minimalist travel lifestyle

How To Travel Like A Minimalist: Packing List And More

Traveling like a minimalist means striking the balance of finding comfort while away from home, but not being weighed down by excess stuff either. Choosing minimalist travel has changed my packing process entirely and made everything easier for me.

Hi, I’m Ryan

Having a minimalist mindset while traveling has taken all the hassle and headache out of my traveling experience. Packing light allows me to have what I need without being weighed down, and focus on the experience of the trip itself.

What Is Minimalist Travel?

Minimalist Travel Packing List: Essentials Only

When I’m packing for any trip, I divide my needs into smaller categories to make the packing process more manageable and keep track of what I actually need. I start with my travel capsule wardrobe, then pack my toiletries. I prefer to organize things into packing cubes to keep the chaos at bay while on the move.

Minimalist Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Traveling with a well-planned capsule wardrobe is the move for any vacation, especially if you’re trying to travel like a minimalist. Clothes are a major culprit that take up a lot of space in a suitcase or bag. Create your own capsule wardrobe to minimize your luggage.

To do this, you’ll want to think through several things. Check the weather for the entirety of your trip, and choose items that will work with the climate you’ll be in. It’s also important to pack high-quality, staple pieces that can be worn more than once, especially for longer trips where you’ll have access to a washer and dryer.

Similar to personal uniforms , capsule wardrobes work best when you have a few base pieces like neutral shirts and pants, and then accentuate with only a few pieces that can give the outfit an entirely new look.

A Basic Travel Capsule Might Include

• Two T-shirts
• Two long sleeves or tank tops
• Two pairs of shorts or jeans
• One dress or suit
• Sweater or swimwear
• Four pairs of underwear
• Four pairs of socks

My own capsule wardrobe is pretty simple, but you can make it as decorative or basic as you prefer. Of course, this basic list will need to be adjusted based on the weather on your trip, if you have plans to go out somewhere fancy, or any other trip-specific clothing needs that might come up.

Minimalist Travel Toiletries

Toiletries are probably the second biggest category of travel items that can suck the space from your suitcase. Of course, it’s different for women and men, and it also depends on how basic your daily routine is.

If I’m going to a place that doesn’t provide basics, I tend to pack a two-in-one bar that can I use as my shampoo, bodywash and facewash — my favorite is the Duke Cannon’s Midnight Swim Bars or their Shampoo Pucks in Gold Rush Scent .

For the larger bar, I cut a chunk off to suit the length of my trip put in a Matador flat pack soap bar bag . The pucks come in a small tin which is super convenient. I’m not one to overcomplicate things with multiple products, but I also don’t have temperamental skin or hair.

Basic Toiletries To Pack As A Minimalist

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Conditioner
• Facial cleanser or wipes
• Razor and shaving cream
• Basic makeup
• Daily medications
• Feminine products

When it comes to packing my toiletries as space-consciously as possible, I use Gotoobs to hold my liquid toiletries , which have never leaked on me, and I put that in a bag inside my larger toiletry bag where I keep everything else. This saves me space and keeps my liquid toiletries separate to help prevent leaks or spills in transport.

Toiletries You Can Travel Without

• Extra lotions or skin creams
• Entire makeup bag
• Multiple hair styling tools
• Hair accessories
• Nail polish
• Essential oils or perfumes

Ryan’s Minimalist Toiletries

My personal toiletry kit has a two-in-one soap puck, deodorant, razor, comb, tooth brush, toothpaste tablets, and a nail clipper. I use the shampoo puck as body and face wash, then also use it for shaving.

The two white tablets in the photo are mini hand towels that expand — those along with the face wipes are a godsend when you’ve been traveling for a long time and need to wash up when you don’t have access to a shower. The Purell packets are also good because their size won’t bring much attention as a single use packet going through airport security.

For longer trips, I’ll often add shaving cream, a mini sewing kit, and lotion.

Minimalist Daily Travel Essentials

One of the best things to do when it comes to packing the rest of your miscellaneous daily items is to have a central location in your home where these items live regularly. This could look like a catchall tray, a storage bin, or a backpack or travel bag.

Keep daily essentials like chargers, electronics, a water bottle, and more in this spot. Then, when you’re preparing for a trip, you can move all of your essentials to your luggage quickly. You’ll save yourself the mental space of having to fish through your closet or under your bed for your lesser-used items that are still essentials.

Daily Essentials For Minimalist Packing

• Charging cords
• Keys and wallet
• Cash and credit cards
• Identification (license/passport)
• Refillable water bottle
• Book/notebook
• First-aid kit

Ryan’s Daily Minimalist Essentials

When I’m packing my minimalist travel bag, I usually put all of these daily essentials in a separate travel bag than my clothes and toiletries. If I’m flying, this is what I fill my carry-on with for easy access. Even if I’m road-tripping in a car or travel van , I usually put these items in a carry-all pouch that goes in my backpack.

Ryan’s Daily Items Packing List

• Modern Coup Admin Pouch
• Benchmade Bugout Pocket Knife
• Smooth Precision Pens – Bolt Action Pen V2.2
• Anker Compact737 Charger
• Herschel Slim Men’s Wallet
• Field Notes Notebook
• Griffin Mini-Cable Kit
• Human Gear Go Bites Duo Utensil Set

Trip-Specific Items For Minimalist Travel

Once I’ve covered all my daily essentials and basic needs, I usually have about half a suitcase of room left to focus on items specific to my trip. This could be anything from ski gear to a surfboard to your bridesmaid dress to a nylon tent and off-grid camping cookware .

I don’t know about you, but the process of packing always feels super tedious and mentally draining to me. Covering all of your basics first is one of the best ways to pack like a minimalist and make the packing process way less daunting. You knock out all the more thought-intensive categories first, then just focus on the fun stuff.

How To Pack Like A Minimalist: Best Travel Gear

In addition to having a packing strategy and following a packing list, using savvy packing gadgets can help you travel light. Investing in these simple products can make your minimalist packing life a whole lot easier.

Four Piece Packing Cube Set

GoToobs And GoTubbs By Humangear

Packism Clear Toiletry Bag

Like I mentioned in my advice above, when I pack my toiletries, I like to separate my wet toiletries from my dry toiletries. These small, clear toiletry bags by Packism are an ideal size to store all my liquid toiletries and then nestle into my larger suitcase or carry on.

Matador Toiletry Bag And Soap Bar Case

General Medi Store First Aid Kit

Nomader Collapsible Leak-Proof Water Bottle

Build A Minimalist Travel Backpack For Solo Travel

For me, traveling solo has been something that has set me free and given me experiences that I could never have had by just staying home. In the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of traveling 23 countries including Canada , Australia , and several European and Latin American countries .

Best Minimalist Travel Backpacks For Solo Travel

Fitting all of the belongings I need into a simple travel backpack always provides me with a deeply freeing feeling. Choosing a minimalist travel backpack that will support you fully, last for years without tearing, and have room for all your travel gadgets and gizmos is a must.

I have a couple of personal favorite travel backpacks that I would recommend for regular use. The first one is the GoRuck GR1 . The GR1 is ridiculously sturdy and ideal for strenuous hikes or camping trips. I also love the Osprey Porter 46 Travel Backpack . It has an extremely strong hip belt and sturdy shoulder straps, and multiple compartments for storing all the gear you might need.

