NOMAD Best Tips: Pack lightly & avoid luggage charges

if you are a long term, nomadic, multiple country traveler then this tip is for you.

After tossing, gifting and donating ‘stuff’ last September before leaving Oregon, I schlepped less than 1% of my remains in a large suitcase, a carry-on and my backpack. The stuff I considered essentials were taken to the East Coast where I’d spend the next several months gladly hanging out with the girls and grandkids and planning the next leg of my nomadic lifestyle.

Once my ‘lap around planet earth’ itinerary was in place, I whittled down the necessities for travel to a filled-to-the-brim, less than 30 liter backpack and standard carry-on. Electronics. Toiletries. Easy to wash and quick drying clothes. Yeah, that was about it. When combined, that’s suppose to sustain me for the next 4-5 months. 30 days in, and I’m already trying to figure out how squeeze even less into an upgraded 40-50 liter backpack with a detachable smaller daypack. Then I can get rid of that small suitcase that has already cost me about $200 in luggage fees.

So I need a backpack that will meet the standard linear dimensions… typically 45 inches (L+W+H) to make it as a carry-on. I want that total weight of all my ‘stuff’ down to around 15-20 lbs. so the load is manageable. Remember, only the essentials — shampoo, body lotion, shaving cream, or anything I either don’t need or is offered at my stays are gone. I just need a rain parka during this lap, so I donated a coat that shouldn’t have been packed in the first place. I’ve tossed a couple pairs of socks, jeans and pared down the clothing to four days worth. Yeah, it means more hotel ‘sink and soap’ laundry to keep my clothes clean.

I haven’t found that 40-50 liter backpack yet, but I’ve narrowed it down to North Face and Osprey brands. Now I have to find either of those during my stops. One thing for sure… I’ll be better prepared when I begin my second lap.