“He who would travel happily must travel light.” (Antoine De Saint-Exupéry)
As part of my year of self-experiments, I decided to try one-bag travel for April. Before diving into my own views on one-bag travel, let me briefly outline what it is, why it is so popular, and what its benefits are.
The Benefits of one bag travel.
1. Increased Mobility and Flexibility
Travelling with only one bag significantly reduces the physical burden, making it easier to navigate airports, train stations, and city streets. There’s no need to worry about multiple pieces of luggage or waiting at baggage claim. This freedom allows for quicker transitions between destinations and less stress during transit.
2. Cost Savings
Many airlines charge extra for checked baggage, especially on budget carriers. By packing everything into a single carry-on or personal bag, travellers can avoid these additional fees. Additionally, carrying only one bag minimises the risk of lost luggage, saving time and money spent on replacements or compensation.
3. Enhanced Organisation
Limiting oneself to one bag encourages smarter packing and better organisation. Travellers tend to prioritise essential items, resulting in a more streamlined wardrobe and less clutter. This discipline can also make packing and unpacking more efficient, saving time and reducing frustration.
4. Environmental Benefits
Travelling light often means using fewer resources— less fuel for transportation, less energy for manufacturing and transporting larger luggage, and less waste. By reducing the overall weight of luggage, travellers contribute to more sustainable travel practices.
5. Greater Security
With only one bag to monitor, it’s easier to keep track of your belongings and reduce the risk of theft or loss. Carrying minimal items also means less exposure to theft and less worry about valuables being misplaced or stolen.
6. Encourages Minimalism and Mindfulness
One-bag travel promotes minimalist principles, encouraging travellers to focus on experiences rather than possessions. This mindset can lead to a more fulfilling and stress-free journey by shifting focus from material possessions to the joy of exploration.
7. Easier to Maintain Routine and Hygiene
Travelling light makes it simpler to maintain personal hygiene routines, as you can easily access toiletries and essentials without digging through multiple bags. It also simplifies laundry routines, as you tend to pack versatile clothing suitable for various occasions.
Summary
Travelling with one bag offers a host of benefits that can transform the travel experience. From increased mobility and cost savings to environmental impact and personal growth, embracing minimalism in travel fosters a more flexible, secure, and mindful journey. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a long-term adventure, packing light can open up new possibilities and make your travels more enjoyable.
A month of travelling with only one bag – How did I get on?
While I can see the benefits of one bag travel and totally understand why it’s become so popular, it is not for me.
Packing a single bag means bringing only essentials and leaving out ‘just in case’ items. This was easy for me and something I aim to do most of the time anyway. But even the essentials made the bag quite heavy to carry, as I was bringing a camera and a teapot. Having two bags, especially a wheeled suitcase, would have allowed me to distribute the weight somewhat, making it less painful to carry.
trabantbettina
Bettina Anna Trabant, Founder of Life Organised, your professional organising and decluttering service in East London. Eco-conscious minimalist and avid tea drinker,