Other Popular Minimalist Travel Backpacks

• Minaal Carry-on 3.0
• Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L
• Matador SEG42
• Zpacks Nero 38L ROBIC
• AER Travel Pack 2

How To Pack Your Minimalist Travel Backpack

Figuring out how to pack your travel backpack is a whole other can of worms. Of course, this will also heavily depend on where you’re going on your trip, how long you’ll be gone, and what your essential needs will be.

There are a few things I make sure to always have with me when I pack my minimalist travel bag for camping, off-griding, or any kind of basic travel.

Travel Backpacking List

• Basic hygiene supplies
• Sleeping bag and sleeping pad
• Water treatment supplies
• Snacks/food
• Map/compass/GPS
• Small tools/repair kit

Does Minimalist Travel Make Life Better?

• How will you pack like a minimalist on your next vacation?
• What items will you pack verses go without?

Thanks for this article. I’m planning to visit some family living in Mexico and bought a overhead suitcase to use for traveling..made a stateside trip and and stuff it with what I thought I’d need for a 3week trip..with your list ideas, I’ll make smarter packing & weight decisions..looking forward to hassle freely out of country trip more now..

Great post. Very helpful. Thank you.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

name (required)

email (will not be published) (required)

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

4 Essential Minimalist Travel Tips for Less Stress and More Adventure

Inside: Use these minimalist travel tips to reduce your stress on your next trip so you can have more fun!

A guest post by Cora Gold

Have you ever gone on a trip only to come back with feelings of exhaustion and buyer’s remorse? Vacation is supposed to be an opportunity to relax and escape the stresses of everyday life.

However, it can become the opposite when you’re preoccupied with overpacking, buying useless souvenirs, or wasting money on tourist attractions that aren’t really worthwhile. 

Minimalist travel offers a unique perspective on the world around you. You open the door to more meaningful stress-free adventures by simplifying your journey and shedding unnecessary baggage.

And even if your trip is less adventurous and more like taking the family to see relatives during the holidays, you too can benefit from some of these minimalist travel tips.

Here’s why you should give minimalist travel a try. 

What Is Minimalist Travel?

Minimalist travel embodies a mindset that emphasizes simplicity, intentionality and consciously reducing material possessions.

It involves traveling with only the essentials, eliminating unnecessary baggage, and focusing on experiences rather than material accumulation.

The goal of minimalist travel is to strip away the excess, allowing individuals to move more freely and be present in the moment. 

Minimalist travelers don’t come to the airport with excess baggage — they take whatever can fit into a single suitcase or even just a backpack.

When they arrive at their destination, they focus on experiencing the world around them and appreciating the things that money can’t buy.    

The Benefits of Traveling Minimally

Packing lightly is the first step in a minimalist trip. Traveling light isn’t just about saving space — it’s a lifestyle that improves every aspect of your journey.

Shedding excess baggage opens the door to a world of possibilities, from financial savings to ease of movement and a more organized experience. There are many benefits to living more simply and traveling with less.

Here are some of the most notable benefits of traveling minimally.

1. You Save Money

Costs can quickly add up when you’re traveling, and airlines aren’t shy about charging extra for checked baggage and excess weight.

If you pack only what’s absolutely necessary and adhere to carry-on limits, you can sidestep these extra charges and avoid the temptation of indulging in unnecessary purchases during your trip. 

Better yet — if you manage to fit all your belongings into a backpack, you get to skip the baggage queues entirely. 

2. It’s Easier to Get Around

Picture this — you’ve been flying through the night after hours in the airport, exhausted and ready for the hotel, but you still have to stand and wait at baggage claim for several suitcases.

Once you’ve collected them, you need to haul them on and off trains and buses, carry them up flights of stairs, or drag them through cobbled streets. 

With less luggage, maneuvering through crowded airports, bustling city streets, busy markets, and navigating public transport becomes a seamless experience.

You can easily switch between modes of transportation, whether it’s hopping on a bus, climbing stairs, or strolling through narrow alleys, without the burden of excess weight slowing you down. 

Have you ever come home from a trip and lamented that you only used a small percentage of what you brought? Even if you’re only staying in one spot, that is a lot of extra hassle to keep up with for things you don’t even end up using.

Save yourself the stress and pack less.

3. You’re More Organized

With a minimalist approach, everything has its designated place, making it a breeze to find essentials and keep chaos at bay. Imagine a neatly packed bag where each item serves a purpose.

No more rummaging through mountains of stuff just to find your charger or that one pair of socks.

There’s even research to suggest that having fewer options makes us less likely to feel stressed or overwhelmed when making a decision. Recent studies reveal that one-third of adults have such high levels of stress that they struggle to make decisions.

Decision fatigue is real and not something that you want to experience while you’re traveling.

Packing fewer options will make it easier for you to decide what to wear each day, saving time and reducing stress. 

You’re also less likely to accidentally leave something behind when you have fewer items to keep up with.

How to Embrace Minimalist Travel

Minimalist travel isn’t just about what you pack but how you approach your entire travel mindset. Here are some practical tips to seamlessly integrate ways to live as a minimalist into your travel routine.

1. Pack Lightly

First and foremost, packing lightly is the key to traveling minimally. Opt for things like travel-sized toiletries or transfer your essentials into compact, reusable containers to save space and weight.

If you’re taking any liquids in your carry-on, they need to be less than 3.4 ounces per container , making travel-sized products the wiser choice. 

Embrace the roll, not fold, technique for your clothes to maximize suitcase space and minimize wrinkles. Pack these rolled items into packing cubes — a game-changer for traveling — keeping your belongings organized and making unpacking a breeze.

Pack versatile, timeless options that you can mix and match to serve multiple purposes. 

When it comes to shoes, resist the urge to overpack. Choose footwear that complements multiple outfits and activities.

Bring two to three pairs of shoes on your trip — one for walking, one for more formal events (if needed), and, if you’re traveling to a warmer climate, one pair of sandals. 

Creating a list of the essentials and sticking to it rather than grabbing everything you think you might want will help you to travel lighter.

2. If You’re Second Guessing It, Don’t Pack It

Minimalist travel is all about making intentional choices and your packing decisions should reflect that. If you find yourself hesitating over whether to include an item, take a step back and question its necessity.

A lighter load means more freedom and flexibility, so be discerning about what earns a spot in your suitcase. Trust your instincts — if you’re on the fence, leave it behind. 

You don’t need to bring yourself multiple options for everything. Think about the last trip you took and which items you actually used. By sticking to your list and not impulsively adding extras you can avoid overpacking.

3. Skip the Overrated Tourist Traps

A destination’s most famous tourist attraction is often not the best use of your time. Do you really want to spend time waiting in lines or fighting crowds just to snap a picture of the Eiffel Tower?

Usually, the more memorable parts of a trip are the experiences you just stumble upon, like a hidden gem on a side street in the city. 

Save your time, stress, and money by skipping the tourist traps. While you can set an itinerary, be flexible and go with the flow. You never know what you’ll find when you keep an open mind. 

4. Don’t Go Overboard on Souvenirs

Let’s be honest. Souvenirs are something you don’t need more of . While it’s tempting to amass a collection of trinkets from every corner of your travels, minimalist principles encourage a more mindful approach.

Choose quality over quantity and opt for souvenirs that really resonate with you or for none at all.

Avoid accumulating a surplus of keepsakes that add weight to your luggage and, in the long run, might lose their significance. Skip the magnets, keychains, and mugs that will only create clutter when you get home.

If you really want to buy a memento of your travels, consider one of these more meaningful ideas: 

• A small piece of art made by a local artist
• An article of clothing or jewelry made locally (hint: not a mass-produced graphic t-shirt) 
• A sticker (while still not a necessary purchase, it won’t take up any space and can be a nice compromise for kids who want to get something at a gift shop)
• A postcard (if you didn’t get the picture you wanted this is a great way to remember a place you went or to send to a loved one)

Minimalist Travel: Less Baggage, More Fun

Embrace the benefits of minimalist travel by packing only the essentials and focusing on experiences that truly matter.

Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time adventurer, incorporating minimalist principles into your travels can lead to a more fulfilling, intentional, and enjoyable journey. 

Cora Gold is the Editor-in-Chief of Revivalist magazine. She loves writing about family and living life to the fullest. Follow Cora on Twitter , Facebook and Pinterest .

What’s your favorite minimalist travel tip? Let us know in the comments section!

Sign up on the form below to get weekly decluttering tips and inspiration sent straight to your inbox. You’ll also get the free 5 Areas to Declutter in 10 Minutes Checklist to help you get started decluttering today.

One Comment

I bring a few outfits, so I will not need to find laundry, but I make sure one outfit is the quick dry type of material, so if I do have a spill, or need another change of clothes, I can wash them out, roll up in a towel and hang and they will be dry and ready to wear the next morning.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

13 Minimalist Traveling Tips for Living Out of a Backpack

Considering hitting the road and living out of a backpack for a year–or more?

We’ve been there! For 4+ years, we lived nomadically while traveling the world full-time , embracing what we considered to be a fairly mild version of minimalist traveling along the way.

And, quite honestly, we loved the experience so much that we haven’t ruled out doing it again at some point in our lives.

Even now, with an apartment to unpack in, we reach for our backpacks rather than traditional suitcases when setting off to explore the world.

After more than 1500 days on the road, here are our best tips for living out of a backpack!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Our Setup When Embracing Minimalist Traveling

So exactly how much did we carry when our whole lives fit into a backpacker lifestyle?

There’s a good chance that, depending on your expectations, it was either far more or far less than you’re expecting!

I carried (still do, when we’re on the road) an Osprey Ariel 55 L backpack , and Jeremy carried a Gregory Zulu 65 . Generally, neither was completely full.

We also had a small carry-on backpack that was full of most of our tech gear, essential for travel bloggers. We’ve had a few different ones, but this bag has been our trusty carry-on for years.

Other than that, the only other bag I carried is a small purse that I used as a personal item on planes, but it doesn’t hold much!

By some people’s standards, this stretches the definition of minimalist travel–and to others, it seems like an impossibly small amount.

Our first tip for embracing one bag living (or two bag living, as the case may be)? Find what works for you.

We never felt the need to par our packing list down to carry-on only levels when traveling full-time, and still don’t.

Essential Tips for Living Out of a Backpack

Choose your backpack wisely..

While we absolutely love our backpacks and will continue to use them until they fall apart (so hopefully forever), if we were to buy them knowing what we know now, we’d prioritize backpacks that can be fully unzipped and loaded from the side, like the Osprey Farpoint .

My bag functions best as a top-load, which is perfectly fine because I’m used to it, but it sure would be nice to unzip my backpack and have immediate visual access to everything in it!

We’d also buy smaller bags if we were shopping for travel backpacks again, probably 45L each or so.

Consider weight when packing.

The heavier and bulkier an item is, the less likely it is that you should bring it with you when living out of a bag.

Shoes, especially hiking boots, and heavy coats are particularly susceptible to this.

Unless you’re planning to do a ton of intense hiking on your backpacking trip, it’s probably best to leave the boots at home: the only time I really, really wished I had a pair when on the road was when climbing Volcano Acatenango in Guatemala .

For winter coats, consider simply buying one as you need it.

I’ve kept virtually all of mine that I’ve accrued over the years because we had a tendency to visit family around the holidays and I could leave them behind afterward, but some travelers donate them as the weather warms up.

Think twice before buying new gadgets.

Packing lists and guides to backpacking–even minimalist backpacking–tend to have suggestions for different gear to purchase before setting off.

We’re no exception: our packing lists are full of tips for what to bring on the road.

Ultimately, though, think before you buy: while some things (like adaptors and travel insurance ) are truly essential, other pieces of gear depend entirely on your travel style.

Our years of living out of a backpack are littered with things left behind when we realized we were never going to use them, such as the combination locks we bought for the dorm-style hostels we never ended up staying in.

Don’t overpack toiletries.

Other than shoes and coats, toiletries are another area where new backpackers have a tendency to overpack.

Rather than bring enough tubes of toohpaste or lotion to last an entire year, consider bringing only enough for your first month or two on the road and trusting you’ll be able to replace them from there.

With the exception of prescriptions or extremely specific brands, most drugstore-level items can be replaced while traveling out of a backpack abroad, though you may need to look around for a bit to find them (in many places, for example, you’ll want to look for toiletries in the pharmacy, not the supermarket).

Roll your clothes.

Rolling clothes is a much more effective way to pack them into a single bag than folding!

Not only will you be able to avoid (most) wrinkles and physically fit more items into your bag, rolling is also a fantastic way to keep your bag organized.

I tend to fold my clothes in groups–shirts, dresses, etc.–and also separate them by climate.

So, for example, if we’re relaxing on Isla Mujeres in Mexico but planning to road trip Ireland in a month, I’ll keep a few rolls of beach clothes at the top of my bag, and a separate roll of warmer clothes for Ireland at the bottom of my bag, where I don’t need to unpack them until they’re needed.

Consider (a few) packing cubes.

We don’t use as many packing cubes as some, but a small set like this is perfect for tiny items that have a tendency to get messy or lost, like underwear or various chargers (especially if you travel with quite a bit of tech or camera gear like we do).

Keep your backpack organized.

It’s much, much easier to keep track of everything that you’re carrying in your backpack if you pack and unpack it in the same pattern each time–and trust us, you will eventually forget that you’re carrying something with you (and that’s when you may want to start thinking about leaving the item in question behind, assuming it’s not set aside for a different climate).

Embrace minimalist traveling ideals.

The less you pack, the less you have to unpack–and when you’re embracing one bag living while traveling full-time, you’ll end up packing and unpacking a lot!

The less you carry with you, the less exhausting the packing and unpacking process will become (and trust me, eventually it gets tiring–it took us about 2.5 years to get completely sick of it).

It’s also much less stressful to live in repeated small spaces like hotel rooms or small apartments if you have less stuff with you.

A good rule of thumb? Bring half as much as you think you need.

Take care of your feet.

Packing in a minimalist way that will allow you to live out of a backpack for a year means very few shoes–we’d recommend 1-2 pairs at most–and for that reason, any shoes you need to bring absolutely need to be comfortable and enable you to walk for long distances while wearing your backpack.

