Minimalism in Practice: How to Travel Light and Still Bring Things Home

Some simple art souvenirs from a recent trip to Istanbul. Notice the tatters. They weren’t perfect when we found them, and the backpack home may have added a few, but they are still perfect reminders of a wonderful trip.

We travel light. One bag each. No checked luggage if we can help it.

Souvenirs? Only if they fit. Or if we find another way to bring them home.

But rules are flexible. Especially when they meet real people.

We met Soner in Istanbul. He gave us directions. Offered tea. Talked about rugs and family. No pressure. No pitch. He mentioned shipping, almost casually.

That changed everything.

We had already set a limit—how much we’d spend, how much weight we’d allow ourselves to add. It wasn’t about the rug. It was about not dragging anything through airports, hotels, and border crossings.

But he made it easy. And the rug made sense.

Two days after we got home, it arrived. Silk. Wrapped, folded. Waiting by the door.

Over time, we’ve adjusted our idea of souvenirs. We don’t bring home bulky or breakable things. It’s usually small items—something handmade, a piece of local art that fits flat in the backpack, or a tiny object that carries meaning. We tend to avoid cheap tourist souvenirs. One or two high-quality reminders of the place or experience are enough.

Minimalism isn’t about having nothing. It’s about knowing what’s worth carrying—and what isn’t. Sometimes that’s a rug. Sometimes it’s just the memory.

But the point is: we chose it. It didn’t sneak in. It didn’t clutter the trip. It added to it.

One bag, still. Just with more story inside.