Pack Half of What You Think You Need
The golden rule of solo travel packing: lay out everything you think you need, then put half of it back. The most common regret solo travelers report is bringing too much, never too little.
Everything on your list should answer "yes" to at least two of these questions: Do I need it for safety? Will I use it every 2–3 days? Can I buy it locally if needed? Can it serve multiple purposes?
The lighter your pack, the faster you move, the less you pay in baggage fees, the more spontaneous you can be — and the less physical strain you carry through airports, train stations, and cobblestone streets.
Pro tip: For any trip under 3 weeks, challenge yourself to pack carry-on only. One main bag (40–45L) and one day bag is all you need — for almost any destination on earth.
