The Secret to Truly Free Travel - My Own Way of Traveling with Minimalist Travel

Traveling Alone is Enough, Do You Know What Minimalist Travel Is?

Last year, I went on a trip to Jeju Island with a friend. I packed everything into a 28-inch suitcase, while my friend only brought a backpack. At first, I wondered, "How can she manage for 3 days with just that?" But once we started traveling, my friend was moving around much more freely.

I was struggling with my suitcase on the stairs at the airport, while my friend was running around with her backpack. That's when I realized, the essence of true travel is not heavy luggage but a light heart.

The 3 Golden Rules of Minimalist Travel

1. "Just in Case" is a Forbidden Phrase!

The first rule of minimalist travel is to pack only what is necessary. If you pack with thoughts like "What if it's cold?" or "What if it rains?", your suitcase will be bursting at the seams.

I categorize my packing like this:

• Essentials: Passport, wallet, phone, charger, basic clothing
• Multi-purpose items: Items that can serve multiple purposes (all-in-one toiletries, clothes that can be layered)
• Local purchase items: Sunscreen, umbrella, simple clothes

2. Solve More Than One Thing with One Item

The most effective way to reduce luggage is to use multi-purpose items. Here are some combinations I actually use:

• Scarf → Scarf + Blanket + Mask + Headband
• Hoodie → Outerwear + Pillow + Blanket
• Liquid soap → Shampoo + Body wash + Laundry detergent
• Sweatshirt → Pajamas + Casual wear + Workout clothes

3. Actively Utilize Digital Minimalism

These days, you can solve most things with just a smartphone. There's no need to insist on analog!

• Paper map → Google Maps offline download
• Guidebook → Travel apps + Blog bookmarks
• Travel itinerary → Google Calendar
• Currency exchange → Card payment + Easy payment

Practical Tips for Minimalist Packing

Perfect Checklist for a 1 Night 2 Days Trip

This is the packing list I actually use. It's really enough!

Benefits of Minimalist Travel!

Truly Free Movement

No more sighing at stairs because of a heavy suitcase, or stressing about passing through subway gates. With just a backpack, you can go anywhere!

Huge Savings on Airfare

Saving on extra baggage fees when using LCCs is a real bonus. It usually costs around 30,000 to 50,000 won one way, so you save 100,000 won round trip!

Lightened Mind

Worries like "What if I lose my luggage?" are significantly reduced. Since you're carrying it yourself, it's safe, and you feel unburdened.

Space for Shopping

With extra space in your bag, you can buy pretty things you find locally without any burden. This is especially beneficial when traveling to Japan or Southeast Asia.

Highly Recommended for These People!

Honestly... There Are Some Drawbacks

Recommended Minimalist Travel Items I've Personally Used

The Art of Choosing a Backpack

35-45L is just right. If it's too big, you'll be tempted to fill it up. A mesh back panel is less hot even when worn for a long time.

Personal Recommendation: Bellroy Transit Backpack or Peak Design Travel Backpack!

Tips for Choosing Fabrics

Merino wool or polyester blend materials are really great. They don't smell as much, dry quickly, and wrinkle less, making them perfect for travel.

Avoid These Fabrics: Pure cotton is the worst. It's heavy, dries slowly, and smells bad.

A Multi-Charger is Essential

With a USB-C hub, you can charge your phone, tablet, and power bank. Get an adapter that's compatible with multiple countries!

Shall We Start Minimalist Traveling Now?

At first, it might be hard thinking "I need this, I need that." I was the same. But once you experience it, you'll know what truly free travel is.

For your next trip, try packing only half of what you usually do. You'll surely realize, "Ah, this was enough." Traveling with a light body and mind feels really different!

I'm really curious about your minimalist travel experiences! Share your tips and mistakes in the comments.