops that work wonderfully for travel as well. What’s more, their designs tend to be more eccentric and colorful than some of the others on this list, making it a good place to find a statement piece for your collection that also stands up to the rigours of globetrotting.

Best for : Tops and dresses

There’s a lot of love for Everlane , so I wouldn’t be surprised if this brand of affordable and timeless apparel is already on your radar for closet staples. But perhaps less often talked about is how great their clothing, and specifically their Japanese Go-weave collection, is for travel.

The dresses and tops in this collection are made from a comfortable and wrinkle-resistant fabric that won’t get messed up in your luggage. The styles, like most of Everlane’s clothing, are simple and easy to dress up or down, giving them the versatility you need for one-bag travel.

prana travel clothing - pants and dress

Best for : Tops, bottoms, dresses, skirts

Although prAna sometimes gets pigeonholed as a yoga brand, they’re much more than that. Their line of versatile, comfortable, and sustainably made clothing is meant for any adventure – whether it’s travel or yoga, rock climbing or beach lounging.

With a focus on classic designs made from fabrics that can stand the rigours of any activity or adventure, prAna’s line of clothing has that fashion-function balance we want in travel clothes. When building a travel capsule wardrobe, they’re one of the better brands to look at for travel dresses, fashionable outerwear, and quality, sub-$100 leggings.

Best for : Jackets, outerwear

For a long time, outdoor and athleisure brands picked up the slack when women didn’t have a ton of options for travel clothing. But even with the influx of brands like ADAY and Everlane, sometimes mainstay outdoor brands like Columbia are still the best brand for the job.

This is especially true when it comes to warm down-jackets that are easy to pack down for cold-weather travel, or lightweight layers to block wind and rain in warm climates. With 80 years of experience creating outdoor apparel, Columbia knows how to make a damn good jacket. Plus, compared to other outdoor brands, Columbia can often be more affordable for budget travelers.

Best for : Jackets, sweaters, and tops

Like Columbia, Patagonia is an outdoor clothing brand but also a tried and trusted source for quality outerwear and clothes that can withstand the elements. From their ultra-lightweight Micro Puffs to waterproof rain shells, you can trust that Patagonia has you covered. Additionally, they have a standout collection of sweaters and sweatshirts, fleeces, and everyday tops–many of which have a vintage Californian aesthetic that pays homage to their Ventura roots.

Further, Patagonia has a strong commitment to sustainability, community, and their employees (my Ventura-raised dad always tells stories of Patagonia closing shop “because the surf was great and they wanted to let their employees get out and ride”) so you can always feel good buying from them.

Best for : Leggings and jackets

Whatever stereotypes you have of lululemon and their almost cult-like following, you have to admit: their clothes are well made. As an athletics brand, breathability, four-way stretch, sweat-wicking fabrics, and comfort are the core of every design. Style-wise, lululemon leans more towards athleisure than athletic, and their designs are stylish enough that you’d actually want to wear them in an everyday scenario.

For travel, they’re one of my go-to brands for cute jackets and (of course) a basic pair of leggings. And if you’re wondering if their yoga pants are worth the price point: yes, they are. I’ve worn mine at least once a week for the past three years, and brought them on countless trips. They’re only finally beginning to show signs of wear. All that lulu-love is well earned.

Best for : Sweaters

Japanese brand  Muji has received acclaim for their affordable travel pillows, eye masks, and travel slippers, but did you know they also make clothing? Although not specifically designed for travel, their clothing line is almost entirely basic, essential items you can pair with anything. In other words, perfect for a travel capsule wardrobe. When colder weather rolls around, keep an eye out for their affordable but well-made wool sweaters.

Uniqlo-down-jacket green

Best for : Wool tops, down jackets, pants

Uniqlo is like a godsend for merino-wool aficionados and down-jacket lovers on a budget. Like many of the other brands on this list, the Japanese brand Uniqlo creates fashionable streetwear essentials with technical fabrics – but at a much lower price point.

Compared to a more expensive brand, Uniqlo’s clothing will wear down faster (for example, my Uniqlo heattech leggings stretched out after six months, but my Patagonia ones lasted five years) but overall, their clothing – and their down jackets in particular – are surprisingly good considering the price point.

Will you try a travel capsule wardrobe?

Whether you currently travel with one bag or are trying to downsize, a thoughtful travel capsule wardrobe can help you travel with less while always having what you need. So let us know, will you try it? And if you’ve already attempted travel with a capsule wardrobe, what have your experiences been?

Liked this article? You might enjoy these too:

The Best Men’s Clothes for a Travel Wardrobe

The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

The Best Backpacks for One-Bag Travel

The Best Travel Shoes for Every Type of Traveler Right Now

How to Pack Light for a Week: Tips, Lists, and Bags

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Jessie Beck

Intrepid cyclist and packing pro.

Jessie is an avid cyclist, traveler, food-lover, and writer with a knack for packing. She’s called many places home – Washington D.C., Malta, Costa Rica, Seattle, Madagascar – and traveled to over 35 others. She now lives in San Francisco where she splits her time between traveling, adventuring outdoors, and writing about travel, packing, and (of course) travel […]

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Minimalist Focus

10 Minimalist Travel Essentials – a Minimalist World Traveler Kit

minimalist travel outfits

Minimalist travel is an art. It takes a lot of time and practice to master it, and there are many variants. In this context, one of the primary challenges is to find your essentials. Once determined, those essentials will form the basis of your minimalist packing list, creating a set of core items that work on any journey. On this basis, here is my minimalist world traveler kit.

This article may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy  here .

Whether you want to travel full-time or go on a two-week adventure, minimalist travel essentials will simplify the journey. 

I’ve been on the road more or less continually for the last three years and never carry more than two carry-on backpacks.  The two bags fit all of my camera gear, electronics, clothes, and toiletries. 

Some sacrifices are necessary, but you don’t have to travel ultralight to benefit from minimalist travel principles . 

My 10 minimalist travel essentials – how to travel the world full-time 

The following components make up my minimalist packing list. They work in every environment and score points with their versatility and durability. 

10 Minimalist Travel Essentials - a Minimalist World Traveler Kit - person holding smartphone in front of lake

1. Two backpacks

First and foremost, a minimalist world traveler kit includes backpacks. 

I don’t particularly rate those huge 80L backpacks that many first-time backpackers use.  They are cumbersome, impractical, and highly conspicuous. In my 1,000 plus days on the road, I’ve never used a big bulky backpack. 

They are also outdated.  In 2006, there weren’t many alternatives, but today, hundreds of forward-thinking companies produce smaller, more low-key backpacks that are much better-suited to long-term travel. 

Enter PacSafe. For the past couple of years, I have been using their Vibe 40L and their VentureSafe 45L . 

I used to travel with an 80L wheeled duffle bag, but I have downsized to the two PacSafes for more comfort and public transport suitability.

I nowadays use the Vibe as a carry-on, mainly for camera gear, and the VentureSafe as my primary luggage.  Both are discrete, stylish, and extremely durable. They can handle deserts, tropical rainforests, and snowy treks.  They also have world-leading safety features, making them excellent companions for rougher cities. 

2. A foldable day-pack (and a dry bag) 

Inside my two PacSafe bags, I keep a foldable day-pack and a dry bag for beach expeditions. 

One of the secrets of minimalist travel is to combine various pieces of luggage and gear into one another. That’s where foldable day-packs come into play. 

The EagleCreek 25L is well-made and sturdy, but most importantly, it folds into a miniature piece that you can easily store in your main backpack. 

As such, it works perfectly for day trips and short excursions. 

For water sports and beach trips, I also pack a 10L EarthPak dry bag .  It doesn’t take up too much space and becomes a life-saving item when you’re carrying expensive electronics on a Southeast Asian island-hopping barge. 

3. A water bottle 

When it comes to minimalist travel essentials, a reusable water bottle is an unmissable component. 

A while ago, I invested in a GRAYL self-cleaning water bottle , and I have not been disappointed.  Usable both in cities and in the wild, the GRAYL purifies water and also keeps your beverage hot or cold.

I stopped buying plastic bottles a long time ago, and the GRAYL has been a driving force in regard. 

4. Packing cubes 

Packing cubes are excellent for minimalist travelers thanks to their versatility and organizational benefits. 

By dividing your luggage into different sections, you always know where everything is.  As such, they will save you valuable time and also simplify the task of organizing your luggage. 

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5. A travel wallet with important documents

To keep your passport, credit cards, flight tickets, and other documents safe, use an RFID-proof travel wallet.

Akin to backpacks, PacSafe is my go-to brand for travel wallets.  Their V200 has a sleek minimalist look, high-quality materials, and perfect divisions for all your necessary documents. 

q? encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B01M9JZH2R&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format= SL250 &tag=jackkrier09 20

6. Two pairs of shoes 

Many first-time globetrotters ask themselves how many pairs of shoes, pants, and other essential clothing items they need. 

Everyone has different travel priorities, but I found that packing two pairs of shoes works well for long-term minimalist travel. 

I take one pair of rugged outdoor shoes and one pair of white sneakers. I use the former in nature settings and the latter in urban environments. 

When it comes to minimalist travel footwear, the crucial point is versatility . Choose shoes that are discrete and inconspicuous. 

If you travel over long stretches, your shoes will need to suit different occasions. White sneakers, as an example, work both in a casual setting and a semi-formal atmosphere. 

Better still, they can be paired with almost anything – from jeans to chinos and suit trousers. 

All-terrain shoes, on the other hand, should also be usable in a casual environment.  Don’t take mountaineering or trekking shoes if you only spend two days of your two-month trip in the mountains.  You can always borrow special-purpose shoes in particular situations, but your primary footwear should focus on multi-purpose items.

7. A foldable rain jacket 

No matter where you go, a foldable rain jacket is an indispensable piece on your minimalist packing list. 

Choose your rain jacket according to two criteria:

  • it shouldn’t take up much space in your luggage. As such, it should fold into a small piece; and
  • it should be a high-quality, rain-persistent item. 

8. Clothes for 10 days 

There is an eternal debate among minimalist travelers on how much clothing you need to travel the world.

A straightforward answer doesn’t exist, but in my experience, the ideal solution is to take clothes for ten days.  You could find yourself without a washer for a week, which is why you need some spare items. 

Take discrete colors and always pack outfits , not individual items.  As an example, don’t pack college t-shirts with big logos that make you stand out everywhere.  In that same vein, don’t take brightly-colored items that only fit one specific color combination. 

Choose your clothes with adaptability in mind, and only take pieces that go with different outfits. 

9. Lightweight toiletries 

Toiletries are part of my minimalist travel essentials, but I’ve scaled down a lot over the years. 

The simple truth is that you can find almost anything at your destination. That’s why there is no point in filling your luggage with easily replaceable toiletries. 

Limit your toiletries to essential products, and buy the rest on the road. 

10. Versatile travel electronics 

Finally, any modern minimalist travel kit will include a wide variety of electronics. 

As a photographer, around 30 percent of my luggage contains camera gear. I travel with two mirrorless bodies, three lenses, a Gorillapod, memory cards, etc. 

Aside from camera gear, the following are some of my most vital travel electronics: 

  • a laptop: I work online, so my Macbook Pro is my most prized possession; 
  • a travel adapter: you may need it to cater to different plugs around the world. I use an EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter ;
  • an unlocked smartphone: keep in mind that you may need to change SIM cards; 
  • a power bank: I use the Ravpower PD Powerbank ;
  • noise-canceling headphones: a critical item on long-haul flights. I use the Bose Soundlink ; 
  • Portable Bluetooth speakers to listen to your music in your hotel room or Airbnb. My favorite small speakers are the Anker Soundcore Mini ; and
  • external hard drives: if you work as a creator, those hard drives are lifesavers. I use a LaCie 4Tb Rugged HD . I usually carry a few smaller spares.

You may need other electronics depending on your travel style, but those are the ones that secure both peace of mind and productivity on the road.

Useful links on 10 Minimalist Travel Essentials – a Minimalist World Traveler Kit

  • more in the category “Design”
  • more under the topic “Travel”
  • read My 10 Principles of Minimalist Traveling
  • read The Best Minimalist Purchases to Simplify Your Life

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Meet Kathy, the mindful mind behind the words at minimalistfocus.com. With an innate ability to distill the essence of life down to its purest form, Kathy's writing resonates with those seeking clarity in a cluttered world.

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Master the Art of Minimalist Travel with these 10 Expert Hacks

As an experienced minimalist for the past 8 years and a seasoned traveler for 10, I’ve learned some minimalist travel hacks for simpler expeditions. You can indeed pack smarter and enjoy a fantastic journey at the same time. If you’re seeking hacks to streamline your packing and travel lighter, consider tips like making a plan, choosing the right gear, and staying organized.

Are you tired of overpacking, wasting money, and dragging around heavy luggage? I get it. On my initial trips, I lugged a check-in bag, carry-on, duffle, and backpack, thinking I needed my whole bathroom and kitchen with me.

minimalist travel outfits

However, I quickly realized that every item I bring adds weight and hassle that I need to keep track of. All of this takes away from being in the moment of our adventures so I opted to pack more intentionally. Over the years I have been able to compile a list of my best minimalist travel hacks and these are my top 10!

1. The Art of Wise Packing

minimalist travel outfits

Packing for a trip is a bit of a science. You should start by making a detailed list of essentials , then ruthlessly cut it in half, keeping only what you truly need. Think versatile, neutral-toned clothing that can be mixed and matched. For longer trips, plan to do laundry or take advantage of laundry services.

Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and reduce wrinkles. You can stuff socks, belts, and undergarments inside your shoes to make the most out of every inch. Also wearing your heaviest items on the plane can reduce the weight of your luggage and free up space.

minimalist travel outfits

Before leaving on a trip I now take the time to plan out my outfits and see which items I can get multiple uses out of. I start by creating a mood board on Pinterest of outfit inspo (looking for ones with pieces I already own). Next, I lay out the outfits on the bed and take photos with a sticky note on it saying what day I plan to wear them.  This makes it easy when getting ready in the morning.

2. Stick to Carry-On Sized Luggage

minimalist travel outfits

We live in the golden age of packing efficiently with advanced products and designs that maximize space. You can start committing to a carry-on-only bag to avoid the wait and potential loss of checked luggage. Another bonus is not having to pay the hefty fee for bringing the extra bag.

I have been able to take long trips to much farther places with just a carry-on and personal item.  As well as traveling to colder climates. You’ll be amazed at how much you can fit and how creative you get when you’re forced to scale back.

3. Simple Trips Are the Best Trips

minimalist travel outfits

Not every adventure calls for an extensive packing list . Planning a trip that revolves around one main activity or event can simplify your planning. For example, a hiking trip means packing only for the trail. Or a festival trip means only one focus outfit while the rest can be laid-back and simple.

An overly elaborate itinerary can lead to over-packing and a more stressful experience. Start by planning your trips based on bucket list experiences , focus on what’s truly important then tailor your packing list accordingly.

minimalist travel outfits

Since starting to travel more I created a bucket list and now try to prioritize my trips on experiences that are on it. This allows me the time to take in the local culture and reflect on my personal growth, rather than mindlessly checking off a long list of sights. By keeping it simple you’ll have a more meaningful trip. 

4. Chase the Sun

minimalist travel outfits

Weather can dictate much of your packing requirements. You can consider choosing destinations with a consistently warm climate or during warm times for destinations with multiple seasons.  Packing a light jacket and a couple of layers can be sufficient and take you a long way.

minimalist travel outfits

Traveling in milder weather or summer makes for less bulk in your bags, and fewer wardrobe changes, too.  I once spent a weekend by the beach and only took a backpack filled with bikinis and a toothbrush. Plus let’s be honest, who doesn’t love soaking up some extra sunshine?

5. Multi-Purpose Items Are Multi-Winners

minimalist travel outfits

My best minimalist travel hack is to use items with multiple uses, they will be your best friend. A sarong can be a beach towel, picnic blanket, or a shawl. A Swiss Army Knife comes in handy in a multitude of situations.

Tote bags can act as packing cubes, and a canteen can store more than water. Don’t get me started with bandanas but the list goes on. With multi-purpose items, you not only save space but also invest in things that contribute to a clutter-free travel lifestyle.

6. Use Cloud-based Documents

minimalist travel outfits

Lose the physical clutter and go digital with important documents. Store the backups of your passport, and IDs on a cloud server as well as your travel insurance info , and itinerary for easy access.

This way, you’ll always have your important documents on hand and can avoid carrying unnecessary papers that can get lost, damaged, or stolen. I recommend checking out providers like Google Drive, One Drive, and iCloud who all give you around 5 GB of storage for free. This amount is more than enough for travel documents.

7. Bring Your Snacks to Save Money

minimalist travel outfits

Airport snacks can quickly add up, both in cost and calorie count. By bringing your own, you’ll save money, eat healthier, and ensure you have familiar foods on hand. Pre-pack dried fruits, nuts, or energy bars in a reusable snack bag for an in-flight pick-me-up that doesn’t require a stop at the overpriced kiosk.

Traveling more like a minimalist comes with some perks, like saving money on travel , and worrying about mundane things much less. But the biggest one is the reduction of your environmental impact. Bringing your own snacks ensures you can pack with less waste and sustainably sourced ingredients. 

8. Organization is Key

minimalist travel outfits

Staying organized on the road can make a world of difference in maintaining your travel-minimalist goals. Separate your items in your luggage using various pouches or packing organizers. Labeling these can help you quickly find things, especially when on the move, and it offers a neat way to repack everything after going through security checks.

By creating a packing system and finding a place for everything you can make packing your belongings much more easier. Remember to keep important things you need the most near you like your passport or earbuds on traveling days. Another tip is to make a master packing list (which you can also store on the cloud) and go over it before every trip.

9. Invest in Quality Gear

minimalist travel outfits

While it may seem counterintuitive, investing in high-quality gear can sometimes save the day in minimalistic travel. A durable, well-designed backpack or pair of shoes can go for many trips without needing a replacement. Look for lightweight, sturdy items that suit your needs.

You should assess your travel style and see where you are better off at splurging. For instance, if you are a hiker then hiking gear is where you can upgrade. If you’re into swimming then scuba diving gear is where it at. The money you save from not checking in bags can go to a better, long-lasting piece of luggage or equipment.

minimalist travel outfits

I love snorkeling and plan to invest in prescription goggles so I can have better vision underwater. Another item that has greatly improved my travels is my walking shoes specifically made for plantar fasciitis which I developed in recent years.  These shoes not only provide the necessary support for my feet but also double as fashionable walking shoes.

10. Cut Down on the Shoes

minimalist travel outfits

Speaking of shoes the last minimalist travel hack is to cut down on your footwear. Shoes are often the heaviest and bulkiest items in your luggage. For many trips, a good pair of walking shoes and a pair of sandals or casual shoes are all you need.

minimalist travel outfits

If you’re taking a business trip , wear the dress shoes on the plane and bring sneakers in your bag. Streamline your choices to what can accommodate the most types of activities and outfits. Now I am a fashion girl so this one is hard for me.

minimalist travel outfits

My rule is no more than 3 pairs and I can wear one on them on the plane. What you can pack are boots (hiking/rain), sandals (dressy outfits/beach), and tennis shoes (lots of walking/casual outfits). This method allows you to cover most activities you will encounter on your travels.

Remember, the goal of these minimalist travel hacks is to optimize your adventure with less physical baggage and mental clutter, not less enjoyment. Some key takeaways are to organize how you pack, plan your travels around warmer climates, and accommodate bucket list experiences.

minimalist travel outfits

By strategically preparing for your trips, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking a world of simple, stress-free travel adventures.

Happy exploring!

minimalist travel outfits

The Packable Life

Minimalist Travel [DIY Packing List + Best Ultralight Gear]

Minimalist traveler walking down street in Puerto Morelos, Mexico

Executing minimalist travel is simple:

  • Choose a suitable bag that you can carry onto an airplane
  • Fill it with clothing, gear, and other travel essentials
  • Leave everything else behind

By doing so, you’ll experience the world feeling light as a feather, unbothered by the burden of unnecessary stuff.

I’ve learned the value of minimalist travel through visiting dozens of countries over years of travel experience. I carry everything I need to travel, work full-time, and film/photograph my adventures in an ultralight 25-liter personal item-sized bag .

I’m here to share the packing list I use to prepare for minimalist trips of a week or more and analyze every piece of gear I bring along.

Stay tuned; it’s time to lighten up.

Minimalist Packing List for 2023

Why Bring Less Stuff?

  • Minimalist Travel Bags
  • Must-Bring Travel Essentials
  • In-Transit Travel Clothing
  • Minimalist Travel Wardrobe
  • Cold-Weather Travel Clothing
  • Connectivity & Organization Gear
  • Minimalist Travel Toiletries Kit
  • Everything Else
  • Minimalist Packing List Variations
  • Final Thoughts on Minimalist Travel
  • More Travel Gear & Resources

Packing the minimum you need to explore your destination comfortably, much like ultralight backpacking , will reduce the weight on your back as you move from place to place. The less weight on your back, the more mobile you will be.

In well-executed minimalist travel, everything in your bag serves a purpose, benefits your journey, and pushes you forward. If you ever have to ask yourself, “Why did I bring this item again?” you probably should have never packed it in the first place.

Believe me, I overpacked for years. I used to be the guy who hauled around an 80-liter backpack and was overwhelmed and exhausted daily by the sheer number of possessions I had as I traveled. It wasn’t worth it.

When I say that minimalist travel is the most liberating way to move about the world, it comes from years of experience. By packing less, we free up time, space, energy, and money to experience our journey without any dead weight holding us back.

Now, let’s dive into my up-to-date minimalist packing list for 2024.

Minimalist Travel Bag

Travel Backpack

Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25 backpack

Ultralight Daypack: Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25

In the world of minimalist travel, it all starts with a personal item-sized backpack . I’m over the moon with my ultralight Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25-liter pack, which is waterproof and weighs a ridiculous 10.7 ounces. Can’t afford to fork out 250 bucks? Check out the Matador Freerain28 .

BUY ON ZPACKS

Minimalist Packing Essentials

Wallet/Purse

Passport/Visa

Cash/Credit Cards

Insurance Documents

Copies of Passport/Visa

Grey iPhone 13 Pro smartphone

Do-it-All Cell Phone: iPhone 13 Pro

A smartphone should be a key cog of anyone’s travel packing list. My iPhone 13 Pro has a ton of storage (512 GB), a fast processor, an incredible camera, and a beautiful display. Yes, it’s one of the pricier smartphones out there, but I got a considerable discount buying refurbished.

BUY ON AMAZON

Black Slimfold soft shell minimalist travel wallet

Minimalist Wallet: Slimfold Soft Shell

There’s no room for gigantic, bulging wallets in minimalist travel, so keep it simple. The Slimfold Soft Shell wallet does everything you’ll ever ask of it while never being a bother. It’s RFID-blocking, waterproof, and super comfortable to carry. Did I mention it weighs half an ounce?

BUY ON SLIMFOLD

Worn Clothing While In-Transit

Grey American Giant packable sweatshirt

Sweatshirt: American Giant

I almost always travel in a sweatshirt, even when visiting a warmer destination. I love its coziness in airports, airplanes, trains, lounges, and other environments with heavy air conditioning. My sweatshirt is a bit bulky, so it never goes in my backpack.

BUY ON AMERICAN GIANT

Black merino Wool&Prince t-shirt

Merino Wool T-Shirt: Wool&Prince

If you bump into me while I’m traveling, chances are I’ll be wearing a Wool&Prince tee. These shirts are soft, comfortable, odor-resistant, and fit my frame well. They stay smelling fresh even after several days of use in a row. Thanks, merino wool!

BUY ON WOOL&PRINCE

Dark blue Outlier Slim Dungaree travel pants

Do-it-All Travel Pants: Outlier Slim Dungarees

I only bring one pair of pants when I’m minimalist traveling, so they’d better be top quality. My drawers of choice are from a fabric-obsessed NYC-based brand called Outlier. In their words, “If you only own a single pair of pants, these are the ones.” They’re a splurge, but worth it.

BUY ON OUTLIER

Lems Primal Zens barefoot zero drop shoes

Versatile Shoes: Lems Primal Zen

My style of travel — lots of hiking, exploring, and city strolling — calls for a durable and versatile set of shoes. To meet all of these needs, I chose the Lens Primal Zens. These zero-drop shoes can handle the gym, backcountry, sidewalks, and everything in between.

BUY ON LEMS

Grey baseball hat

Baseball Hat: Proof Rover

Like many minimalist travelers, I can’t be bothered with styling my hair every single day. For that reason, I always travel with a trusty baseball hat. The stylish and versatile Rover allows me to get up and go without looking into a mirror first.

BUY ON HUCKBERRY

Retro black polarized sunglasses

Retro Sunglasses: Knockaround Fast Lanes

I’ve tried other sunglasses brands but always keep returning to the Knockaround Fast Lanes. They’ve got a classic look, polarized lenses, and ring in around 30 bucks. They elevate my minimalist travel swagger but don’t break the bank.

BUY ON KNOCKAROUND

Blue Mack Weldon Everyday boxer briefs

Breathable Underwear: Mack Weldon

Comfortable underwear is oh so crucial in the world of minimalist travel, and that’s why the Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey Boxer Briefs are my new favorite undies for the road. They’re exceptionally soft and wick away moisture, keeping the stink of travel at bay.

BUY ON MACK WELDON

Darn Tough Crew merino wool socks

Super-Comfortable Socks: Darn Tough Crew

I’m a sock snob. That’s why I’ll only buy Darn Tough brand socks, even if they cost $20 a pair. They’re expertly crafted from an ultra-comfortable Merino wool blend, and each pair comes with a lifetime guarantee, though they’re so durable you may never need to use it.

BUY ON DARN TOUGH

Black and brown Perry Ellis reversible belt

Reversible Belt: Perry Ellis

I used to sport an Arcade Ranger stretchy belt, but it was a little too stretchy, and my pants would slowly start to sag as the day wore on. I recently switched to this reversible leather belt that still allows some stretch but just the right amount.

Packed Minimalist Travel Wardrobe

Button-Down Shirt

T-Shirts (3)

Athletic Shorts

Underwear (2)

Packing Cubes

Man wearing a blue Japanese Oxford button-down shirt

Button-Down Shirt: Everlane Japanese Oxford

Though I’m a t-shirt guy through and through, I always bring a button-down shirt for fancier occasions. This is my favorite shirt of its kind in my at-home wardrobe, and thus, it has earned a spot in my backpack. It fits perfectly, looks great buttoned or unbuttoned, and has held up for years.

BUY ON EVERLANE

Man wearing a blue Wool&Prince merino travel tee

Well, hello again, incredible Wool&Prince Merino wool t-shirt! I usually pack an extra one of these when I’m traveling to stay fresh and switch up my color schemes as needed. As I mentioned earlier, these rarely trap odor, so they can be worn for days on end without raising a stink.

Man wearing a blue performance t-shirt

Performance Tee: Bluffworks Threshold (2)

Though I love my Wool&Prince tees, I’d rather not beat them up when working out, having a beach day, or going on a rigorous hike. That’s where my Bluffworks Tresholds come in. They’re made from polyester and elastane and are meant for high-intensity activities.

BUY ON BLUFFWORKS

Black gym shorts for travel, gym, swimming, and more

Versatile Athletic Shorts: Olivers All Over

I throw on my All Overs when washing my travel pants or need something to wear while working out or swimming. They’re comfortable, can be worn out on the town, and take up barely any space in my bag. They make my minimalist wardrobe all the more versatile.

BUY ON OLIVERS

Breathable Underwear: Mack Weldon (2)

I’m addicted to my Mack Weldons; they’re the only underwear I ever want to wear. When minimalist traveling, I cycle between three pairs of these and wash them frequently. I can stretch their usage an extra day or two between washes if needed.

Two black no-show wool socks

Super-Comfortable Socks: Darn Tough No Show (2)

When I find a product I love, I sing its praises. That said, my Darn Toughs are so delightful — so utterly comfortable — that I will give you some advice: buy these socks . When traveling, I bring one pair of crew socks and two no-shows. I wash them regularly, usually by hand.

Grey TOM BIHN grid packing cube

Packing Cube/Shoulder Bag: TOM BIHN

In the world of extreme minimalist travel, real estate inside my bag is at a premium. To maximize the space, I use a packing cube to store my clothing. My functional TOM BIHN cube also doubles as a shoulder bag when used in conjunction with a shoulder strap.

BUY ON TOM BIHN

Optional Cold and/or Rainy Weather Clothing

Winter Jacket

Rain Jacket

Long Underwear

Arc'teryx Cerium LT puffy jacket

Lightweight Down Jacket: Arc’teryx Cerium LT

For cold-weather trips, a packable down jacket should be part of every minimalist traveler’s arsenal. I travel with my trusty Arc’teryx Cerium LT, which weighs 10 ounces and packs down to the size of a Nalgene bottle. It keeps me toasty warm into temperatures well below freezing.

Wrinkly Montbell Versalite ultralight rain jacket

Ultralight Rain Jacket: Montbell Versalite

If I plan on hiking or visiting a wet climate, a rain jacket is an essential part of my minimalist packing list. Weighing only 6.4 oz, the Montbell Versalite is incredibly lightweight and packable and has become my rain jacket of choice. It’ll always have a spot in my bag.

READ MY REVIEW

Patagonia Capilene long underwear

Long Underwear: Patagonia Capilene

If the weather on my upcoming trip is chilly enough to pack a down jacket, I’m also packing my long underwear. I bring the ultra-packable 5.3 oz Patagonia Capilene bottoms to insulate my lower half on my adventures to cold-weather destinations.

Man wearing a camo merino wool head covering

Multifunctional Headwear: KUIU Ultra Merino

Neck warmer, bandana, face mask, beanie – this KUIU Ultra Merino Buff can transform into whatever type of headwear I need. It takes up zero space in my pack and is far more versatile than a typical lightweight winter hat. It’s a minimalist traveler’s cold-weather dream.

BUY ON KUIU

Computer, Photography & Other Tech Gear

Laptop Case

Bluetooth Keyboard

Bluetooth Mouse

Laptop Stand

Camera + Lens

Camera Case

Camera Clip

Travel Adapter

MacBook Pro 14 laptop for travel and digital nomad

Laptop: MacBook Pro 14

I know a laptop is so not ultra-minimalist, but I’m a travel blogger and rely on my computer to make a living. For now, it’s an essential part of my weeklong minimalist travel packing list. I’ve considered switching it out for an iPad Pro, but I’m not there yet.

