The art of minimalist travel

In a world where travel often conjures images of bustling airports, overstuffed suitcases, and jam-packed itineraries, taking a minimalist approach to travel can transform your journey. Citro outlines this easy paradigm shift to help make travel more effortless and wonderful. It will not only change your packing technique but possibly also your sense of wellbeing and enjoyment.

What is minimalist travel?

The term “minimalist” means different things to different people.  

A first time minimalist traveller may think minimalist means getting everything into a single carry on bag weighing less than 7kg while another may believe true minimalism is leaving home with just the clothes on their back.  

Citro is proposing that minimalist travel means somewhere between these two positions. And the bonus? You can take advantage of the bargain carry-on only airfares.

Intentional time allocation: plan and prioritise without cramming too much in

Minimalist travel is a travel philosophy and approach that emphasises simplicity, efficiency, and a deliberate reduction of material possessions and unnecessary complexities during a journey.

Your minimalist travel chant #1: I am able to see the value in doing less, so I plan less to do. I have a clear purpose (or two) for my trip, so I don’t fill it with unnecessary things.

Discernment in planning helps prioritise valuable experiences over an exhaustive checklist of tourist attractions. By investing the time saved from over-planning into purposeful moments, travellers can fully immerse themselves in the essence of their destinations.

A minimalist approach dictates that the purpose of the trip lies in fostering quality connections and experiences. This clarity of purpose should still allow for flexible moments of spontaneity and connection.

Liberating lightness by packing smart

Minimalist travel is synonymous with the art of packing light. You'll experience newfound ease navigating busy airports and city streets.

Your minimalist travel chant #2: I don’t pack unnecessary things, so I am freed up to travel more easily (and on less money!)

The practice encourages a shift from excessive baggage to curated essentials, freeing up both physical and mental space for the journey ahead. Begin by looking at the weather and make a list of anticipated activities.

Minimal luggage can be achieved by investing in a lightweight suitcase that meets airline standards - check the rules on your airline's website before you leave. Some allow 7kg and one personal item, some allow up to 10kg.

Deciding how to pack light as a minimalist will depend on your style, itinerary, and packing checklist. Here are a few questions to answer:

1. What will the weather be like?
2. What will I be doing?
3. How long is my trip?
4. Where am I staying?

Use the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule of packing for a week-long trip: limit yourself to no more than 5 sets of socks and underwear, 4 tops, 3 bottoms, 2 pairs of shoes and one hat. The list can be adjusted to suit your destination. Lay out what you think you’ll need, then edit ruthlessly.

Opt for rolling your clothes when packing. To maximise space, don't forget to place rolled up socks inside your shoes and think about wearing your bulkier items, such as boots, during your flight.

Enabling more with less: time and opportunity prosperity

Minimalist travel isn't just about packing light; it's about unlocking a wealth of possibilities. Embracing minimalism lets you reallocate time and resources.

Your minimalist travel chant #3: I have more time, mental space and money to take trips if I want to spend my time and money that way

The minimalist's mindset banishes the fear of missing out. With each ongoing adventure, you can explore destinations more deeply. The quest for the ultimate trip loses its urgency, replaced by an understanding that the journey itself holds the most profound treasures.

Minimalist travel is about a journey without the encumbrance of excess baggage – both physical and emotional. Through intentional time allocation, thoughtful packing, and the cultivation of limitless possibilities, travel becomes about fulfilment rather than a rush of frenzied activity.

Minimalist travel encourages a digital detox. Disconnect from your devices, or at least limit their use, to fully engage with your surroundings.

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and sensations of the place you’re visiting. Embrace mindfulness as you travel, and you’ll discover a deeper connection to the destination and its people.

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- 5 great walking holidays for any budget and fitness level (including super hard!)