Sure, a backpacking trip these days isn’t generally referring to a hiking trip–but one experience of sprinting up and down staircases in a German train station to make your connection (true story) or getting lost for an hour trying to find your apartment in a new city (another true story) will convince you that unsupportive footwear is absolutely not worth it.

Pack clothes that are easy to take care of.

Anything marked dry-clean only that needs to be washed on a delicate cycle or wrinkles easily can be left behind: the key to living out of a backpack is to make sure that every single item you carry is incredibly useful, and that means durable, comfortable clothes that you can wear repeatedly.

Plus, doing laundry on the road either means paying someone to do it, renting an apartment with a washing machine, or handwashing in a hotel room–and none of those options lend themselves to complicated care.

Don’t be afraid to let go of things in your backpack that you’re not using.

Pack something and find out 3 months later that you haven’t touched it?

Don’t be afraid to find a donation bin and leave it behind: take advantage of minimalist traveling ideals and don’t continue to carry something you don’t use.

Remember, you can shop along the way!

When most of us talk about living out of a backpack these days, we mean country-hopping, not wilderness camping!

For that reason, keep in mind that you can buy just about anything you need along the way.

Forgetting things isn’t a big deal when they’re easily replaced on the road, and picking up essentials only when you truly need them is a great way to embrace minimalist traveling.

You might be surprised by just how little you need once you hit the road and start your experience with one bag living!

Planning a trip?

Subscribe to our newsletter to follow along with our travels and to receive tips and new content via email!

We won’t send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “13 Minimalist Traveling Tips for Living Out of a Backpack”

Thanks. Another set of useful ideas.

Glad to hear it, Christopher!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• How It Works
• Job Board (beta)
• Marketplace

How to Embrace Minimalist Travel with a Nomadic Lifestyle

12. Nov. 2021

How many bags did you pack for your last vacation? One? Two? Three? Did you spend hours deciding how many swimsuits you’d need? Did you pack that formal dress just in case? What if it rained? What if the nights were cool? What if you tripped and fell into a mud puddle and didn’t have access to a laundry service? Those are the kinds of questions that result in piles of clothing, bags full of toiletries and a multitude of charged, ready-to-use gadgets (that never get used) filling up your suitcase to the 50-lb limit.

Did you really need it all? Did you use it all? Do you think you could have fit it into one bag?

Minimalism is sweeping the travel world, prompting travelers and remote workers alike to whittle down their belongings so that they can fit them into one or two (at the most) bags. They carry their minimal possessions with pride, humble-bragging when someone asks, “Is that really all you packed?”

They talk about how “free” they feel now that they don’t have anything weighing them down. When everything you own fits into a backpack and a single suitcase nothing  feels superfluous or unnecessary. With less physical baggage comes less mental baggage, and you’re able to let go of the past while looking forward to the future. Minimalism is the mantra, but you march to the beat of your own drum, figuring out the best systems for you instead of adhering to strict rules or guidelines set forth by a consumption driven society.

Make minimalism a part of your everyday life on a work and travel program

What is Minimalist Travel?

Minimalist travel is a form of traveling wherein the traveler only packs the material possessions that are absolutely necessary and nothing more. If you can fit your entire life into a suitcase, you’re doing it right. If you can fit it into a backpack - even better.

An example of minimalist travel is a world in which people spend a year on the road, living out of a single bag. It discourages buying a souvenir in every destination for the sake of buying one to say you got it in x destination. It praises capsule wardrobes and multi-purpose tools. It seeks out efficiency, quality and simplicity over luxury or appearance.

However, minimalism is also part of a greater lifestyle and mindset. Beyond personal belongings, the idea of minimalism relates to freedom and decisiveness, two key components of travel.

How is minimalism so intricately intertwined with freedom and decisiveness? In today’s society, we place a lot of meaning and worth on the things that we own. Our homes are a reflection of us, so they need to be immaculate and perfectly styled. Our clothing shows the world who we are, so we must own the exact right pieces, even if it means buying three pairs of jeans that may or may not look exactly the same. We buy cars to share with the world that we got a promotion or a raise. We consume in order to present our own value to the world.

To put it bluntly: things matter to us a lot more than they should.

At times, we place our desire for more possessions over our personal needs like love, health, passions, and growth . We accumulate so many things that our closets are overflowing, but our hearts still feel empty.

Minimalism is the first step to reversing this emptiness that eventually comes from mass consumption. It encourages people to let go of the things that are cluttering their lives with meaningless items and lean into the things that make us feel alive and truly bring us joy. It breaks the shackles that were holding us hostage to our stuff. It lets us focus on the things that are important, instead of distracting us with things that are shiny.

How to Be a Minimalist Traveler

Minimalism can seem out of reach when you aren’t sure if you’ll be able to easily access necessities in locations around the world. It can be daunting knowing that everything that you’re packing is all that you have. You  may be heading somewhere where you won’t have easy access to the items that you’ve grown accustomed to (your favorite shampoo or a familiar breakfast cereal), but, here’s the good news, you might just find a new favorite. However, once you put on your minimalist thinking cap, you’ll realize that it’s not about how much you bring, but which things you bring, and how you approach your traveling experience as a whole.

Let’s start with the first one: what to bring. There are a million minimalist packing lists on the internet, and the main points are pretty much the same, but few are made for people who are living a nomadic lifestyle . We made a minimalist travel packing list to help you get started. The world awaits!

Start with a light bag

Pro tip: don’t let the bag itself take up most of your weight limit. Your belongings should not literally weigh you down! Whether you want to invest in a lightweight rolling suitcase or commit to a backpack-based lifestyle, make sure that you’re choosing a model made out of materials that can stand the test of time, without the extra weight.

Stock up on mesh packing cubes if you’re going the suitcase route. These will help you stay organized, while giving you a visual on how much stuff you can actually fit in your bag. If you have to sit on it just to zip it up, you’re not doing minimalism right.

The world’s (not) your runway

If you’re a fashionphile, this could be the most difficult part of your minimalist journey. As much as clothing provides us with energy and a way to express ourselves, it can also contribute to the problems associated with materialism and excess.

That’s not to say that you can’t be fashionable when you travel. To fully embrace minimalist travel, we suggest creating a capsule wardrobe . Choose a few pieces that you could wear on any occasion, and make sure that everything matches with everything. Stick to neutrals to avoid packing something that you’ll only wear once a month - on a long-term trip, those items just won’t cut it. Pick materials that won’t wrinkle easily. This isn’t the time to get flashy. It’s the time to get practical and ask yourself what you’re actually going to want to wear day after day in each destination. Remember this: you’ll still have access to shopping in many of the places that you travel to, so if you’re going to be traveling through multiple different climates, plan on donating items as you go.

Get tech-y with it

The key to choosing the right gadgets and gear for your trip is whether or not you can accomplish multiple tasks with them. A laptop? That’s a must-have. A wireless mouse, keyboard and a cell phone that doubles as a hotspot? Maybe. An electric corkscrew? You might want to leave that behind.

So fresh, so clean

Our tip for toiletries: buy them when you arrive, and only get what you need. There’s no use in packing a year’s worth of toothpaste for your trip, or stocking up on your favorite body wash just so it can take up a ton of room in your bag. Most of your destinations will have drug stores or pharmacies where you can grab the necessities.