Black Macbook Pro 14 laptop case

Laptop Sleeve: tomtoc 360°

I rely dearly on my laptop and must keep it protected at all costs. This well-padded, water-resistant case shields my computer from the harsh rigors of travel and fits perfectly into the back mesh pocket on the outside of my Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25 backpack .

Black foldable laptop stand for travel and remote working

Laptop Stand: Roost

I’ve been dealing with a herniated disc in my lower back recently, and this super lightweight and portable laptop stand has been a godsend. It raises my computer to eye level, reduces hunching, fixes my posture, and takes the strain off my back.

White Apple Magic bluetooth keyboard

Bluetooth Keyboard: Apple Magic Keyboard 2

Since I use a stand to elevate my laptop, I need a Bluetooth keyboard so I don’t have to reach up to my computer to type. Though there are slightly more compact options on the market, my Magic Keyboard is a comfortable clone of my MacBook’s keyboard.

White Apple Magic Mouse

Bluetooth Mouse: Apple Magic Mouse

My old Keychron mouse broke, so I ran towards the brand I trust regarding computers. This mouse has been excellent for me and has stood up well to life on the road. What can I say? I love Apple products, and they all work seamlessly together.

Black Fujifilm X-T4 camera and a 16mm lens

Lightweight Travel Camera + Lens: Fujifilm X-T4

A camera isn’t necessary for most minimalist travelers since most cell phones take great photos. That said, I’m about to dive into YouTube soon (gulp), and I recently purchased this camera and lens . Expensive? Yes. The best mirrorless camera kit at its price point? Also yes.

PEDCO Ultrapod 3 mini tripod

Mini Tripod: PEDCO Ultrapod 3

What good is a fancy vlogging camera if you don’t have something to hold it steady? Though it’s a bit diminutive, this is the tripod I’ll pack when I start earning my chops as a videographer. It only weighs a few ounces and will stash away easily in my pack.

Rode VideoMicro mini travel microphone

Mini Microphone: Rode VideoMicro

A badass camera deserves a worthy microphone. Though this compact little fella won’t capture audio as well as some of the higher-end options on the market, it has done a respectful job for me in the past. It only weighs a few ounces and packs away unnoticed.

Nitecore SCL10 power bank/high-CRI photography light

Power Bank/Camera Lighting: Nitecore SCL10

Minimalist travelers love items that serve multiple purposes, which is why I’m ecstatic I found the Nitecore SCL10. It’s both a 10,000mAh power bank and a high-CRI lighting unit in a compact package. It’ll charge my gadgets while in transit and provide lighting when I’m filming.

Black ultralight camera pod

Ultralight Camera Case: HMG Camera Pod

It’s not easy to find a lightweight yet protective camera case, yet here we are. As an ultralight backpacking gear nerd , I’m familiar with Hyperlite Mountain Gear and their super-light and innovative products. I recently stumbled upon this space-age camera case that weighs only a couple of ounces.

BUY ON HYPERLITE MOUNTAIN GEAR

Peak Design Capture V3 camera clip

Minimalist Camera Clip: Peak Design Capture V3

If you’re a minimalist traveling with a camera, and this clip isn’t part of your packing list, you’re doing it wrong. This ergonomic and lightweight clip allows you to stash your camera safely on your belt, backpack strap, or any other number of convenient places. It’s incredible.

BUY ON PEAK DESIGN

Apple AirPods Pro earbuds for minimalist travel packing list

Lightweight Earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro

I used to travel with cheap $10 Panasonic headphones until I tried out my friend’s AirPods Pros. Now, I can never go back. These little beasts pump out the best sound of any headphones I’ve ever owned and have three different settings to control the amount of external sound that comes in.

Small black JBL bluetooth travel speaker

Compact Bluetooth Speaker: JBL Go 3

As much as I adore my AirPods, I always pack a speaker to play tunes in my Airbnb, hotel room, or at the park. My compact little JBL Go 3 is waterproof, has a solid battery life, and can get surprisingly loud. This is the most “luxury” item that I travel with.

Lightning charging cable and MacBook pro charging cable

Charging Cables : Apple

No, these aren’t the most exciting items on my packing list, but they are some of the most necessary. They help keep my precious MacBook Pro, iPhone, and AirPods charged, and I’ll never take them for granted. To juice up my camera, light, and speaker, I use this tiny 6-inch USB-C cable .

Anker 735 PD travel adapter

Wall Adapter : Anker 735

As far as I know, this is about the lightest adapter on the market that’ll charge my MacBook Pro. It’s far smaller than anything I’ve used in the past and has come in handy during domestic and international travels. It has one micro-USB port and two USB-C ports.

BUY ON EBAY

Minimalist Travel Toiletry Kit

Toiletries Bag

Dental Floss

Glasses/Contacts

Contact Solution/Case

Ear Cleaner/Swabs

Nail Clippers

Medications

Multivitamins

Black ultralight ditty bag with seam-sealed zipper

Toiletries Bag: UltraLite Sacks

No, this ditty bag (Regular size) isn’t advertised as a toiletries kit, but it works perfectly for my current travel hygiene needs. It’s lightweight, durable, waterproof, and fits like a glove inside my pack. I use an ultralight trail wallet and a small zippered pouch for extra organization inside.

BUY ON ULTRALITE SACKS

Mini Dr. Bronner's biodegradable lavender soap

Biodegradable Liquid Soap: Dr. Bronner’s

Dr. Bronner’s is the perfect minimalist travel soap. Why is it so special? For starters, it’s a liquid soap, making it extremely easy to travel with. It’s highly potent and has 18 different uses: body wash, dishwashing liquid, and laundry soap, to name a few.

Minimalist bamboo toothbrush for toiletries

Bamboo Toothbrush: SeaTurtle

This isn’t the exact bamboo toothbrush I use, but life goes on. So, why do I use a bamboo toothbrush when I travel? For starters, it’s a far more environmentally responsible choice than using a traditional plastic toothbrush. It works just as well and is entirely biodegradable.

Tom's small toothpaste

Travel-Sized Toothpaste: Tom’s

The Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap I mentioned earlier can be used to brush your teeth, but I’ve tried that before and I’m just not feeling it. That said, Tom’s makes toothpaste full of high-quality ingredients that are good for your body and the environment.

Plackers Micro Mint flossers for dental hygeine

Flosser Sticks: Plackers Micro Mint

Traditional floss can get tangled, grimy, and messy during travel, so I bring these handy flosser sticks instead. They’re washable and reusable and make flossing your teeth quick and convenient. Two or three of these should be all you need for a week of minimalist travel.

White stick of bergamot + lime Schmidt's travel-sized deodorant

All-Natural Deodorant: Schmidt’s

My search for an all-natural deodorant that can stand up to the rigors of travel seemed hopeless until I came across Schmidt’s. This stuff keeps my B.O. at bay and smells excellent. It also comes in a compact .7-ounce travel-size, which frees up a lot of space in my toiletries kit.

Mudder ear pick for travel toiletries

Ear Cleaner: Mudder Ear Pick

Traveling with a ton of pesky q-tips is annoying, wasteful, and inefficient. That’s why a metal ear pick will always be a part of my minimalist packing list. It’s compact, easy to clean, and healthier for ear hygiene than traditional q-tips.

Pink and yellow earplugs for airplanes and hostel rooms

Noise-Deadening Ear Plugs: Howard Leight

Earplugs are one of the most underrated travel items that exist. They’re like a mute button for the constant annoyances of travel. Screaming baby on an airplane? Loud party outside of your hotel room? Snoring in the bed next to you? Pop these in and enjoy the sweet silence.

Other Personal Items

Water Bottle

Moleskine Soft Cover travel journal

Travel Journal: Moleskine Soft Cover

Whenever I travel without a journal, I feel naked, and I’m a hell of a lot less productive. But when I do bring my journal, I use it to take notes, make to-do lists, and recap my days. When my memory fails me one day, I’ll have my Moleskines to pore over and relive my glory years.

Fischer Space Bullet pen knockoff

Waterproof Pen: Fisher Space Bullet

A durable travel journal deserves a reliable pen that will get ink on the paper under any circumstances. For me, that pen is the Fisher Space Bullet, which can write underwater, in extreme temperatures, and at any angle. This pen is sleek, timeless, and minimalist.

Blue titanium Snow Peak Aurora ultralight water bottle

Titanium Water Bottle: Snow Peak Aurora

Staying hydrated while traveling can be difficult, so I bring an ultralight titanium water bottle everywhere I go. This bottle is a joy to travel with and a testament to perfectionist Japanese engineering. It’s expensive, but I’m a gear nerd and couldn’t help myself.

BUY ON SNOW PEAK

Minimalist Travel Packing List Variations

Ready to travel with way less?

Great, because I’ve given you the exact packing list I use for minimalist trips of a week or more. I don’t pack the same way for every trip, though, so here’s a brief overview of my setup and a few variations depending on my type of trip.

Note: None of the following weights include the ‘in-transit clothing’ I wear while traveling.

Weight of Backpack : 19.0 lb | 8.6 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list, including cold-weather clothing. I can travel in cold climates, take professional-quality photos and videos, and work on my blog full-time with this setup.

Weight of Backpack : 17.5 lb | 7.9 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my cold-weather clothing. I can travel in mild-to-warm climates, take professional-quality photos and videos, and work on my blog full-time with this setup.

Weight of Backpack : 13.7 lb | 6.2 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my laptop, keyboard, mouse, and carrying case. I can travel in cold climates and take professional-quality photos and videos with this setup.

Weight of Backpack : 12.2 lb | 5.5 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my laptop, keyboard, mouse, carrying case, and cold-weather clothing. I can travel in mild-to-warm climates and take professional-quality photos and videos with this setup.

Weight of Backpack : 16.1 lb | 7.2 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my camera equipment. I can travel in cold climates and work on my blog full-time with this setup.

Weight of Backpack : 14.6 lb | 6.6 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my camera equipment and cold-weather clothing. I can travel in mild-to-warm weather and work on my blog full-time with this setup.

Weight of Backpack : 10.8 lb | 4.9 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my laptop, keyboard, mouse, carrying case, and camera equipment. I use this setup for cold-weather adventures when I won’t need my computer or camera.

Weight of Backpack : 9.3 lb | 4.2 kg

This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my cold-weather clothing, laptop, keyboard, mouse, carrying case, and camera equipment. I use this setup for mild-to-warm-weather adventures when I won’t need my computer or camera.

Remember this as you review my packing list: What works for me might not work for you.

Want to bring along your favorite pair of sandals? Do you think Bluetooth speakers are entirely unnecessary? Don’t want to bring your camera? Great! Bring what’s essential for you and leave everything else behind.

And if, after reading over this packing list, you’re convinced that minimalist travel will leave you cold, dirty, and underprepared, try it anyway. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how little you need.

Is Minimalist Travel Too Extreme?

Minimalist travel doesn’t come naturally to most people. When traveling, we rely on our possessions for comfort and familiarity, so packing next to nothing can make us feel a bit vulnerable. I get it.

But if minimalist travel were too extreme, I’d never have written this article.

Because choosing to pack only what adds value, and nothing more, is liberating and eye-opening. Less is more in the world of travel, and all it takes is one perfectly-packed minimalist trip to understand why.

So, before your next trip — whether it’s a day, a week, or a year — I challenge you to give minimalist packing a chance. You’ll experience the world light on your feet, with a clear mind and a heavy weight off your shoulders.

More Travel Gear Resources & Recommendations

  • Travel Essentials: Top Necessities for Men & Women
  • Travel Organizer Gear (To Keep Your Luggage & Bags Tidy)
  • Pack Light, Travel Right: How to Travel With Less
  • Travel Jeans: Stellar Denim for Men & Women
  • Personal-Item Bags for Underseat Carry-On Travel
  • Travel Jobs & Side Hustles [Get Paid to Travel!]

Last Updated on February 6, 2024

Photo of author

Noel Krasomil

Affiliate Disclosure : Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links help support this website and keep it 100% ad-free.

The Haute Homemaker

  • Minimalist Travel Wardrobe: What To Pack
  • Intentional Living
  • 04 March 2020
  • By Sarah Kelly

minimalist travel outfits

Stop overpacking and travel light on your next warm weather vacation! Let me show you how to create a minimalist travel wardrobe for a warm weather vacation. Then you can truly enjoy your trip and not stress about the details of what to pack or what to wear.

How to create a minimalist travel wardrobe

Whether you are going on a five, seven, or ten day vacation, this twenty piece travel wardrobe will have plenty of outfit possibilities for every occasion (mostly casual, but a few dressy options too) for a warm weather vacation.

minimalist travel outfits

You don’t need as much as you think

Have you ever gone on a trip and only worn half of what you packed? I know, I am guilty of this too! Think about it… all of those un-worn pieces mean more to unpack when you arrive, more decisions to make about how/when to where them, more things to repack to come home. I say, keep it simple & only pack key basics that are versatile and can be re-worn several different ways.

Make a list of the things you will be doing on your trip

Then you can plan specific outfits for what you will be doing ( going to the beach, dinners out, sight seeing, activities, etc). Thinking ahead through these details will make packing for yourself, and your family a breeze. Not to mention it will help make getting dressed on your trip simple & stress free.

minimalist travel outfits

SHOP TRAVEL WARDROBE OUTFITS (SIMILAR)

Everything in this travel wardrobe is neutral to make mixing and matching outfits easy. I added a few pops of color with a leopard print swimsuit, mustard cardigan, floral scarf and printed shorts to create some interest. Feel free to add in whatever colors/patterns you prefer…using this travel wardrobe as a guide to assemble your own.

How to assemble outfits with each of the 20 pieces of this minimalist travel wardrobe…

minimalist travel outfits

If you are looking for an amazing pair of cut-off denim shorts, try these !

SHOP DENIM SHORTS (SIMILAR)

minimalist travel outfits

SHOP JOGGERS (SIMILAR)

minimalist travel outfits

SHOP BLACK DRESS (SIMILAR)

minimalist travel outfits

SHOP DENIM SKIRT (SIMILAR)

minimalist travel outfits

SHOP STRIPE DRESS (SIMILAR)

minimalist travel outfits

SHOP PRINTED SHORTS (SIMILAR)

SHOP THIS TRAVEL WARDROBE (SIMILAR)

I hope this travel wardrobe guide helps make planning, shopping & packing for your next warm weather vacation a little bit easier! If you want more travel outfit ideas/packing tips make sure you are following along on Instagram, where I share daily inspiration.

Also checkout my family Packing Checklist

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Sarah Kelly

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Welcome

I'm Sarah, a police wife, mama of 3, style coach, living in the Midwest. My hope for this blog is to educate how to make the most out of your wardrobe, to live more contently & thoughtfully, and own your personal style. Then you can live out your calling with confidence & clarity. I believe style should be fun & reflect who you were created to be...unique, chosen & loved!

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Minimalist Travel: 20 Genius Tips for Normal People to Pack Light

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. That means that if you make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Read more here .

Are you looking to travel light and avoid the headache of packing and lugging around too much stuff? If so, this guide to minimalist travel is for you! From packing smart to choosing the right luggage, here are the best minimalist packing and travel tips to help make your trip a breeze.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to start planning your next minimalist vacation today!

What does “minimalist travel” mean?

