Self-Contained = Always Prepared
Self-contained travelers live by the Boy Scout motto of “Be Prepared.” They have everything they need in a handy accessible place, ready to be deployed when the situation calls for it.
But a self-contained traveler does not find it necessary to carry huge suitcases full of junk just in case they may need something. Their packing kung fu is strong – they can carry a single carry-on size piece of luggage, and yet always be prepared, because they know what they need, and what they don’t. They know the secrets of the Tao of Packing.
The Tao of Packing – What to Bring & What to Leave Home
Good packing is all about balance. A skillful traveler brings neither too much, nor too little. On one side of the balance, you have your essential clothes and items packed, having forgotten nothing. But the yin to that yang is the ability to free yourself from attachment to the things you don’t really need. Heavy packers tend to be motivated by a fear of being caught without something. Follow these Four Precepts of the Tao of Packing to free yourself from that fear, and travel light in mind and luggage.
When in doubt – leave it at home.
If you’re looking at that third pair of shoes or the sweater that only goes with one outfit, and you’re thinking, “I’m not sure whether I’ll wear that,” put it right back in your closet. You’ll be more comfortable, traveling lighter every day, and the only downside is that you’ll have to wear the same shoes to dinner as you wore to the museum. That’s a good tradeoff.
Other countries have stores too.
When you get to your destination, and discover that the item you left (or forgot) at home was absolutely essential, you will almost definitely be able to find a passable substitute at your destination. Left your jacket at home when you went to Nepal in the wintertime? Don’t worry. Nepali people get cold too.
Small (and light) is beautiful.
The space taken up by full-sized items like hairdryers, toiletries, and even clothing can add up when your goal is to travel with just a carry-on. So small, compact travel accessories are the way to go.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |