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Travel

by Sana Bun

Holiday Guide: How To Pack Like a Pro With Limited Luggage

5 Jun 2025

Source: hereustudio.com

I used to be that person — the one who packed for every possible occasion, just in case. What if there is a fancy dinner? What if it rains? But the more I travelled, the more exhausting it became. Lugging around overweight bags only to realise half of the stuff never leaves the suitcase? Frustrating. Especially when the precious space I could have used for local finds was taken up by things I didn’t even touch.
And let’s not even talk about the price difference between a light carry-on and a suitcase that can accommodate your whole wardrobe.
Eventually, I learned to pack lighter — and, to my surprise, it didn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort. It was just a matter of strategy. So, here are my go-to tips for mastering smart packing when your luggage allowance is barely enough for your skincare routine.
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Photo: Eminent Luggage

Prioritise real basics
Socks, undies, chargers, skincare — the everyday stuff you will actually miss and will be annoyed to replace. Pack enough to last comfortably, don’t rely on finding replacements on the go, and don’t forget a plug adapter if you need one.
Pack for reality, not fantasy
It is easy to imagine yourself switching five different outfits per day or suddenly developing a love for sunrise yoga on the beach. But pack for the trip you are actually taking — not the fantasy version playing out in your head. Be honest about your habits, your comfort zone, and your plans. If you haven’t worn heels in six months, cobbled streets abroad are unlikely to be the right place to start.
Plan your outfits
Even if you are someone who likes to go with the flow, chances are you already have a rough idea of your holiday plans. So, pack your clothes accordingly. Don’t think in individual pieces — think in outfits. And ideally, make them multifunctional.
Off on a summer city break? Opt for a linen set: a cami-top, fluid full-length trousers, a long-sleeve shirt and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Complete it with a reliable (!) pair of breathable shoes and a roomy handbag that fits everything from sunscreen and sunglasses to a water bottle.
Headed somewhere colder? A combo of a tee and classic shirt topped with a wool jumper or blazer will not only keep you warm but offer plenty of styling options.
When luggage space is little, keeping things simple and limited to realistic necessary amounts is a smart move. To cut out the number of items even more, check if you can use the laundry service at your destination.
Stick to one colour pallete
It is tempting to bring all your favourite pieces — but ask yourself: do they actually work together? The more your items align in style and colour, the easier it is to build multiple outfits. And, yes, sticking to a limited colour palette doesn’t mean your looks have to be dull or black and white.
Save space for accessories
Accessories have to be one of my favourite hacks when it comes to packing light. They take up minimal space but can completely transform your outfits if chosen wisely.
Personally, I always bring two handbags: an oversized tote and a small purse.
The first one — usually my trusty Little Liffner Mega Sprout Tote — fits the second one, plus my laptop, airport essentials, a couple of extra layers, and some valuables. It doubles as a cabin bag but technically still counts as a handbag (as long as it fits under the seat in front of you). In my experience, it has never been weighed at check-in.
Another travel must-have of mine? A statement silk scarf — at least 80x80cm — that can become anything from a belt to a halter-neck top or even a hobo bag. Still unsure? Have a peek at our guide on contemporary ways to style your silk squares.
Last, but not least — jewellery. From chunky earrings that elevate even a white shirt and jeans to rings, chokers, droplets, bracelets... take what works with your holiday capsule. Just be honest with yourself about how much you will actually wear.
Ease your skincare
Even if you are a hardcore skincare enthusiast who swears by an 8-step routine, sometimes it is wise to hit pause and let your skin take a breather. And what better time to practice a bit of beauty minimalism than on holiday, when you are working with limited luggage?
Start by figuring out what your true essentials are, and what you can compromise on. Have you been loyal to the same moisturiser for a decade? Do all sunscreens except yours cause breakouts? Do you need a specific product for curly hair or tricky skin? If something is truly irreplaceable, bring it — just make it travel-sized or switch to solid bars where possible.
For example, I can survive on the hotel’s shampoo, conditioner and shower gel for a week, but I will always make room for my heat protectant (which also works as a blow-dry spray), and yes, my Dyson styler with two brush heads. It is all about knowing your real priorities.
Use packing trics
Sometimes, fitting everything into a cabin bag is less about sacrifice and more about smart squeezing. Depending on your luggage type, use packing cubes to compress your clothes, roll instead of fold, and make use of dead space — stuff socks or smaller items into shoes and corners to maximise every centimeter.
And honestly, once you get into the groove of it, packing light becomes second nature. Smart packing doesn’t just lighten your bag — it frees up headspace and lets you focus on what really matters: the joy of the journey.