Minimalist travel means applying the principles of minimalism to your trip, packing light, and traveling with only the essentials. It can also mean being intentional with how you spend your time, money, and energy on your vacation.

Consider this the complete guide on how to pack like a minimalist, whether you’re a family who wants to pack minimally for your next trip or an extreme minimalist who wants to travel around the world with only a backpack!

After you read these minimalist packing tips, you’ll be able to decide how much to bring and what to leave off your list to pack less and have more fun.

A female minimalist packing for travel using packing cubes and other travel hacks

The Best Minimalist Packing Tips

1. bring carry-on only.

This minimalist packing tip is number one for a reason. It’s the simplest way to travel lighter! By bringing only a carry-on bag, you have no choice but to downsize your list and pack minimally.

After all, you can’t bring everything when you’re limited to such a small space.

Not only do you avoid the extra fees for checked baggage, but it also helps ensure your luggage doesn’t get lost! Trying to find and get your stuff back would be a headache; if you don’t, it could cost you a pretty penny to replace everything.

Given that claims for stranded baggage have jumped as much as 30% since 2019, it’s a good idea to keep luggage close at hand to reduce the likelihood that it gets lost or mishandled.

2. Choose the right minimalist luggage

One of the most critical minimalist travel tips is to choose the right luggage. You want something durable, easy to carry, and lightweight – the lighter, the better!

Airline standards for carry-on are 21 inches or 55 cm max height but check with your airline before you fly to ensure you comply with their requirements.

Keeping these factors in mind, here are a few popular minimalist luggage options:

  • Samsonite Base Boost Upright Hand Luggage (our luggage, in Black)
  • Tortuga Travel Backpack
  • Rockland Melbourne Hardside Luggage (30+ colors)

3. Keep a minimal list

It can be tempting to over-pack when you’re going on a trip but resist the urge! One of the best minimalist travel tips is to make a packing list and then edit it until you’re only bringing the essentials.

Start by brainstorming everything you think you might need for your trip. Then, go through each item and ask yourself:  “Do I really need this?”  You’d be surprised how much you can eliminate from your list of things to pack when you get honest about what is and isn’t essential.

One of my favorite minimalist packing hacks is to use the Google Keep app to create my list.

I create separate lists for each family member and check them off as I pack. Make sure to keep the list instead of deleting it because you can repurpose the same list to make sure you don’t forget anything when you’re packing to go home!

A minimalist packing list on a phone app

4. Limit electronics

Electronics are often heavy, so limiting yourself to 1-2 devices can lighten the load. Luckily, for most people, a smartphone is all you need to perform most of your daily tasks.

However, if you are traveling for work, you might need to bring a lightweight laptop and charger. Likewise, a small camera, lens, and a few accessories might be on the must-bring list for serious photographers or videographers.

5. Travel adaptors

If you’re relying on your smartphone for communication and navigation, bring a travel adaptor to keep it charged. Make sure you choose the correct adaptor for the location you are traveling.

6. Minimize your toiletries

For shorter trips, you don’t need to bring an entire bottle of shampoo or body wash when a smaller amount will do. You can save a lot of luggage space by choosing travel-sized toiletries or decanting your liquids into smaller bottles.

The standard travel container size for liquids, gels, and aerosols is 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. Place all of your liquid containers in a transparent and resealable plastic bag of up to 1 liter in size.

If your hotel or Airbnb includes these items or they can easily be purchased locally, then you might not need to bring any at all.

7. 2-in-1 or multipurpose soap

Bringing a small bar or bottle of multipurpose soap can save you a lot of space in your luggage by cutting down on how many toiletries you need to bring.

We used a drugstore 2-in-1 shampoo and body wash for our kids, but I have minimalist friends who swear by Dr. Bronner’s castile soap , which has up to 18 uses, including shampoo, body wash, laundry detergent, dish soap, and more!

minimalist travel outfits

8. Go for simple matches and fabrics

If you already have a  minimalist wardrobe , then you know one of the best ways to reduce the total number of clothing items you own is to choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of different looks.

The same principle applies to packing for minimalist travel.

Choose clothing items made from simple fabrics that can be easily washed and opt for neutral colors that can be paired together so you can easily swap tops and bottoms.

Don’t forget to keep the climate in mind when making your choices. Cotton and linen are breathable and excellent for warmer temperatures, while wool and fleece can keep you warm in cooler weather. Synthetics are more resistant to wrinkles. 

Take all of these factors into consideration when you are packing!

9. Wear your heaviest clothes on the plane

Wearing your heaviest clothes on the plane will save you a lot of space in your suitcase. Bulky coats, heavy boots, and big hats can quickly eat up all the room in your luggage, so it’s best to put them on your body instead.

This minimalist travel habit has the added benefit of keeping you warm on the plane. Airlines keep cabin temperatures on the low side, which purportedly reduces the risk of passengers fainting, so you’ll be less likely to feel the chill.

10. Two pairs of shoes

When packing minimal for travel, it’s important to remember that you can usually get away with only bringing two pairs of shoes, at maximum.

One pair should be comfortable walking shoes, and the other should be more casual that can be dressed up or down.  Extreme minimalist  travelers can wear one pair of shoes while globetrotting for years, so two isn’t that big of a stretch!

Check out this extreme minimalist travel video – it’s unbelievable!

11. minimalist folding hacks

When trying to fit a lot into a small space, it’s essential to utilize every inch. Rather than lying items flat in your suitcase, try standing them up on their side.

This will help you make the most of the limited space and keep everything more organized; read the complete guide on  how to fold clothes vertically here .

You could also try “ranger rolling” your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles.

Ranger rolling is a military folding technique that’s found its way into mainstream use because it’s so practical; it’s accomplished by folding clothes into thirds and then rolling them from bottom to top.

12. Use packing cubes

Packing cubes are a minimalist traveler’s best friend. By compartmentalizing everything in your suitcase, you can make the most of the space and keep your belongings organized. Not to mention, it makes unpacking a breeze.

This minimalist travel hack is a lifesaver if you’re a frequent traveler.

minimalist travel outfits

13. Dirty laundry bag hack

This is one of my favorite minimalist packing tips! Particularly if you travel with kids who are messy eaters like mine, it’s helpful to be able to keep soiled or stinky clothing apart from the rest.

In that case, bring a laundry bag like this one along with you. They are lightweight and fold up easily to store in your suitcase, taking up barely any space. When clothes get stinky or dirty, you can plop them in the bag to wash at your leisure and keep them separate from the clean clothes until it’s time to return.

We took one of the largest laundry bags from our set with us and only filled it up about halfway. Which brings me to the next point on this list…

minimalist travel outfits

14. Wash clothes in the sink

When my minimalist family of 4 traveled to Spain for two weeks, I packed half the amount of clothes, KNOWING that I would need to do some laundry while we were there.

The Airbnb amenity list informed us there was on-site laundry, but when we got there, we found there wasn’t any laundry detergent actually to wash our clothes. This was  no problemo  for us because I used another of my favorite minimalist travel hacks, which is to wash clothes in the sink, after which I hung them on the balcony to dry.

While I went low-maintenance and used dish soap that our Airbnb provided, you could also bring your own in a small bottle.

15. Experiences over souvenirs

It’s like the popular  minimalist quote  says: “ Collect memories, not objects .”

Instead of buying a bunch of cheap tchotchkes that will end up in the back of a drawer or cluttering up your bookshelf, spend your money on unique experiences. For example, go zip-lining through the rainforest or buy tickets to take the kids to the local zoo or aquarium.

After all, experiences make the best souvenirs!

Have stories to tell, not stuff to show. – Unknown

16. Save money by cooking yourself

This minimalist travel tip is to help you save money on food. Eating out can be expensive when traveling, so the more you cook and eat at home, the more money you will save!

Most of the time, when we travel, we pick a location with a kitchen we can cook in, so that we can eat two meals each day at home. This allows us to save money and splurge on one excellent dining-out experience every day – which is essential to us as eating good food is one of our top priorities when traveling!

We prepared for this trip by  doing a no-spend challenge  and keeping our budget on track.

✈️ Want to travel, but you’re short on cash? If you have trouble saving money, grab this FREE 2-page budget planner to help you spend less and save more. You can also read this guide on the best tips and ideas for budgeting like a minimalist here .

17. Portable charger

If you’re going off-grid or might find yourself in situations where you don’t have access to electrical outlets to charge your devices for a while, you might consider taking a portable charger with you.

This lightweight device can be a lifesaver, especially if you rely on your phone for GPS; just remember to keep it charged up before you go!

minimalist travel outfits

18. Minimalist travel with kids

If you’re traveling with kids, it helps to pick a place to stay with amenities you need for feeding, travel, and sleep.

While our kids are older, we did appreciate that our Airbnb had strollers, car seats, Pack’ N Plays, high chairs, and other family-friendly items that would make traveling with kids easier. (You can find a list of such amenities on the website or app listing.)

We did bring our own waterproof and foldable picnic blanket for the beach, but our host provided sun umbrellas, sand toys, and chairs to enjoy the beach to the fullest without needing to bring or buy these bulky items ourselves.

READ MORE: 10 Minimalism with Kids Tips That Can Save Your Motherhood

19. Pack a few medications

No matter where you’re traveling, it’s a good idea to pack some medications and first-aid items in case of an emergency. We packed a few band-aids, acid reflux tablets, pain relievers, etc.

20. Downsize your to-do list

One of the best things about minimalist travel is that it encourages you to consider what’s important to you and your loved ones. When material possessions do not bog you down, you can focus on experiences and making memories.

While it might be tempting to try and pack your schedule with a million different activities, it’s often better to choose a few key experiences you really want to have and savor them.

Downsizing your to-do list will help you be more present and better appreciate your vacation. It gives you space to be intentional with how you spend your time, reduces stress, and allows you to slow down.

When it comes to minimalist travel, less is  definitely  more !

A minimalist luggage packed using minimal traveling hacks

Minimalist Packing Lists + Essentials

I’ll let you in on a dirty little secret: there’s  no such thing  as a one-size-fits-all minimalist packing list because minimalist travel essentials vary widely from person to person and trip to trip.

What one minimalist traveler dubs an essential on their must-pack list might be completely disregarded by someone else.

Please keep that in mind as you read through this list of ideas for packing light.

We consider this an ultralight packing list that still includes everything we need to be comfortable traveling as a minimalist family of 4 for two weeks in Europe with carry-on luggage only. This is NOT an extreme minimalist packing list, but more of a guide to minimal packing for normal people. 🙂

You can also watch the pack with me video linked below from our trip to see us in action.

Minimalist Packing List for Women (2 Weeks)

Here is the exact packing list I used for our two-week trip to Valencia, Spain; it’s a summer packing list because it was mid-July when we traveled there.

The next time we travel in cold weather, I will update this blog post with a winter packing list!

  • 1 pair of linen pants
  • 1 light linen jacket
  • 3 bottoms (2 skirts, 1 pair of shorts)
  • 7 pairs of underwear
  • 1 bra (strapless, nude color)
  • 1 pair of sunglasses
  • 1 pair of socks
  • 2 pairs of shoes (one pair of flats, one pair of waterproof sandals )
  • 1 bathing suit
  • sunscreen ( Shiseido )
  • 1 pair of pajamas
  • contacts + glasses
  • 2 ponytail holders
  • travel-sized moisturizer
  • travel toothpaste
  • eyebrow pencil + shadow
  • lip balm (Aquaphor)

Minimalist Packing List for Men (2 Weeks)

  • 1 light hoodie jacket
  • 5 pairs of underwear
  • 1 pair of swim trucks
  • 2 pairs of shoes (sandals + sneakers)
  • 5 pairs of socks
  • travel hair spray + creme

Minimalist Kids Packing List (2 Weeks)

  • 1 pair of pants
  • 1 light jacket
  • 4 bottoms (shorts)
  • 5 tops (T-shirts)
  • 1 bathing suit (bottom + sun shirt)
  • 1 pair of goggles
  • 2 pairs of shoes (flip flops + sneakers)
  • 3 pairs of socks
  • kids sunscreen
  • 2-in-1 shampoo + body wash

Our Minimalist Travel Essentials

  • 1 laundry bag (to hold dirty laundry)
  • packing cubes
  • travel adaptor
  • portable charger
  • facemasks x 8 (may be required to board airplane)
  • medicine (acid reflux tablets, medicinal tea, etc)
  • waterproof picnic blanket
  • 1 extra large beach towel
  • smartphone (I have the iPhone XS Max in Rose Gold )
  • camera + accessories (optional)

Final thoughts about minimalist traveling

Packing light doesn’t mean you have to skimp on the essentials – in fact, minimalist travelers often find that they enjoy their trips more because they’re not lugging around tons of stuff in a heavy suitcase or cluttering up their hotel room.

Following these minimalist packing and travel tips, you can learn how to pack smart and travel lightly without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Do you have a minimalist travel tip to share? Drop it in the comments section below; you might help another aspiring minimalist in the future!

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A list of minimalist travel tips for packing carry on only luggage

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neatly packed suitcase.

A Traveler’s Guide to Minimalist Packing

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Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Are you sick of paying baggage fees, schlepping heavy suitcases, and worrying that airlines will lose your luggage? If so, you might want to try your hand at minimalist packing.

What Is Minimalist Packing?

Part of a recent trend encompassing everything from decluttering your closets to living in tiny homes, minimalism is all about getting rid of what’s extraneous in your life so you can focus on what you truly value. It’s easy to see the appeal of minimalism when it comes to packing; bringing less means saving money on baggage fees and feeling less encumbered—mentally and physically—as you move through a new place.

Minimalist packing isn’t about ruthlessly paring your belongings down to five pieces of clothing and calling it a day. It’s about thoughtfully getting rid of unnecessary items in your suitcase and making sure everything that remains has purpose and value to you as a traveler. Check out the following minimalist packing tips to learn how to lighten your load on your next vacation.

Evaluate Each Item

minimalist travel outfits

Take the same approach to minimalist packing as you would to decluttering your house. Lay out everything you’re considering bringing on your trip, and then consider whether you really need each item. A few questions to consider:

Will you definitely use this item, or are you bringing it “just in case”? Keep in mind that some “just in case” items are well worth bringing (an EpiPen, for instance), while others are easy enough to buy in your destination if necessary (an umbrella).

Is this something your hotel will likely provide? Unless you’re staying in ultra-budget lodgings, you probably don’t need to pack your own shampoo, conditioner, lotion, soap, or hair dryer.

Can each piece of clothing be worn in multiple outfits, or do you have a few one-and-done garments in the pile? The latter are a waste of precious suitcase space.

Is this something you can live without? Such items might include jewelry, extraneous gadgets, and ink-and-paper reading material that could be downloaded to an e-reader instead.

Be Willing to Do Laundry

minimalist travel outfits

It’s easy enough to fit a week’s worth of clothes in a carry-on, but for longer vacations, the minimalist travel solution is to do a load of laundry midway through. You can pay the hotel to clean your clothes, use your hotel’s self-serve laundry facilities, or find a local laundromat.

Alternatively, you can wash items yourself in the sink using an Allurette Wash Bag , designed for hand-washing delicates, or a large, sturdy plastic bag . To speed up the process, pack clothes made of quick-drying fabrics.

You might also want to throw a Tide to Go pen in your bag; if you’re packing a minimal number of clothes, you don’t want one garment to be put out of commission by an unexpected stain.