You could also use this travel experience to embrace a packaging-free lifestyle. Companies are starting to make plastic-free shampoo bars and planet-friendly body soaps. These items will take up less space in your bag and they’re great for the environment - it’s a win-win!

Think of it this way: toiletries are not the key things that bring you joy - so why would you want to take them with you from place to place? Let each city’s unique vibe inspire you to try something new. You’ll never know if Italian haircare is actually better unless you try it for yourself, right?

How to Travel

Now that you’re done packing, the fun part begins: the actual living. Living as a minimalist traveler is about so much more than narrowing down your belongings and holding back from buying more things. It’s about investing in experiences instead of possessions. Learn how to become a digital nomad and thrive on the fact that nothing is keeping you from living the life that you want to live.

Here are some tips on how to make minimalism a core component of your travel experience:

Edit, edit, edit

So you’re three months in to your travels and you realize that you’ve managed to accumulate some extra things along the way. It’s human nature to want to find and store things that seem to be significant or have a bit of value, but when you’re trying to live a minimalist style, extra stuff can be a problem. Once a month, take a look at your belongings and determine whether or not they serve a purpose for you on this trip. If the answer is no...

...Give a little bit

There are going to be moments when you find yourself with more than you need. Maybe your bag isn’t zipping quite as easily as it used to, or you fell off the wagon and bought a pretty tapestry from a local market. It happens.

When it feels like you’re ready to move on from an item, embrace the concept of radically gifting. Find a local organization that supports people in need and see if they could benefit from your item. Perhaps that woman down the street will find your tapestry just as beautiful, and it will serve her more than it does you. Every time you give something away you’ll find that it gets easier and easier to do. With each gifting, you’ll sense that you have less connection to material things, and more of a connection to the people that you’re providing with happiness.

Seek minimalist experiences

Finally, minimalism doesn’t just come down to what you own. It also relates to what you’re doing. Consider following a few slow travel concepts and seek out experiences that fill you up, instead of existing as a checkmark  on your bucket list. Look for activities that let you exercise the freedom that you’ve gained from a minimalist lifestyle, like an impromptu weekend spent on an island or a trek to a campsite in the Sahara or maybe going on day trips from Mexico City with your minimalist travel buddies. You’ll find that spontaneity is abundant when you don’t have to worry about leaving your things behind.

Connect with the people that you meet along the way, and let them get to know you for who you really are, instead of the “you” that your possessions portray. Give in to the feeling that you’re untethered to anything on this Earth except for your own destiny. Pursue your passions and grow with abandon now that the accumulation of things isn’t a priority. Now you know what truly matters - you’re just thankful that freedom doesn’t take up any space in your bag.

Remote Year Trips You Might Be Interested In

4 Months in Asia

1 Month in Medellin

1 Month in Cape Town

Master the Art of Minimalist Travel with these 10 Expert Hacks

As an experienced minimalist for the past 8 years and a seasoned traveler for 10, I’ve learned some minimalist travel hacks for simpler expeditions. You can indeed pack smarter and enjoy a fantastic journey at the same time. If you’re seeking hacks to streamline your packing and travel lighter, consider tips like making a plan, choosing the right gear, and staying organized.

Are you tired of overpacking, wasting money, and dragging around heavy luggage? I get it. On my initial trips, I lugged a check-in bag, carry-on, duffle, and backpack, thinking I needed my whole bathroom and kitchen with me.

However, I quickly realized that every item I bring adds weight and hassle that I need to keep track of. All of this takes away from being in the moment of our adventures so I opted to pack more intentionally. Over the years I have been able to compile a list of my best minimalist travel hacks and these are my top 10!

1. The Art of Wise Packing

Packing for a trip is a bit of a science. You should start by making a detailed list of essentials , then ruthlessly cut it in half, keeping only what you truly need. Think versatile, neutral-toned clothing that can be mixed and matched. For longer trips, plan to do laundry or take advantage of laundry services.

For women, a  stylish bra  that doesn’t sacrifice comfort for allure is the holy grail for the traveling minimalist. The ideal travel lingerie must meet the criteria of being lightweight, space-saving, multifunctional, and, of course, glamorous. Opt for bras that offer excellent support and can complement multiple outfits, ensuring you’re ready for any occasion.

A convertible bra with detachable straps can be a game-changer, serving as a strapless option for evening wear, crossed-back for sports activities, or standard for everyday use. This versatility not only saves space but also stretches your budget, as one bra can essentially serve many purposes.

Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and reduce wrinkles. You can stuff socks, belts, and undergarments inside your shoes to make the most out of every inch. Also wearing your heaviest items on the plane can reduce the weight of your luggage and free up space.

Before leaving on a trip I now take the time to plan out my outfits and see which items I can get multiple uses out of. I start by creating a mood board on Pinterest of outfit inspo (looking for ones with pieces I already own). Next, I lay out the outfits on the bed and take photos with a sticky note on it saying what day I plan to wear them.  This makes it easy when getting ready in the morning.

2. Stick to Carry-On Sized Luggage

We live in the golden age of packing efficiently with advanced products and designs that maximize space. You can start committing to a carry-on-only bag to avoid the wait and potential loss of checked luggage. Another bonus is not having to pay the hefty fee for bringing the extra bag.

I have been able to take long trips to much farther places with just a carry-on and personal item.  As well as traveling to colder climates. You’ll be amazed at how much you can fit and how creative you get when you’re forced to scale back.

3. Simple Trips Are the Best Trips

Not every adventure calls for an extensive packing list . Planning a trip that revolves around one main activity or event can simplify your planning. For example, a hiking trip means packing only for the trail. Or a festival trip means only one focus outfit while the rest can be laid-back and simple.

An overly elaborate itinerary can lead to over-packing and a more stressful experience. Start by planning your trips based on bucket list experiences , focus on what’s truly important then tailor your packing list accordingly.

Since starting to travel more I created a bucket list and now try to prioritize my trips on experiences that are on it. This allows me the time to take in the local culture and reflect on my personal growth, rather than mindlessly checking off a long list of sights. By keeping it simple you’ll have a more meaningful trip. 

4. Chase the Sun

Weather can dictate much of your packing requirements. You can consider choosing destinations with a consistently warm climate or during warm times for destinations with multiple seasons.  Packing a light jacket and a couple of layers can be sufficient and take you a long way.

Traveling in milder weather or summer makes for less bulk in your bags, and fewer wardrobe changes, too.  I once spent a weekend by the beach and only took a backpack filled with bikinis and a toothbrush. Plus let’s be honest, who doesn’t love soaking up some extra sunshine?

5. Multi-Purpose Items Are Multi-Winners

My best minimalist travel hack is to use items with multiple uses, they will be your best friend. A sarong can be a beach towel, picnic blanket, or a shawl. A Swiss Army Knife comes in handy in a multitude of situations.

Tote bags can act as packing cubes, and a canteen can store more than water. Don’t get me started with bandanas but the list goes on. With multi-purpose items, you not only save space but also invest in things that contribute to a clutter-free travel lifestyle.

6. Use Cloud-based Documents

Lose the physical clutter and go digital with important documents. Store the backups of your passport, and IDs on a cloud server as well as your travel insurance info , and itinerary for easy access.

