A Travel Writer Knows How to Pack and Travel Light

Updated: Mar 28th, 2010

We all know that traveling is fun. However, what is not fun is lugging around 3 or 4 suitcases and a carry on bag! As a travel writer, you must realize that this is no way to travel. You do not have to bring your entire closet with you or all of your toiletries. It may shock some people to know that you can find products such as mouthwash, toothpaste, socks, brushes, underwear, and whatever else you may need for your trip. True, if you are going on an African Safari, you will not be able to find a drugstore in the jungle, but you will find one in the nearest city.

Packing can be quite easy, if you know what you are doing. Rolling your clothes tight will take up less space. Bring what you need for your trip. Also, pack a day before and then take out half of what you packed. Do you really need shirts and pants for each day of the week? When in doubt leave it out!

When you travel, use a suitcase on wheels versus a duffle bag. A small and compact suitcase is best because you can take what you need for about 7 days. Find a laundry mat to wash your clothes. If you have never used a laundry mat, it will give you something to write about in your travel article.

If you are traveling around the world, purchase a backpack. They usually go according to your size and are quite comfortable. Some backpacks have wheels which makes it easy if you are traveling around the city. Remember, the more you pack, the heavier your backpack will be. Take what you need for your trip. If you decide you need more clothes or toiletries, buy them at your destinations. Visit REI.com for more information on backpacks.

Refillable travel sized bottles can be found at Wal Mart, Walgreens, CVS, or at your local drugstore. If you are traveling for a week, put your shampoo, conditioner, and bath wash in travel sized bottles. The other alternative is to just buy travel size shampoo, conditioner, hairspray, and bath wash. For those of us who cannot live without our particular brand, the travel sized bottles are best. Make sure to purchase a bath utility bag. This will keep your items, neat, clean, and organized.

Travel writers, review these tips before you take your next trip. Traveling is supposed to be fun! Who wants to lug around a bunch of luggage? You have people to meet and places to see. On the other hand, if you’re traveling for 2 weeks and staying at a plush resort then pack what you want. For those who are going off the beaten path, all of that luggage will slow you down. Be free, travel light!

Rebecca

About Amandah Blackwell 198 Articles

Amandah Blackwell is a creative, freelance and ghost writer for industries that include but are not limited to the arts & entertainment, travel, publishing, real estate, pets, personal and professional development, and much more.

Amandah's personal writing projects include screenplays, teleplays, YA, non-fiction, short stories, and poetry. 

You can find more of her writing at www.MisticCafe.com, savvywritingcareers.wordpress.com, and www.savvy-writer.com.

You can follow Amandah on Twitter at:  http://twitter.com/savvy_writer

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