Pack Clothes That Can Be Worn Again

minimalist travel outfits

If doing laundry on vacation doesn’t sound like your idea of a good time, consider buying clothes that don’t need to be washed every time you wear them. Organic Basics makes socks, bras, underwear, and T-shirts out of SilverTech fabric, which has antimicrobial properties to keep your garments odor-free through multiple days of wear.

Unbound Merino offers a similar selection of garments—socks, underwear, and T-shirts—made of merino wool, which wicks sweat away from your body and makes it more difficult for foul-smelling bacteria to build up. The company claims you can wear these garments for days on end without washing them, as long as you let them air-dry between uses. At press time Unbound Merino only offered men’s clothing, but a women’s line is coming later this year.

Pack Items That Serve Multiple Purposes

minimalist travel outfits

Everything in your minimally packed suitcase should be there for a reason—or, better yet, multiple reasons. One editor on the SmarterTravel team never travels without Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap , which can be used as a shampoo, body wash, shaving cream, laundry detergent, fruit and veggie wash, and more. Another space-saving, multi-purpose item: moisturizer with sunscreen .

When choosing clothing, opt for garments in solid, neutral colors that will coordinate with each other in any combination—that way each one will work with multiple outfits. For example, you can wear a basic white T-shirt on its own for sightseeing during the day, then use it as an undershirt beneath a button-down for a nice dinner out. For women, a long, flowing skirt works equally well for touring and going out at night.

If the weather will be variable during your trip, consider buying hiking pants that convert into shorts, such as these options from Columbia for men and women . The company also makes Interchange Jackets that let you mix and match layers for different climates. For more information, see SmarterTravel’s list of the best convertible clothing for travelers .

And don’t forget about shoes, which can quickly eat up suitcase space. Seek out the holy grail of travel: shoes that are comfortable enough to walk in all day but that look nice enough to wear to dinner. Start your search at The Walking Company , which offers walking shoes in a variety of styles.

The Minimalist Packing Wardrobe

The following list of clothing is a good starting point for minimalist travelers. It works well for most leisure trips and will fit into a carry-on suitcase:

  • One pair of jeans.
  • One other pair of pants, such as hiking pants that convert into shorts for outdoorsy trips or black pants for evenings out in a city; women can also substitute a long skirt.
  • One pair of comfortable walking shoes that look nice enough to wear to dinner.
  • One other pair of shoes such as sandals, hiking boots, sneakers, or dress shoes.
  • A handful of layerable tops appropriate to the climate. This might include tank tops, short-sleeved T-shirts, and long-sleeved T-shirts, plus a heavier sweater, fleece, or sweatshirt to wear in cooler weather. Be prepared to wear the heavier top layer multiple times and to wash the lighter layers midway through longer trips.
  • A water-resistant jacket large enough to fit multiple layers underneath.
  • No more than a week’s worth of socks and underwear; plan to do laundry on longer trips.
  • Sleep clothes that you can wear for a few nights and then wash.
  • Other specialty items as needed, such as a swimsuit, gloves, or a sun hat.

What are your best minimalist packing tips? Share them in the comments below.

More from SmarterTravel:

  • The Carry-on Challenge: How to Pack Light Every Time
  • 7 Things Not to Do When Packing a Carry-on Bag
  • 8 Secrets of Ultralight Packing

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The 47 Best Minimalist Clothing Brands for Minimalists, Travelers, and “Buy It for Lifers”

One of the best ways to save money , improve your style , and build a comfortable wardrobe is by selectively investing in minimalist clothing brands and staple wardrobe pieces that exude the essences of simplicity, timeless style, and longevity. 

By choosing high-quality clothing that delivers minimalist style, versatile function and comfort, but is still durable enough to last a lifetime, you’re guaranteed to look good (and feel good) with fewer pieces of clothing, no matter what you decide to wear.

However, knowing which pieces of clothing will stay in style for decades, will last for decades, and will be comfortable enough to wear for decades can be tough without being able to read the future. 

Fortunately for you, millions of minimalist fashion enthusiasts before you (like myself) have worn, tested, and come to love a handful of minimalist brands that always deliver stylish, high-performing clothes that are proven to last a lifetime.

This article contains affiliate links.

In this guide to the best minimalist clothing brands on the market, I’ll share 47 best clothing brands for minimalists, “one bag” travelers, and “buy it for lifers” love and use to break the fashion industry trend of wasteful, expensive, and finicky fast fashion.

Then, I will share the essential ideas of what makes good minimalist clothing, how to choose the timeless, versatile pieces to create a “capsule wardrobe”. 

Whether you are minimizing to de-clutter your life, to step up your fashion, or to prepare for long term travel with as few bags as possible, we’ll ensure you have all of the information you need in this ultimate guide to minimalist clothing brands and capsule wardrobes.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • Quick List of All the Best Minimalist Clothing Brands
  • All Around Best Clothing Brands for Minimalists
  • Best Activewear Brands for Minimalists
  • Best Affordable Clothing Brands for Minimalists
  • Best Sustainable Clothing Brands for Minimalists
  • Best Minimalist Footwear and Socks
  • Best Minimalist Watches

Quick List of the Best Minimalist Clothing Brands for Minimalism, Capsule Wardrobes, and “One Bag Travelers”One Bag Travel

Click any brand to jump to the brand explanation

All Around Best Minimalist Clothing Brands

Western rise, eddie bauer, mission workshop, unbound merino, the north face, the north face renewed, patagonia worn wear, makers and riders, duluth trading company, activewear and athleisure inspired minimalist clothing brands (quicklist).

  • Oliver’s Apparel :

Myles Apparel

Best affordable minimalist clothing brands (quicklist), most sustainable minimalist clothing brands (quicklist).

  • Patagonia + Patagonia Worn Wear

Ibex Merino

Best minimalist business attire brands for dress clothes (quicklist).

  • Wool & Prince

Ministry of Supply

Minimalist footwear: shoes and boots (quicklist).

Shoes: Everyday footwear that packs down small and is versatile in use

Earth Runners

Vivo barefoot, minimalist socks.

Socks that are comfortable, last for years, and can be worn for days without smelling bad

  • Darn Tough Vermont
  • People Socks

Click here to jump to the full list with brand details, and recommendations by brand

What makes a good “minimalist” clothing?

In short, a good minimalist fashion brand creates timeless pieces for your wardrobe.

Timeless pieces are staple items that incorporate classic, timeless designs that will never go out of style, are durable enough to stand the test of time, and are versatile enough – in color, in function, and design – that they can coordinate with any other item in your closet and can be worn for more varied activities than normal clothing.

The best minimalist wardrobes start with and are built with stylish basic pieces with slimming, clean lines – such as jeans, t-shirts, Henley shirts, flannels, classic button downs, chinos pants, chinos shorts – and are constructed with excellent workmanship, high quality stitching, and high performing and eco-friendly fabrics such as wool, textured nylons, organic cottons, and choice synthetics.

What makes a good “minimalist” clothing  brand?

The best minimalist clothing brands, such all of the one in this list, have the universal standard of creating versatile pieces of clothing that look classically stylish (not trendy) that will last a long time, and enhance a minimalist lifestyle – of owning less, spending less time choosing what to wear, and allowing you to do more and live a more active lifestyle with the clothes you wear every day.

Compared to the fast fashion brands that people normally think of, these recommended minimalist fashion brands have fewer pieces in their catalog with less branding, more simplicity, and more focus on pieces that each fill a perfect place in your wardrobe and will be something that lasts.

Full List of the Best Minimalist Clothing Brands for Travel and Stylishly Minimalist Wardrobes

Now that you understand what attributes make up great minimalist clothing and why these brands in particular are trusted in delivering great, staple, minimalist pieces of clothing, let’s review the best minimalist clothing brands by category and what they do best.

These brands deliver great, stylish, versatile pieces perfect for everyday casual wear, at the office and in leisure time, that is technical enough (sweat wicking, odor resistant, stretchy) to be great travel clothing or just allow you to have a smaller wardrobe.

minimalist travel outfits

One of the all around best minimalist clothing brands to start with and for travel. Western Rise consistently delivers stylish yet budget friendly and travel friendly staples that handle adventures as well as daily life and look good enough to wear in the office or an upscale night on the town. The team does impeccably well with versatile pants, shorts, and insulation layers.

Best pieces from Western Rise

  • AT Slim Pant and AT (Classic Fit) Pants
  • Evolution Pants
  • Airloft Line of compressible, travel friendly warmth layers

Discover more great pieces at Western Rise

Outlier Clothing

minimalist travel outfits

One of the pioneers in the performance daily wear niche, Outlier Clothing is an innovative New York based brand that delivers reengineered clothing staples with high tech and heavy duty construction. Though pricey, every single piece of their clothing is over-engineered for durability, performance (sweat wicking, odor resistant) and style

Best Pieces from Outlier:

  • Slim Dungarees
  • Futureworks Pants
  • Bomb Dungarees
  • Ultrafine Merino Cut One Shirt

Discover more at Outlier Clothing

A trusted brand for excellently produced outdoor wear and casual wear that offers a lifetime guarantee on all of its clothing, but you likely won’t need it. Eddie Bauer delivers everything well – jeans, shoes, shirts, bags – but I highly recommend their tops and jackets

Best Pieces from Eddie Bauer

  • Stormdown Hooded Jacket: High fill goose down with waterproof treatment
  • Travex Flannel shirts

Discover more at Eddier Bauer

Daily wear cycling commuter apparel that makes weather resistant basics for long term, low maintenance wear, cut as fashion staples such as dungarees, t-shirts, and rain shells.

minimalist travel outfits

Discover more at Mission Workshop

A minimalist brand that specializes in unbranded Merino wool basics with classic fits at very affordable prices. Obsessively designed by travelers for travel, but perfect for daily wear.

minimalist travel outfits

Discover more at Unbound Merino

A sustainable and eco friendly company that delivers great Merino wool basics equally suited for rough conditions and daily life

minimalist travel outfits

Best Pieces from Ibex Merino

  • Ibex Merino Wool Travel Henley

Discover more at Ibex

minimalist travel outfits

The originator of jeans and denim still delivers some of the most timelessly stylish, durable, and versatile jeans and denim pieces around

A Japanese company that delivers simple basics for men and women for every aspect of life – casual, formal, active – cheaper than any other alternative. Not Buy it for life, but inexpensive and budget friendly, versatile high quality basics for a minimalist wardrobe

Shop at Uniqlo online for the best selection

Though technically focused on fast fashion H&M is a greater starter point for simple, affordable minimalist clothing and basic pieces that will last…if you know what to look for. H&M does cheap, basic activewear items well (joggers, shorts) and if you’re overseas you’ll be able to find an H&M. For the best longevity, avoid stretch fabrics.

For any other purchases, plan on a 2 year lifetime – so – to be clear H&M isn’t “buy it for life,” but the unbranded basics are a great place to build the starter points of a minimalist wardrobe, and upgrade later piece by piece as each H&M item wears out. Also, if you are not in North America or Europe, H&M is a great place to start shopping as they have locations throughout Asia, Africa, and South America as well.

Click here to explore H&M online however, I recommend visiting a store in person to check clothing quality before purchase

minimalist travel outfits

Delivers high quality, stylishly versatile, unbranded basics, and is known for great t-shirts that last

Discover Asket apparel

One of the originators in techy outdoor wear, virtually everything they produce is built to last and perform.

minimalist travel outfits

Discover The North Face’s full line of products

minimalist travel outfits

Emphasizing “circular fashion”, TNF Renewed takes used North Face gear to sort, refurbish, and resell, saving you money and reducing environmental impacts ( learn more )

Click here to discover what The North Face Renewed has to offer

minimalist travel outfits

A legendary outdoor wear company that delivers in sustainability, eco-conscious business and production, and “owns products for life” to help you repair and keep using your clothing. All of Patagonia’s pieces are built to perform and to last, so you can count on every purchase to last for years or decades, and you can count on the Patagonia team for help with repairs if/when the gear breaks down.

Learn more about what Patagonia has to offer

Program allows you to trade in used Patagonia gear to be cleaned, refurbished, and resold, reducing environmental impact and keeping your clothing in service longer.

minimalist travel outfits

  • Learn more about Patagonia Worn Wear
  • Trade in your Patagonia gear for credit
  • FAQs about Patagonia Worn Wear

minimalist travel outfits

Known for military and adventure grade hard use apparel, anything you buy from Arcteryx is guaranteed to be a “buy it for life” item. Arcteryx focuses on outdoor and adventure, so their offerings lean toward the casual and adventure wear side, but view all of their clothing as an investment that will last.

See what Arcteryx has to offer

minimalist travel outfits

Makers and Riders delivers travel specific classic styles in merino and synthetics; pants, a shirt and layer piece.

Discover more Makers and Riders Piecs

Civic Collection by Taylor Stich

minimalist travel outfits

Essentials and basics redone in merino wool with a simple but reliable lineup of shirts, layers, pants, underwear.

Discover the Civic Collection

Wardrobe essentials in performance synthetics and merino; shirts, pants, layers, outerwear

minimalist travel outfits

Discover the Proof line of clothing at Huckberry

minimalist travel outfits

Outerboro is a newer company that delivers performance essentials in synthetic and merino versions of shirts, pants, outerwear with their standout item being Merino tees.

Discover more at Outerboro

minimalist travel outfits

A Swedish brand focused on classically styled but slim fitting synthetic pants and shorts and merino beanies

Discover the Aao line

minimalist travel outfits

Aviator delivers travel clothing and performance focused essentials (jeans, hoodies) made with synthetic/naturals; pants, shorts, shirts with the travel jeans being their standout item

Learn more about Aviator travel clothing

A well know brand that is great at delivering classically styled, unbranded basics that are versatile in wear and high quality in construction. Though Gap’s garments don’t usually have the stretch, water resistance, and odor resistance of tech wear, their cotton heavy jeans and shirts are constructed to last and stylishly versatile, filling a great space in the urban minimalist’s closet.

Click here to discover what The Gap has to offer

minimalist travel outfits

A commonly overlooked workwear brand that delivers budget friendly, high-quality basics that will last a lifetime with the 874 Workwear pant being a standout piece of minimalist clothing for decades. Along the same lines, you can expect any clothing purchased from Dickies to last for decades.

Discover what minimalist clothing Dickies has to offer

minimalist travel outfits

Heavy duty workwear apparel (and legendary underwear) that is made to last and backed by Duluth’s “no bull guarantee”. Expect the jackets and flannels from Duluth to be very warm and last for years. Expect the workwear pants to last as well.

Discover more at Duluth Trading Company

Activewear and Athleisure inspired Minimalist Clothing Brands

“Athleisure” brands do a fantastic job of creating casualwear pieces – pants, shirts, and shorts – built with the function – stretch, odor resistance, comfort, and durability – that we need in a workout. The result, with a good minimalist athleisure brand, is clothing that you can wear virtually anytime after work, through the weekend, and through the adventures.

For those that live an active lifestyle, consider these athleisure brands for basic pieces that you can wear in and out of the gym.

Oliver’s Apparel

minimalist travel outfits

“Athleisure wear” brand delivering high performing athletic wear with the cut and comfort that discreetly allows for daily wear. Great synthetic and merino fabric options in shorts, pants, shirts, warmth layers, and other staples.

Discover more at Oliver’s Apparel

minimalist travel outfits

Another great “athleisure wear” brand that targets delivering athletic wear that performs well but is versatile enough for daily life, but also perfect travel and adventure wear with the standout piece being their everyday short.

Discover more at Myles Apparel

minimalist travel outfits

In addition to athletic wear, provide tech inspired casual wear basics (shirts and pants) that are minimalist in design and low maintenance. The Lulemon ABC Pants are likely Lululemons most highly regarded piece of minimalist dailywear.

Discover more at Lululemon

minimalist travel outfits

Outdoor and active lifestyle brand that delivers durable, hard use pieces in the form of fashion basics (dungarees, t-shirts, warmth layers) offering affordable casual wear that will last for years. The Prana Brion II pants are arguably Prana’s best minimalist item, tough enough for rock climbing yet stylish and comfy enough for daily wear.

Discover more at Prana

Best Affordable Minimalist Clothing Brands

Just because a good piece of clothing exudes “quiet luxury” and is extremely functional doesn’t mean it has to break the bank. These affordable brands meet our criteria of producing stylish pieces that are versatile and last, and do so in a way that actually makes them cheaper than normal clothing.

With their high value capsule wardrobe approach, Western Rise delivers single versatile pieces that can be worn for months yet cost roughly the same as normal clothes making Western Rise not only one of the best minimalist clothing brands but one of the best affordable minimalist clothing brands.

Learn more about Western Rise

Uniqlo overdelivers in providing unbranded, staple pieces with solid construction for half the price you would find in other stores.

Learn more about Uniqlo

One of the biggest athletic store chains in Europe and with convenient presences throughout Asia, South America, and the US as well, Decathlon designs, tests, and manufactures all of its clothing in house, to deliver gear that performs well and costs 1/3 to ½ the well-known athletic brands.

Also, if you are not in North America or Europe, H&M is a great place to start shopping as they have locations throughout Asia, Africa, and South America as well. No matter where you are in the world, you are likely near the Decathlon stores in 73 different countries and affordable minimalist athletic and activewear.

Click here to discover the 73 countries Decathlon has a presence in and find a Decathlon near you

Best Sustainable Clothing Brands

For conscious consumers, ensuring those new minimalists clothes come from sustainable brands should be a priority. Luckily, thanks to the diligence that good sustainable clothing brands put in anyways, finding an ethical brand that still produces high quality gear from sustainable materials isn’t difficult.

These brands, the best I’ve observed at reducing their environmental impact, using sustainable fabrics (that are either low impact or last long enough to avoid future waste), and offsetting an unforeseen negative impact with intentional, planned positive impact via donating a portion of profits to long term ecological and social causes. Additionally, these brands apply sustainable practices in business such as delivering fair wages, using innovative design to reduce waste, and creating not only a sustainable product but a sustainable brand.

Though, in this day and age, you will be hard pressed to find a company that delivers high quality products with absolutely zero environmental or social impact, these brands come close with a track record you can trust.

Patagonia + Patagonia Warn Wear

Already on our list as one of the best minimalist clothing brands for adventure friendly casual wear, Patagonia actively assess and reduces environmental impacts and adjusts its business to ensure as little as possible ends up in land-fills and contaminates nature. From championing the cause of Organic Cotton (which eliminates tons of pollution in rivers), to being Fair Trade Certified , to monitoring the health of waterways affected by the fashion industries production approaches, to repairing and reselling clothing to avoid waste, rest assured that anything you buy from Patagonia is as sustainable and friendly for the environment as a large clothing brand can be.

  • Discover more Patagonia Clothing
  • Discover more Patagonia Worn Wear Clothing

Again, Western Rise shows up on our list in the “best of” section as a brand that champions sustainability and eco-friendly production with 100% carbon neutral and blue sign approved ( Western Rise’s Sustainability Record ) – all while still delivering excellent clothing at an affordable price. One more reason I highly recommend Western Rise.

Learn more about Western Rise’s minimalist clothing

With a “buy less, buy better” approach, humanitarian sheep handling practices, and constant monitoring of carbon footprint, Ibex delivers high quality products in a responsible way making Ibex one of the most sustainable, environmentally friendly wool clothing companies.

When harvested in a humane way, friendly too the cute little sheep, wool is one of the most sustainable fabrics available, with zero harmful byproducts for the environment and a naturally regenerative source allowing a centuries old tested approach to production of minimalist, high performing clothes with all natural materials.

Discover the full Ibex Merino line

Best Minimalist Business Attire Brands for Dress Clothes

Wool & prince: excellent 100% wool dress shirts.

minimalist travel outfits

Wool & Prince serves the minimalist market through its slogan, “Own Less, Own Better.” With well known dress shirts that are perfectly tailored from 100% Merino wool, this brand allows you to set your closet up with formal wear and workwear that requires less maintenance and fewer washes, and stays fresher while you wear.

For business travelers aiming to carry less on their trips, Wool & Prince is an excellent option.

Be sure to check out Wool & Prince’s casualwear pieces – wool canvas pants, t-shirts, Henleys, joggers, and more – that deliver the same solid style and function with fewer pieces in your closet.

Discover more at Wool & Prince

minimalist travel outfits

Originally established by two MIT students with a kickstarter funding a dress shirt made with a temperature regulating, moisture regulating, odor controlling fabric made by NASA. Since then, the company focuses on using aerospace industry technology, robotic engineering, and thermal analysis to create better fitting and better performing business attire.

Discover more at the Ministry of Supply

minimalist travel outfits

Bluffworks delivers office wear and formal wear staples – such as dress shirts, blazers, slacks, and the like – but constructed of durable, technical materials that avoid wrinkles and odors, can be worn for extended periods between washes, and are designed for “easy care,” like machine washable blazers.

Bluffworks is the brainchild of a frequent traveling corporate warrior who realized normal “dress clothes” are uncomfortable and too high maintenance. The result is travel friendly, minimalist, dress wear staples.

Discover more at Bluffworks

Minimalist Footwear: Shoes and Boots

Everyday footwear that either packs down small, is versatile in use, or is tough enough that one pair will last.

minimalist travel outfits

An innovative shoe wear company that 3D knits an incredibly stylish and travel friendly loafer.

Discover more at Glyphs

minimalist travel outfits

A miminalist shoe wear company that delivers minimalist, packable, comfortable boots and shoes. The Boulder Boot, an extremely comfortable, lightweight, packable boot, and the Outlander being top among them.

Discover more at Lems

Adventure ready running sandals that will last you thousands of miles, and a full line of minimalist shoes inspired by them.

Discover more at Xero Shoes

Another adventure ready “running sandal” option, that presents a “between the toes” flip flop style sandal instead of over the top

Discover more at Earth Runners

Another great minimalist shoe company that makes low profile, packable shoes suitable for the office, such as the Vivobarefoot Ra

Discover more at Vivo Barefoot

Tough training footwear, sneakers, and boots that are designed for rucking and guaranteed for life under the GORUCK SCARS Guarantee. Perfect for anything from daily wear, to travel, to hardcore adventuring.

Discover more about GORUCK footwear at GORUCK

minimalist travel outfits

Timex Expedition Line

Affordable, reliable, and classically styled timepieces are perfect for everything from casual, to formal, to travel, and adventure. A single classic watch can serve as your only watch for an entire wardrobe.

Discover all of the Timex Expedition line watches

Casio G-Shock Line

minimalist travel outfits

For hard use situations requiring a waterproof watch that can perform in all weather through dust and grime, few watches are tougher and more accurate and even fewer watches deliver the value and the price that the G-Shock watches do. Additionally, the neo-retro adaptions of the G-Shock line make them a staple, functional piece that can be worn on most any occasion.

Discover more G-Schock watches

minimalist travel outfits

Highly regarded manufacturers of heirloom-worthy watches for over 70 year, with timeless designs at the cheapest available in the pool of “good watches.” Start your hunt by checking out the Mako and the Kamasu watches.

Discover more Orient watches

Understanding Minimalist Clothing, Capsule Wardrobes, and Minimalist Fashion Brands

Why you need a minimalist wardrobe: Timelessly stylish clothes that last longer, perform better, and allow you to own less

Imagine a compact wardrobe with carefully selected pieces in which no matter what you grab, you’ll look great, because every piece you have is timelessly stylish. Because every item is built of high-quality materials and well constructed, it will last long enough to be heirloom. Lastly, because each item is made of high performing materials that resist dirt and odor, dry quickly, and can be worn more times between washes – like wool, spun nylon, waxed cotton, and more – you require fewer pieces in your closet because each piece of clothing does more THAT is a minimalist wardrobe.

With the investment in a minimalist, capsule wardrobe comes the benefits of saving money over time, always looking good, and less time choosing what you wear.

Minimalist wardrobes are the epitome of quiet luxury while maximizing the function and value we get from clothing

In the past, “luxury” in terms of clothing brands has been strictly related to how prestigious and pricey and brand is perceived to be – not function or longevity. Though this showy and bling focused approach to fashion may satisfy some in the short term, it can lead to an expensive, wasteful, and bloated closet with pieces that go out of style or break down easily. In turn this “luxury” and “fast fashion” approach leads to the inconvenience of more shopping, more wasted money, and more clutter.

The recent trend of “quiet luxury”, in which luxury brands are valued due to the high quality of their products, timeless appeal of their style, and the function they deliver aligns perfectly with the ideals of a good minimalist clothing brand. Quiet luxury and minimalist wardrobes counter the ideas of fast fashion and “bling”, by prioritizing timeless style, function, and longevity in clothing – leading to a stylish wardrobe of fewer pieces that lasts longer, stays stylish longer, and costs less in the long term.

Why you should make minimalist clothing brands the staples in your wardrobe: Simplicity in choice, saving you money and saving you time

Ultimately, a simple, minimalist wardrobe focusing on quality pieces over quantity reduces choice in a way that improves how your wardrobe looks and performs. No matter what you grab from your closet you will look good, and regardless of the situation, environment, or occason – going to work, out on a hike, or long term traveling with a single bag – a well crafted minimalist wardrobe will ensure you are comfortable, prepared, and stylish (enough) for the event.

Now that you understand the value of building a minimalist wardrobe, we’ll quickly explain how to choose clothing pieces before sharing the best minimalist clothing brands – that making building your “capsule wardrobe” easy.

Click here to jump to our list of minimalist clothing brands

How to make your wardrobe minimalist

1. Plan each piece to be easily color coordinating: Aiming for neutral colors and earth tones (e.g., grey, tan, black), or versatile staple colors in deeper tones (dark blue, burgundy)

2. Choose fabrics that “perform”: Odor resistant, quick drying, with slight stretch (wool, Cordura, spun nylon, etc.)

3. Choose timeless styles, cuts, and fits (slimmer fitting or classic fit)

4. Pick clothing from brands that consistently deliver time tested, good workmanship and construction – achieved by using heavy duty threads and redundant, high quality stitching

What does the ideal minimalist wardrobe look like? The essential pieces of a good, minimalist wardrobe

Minimalist staple clothing pieces everyone should own.

  • Jeans/Dungarees
  • Chinos shorts
  • Collared button down dress shirt
  • Pea Coat or Field Jacket

Casual and everyday wear

  • Dungarees / jeans
  • V neck t shirts
  • Simple button downs
  • Short sleeve button downs (casual
  • Field jacket style jacket
  • Versatile workout shorts that can be worn casually

Travel and adventure

  • Rain shell / Rain coat
  • Boots or comfortable, durable, adventure ready shoes
  • T-shirts that wick sweat, dry quickly, and resist odor
  • Long sleeve wool or synthetic t-shirt for warmth
  • Light Warmth layer – full zip hoodie (synthetic or wool)
  • Loft Layer – compressible down “puffy” or synthetic “puffy”
  • Brown shoes + brown belt
  • Black shoes + black leather belt

Minimalist Clothing FAQ

W hat are the most affordable minimalist brands..

  • Western Rise and Uniqlo are the most affordable minimalist brands

What clothes do minimalists wear?

  • Minimalists where earth toned and neutral colors in basic staple designs such as t-shirts, jeans/dungarees

How do minimalists buy clothes?

  • Consciously and intentionally to fill a need and function within their wardrobe and daily life
  • In a way that a single piece clothing can be worn more often in more versatile situations (casual to formal), versatile activities (relaxing and everyday wear or high movement activities), for longer (durability), and with lower maintenance (less washing, rarely need repair)
  • Minimalists generally shop for clothing online as it affords them more variety and avoiding the additional costs “brick and mortar” stores charge.

Travel Fashion Girl

Minimalist Travel: What’s in My Bag for 4 Weeks, 2 Continents, and 1 Cruise

Packing , Packing Tips

minimalist travel outfits

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Think minimalist travel is impossible? Find out how I traveled carry-on only for four weeks with just a laptop backpack plus purse!

Minimalist Travel

I traveled from Cartagena, Colombia to Lisbon, Portugal on a two-week transatlantic cruise for  four total weeks and I packed carry-on only. I’m giving you an inside look at exactly what’s inside my bag with videos directly from the Porto Airport in Portugal.

These aren’t sample videos of what you should pack to achieve minimalist travel. It’s a genuine, unstaged inside look at what’s inside my bag so you can see how it’s possible to accommodate your own items in small luggage.

The secret to packing light is to  create a  capsule travel wardrobe which can easily fit into a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing!   

Read the full details below and watch my two minimalist travel packing videos showing you the contents of my carryon and personal item!

minimalist-travel

Travelon Heritage Backpack  |  Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack

As my main bag, my carry-on suitcase , I used the Travelon Heritage Backpack . It’s an anti- theft bag but I’m using it not just for security purposes but more so because I think it’s a nice- looking bag.

As my personal item and day purse, I used the Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack . It’s a super stylish, yet ultra-functional purse, which I’ll be telling you more about in this post.

First, let’s have a look at what’s inside my bag:

CARRY ON ITEM:  TRAVELON HERITAGE BACKPACK

The Travelon bag is a laptop backpack so it isn’t a traditional option for minimalist travel. However, I like the design and thought I’d give it a try. So far so good. Fully packed, it weighed 6kg.

It has a total of five compartments. The front two are small and I just use them to place some odds and ends such as a few individual allergy pill packs, receipts, business cards, and tissue packets. (I experienced so many unexpected allergies in Portugal!)

There is a third, adjustable compartment on the side of the backpack meant to be used for water bottles of various sizes. However, since my flat iron is always the last thing I use before I leave my hotel room, I threw it on the outside (water bottle compartment) last minute to let it cool off.

In a fourth, larger compartment I’ve included my electric toothbrush and charger, a clutch with two belts inside, and my toiletries. For this trip, I used one of the detachable containers from this cute and practical Hudson + Bleecker Toiletry Kit.

I didn’t use any of the zippered sections although they’re a great place to store your passport or other important documents without them being easily accessible to pickpockets. In fact, the Travelon bag is anti-theft so each compartment (except the water bottle space) has a latch that protects the zipper from being easily opened by an opportunist thief.

minimalist-travel

Sunblock |  Lotion  |  Moisturizer  |  Container  |  Wipes |  Menstrual Cup  |  Travel Bottles

Even though my goal was minimalist travel, I didn’t need to sacrifice any of my regular toiletries. This is everything I took for my four-week trip:

  • 10 Innisfree olive oil makeup remover wipes
  • 5 SPF Cetaphil face moisturizer
  • Cetaphil body moisturizer in a 100ml container
  • Hair conditioner in a 100ml container
  • Eye cream in a 20 gram container
  • Face wash in a 20 gram container
  • Face scrub in a contact lens container
  • 3 oz Neutrogena 70 SPF sunblock
  • Nivea ravel size liquid deodorant
  • Menstrual cup

One of the best ways I found to save space in my carry-on luggage while also having enough toiletries to last me the entirety of the cruise was to buy 1-2 full size items upon arrival in Cartagena .

