What’s in My Backpack: A Minimalist Travel Packing List
Minimalism isn’t a look. It’s not about deprivation or discipline. It’s about freedom — to move, to focus, to be fully where you are. What I carry reflects that.
People ask how I do it. One bag, no checked luggage. Weeks on the road with everything I need on my back.
It’s not about sacrifice. It’s about clarity.
I don’t pack for emergencies. I pack for reality. The rest, I figure out as I go.
Here’s what I carried on my last trip:
Camera
Camera body
lens
Chargers
Extra batteries
Personal hygiene
Toothbrush
Floss
Nail clippers
Chap stick
Medications
Electronics
Cell phone x2
Battery pack
Ear buds
Ereader
Comfort items
Pajama pants
Travel pillow
Blue tooth speaker
Card game
Pens
Small notebook
Travel towel and washcloth
Neck pillow
Clothes
6 t shirts
6 underwear
6 pairs socks
3 pants (two quick dry outdoor, one dress up)
1 pair slip on shoes/dress up
1 pair hiking shoes
1 hat
Lightweight, packable rain jacket
Packable puffy coat
Hoody
Comfy long sleeve shirt/sweatshirt
Swim suit
Extra
Packable, waterproof day pack
Caribbeans
Parachute cord
Computer and charger
Local currency
And don’t forget your passport!
That’s it.
This list isn’t universal. What works for me might not work for someone else. Packing looks different for men and women, and every trip has its own needs. Climate matters. Culture matters. You adjust.
Besides, you can buy almost anything almost anywhere. A shirt. A toothbrush. A pair of sandals. There’s no need to carry your whole life on your back.
Learning to adapt is one of the best parts of travel. It forces you to pay attention. To notice what’s around you. To be resourceful and open and a little bit braver.
It all fits. No stress. No waiting for bags. No hauling extra weight I don’t use.
Minimalism isn’t about having nothing. It’s about having what you need, when and where you need it.
One bag. Always. And freedom that fits on your back.