If you've ever tried stuffing your entire life into a carry-on, you know it's part art, part science—and a little bit of magic.
I’ve been living out of a backpack for over a year now, jumping from Thailand’s beaches to coworking spaces in Lisbon, and let me tell you: packing light isn’t just convenient-it’s essential. As a digital nomad, you’re not just packing for a vacation. You’re packing for life.
So if you're tired of lugging around two checked bags and a laptop bag that weighs more than your rent, here’s my tried-and-tested guide to packing light without sacrificing sanity, style, or productivity.
Step 1: Shift Your Mindset - Less is More
Before we talk gear, let’s get one thing straight: you don’t need as much as you think. Seriously. I used to bring five pairs of shoes and three hoodies… for Southeast Asia. Big mistake.
The secret is to stop packing “just in case” and start packing “just right.”
Step 2: Pick the Right Bag (Your Mobile Closet)
One bag. That’s the goal.
Look for a carry-on-sized backpack (35–45L) with multiple compartments, lockable zippers, and a laptop sleeve. My personal favorite? The Nomatic Navigator—it’s sleek, expands when needed, and fits in every overhead bin I've met.
Other great options:
Osprey Farpoint 40 (great balance of comfort + space)
Peak Design Travel Backpack (tech-friendly and stylish)
Aer Travel Pack (minimalist and durable)
Step 3: Build a Capsule Wardrobe
Say goodbye to “outfit of the day” pressure. Say hello to the capsule wardrobe—your best friend on the road.
Here’s what mine typically includes:
4 tops (2 tees, 1 long-sleeve, 1 dressy shirt)
2 bottoms (jeans + travel pants)
1 pair of shorts/swimwear
1 light jacket or hoodie
5 pairs of underwear & socks (merino wool if you can splurge)
1 pair of walking shoes (bonus: packable sandals if heading to warm places)
Pro tip: Stick to a neutral color palette so everything mixes and matches. You’ll look fresh without overpacking.
Step 4: Tech Essentials (Don’t Overdo It)
As a remote worker, tech is non-negotiable. But trust me—you don’t need a mobile office setup that weighs 10kg.
Here’s my minimalist tech kit:
Lightweight laptop (MacBook Air or equivalent)
Noise-canceling earbuds (AirPods Pro or Bose)
Foldable wireless keyboard (game-changer for cafes)
Universal travel adapter
Portable charger
1TB SSD (backups, always)
Optional: Kindle (vs. packing 3 books you’ll never read)
Step 5: Streamline Your Toiletries
Ditch the full-sized shampoo bottle. No one needs that.
Use:
Solid shampoo bar (lasts forever and TSA-friendly)
Refillable travel bottles for essentials
Collapsible toiletry bag
Microfiber towel (quick-drying and compact)
And please—don’t pack that hotel hairdryer. You’ll survive.
Step 6: Don’t Forget the Mental Load
Packing light also means mental freedom.
You’re more agile, flexible, and open to spontaneous trips when you’re not buried under luggage.
It’s not just about stuff—it’s about space.
Space to breathe. Space to move. Space to live.
Final Packing Light Checklist
4 versatile tops
2 bottoms
1 jacket or hoodie
5 undergarments
1 pair of shoes
Laptop + charger
Earbuds
Universal adapter
Toiletries in 100ml bottles
Important documents (digital + print)
Final Thoughts
Packing light isn’t about sacrifice. It’s about intentional living.
It took me a few overpacked trips, a missed flight (thanks, overweight baggage fees), and a broken suitcase to figure it out—but now, I wouldn’t travel any other way.
So before you zip that bag shut, ask yourself:
Do I really need this… or am I just afraid to need less?
Now go pack—and go live lighter. ✌️