I bought a 200ml shampoo and my travel partner bought a full size deodorant when we arrived at our first destination, Cartagena. The shampoo lasted me the four weeks. I finished it in Porto just in time for my flight back.

Read these tips on how to use small travel containers to maximize your toiletries! I guarantee they’ll help you with your goals for minimalist travel!

minimalist-travel

Case |  Bag |  Sandal  |  Flip Flops |  Heels  |  Towel |  Ziploc |  Packing Cubes

The fifth, main compartment is where I’ve stored the majority of my belongings.

  • Goody Hair brush (usually in my personal item)
  • Makeup bag, a detachable small pouch from the Hudson + Bleecker Toiletry Kit . Even with minimal travel efforts, I still managed to pack all my girly makeup. Inside the makeup bag is a 10 gram container with MAC Prolongwear Foundation, Mac concealer, Benefit Highlighter, Eyebrow pencil/brush, Eyebrow gel, Maybelline mascara, MAC Espresso eye liner, MAC Harmony blush, Benefit mini shadow palette, MAC travel size blush brush, two double-sided eye shadow brushes.
  • Jewelry bag, a detachable small pouch from the Hudson + Bleecker Jewelry Bag . Inside the jewelry pouch is one statement necklace, one boho-style earrings, one round silver stud earrings, and one boho-style ring (I was wearing stud earrings and a y-drop necklace with my plane outfit).
  • Two packable hats: one sunhat and one fedora (should’ve just brought the sunhat.)
  • My second layer, the Diane Kroe Wanderlust Wrap (back in stock!) easily accessible so I can wear on the flight if needed or upon arrival to colder England.
  • I almost left behind my Olive color military-style vest so it was loosely in the compartment but should’ve been inside one of the packing cubes (good extra-layer if needed).
  • Three pairs of shoes in plastic bags for easy identification. Include Naot walking sandals  for Colombia and Portugal, Ipanema flip flops for Colombia and cruise, and Loeffler Randall olive color block heels (very packable!) for cruise and birthday in Lisbon. I was wearing black Nike trainers on the flight so these weren’t packed but they fit inside the bag if they needed to be.
  • Sea to Summit pocket travel towel , for scuba diving and for Cartagena accommodation. It’s a pretty bright blue color and can also be worn as a scarf or cover-up!
  • Packing cubes  including seven clothing items out of the ten-piece capsule I brought (I was wearing jeans and a tee on the flight and one item was the Olive vest mentioned above). The packing cubes also held a light cotton slip to sleep (or wear as a cover-up/top), ten underwear, one pair of socks, one underwire bikini set, one non-underwire bikini set, one light workout/sleep/layer leggings, one light workout/scuba diving top, and one underwire sport bra. My dirty laundry is inside a plastic bag within one of the packing cubes.
  • One notebook, for business workshops I attended throughout the trip

Normally, my laptop would’ve been stored in this main compartment, too. However, I always pack it in my “personal item” when flying so it’s easily accessible.

Packing cubes are the key to minimalist travel! Learn more about  how to use them to travel carryon only !

PERSONAL ITEM: REBECCA MINKOFF JULIAN BACKPACK

Usually I always pack a variation of the following items in my “personal-item” for all my trips. For this particular trip I’m using my everyday purse as my in-flight personal item: the Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack .

I love this bag and I’ve mentioned it several times on this site and on my Youtube videos . Remember, minimalist travel doesn’t mean you have to use traditional travel gear. Even a designer purse can work if it’s the right one!

It has four compartments.  One of my favorite things about the bag is the small compartment in the back side, which is the perfect fit for my passport or cards/money.

I feel these items are very safe because of the way the compartment lays directly on my back, keeping these valuables away from pickpockets. I always travel with my passport (and Rebecca Minkoff passport cover ) in that backpack compartment.

Learn more about how to keep your passport safe while traveling!

There are two smaller compartments on either side of the main compartment in the front. On the right hand side I always carry my eyeglasses and on the left hand side I store my sunglasses.

In the main compartment I have all the items that I need to easily access during a flight or at the airport. One of the other awesome features of this bag is that the design allows you to cover the main zippered compartment with a latch, a convenient preventative measure keeping thieves from easily getting into your belongings.

minimalist-travel

Bag |  Adapter |  Pillow |  Organizer  |  Laptop  |  Case |  Wipes

Within the main compartment I have:

  • My light Zara jacket ( sold out ) that I plan to wear on the flight, this can also be layered with my  Diane Kroe Wanderlust Wrap for extra warmth.
  • Cabeau Air Evolution inflatable travel pillow
  • Mesh organizer bag that stores laptop and cell phone cords
  • International travel adapter (with my name on it)
  • EZpacking clear organizer bag which holds small essentials such as my chapstick, mints, tissue packets, emergency tampons, portable phone chargers, headphones lip gloss, mini-floss, medication, and gum.
  • Toilet paper roll (surprisingly necessary on this trip!)
  • Anti-bacterial wipes
  • 11.6” Macbook Air within leopard print laptop cover

Clothing:   10-Piece Essential Capsule Wardrobe

minimalist-travel

Clothing is the most important aspect to succeed in minimalist travel. I used my Essentials customizable Packing List to create my ten-piece capsule wardrobe. 

This included:

  • Print scuba bodycon dress for dressy nights, could also be layered with tops to act as a skirt
  • Versatile, black dress that could be worn casually during the day to sightsee anywhere, lounge on the cruise, or be dressed up with a belt and accessories for dressier nights. Could also be layered with tops to act as a skirt.
  • Faded black/grey tee to wear anytime, anywhere, even to sleep. When worn with jeans and heels could have a dressier appearance.
  • Black reversible top to be worn with all bottoms and over both dresses (it’s not technically “reversible” I just flipped it around because the back design was nice enough to be worn in the front)
  • Coral reversible top to be worn with all bottoms and over both dresses (it’s not technically “reversible” I just flipped it around because the back design was nice enough to be worn in the front)
  • Olive color military style vest to be worn with all bottoms alone as top (using a clothespin) or layered over tops/dresses to create interest
  • Blue long sleeve top to be worn with all bottoms or layered over tops/dresses for warmth or to create interest. Could also be used as a bikini cover-up.
  • Chambray shorts as a lighter choice to my usual denim shorts for Cartagena and cruise.
  • Ivory dressy shorts to be dressed up or worn casually in any location. (I don’t like skirts so I dress up shorts with nice flats or heels.)
  • Grey denim jeans for flights, cruise nights (and days when closer to Europe), and Portugal.
The above items made up my ten-piece capsule wardrobe but I made two changes to the above image . I replaced the black dress for ivory dress shorts and the cover-up for a black versatile dress. Because the cruise was extremely casual, these options all worked especially when paired with my lovely block heels!

In addition, I also took two light layers to be worn together or separately: a Zara lightweight faux leather jacket ( sold out ) and Diane Kroe Wanderlust Wrap . The nice thing about the wrap is that I could also wear it as a top, not just a sweater.

See? I told you minimalist travel doesn’t have equate to dull and boring travel clothing!

minimalist-travel

There you have it – everything I took on a four-week trip from Colombia to Portugal including a two-week (informal) transatlantic cruise!

While you may need to pack different things, I wanted to give you a general idea about how minimalist travel  is  possible.

For this trip, I had the advantage that I was traveling in June with mostly sunny weather and only a few cold, rainy days. However, my backpack was about 30 liters, which is 10 liters less than is allowed on most international flights…

…so if you do need to pack a few more things than I did or you are traveling in cold weather , you could easily travel with a larger-size carry-on backpack or suitcase and still have enough space for all of your belongings.

No more excuses. You can travel carry-on, too!

 If you need help to stop overpacking, read this – it’s the step by step solution walking you through my entire packing process.

Here are a few pics from my trip!

minimalist-travel

What are your tips on minimalist travel? Comment your tips below!

For more tips on how to pack light, please read the following:

  • 75 Packing Tips that Will make Your Travels So Much Easier
  • How to Fit Everything in a Carryon (Video Tutorial)
  • Ten Step Packing Guide to Travel Anywhere in One Bag
  • How to Choose the Best Travel Shoes

Hope you liked this post on minimalist travel packing. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

71 comments.

Giannis

Which flat iron do you use ?

Alex

Hi Giannis, thank you for reaching out! I use the BaBylissPRO Mini Straightening Iron: https://amzn.to/2OBu9XW

We also feature a range of other options on this post: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/dual-voltage-flat-iron/

Hope this helps! ?

ENSJ

When I travel long term I always carry 6 bottoms and 6 tops that can be used together. (two pants – one is jeans, 2 leggings on their own or layered in colder weather, shorts – which can be used for normal wear, sports or sleeping, and a skirt – which transforms in a dress when paired with the correct top). For tops I carry 2 tank tops, 1 sleeveless shirt, 2 t-shirt, and a flannel buttow down shirt.

Outwear involves 1 jacket and 1 fleece (merino). For fashionable layering I sometimes include a travel wrap that doubles as a cardigan and scarf and blanket and… you get the gist.

I also always include three shoes in my bag (aside from the one I am wearing). All my shoes include nice ballet flats (I hate wearing heels), sneakers, good walking sandals and trail shoes (which can be worn on hikes or for sports and fold down flat). If I know I am going somewhere cold I sometimes add in an extra pair of chelsea ankle boots that also fold down flat without losing quality and shape.

Plus a toiletry bag (just the basics, I don’t wear make up), it all fits in my 28l carry on backpack.

Hi Emily, brilliant job with your packing, so impressive!!! ? Thank you for sharing your packing list with us. Happy travels! ✈️

Jennifer

Ok, I just have to ask this question. On a warm weather vacation, don’t these clothes start to really stink after wearing them repeatedly? I can easily see wearing the jeans for 2 to 3 days….but sleeping in the tee, then wearing it in the day AND dressing it up at night repeatedly?

Hi Jennifer, thank you for reaching out. You might find this article helpful for tips for how to do laundry when traveling: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-do-laundry-while-traveling-3-options/ Happy travels! ?

Joan

I plan a 14 day escorted trip to Northern Spain and Portugal in June. Would love to pack light but other than lingerie that can be hand washed, how do you have clean items to wear through out the entire trip such as jeans, dress, blouse or tee shirt? Joan

Hi Joan, thank you for your comment! Have a look at this article for tips on how to do laundry whilst traveling: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-do-laundry-while-traveling-3-options/ You may also find this post helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/step-by-step-tutorial-how-to-hand-wash-clothing-when-travelling/ Hope this answers your question! Have an amazing trip next year! 🙂

Shelby

Hey Alex, how do you manage to carry two backpacks as carry ons or in transit? Seems like you’d have to wear one on your front, right? Curious because I’ve considered it but always talked myself out of it in favor of a small roller bag and small backpack for a personal item, especially if I know I’ll have long lines or treks. And, second question, do you put your laptop in your overhead bin luggage and get it out in-flight? I’ve always felt the need to have it closer to me but considering new options to optimize legroom and smaller bags!

Hi Shelby, I carried the Travelon backpack on both shoulders like a normal backpack, and then I carried the Rebecca Minkoff backpack over just one shoulder, sort of like a cross body purse. See the photo above of me and the cruise ship to see how I’m carrying them both. For my laptop, I always pack it in my “personal item” when flying so it’s easily accessible.

To help you with choosing the best personal item for you, this article might be of interested to you: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/carry-on-personal-item/

Happy travels!!!

Sandra A. Johnson

I am going on a 8-Day Adriatic/Med Cruise from Venice-Rome and a 14-Day Transatlantic from Rome-Miami. This isn’t my first cruise; I am a seasoned cruiser but I tend to overpack. Please give me a few new tips on how to pack less and do more coordination of my warerobe. Thanks Sandra Johnson

Hi Sandra, thank you for reaching out! Have a look at our ultimate guide for packing for a cruise vacation for tips on what clothes to pack: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-a-cruise-vacation/ You may also find this post helpful for tips for what to pack for Italy: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-italy/ Hope you find this helpful. Your itinerary sounds awesome, have a wonderful time!! 🙂

Jen Crowell

Love all your tips! Just got back from a week in Costa Rica with a 5 year old and my husband and we flew with only our carry on bags! It was so liberating! So grateful for your website. So many of your pointers came in handy. Many thanks!

alex

That’s amazing Jen! Happy to help 🙂

Joanna

I don’t travel a whole lot, but I’ve been taking more trips in the last few years and have really been working on paring down what I bring so I can go carry-on only whenever possible. I’ve enjoyed reading all of your tips!

I use a flat iron too, and because it was always one of the last things I used before leaving (no matter how hard I tried to plan my getting-ready time differently), I ended up doing some pretty ridiculous things when I couldn’t pack the hot flat iron… including, almost every time I was leaving my apartment for a trip, sticking the flat iron in the freezer for five minutes to cool it off. (Probably not very good for it. ;)) But someone told me about this case, and it made my life SO much easier! It’s by Lug – and I haven’t travelled without it since I bought it a couple of years ago. Not sure if you would find it useful, but just wanted to pass that on!

Great tip Joanna! I SO NEED THAT. I always end up sticking my flat iron on the outside of my backpack (in the water bottle) compartment. Thanks for the recommendation 🙂

Julie Knowles

I just recently purchased the Travelon Heritage Backpack for my trip to Russia and I absolutely love it!

Thanks Julie! I’m glad you’re enjoying it as much as I do 🙂

Mishele

Wow this was a great post! Only those 2 small bags for 4 weeks, you must be a magician. I’m trying to transition to a more minimal life and this post has definitely given me some tips for my next trip. Thank you.

Thanks Mishele – good luck with going minimalist 🙂 Read this post for my secret: https://travelfashiongirl.com/functional-and-fashion-packing-list/

Another Carrie

Hi! I was wondering if your thoughts about the RM Bag have changed at all… have you had any concerns about pickpockets being able to get into the bag during travel? I imagine you’d likely keep the clasp clipped to the upper portion when in crowded places. I love the bag but am concerned about its practicality in NYC. Love your blog and vids!

Hi Carrie, still love the bag – I only own two purses and that’s one of them 😉 Yes, I do use the top closure not the bottom.

Diana

Would love to know what your other purse is! Also do you carry a wallet, any recommendations? I love your style :)))

Hi Diana, thank you so much for your lovely comment. The other purse is the Travelon Heritage anti-theft backpack. 🙂

Janice

i am currently on a month visit to Oahu Hawaii. Since I am staying at my daughters I mailed my capsule wardrobe + liquids ahead and had one large handbag with my Kindle, phone, book, pillow, ID + a jacket with me on the plane. We love to visit thrift stores & then I donate whatever I don’t want before I come home. However, this trip there will be more mailed home as it was my birthday and family bought me 7 pieces of clothing. I have back issues so unable to carry a heavy backpack so mailing things is wonderful.

Bluu

Hey there, I am a seasoned road warrior who can pack for two continents and five countries of business travel without batting an eye. I am stumped how to deal with a upcoming 24 day vacation. Here it is: Three days hiking on Easter Island, three days of museums and sights in Santiago, three days of museums, cathedrals and sightseeing in Buenos Aires, ten days on an Antarctica cruise with two landings on a zodiac everyday and multiple days in flight. Your thoughts on covering all these varied needs?

Travel Fashion Girl

Thanks for your comment Bluu! Mixing & matching will certainly be your friend as will layers! Find pieces that can be layered for warmth for the Antarctica leg but separate for the warmer Chile part. Use the examples in this post! I don’t know about an Antarctica cruise specifically, so to get you more recommendations I am going to post your question on our Facebook Page so make sure to check there for responses from our readers! Thank you again Bluu and that sounds like an amazing trip!

Kristina S.

Thank you for the updated packing list. I started carrying on a few years ago when I stumbled across your site and have never looked back!

Thanks for reading Kristina! So happy that the packing lists have helped you! That’s the goal is to provide simple examples and easy piece ideas so you can go out and find clothing that works for you! Glad you’re finding packing success! Thanks again!

Nina

You’re so inspiring! Each time I travel I keep your tips and examples in mind, I’ve already came a long way towards packing lighter but I’m still quite a few steps behind you 😉 Happy travels!

Thank you for reading Nina! Glad to help!

Kandy

Awesome videos and I love the breakdown of what you have. I will have to try this on my next trip!!!! Thank you so much!

Thank you Kandy! Love that you love them! Enjoy your travels!

Thank you for sharing! I always try to carry a light load, but I think yours is a lot more organized than mine! Hee hee! I’ll have to follow your lead on my next trip. Love all the information you share! Thanks again!

Thank you for the kind words Kandy! Happy travels!

Alet

It’s amazing with how little you can get by with and once you’ve made that mind switch, it makes packing and traveling so much easier. Gone are my days of lugging a heavy bag anywhere, let alone on an extended vacation with multiple transits.

I totally agree 🙂 Anyone can do it!

Linda McCann

Wow! that is efficient packing.

I love both those bags particularly how well packed they are. Some day I will become this efficient. One problem for me is I am usually carrying a couple of camera lenses and a body. The backpack that carries those would leave me with only one other bag if I were to travel carry-on only.

Super envious.

Those extras always make a difference but it sounds like you’re doing pretty well anyway 🙂 Nice work!

Wow that is efficient packing to say the least! I am totally envious and love both of those bags.

Thanks Linda 🙂 Anyone can do it!

Cathie

I enjoyed your videos. It’s quite an accomplishment to be so organized for 4 weeks. I am asking you to please put captions on your photos telling where you are so that I can know exactly where to go to see the things in your photos.

Hi Cathie 🙂 Thank you! That is a great idea for future posts! Thanks!

Penelope

Thanks, Alex, these are great videos. A real inspiration. I guess you have to unpack all the toiletries (inc your make up and lip gloss!) for the inspection in one ziplock bag through security at the airport ?

Hey Penelope 🙂 The seethrough toiletry bag is always the best way to get it through airport security!

MD Kennedy

Yeah, I am not the only one who travels with her electric toothbrush. Although for short trips (less than one week), I will take a super-soft toothbrush I got from a dentist in Greece – it helps keep my sensitive gums safe. I am surprised at how much makeup you bring. I am much more conservative: Paula’s Choice brow color, Benefit PoreFection, Paula’s Choice Shine Stopper. I won’t travel anywhere or via any means where I have to be dressy, but I do like to look pulled-together and these three items do the trick for me. Have you ever tried going make-up free for a trip?

I love my electric toothbrush 🙂 I don’t always wear all my makeup but I do love it!

Rebecca

Great post! I love that you keep proving to us how it IS possible to be minimalist. I love Diana Kroe clothing too and when I go to the Greek islands, take 3 or 4 items of hers that can be used up to 10 different ways!

Thanks Rebecca 🙂 It really is possible! Especially with Diane Kroe clothes! I love them 🙂

LeighAnn

I love minimal packing! I have found another way to extend my wardrobe is to try wearing pieces in fun new ways- like wearing cardigans backwards for a sexy button up the back top!

Such a good idea 🙂

Tina

Thanks so much for all your tips. I truly enjoy reading your blog and I have already used some of your tips.

Yay 🙂 Thanks Tina!

Bea

It’s purely amazing how many things you can put in these tiny bags. True inspiration. Aiming for the same on my next travel. Thanks for keeping up the blog.

Thanks Bea! 🙂

Lea Forster

Love the real time/super honest airport videos this is so great. I have a possibly stupid question… i am really curious how you physically carry two backpacks? Does one of the bags have shoulder straps as well? And why did you go for two backpack styles rather than a shoulder bag or duffel + backpack? I always do the backpack/duffel or backpack/tote combo for carry-on only travel and am just curious how you make this work and actually move through the airport. Thanks!!

Hi Lea, glad you like the videos, thanks! I choose to carry two backpacks because I need the even distribution of weight – I can’t use duffles or shoulder bags because I have back issues and having the weight on one side more than the other can cause quite a strain. For my full-time travels I use wheels plus a daypack to carry my stuff but since this trip was “short” then I just took my daypack and my purse.

However, I mostly carry the purse backpack slung on my shoulder if it’s for a short period of time 🙂

Chrissy

That’s really amazing, all the stuff in two small bags. I like the backpacks you choose. They look great, not that boring style the luggage for traveling usually have. Which kind of black versatile dress did you bring? Was it the lovely Chrysalis Cardi?

Hi Chrissy, Glad you like the bags! Ended up just choosing a regular black modal dress for this trip not a convertible one 🙂

Angel Guadamuz

Thank you for sharing your packing list Alex! I am glad to know that I am not the only one who travels with and electric toothbrush… 😉

Hehe I am sure there are plenty of people who do 🙂 Why not when they work so well!

Elle

Love the Rebecca Minkoff backpack, I will have to keep an eye out for a similar style.

I Love it 🙂 The Nordstrom sale has some great deals http://bit.ly/2a2yyLQ

Emily

Thanks so much for this post! I just got back from 15 days in Europe – backpack only. I want to try and get my backpack a little lighter so this is great inspiration. I know you have posted before on the photo of the clothing, but I can’t find it. Who is the coral top by? It’s so cute!

Hi Emily, glad you liked the post 🙂 The coral top is by Nordstrom Brand Chelsea28. The top is now sold out and I looked everywhere for something similar but couldn’t find anything 🙁

Stephanie Craig

Love the bags! They look super cute.

Yay! I absolutely love them too!

Carrie

Great tips for toiletries. I’ve got the capsule wardrobe down, but I always over pack my toiletries.

Yay 🙂 Glad you found it useful, hopefully this will help you to reduce your load 😉

LuLu Haynes

Howdy, I gorge myself on your website and tips weekly. Was waiting for your recent 4-week trip post – but I don’t see the videos!?

I’m a mixed-media artist and I’ve REALLY pared down my weekend road trip items (from 6 bags down to 3 bags) thanks to you! Now I’m working on my Paris/RTW carryon. I’ve always enjoyed carrying backpacks. I’m searching for a rolling backpack for RTW/Paris trips. Enjoy your site so much, I subscribed ages ago.

Yay! I love this 🙂 Sorry the videos weren’t working, but should be all okay now! Well done on reducing your list!

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  1. How to Create a Minimalist Travel Wardrobe

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  2. Fall Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe

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  3. spring 2021 key looks

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  4. Minimalist Travel Wardrobe: What To Pack

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  5. How to Create a Minimalist Travel Wardrobe That Isn't Bland

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  6. Minimalist Outfit Ideas: Shop 11 Neutral Outfit Ideas For Summer 2021

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  1. STYLISH & COMFY TRAVEL OUTFITS

  2. Essentials Only: Crafting a Minimalist Wardrobe for Effortless Style

  3. MINIMALIST Travel Essentials for EASY Traveling

  4. TRAVEL WARDROBE (DENMARK)

  5. 4 Packing Tips for Travel and How to Avoid Overpacking

  6. Minimalist Fashion Aesthetic (Fashion Guide)

COMMENTS

  1. Minimalist Travel Wardrobe: 10 Essential Items You Need

    1. The Signature T-Shirt. One of the most timeless pieces of clothing, having a signature t-shirt or blouse in your minimalist travel wardrobe is absolutely essential. T-shirts can be worn with any combination of clothing: shorts, pants, jeans, dress, sweater, swimsuit cover up, etc. They're simple to wear and keep clean and can be worn or ...

  2. How to Create a Minimalist Travel Wardrobe

    My minimalist travel outfits has a blue palette (jean shorts, jeans) with neutral tops (black) and a pop of colour (pink top). The visual wardrobe clothing list template (see above) resembles how my actual travel capsule wardrobe looks like. Colour palette of my minimalist travel wardrobe. 2. Layer your minimalist clothes for style and to stay warm

  3. ULTIMATE Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe

    A minimalist travel capsule wardrobe takes these a little more extreme and has 10 or less basic wardrobe items that can make multiple different outfits. Depending on the length of our travels and the destination we also use other packing techniques to create our capsule wardrobes such as:

  4. How To Travel Like A Minimalist: Packing List And More

    Minimalist Daily Travel Essentials. One of the best things to do when it comes to packing the rest of your miscellaneous daily items is to have a central location in your home where these items live regularly. This could look like a catchall tray, a storage bin, or a backpack or travel bag. Keep daily essentials like chargers, electronics, a ...

  5. Stylishly Chic Minimalist Travel Wardrobe

    The combinations for these clothing staples are endless, and would be sure to go with any kind of jewelry, purse or scarf. Here are some outfit ideas for this stylishly chic minimalist travel wardrobe! Longsleeve Shirt / Super Stretch Legging Jeans / Carry-On Luggage / Ballet Flats / Lip Balm / Bracelet.

  6. How to Create a Minimalist Travel Wardrobe That Isn't Bland

    Choose coordinating minimalist travel clothes. The real secret to creating a minimalist travel wardrobe is learning to think outside of "outfits". Many people I know pack individual outfits for each day, and maybe an extra dress and a pair of heels "just in case". But the beauty of a travel capsule wardrobe is that everything can be ...

  7. Minimalist Travel Wardrobe

    3 tank tops (for sleeping or an extra layer) 1 pair jeans. 4 pair pants (black, gray, black and gray patterned, beige) with different patterns, weights and styles. 1 pair leggings (black) 1 long-sleeved black dress. 1 black blazer (a jardigan, which squishes down and is L's favourite thing ever) 2 scarves that go with everything.

  8. The Minimalist Packing List: Pack Like a Pro (with Style)

    travel wardrobe, please read Pack Light Stylishly. Maxi Dress | Tee | Cami Top | Tank Top | Skirt | Pants | Flat | Sandal | Sunglasses | Bag. You can use this sample travel wardrobe as a stand alone minimalist packing list or as the main core of your clothing. Long term travelers can use this list as well as vacation-goers.

  9. How & What to Put in your Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe

    Here's what a 10-item travel capsule wardrobe for women would look like: 3 tops. 2 bottoms (pants/shorts/skirts) 1 dress or jumpsuit. 1 cardigan/sweater. 1 jacket. 2 pairs shoes. As long as you stick within the 10-item rule, you can adjust the specifics according to your needs or trip.

  10. 10 Minimalist Travel Wardrobe Items: What To Pack For Your Trip

    Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently and maximize space in your luggage: Choose versatile pieces: Look for clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched to create different outfits. Stick to neutral colors like black, white, and gray, and choose clothing made from lightweight, breathable materials.

  11. 10 Minimalist Travel Essentials

    8. Clothes for 10 days There is an eternal debate among minimalist travelers on how much clothing you need to travel the world. A straightforward answer doesn't exist, but in my experience, the ideal solution is to take clothes for ten days. You could find yourself without a washer for a week, which is why you need some spare items.

  12. Master the Art of Minimalist Travel with these 10 Expert Hacks

    10. Cut Down on the Shoes. Speaking of shoes the last minimalist travel hack is to cut down on your footwear. Shoes are often the heaviest and bulkiest items in your luggage. For many trips, a good pair of walking shoes and a pair of sandals or casual shoes are all you need.

  13. Minimalist Travel [DIY Packing List + Best Ultralight Gear]

    This setup includes everything on my minimalist packing list except for my laptop, keyboard, mouse, carrying case, and cold-weather clothing. I can travel in mild-to-warm climates and take professional-quality photos and videos with this setup. No Camera Gear (Four Season) Weight of Backpack: 16.1 lb | 7.2 kg.

  14. Minimalista Travel Packing

    1 button up long sleeve shirt in the same color palette. 1 dark set of convertible pants. 1 plain "little black travel dress". 1 travel handbag. 5 travel accessories: 2 scarves, 1 pair of earrings, 1 belt, and 1 hat. 1 pair of flip flops. 1 pair of sunglasses. I love how a standard LBD an also be used as a skirt! Check out my top 5 travel ...

  15. Minimalist Travel Wardrobe: What To Pack

    How to create a minimalist travel wardrobe. Whether you are going on a five, seven, or ten day vacation, this twenty piece travel wardrobe will have plenty of outfit possibilities for every occasion (mostly casual, but a few dressy options too) for a warm weather vacation. All of these pieces can easily fit into a carry on suit case.

  16. Minimalist Travel: 20 Genius Tips for Normal People to Pack Light

    8. Go for simple matches and fabrics. If you already have a minimalist wardrobe, then you know one of the best ways to reduce the total number of clothing items you own is to choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of different looks.. The same principle applies to packing for minimalist travel. Choose clothing items made from simple fabrics that can be easily ...

  17. A Traveler's Guide to Minimalist Packing

    It's easy enough to fit a week's worth of clothes in a carry-on, but for longer vacations, the minimalist travel solution is to do a load of laundry midway through. You can pay the hotel to ...

  18. 47 Best Minimalist Clothing Brands for Minimalists, Travelers, and Buy

    All Around Best Minimalist Clothing Brands. These brands deliver great, stylish, versatile pieces perfect for everyday casual wear, at the office and in leisure time, that is technical enough (sweat wicking, odor resistant, stretchy) to be great travel clothing or just allow you to have a smaller wardrobe. Western Rise

  19. Minimalist Travel: What's in My Bag for 4 Weeks, 2 Continents

    Even though my goal was minimalist travel, I didn't need to sacrifice any of my regular toiletries. This is everything I took for my four-week trip: 10 Innisfree olive oil makeup remover wipes. 5 SPF Cetaphil face moisturizer. Cetaphil body moisturizer in a 100ml container. Hair conditioner in a 100ml container.

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    Check out our moscow travel art selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our prints shops.

  22. Highlights of Moscow!

    In this vlog we explore the incredible city of Moscow, Russia! There is SO much to see and do in this city and we tried to pick out the highlights to share w...

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    The North Face Thom Browne OUR PICKS The Outerwear Edit New Season Essentials Bestsellers The Japan Edit Gorpcore Minimalist Active Streetwear Luxury END. x HOKA 'Overland' View Upcoming Releases. Air Jordan x Trophy Room 1 Low Retro OG SP. Nike Dunk Low SP. Adidas TMNT Shelltoe. Asics x Wood Wood GT-2160. Nike Air Max 1 '86 OG. Puma Mostro Ecstacy