This way, you’ll always have your important documents on hand and can avoid carrying unnecessary papers that can get lost, damaged, or stolen. I recommend checking out providers like Google Drive, One Drive, and iCloud who all give you around 5 GB of storage for free. This amount is more than enough for travel documents.

7. Bring Your Snacks to Save Money

Airport snacks can quickly add up, both in cost and calorie count. By bringing your own, you’ll save money, eat healthier, and ensure you have familiar foods on hand. Pre-pack dried fruits, nuts, or energy bars in a reusable snack bag for an in-flight pick-me-up that doesn’t require a stop at the overpriced kiosk.

Traveling more like a minimalist comes with some perks, like saving money on travel , and worrying about mundane things much less. But the biggest one is the reduction of your environmental impact. Bringing your own snacks ensures you can pack with less waste and sustainably sourced ingredients. 

8. Organization is Key

Staying organized on the road can make a world of difference in maintaining your travel-minimalist goals. Separate your items in your luggage using various pouches or packing organizers. Labeling these can help you quickly find things, especially when on the move, and it offers a neat way to repack everything after going through security checks.

By creating a packing system and finding a place for everything you can make packing your belongings much more easier. Remember to keep important things you need the most near you like your passport or earbuds on traveling days. Another tip is to make a master packing list (which you can also store on the cloud) and go over it before every trip.

9. Invest in Quality Gear

While it may seem counterintuitive, investing in high-quality gear can sometimes save the day in minimalistic travel. A durable, well-designed backpack or pair of shoes can go for many trips without needing a replacement. Look for lightweight, sturdy items that suit your needs.

You should assess your travel style and see where you are better off at splurging. For instance, if you are a hiker then hiking gear is where you can upgrade. If you’re into swimming then scuba diving gear is where it at. The money you save from not checking in bags can go to a better, long-lasting piece of luggage or equipment.

I love snorkeling and plan to invest in prescription goggles so I can have better vision underwater. Another item that has greatly improved my travels is my walking shoes specifically made for plantar fasciitis which I developed in recent years.  These shoes not only provide the necessary support for my feet but also double as fashionable walking shoes.

10. Cut Down on the Shoes

Speaking of shoes the last minimalist travel hack is to cut down on your footwear. Shoes are often the heaviest and bulkiest items in your luggage. For many trips, a good pair of walking shoes and a pair of sandals or casual shoes are all you need.

If you’re taking a business trip , wear the dress shoes on the plane and bring sneakers in your bag. Streamline your choices to what can accommodate the most types of activities and outfits. Now I am a fashion girl so this one is hard for me.

My rule is no more than 3 pairs and I can wear one on them on the plane. What you can pack are boots (hiking/rain), sandals (dressy outfits/beach), and tennis shoes (lots of walking/casual outfits). This method allows you to cover most activities you will encounter on your travels.

Remember, the goal of these minimalist travel hacks is to optimize your adventure with less physical baggage and mental clutter, not less enjoyment. Some key takeaways are to organize how you pack, plan your travels around warmer climates, and accommodate bucket list experiences.

By strategically preparing for your trips, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking a world of simple, stress-free travel adventures.

Happy exploring!

Minimalist Travel – Guide to Success From a Happy Traveler

Travel writer Rick Steves once said that there are two kinds of people: those who pack light, and those who wish they had. But what is more stressful before a trip out of town than figuring out what all to pack?

Minimalist travel involves planning and packing lightly, with only the most needed items, to help ensure easy travels and great experiences. There is minimal, ultra-minimal, and extreme minimal travel, each with a unique approach to travelers’ needs, and all aimed at living happier experiences.

When packing for a trip it is easy to get overwhelmed with the what-ifs and just in cases. What if it rains? I should bring a nice outfit just in case I meet the love of my life. But 9/10 times you just end up with a heavy suitcase and a raincoat you never wear. By planning ahead about what is absolutely necessary to pack and weeding out the what-if and just in case choices, you can get better at minimalist travel.

What Does Minimalist Travel Mean?

Minimalist travel is a form of travel where a person only packs material possessions that are absolutely necessary. This frees up space and weight and mental energy, allowing them more freedom to enjoy their travels and be present in the moment in the places they are visiting.

Ultra Minimalist Travel

Ultra minimalist travel, like minimalism travel, is the art of packing as little as possible to be able to explore your destination as easily and comfortably as possible. It involves including only the very most essential items for comfort and visiting.

Extreme Minimalist Travel

Extreme minimalist travel aims to fit all necessary belongings in one bag and mostly consists of sustainable and reusable goods. This is a “backpacker” type of approach. Since single bags can fit on most carry-ons on airplanes, buses, trains, and easily in cars, this method usually allows for the most flexibility and ease when traveling.

Here is a helpful video providing insights into one-bag travel:

How Do I Travel in a Minimalist Way?

Planning ahead is the key to traveling in a minimalist way. Often time over packing comes from impulse decisions and not giving yourself enough time to plan what you really need for your trip. Thus, having a good packing plan and ensuring the items one has each serve one or multiple important purposeds, helps ensure the objects can be minimal so the experiences can be great.

What Does a Minimalist Carry?

Minimalists carry only the necessities for their trip. They also carry a smaller bag- this essentially forces you to pack only what you can carry in the smaller bag and question what you need versus what you don’t. A couple changes of clothes, any medicine you take, comfortable shoes, toiletries, etc.

How Can I Pack Less Clothes for Travel?

Firstly, using a smaller bag or only a carry-on so you don’t have any choice but to pack light. Plan ahead as well, check what the weather will be for your trip so you know what clothes to pack based on the weather and what activities you’ll be doing.

Planning ahead is the key to traveling in a minimalist way.

How Do You Pack Minimalist for a Week?

Start with packing only half a week worth of clothes and limit the amount of shoes you pack. There are very few places you can travel that won’t have some kind of laundry facility. Plan what you’re going to pack in advance based on the weather, and what you plan on doing that way you can avoid packing anything “just in case.”

What Are the Most Forgotten Items When Traveling?

Phone chargers get forgotten at home often because we typically charge our phones before we leave and forget to pack them when we leave. Umbrellas are often forgotten as well, we sometimes think idealistically of vacation weather and pack based on what we hope the weather will be rather than what it really is.

How Do I Pack Minimal for a Vacation?

  Pack what you know you will wear, and items of clothing that you can mix and match to make different outfits. Layout everything you plan on packing before packing it so it’s easier to sus out what is necessary and what is not.

Benefits of Minimalist Travel

Helpful insights:, minimalist travel gear.

While carrying fewer things is a key element of minimalist travel, having the right minimalist travel gear can help make that easier. Some items serve multiple purposes, have less weight, make packing easier, and make traveling faster. Let’s explore some of these helpful items.

Minimalist Travel Bag

There are many options for minimalist travel bags, should you choose to go with a larger bag for travel. What you’re looking for is enough space to carry your belongings without being so big that you end up overpacking. Having a travel bag can be good for longer stays, and if you don’t plan on moving around too much from city to city.

Some recommendations are:

Minimalist Travel Backpack

Backpacks are the ideal travel tool for short trips (under a couple weeks) especially if your trip entails city hopping or a lot of movement. It’s all the belongings you need that can be easily carried on your person at any and all times. Backpacks tend to have compartments and pockets that make carrying your phone and wallet not only easier but more accessible.

Some travel friendly backpacks are:

• Transit Backpack
• Smart Backpack
• Osprey Backpacks

Best Minimalist Travel Wallet

When traveling, we tend to need more documents on our person. IDs, passports, different currencies. It’s important to have a wallet that works well to hold all your important papers while also being secure for wherever you might travel.

Recommended wallets:

• Coffee Run Wallet
• Lojel Travel Wallet
• Bellroy Travel Wallet

Minimalist Travel Wardrobe

When packing your clothes, you want to keep in mind outfits that are versatile and practical. It’s good to prepare for the worst when it comes to the outfits you pack, but without proper planning that can quickly lead to overpacking. Check the weather, only bring a rain coat if it’s supposed to rain, and if you’re caught by a sudden downpour, no shame in stopping to buy an umbrella. There are many lists online for minimalist wardrobe choices such as this one and many others.

Minimalist Travel Shoes

What shoes you bring depends on what your trip entails. Only bring the shoes you know for a fact you will wear and the ones you do bring should be comfortable. Just like all your minimalist packing decisions, the shoes you wear should be consciously chosen based on your needs for travel. Though you don’t have to buy a new pair of shoes for every trip you take, here are some recommendations of good pairs:

• Patnoflex Travel Shoes
• Vivo Barefoot Shoes
• Allbirds 

Minimalist Travel Makeup

Your friends who wear makeup can tell you that it often takes up a lot of space, especially while traveling. There are a few solutions to the chaos that is traveling with makeup. The first thing to consider is what makeup you find absolutely necessary to your trip if any. SPF is always a must, no matter where you’re going. Full coverage foundation might not be necessary for snorkelling and a bold lip might get a little messed up during skiing. So based on the activities you plan on doing, plan accordingly with your makeup. There are also travel makeup kits made for the minimalist traveler like:

• The Subtl Beauty Starter Pack
• Bare Minerals Rescue Kit
•  Loads Everyday MVPs

Minimalist Art for the Traveler

Once we’re back home, it’s nice to have things to look at, to inspire, and to remind us of the world around us. Minimalist art can help enhance out living spaces, and put beauty around us. We also might want art to be a part of our personal journey, by getting minimalist tattoos to represent places one has been, their growth, and the personal journey they’re traveling on.

Minimalist Travel Posters

If the aesthetics of minimalism are what attract you, then there are many options for minimalist art that you can bring home to remind you of your trip. It’s always best to purchase souvenirs from local artists, posters are no exception, but you can still help local artists with posters that remind you of your time. When traveling minimally, your bags have already been meticulously ordered so there likely isn’t a lot of room for souvenirs.

There are a couple things you can do! Firstly you can see if there are local artists in the area you’re visiting who sell their art online. That way you can support local artists and wait until you have the space to house their art. You can also check out online shops like Etsy for minimalist style posters of the places you’ve been.

Minimalist Travel Tattoo s

If you like permanent art displayed on your skin, tattoos can be a great souvenir for a trip. They don’t take up extra space like most souvenirs, and are a great reminder of a trip well travelled—if you can handle a little pain. Getting a small piece of ink in the places you visit can be a great record of the places you’ve been and you are helping local tattoo artists in their business.

Other Resources:

• Minimalism Lifestyle – Learn to Live a Simple Lifestyle
• Packing Light – Having Fewer Things for Happier Travels

Packing is usually the worst part of traveling, that and having to lug your heavy suitcase around a new city. This is why minimalist travel can be so helpful to travelers. All it takes is a little research and a little planning before hand.

Related Topics:

What should you not forget when traveling.

The most common items forgotten while traveling are socks and phone chargers. Luckily these items can be bought pretty much anywhere in the world. Always remember your passport or ID, currency for the place you’re going and a list of phone numbers of people you can call in case you make a habit of forgetting your charger.

What Is a Minimalist Packing Party?

A minimalist packing party is a gathering or party where a group of people pack up their homes as if they were moving out. You have one day to pack up everything in your home and then when you unpack everything you get to decide what is really necessary for you to own and what you can give away.

Similar Posts

Minimalist Technology – Leveraging Tech for Happier Living

Technology is constantly evolving and making us increasingly connected in our work and home lives.  It’s supposed to make our lives easier, but it can add stress and chaos that we just don’t need.  Perhaps it’s a good time to consider minimalist technology. Minimalist technology is using the “less is more” principle to our digital…

Modern Minimalist – Guide to Simple Living in Digital Times

As a minimalist in today’s society, I’m here to tell you that much isn’t required for you to be a minimalist. Minimalism comes down to a perspective and a way of life rather than an outward appearance. The modern minimalist lives a life of simplicity, meaning they value the present moment and what can be…

Good Simple Living – Enjoying Experiences over Things

In today’s frantically-paced world, more and more people are turning towards good simple living. Whether they are purging their closets of possessions or clearing their schedules for more self-care, simple living is the lifestyle trend that is changing the way people live. Good simple living is deliberately choosing to simplify one’s life by making changes…

Self Care Is For Everyone – Feeling Happy and Fulfilled

Self-care is one of things we should all be doing, but don’t because life is so fast-paced and busy.  When performed regularly, self-care can help us find balance and peace in our day-to-day lives. Self-care is what we do for our physical, emotional, and spiritual health.  It helps us balance everything we do and prevent…

Zorro Circle – An Effective Method to Make Personal Change

The Zorro Circle is a stepwise way of achieving big goals by taking small steps.  If you’re feeling overwhelmed by a big project at work or home and are not sure how to achieve it, read on to learn this method for the greatest chance for success. The Zorro Circle is setting small goals, learning…

Value of Time – Making Choices For Life and Happiness

We all know that time is precious, yet we waste time doing things we really don’t enjoy.  From grocery shopping to cleaning house, there are those menial tasks we do to save money, but what about time?  Let’s talk about the value of time and how it can be better spent. Our time is limited-so…

• EN - English
• PT - Portuguese
• ES - Spanish
• How it works
• Become a Host
• Download the app

Top Destinations

• United States
• United Kingdom

What type of experience are you looking for?

• Non-Profit School
• Permaculture project
• Eco Village
• Holistic Center
• Guest House
• How Worldpackers works

Learn from the most experienced travelers of the community

Traveling with worldpackers, planning and budgeting for travel, make a living while traveling as a lifestyle, travel with worldpackers.

• Using Worldpackers
• Work exchange
• Social impact

Plan your trip

• Women traveling
• Budget travel
• Solo travel
• Language learning
• Travel tips
• Get inspired
• Digital nomads
• Travel jobs
• Personal development
• Responsible travel
• Connect with nature

Top destinations

• South America
• Central America
• North America
• More destinations
• WP Life WP Life
• Exclusive discounts Discounts

Why you should embrace the minimalist travel mindset

Minimalist travel is less about packing lighter and smarter, and more about adopting the mindset "less is more" and sticking to it while on the road.

Rachael Let's Grow There

Mar 10, 2024

To travel is to experience unique parts of the world that exist outside of our own little bubbles of comfort. 

Upon returning from your trip, you will find that you think a little differently, your mind is a little more open, and you walk away with new knowledge that you simply can't find in books.

Our baggage can be physical or mental. You might have something weighing heavily on your mind that you're more focused on during your trip, or maybe you're simply in a bad headspace when you finally board that plane. More physical baggage can lead to more mental baggage, which can become a real headache while you're on the go.

The less cluttered and more prepared you are for travel, the more knowledge and experience you will inevitably soak up. The same goes for your suitcase. Some travelers will pack everything they need in one backpack and live out of it for an entire year! 

Minimalist travel is about leaving your old self at home in order to create space for a different, better you . This is where packing light — literally and metaphorically — becomes essential.

First things first: how to pack like a minimalist

Separating what we want to bring from what we actually need can be a real challenge. Minimalist travel is about living simply and comfortably and is something that takes time to get used to. It requires a mindset shift toward a new lifestyle change . You'll be looking at your packing list with fresh eyes and renewed purpose as you set foot out into the world.

Minimalism frees you from so many burdens when it comes to travel! Packing smarter will make you more comfortable on the road, help you avoid lost baggage by keeping it carry-on only, and it eliminates the wait you'd normally spend at baggage claim. It may be hard not to overpack and include things you might need, but in the end, traveling light will make navigating your new destination much easier.

Leaving behind the unnecessary and embracing minimalist travel will add to the freedom you'll need to travel at your leisure. The best part is that there isn't a set of strict rules that everyone needs to follow to achieve minimalism when they pack! 

It's all about using guidelines to help you discover your own system that works best for you. Studying the goals of minimalist travel will teach you to become more decisive, which is the key to packing efficiently.

In today's world, material things take on much more meaning to us than they should. Shopping addictions and mass consumption are issues that the world faces regularly. 

Determining what items bring us joy and fulfillment can be a complicated process, and weeding out all the excess can be a healthy way to sever our dependence on material possessions. 

Minimalism closes the door of distraction and opens the door of focus . We can better appreciate the things that truly matter to us.

Questions to ask yourself before your trip

There are a few key questions to ask yourself as you create your own  minimalist travel packing list   so that you can reduce the growing pile of stuff you decide to take with you.  Take a look at everything and ask yourself:

• Do I need it?
• Will I use it?
• What items can be multi-purposed?
• What can I use over and over again?

Let your need for certain items outweigh the number of things you simply want to bring along . 

For example, you need walking shoes but you want to bring three pairs to give you more options. This one's a no-brainer. Consider bringing one pair of each type of shoe you'll be needing, rather than bringing multiple pairs that all serve the same purpose. The same rule applies for clothing and accessories. 

Choose what's practical, and consider designing a capsule wardrobe .

Capsule wardrobes are made up of a few pieces of clothing that can all be mixed, matched, and worn for any occasion. This not only frees up space in your bag, but it also phases out the hassle of planning each individual outfit. If you're worried about not having enough variety in your wardrobe while you travel, you can always donate your clothes and do your shopping in an exciting new city!

Considering bringing your journal, a few books to read, or ten extra camera batteries just in case? Minimalist travel takes every "what if" and "just in case" out of the packing process altogether .  These phrases may seem thoughtful and cautionary, but in reality, they generate more needless clutter and disorder than you’d think. 

Keep striving to eliminate these hypotheticals from your packing method and you'll eventually get pretty good at distinguishing between necessary and unnecessary.

Developing a more minimalist mindset toward toiletries can be a daunting task as well. Try packing only travel-sized containers of your shampoo, toothpaste, and other essentials. 

If you absolutely need something, you can always head to the store during your trip to pick it up. No big deal! Being in a new city can inspire you to try something new and maybe even find a new favorite product you can share with friends.

Finally, it's especially important for minimalist travel packing that you find the perfect travel backpack and travel bag for you. I recommend having both — a minimalist travel backpack for your clothes, gear, and accessories, and a minimalist travel bag for your wallet, identification, camera, laptop, etc.

Living the minimalist lifestyle and mindset as you travel

Minimalist travel is not simply about finding the perfect packing system and curbing your appetite for accumulating stuff. It’s about adapting to the minimalist lifestyle and applying it to every aspect of how you travel . When we learn to value experiences more than things, we make an investment in our lives beyond compare. 

Let nothing come between you and the life you've always dreamed of living.

If you are on the road for long periods of time, you might pick up a few things along the way that add to your carefully curated bag of belongings. These additions are nice to have, such as souvenirs or other things of worth, but they may not serve a specific purpose on your trip. Consider mailing those items home for safekeeping to keep your packing light and down to the basics.

A little goes a long way

Living as a minimalist traveler comes with awesome perks. Not being attached to so many belongings means you have the freedom to do anything at the drop of a hat. Spontaneous adventures are the spice of life when it comes to travel, and they are often some of the most memorable experiences of any trip!

Immersing yourself in a new culture is paramount to any serious traveler's itinerary. Slow, mindful travel is how you embrace exploring the world like a true minimalist .

The smallest of experiences can often be the most impactful, so be sure not to rule anything out, no matter how simple it seems!  Find ways to make deep, meaningful connections with the people you meet and places you visit.  

Living a minimalist lifestyle while on the road will undoubtedly make you a more conscious traveler and inspire you in new ways — why not create a minimalist travel blog and share your experience? 

Forget counting the countries you've visited, the check marks on your ever-growing bucket list, and the countless stamps in your passport.  Seek to discover unique, eye-opening experiences that force you out of your comfort zone and challenge you to think differently .

Becoming one with your new surroundings, understanding them to the best of your abilities, and allowing yourself to walk away transformed are what constitute an authentic travel experience . 

Ultimately, these are minimalist travel experiences because they take up space within you, filling your soul instead of your bag or passport.  

Join the community.

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Rachael Grow

Let's Grow There

Over the past five years I have worn many hats as a creative freelancer and have been able to pursue adventures across the globe. To me, travel is more than checking a box or sitting on the perfect beach all day. Travel is about self-discovery, keeping an open mind, and learning through culture immersion. In 2017 I was chosen by one of my favorite travel bloggers, The Blonde Abroad, to attend her first ever blogging retreat in Bali with a handful of other inspiring bloggers. It was truly a dream that taught me so much more than I could imagine. Fast-forward to 2019 when I was given the role of one of the lead English writer for Worldpackers. My in-depth articles touched on subjects like volunteer work, overcoming post-travel blues, outdoorsy tips, and boldly adventuring. Inner growth is my jam.

Be part of the Worldpackers Community

Already have an account, are you a host, leave your comment here.

Write here your questions and greetings to the author

Apr 29, 2019

Excellent work. I enjoyed reading this article! Keep it uppp :)

Rachael (Author)

Jun 01, 2019

Jun 03, 2019

You r good i liked ur style life

Feb 07, 2023

thanks so much for this!

More about this topic

Top 13 tips on how to make sustainable travel a reality

5 actionable ways to live like a local while traveling

7 tips to be a more conscious traveler

How do Worldpackers trips work?

As a member, you can contact as many hosts and travel safely as many times as you want.

Choose your plan to travel with Worldpackers as many times as you like.

Complete your profile, watch the video lessons in the Academy, and earn certificates to stand out to hosts.

Apply to as many positions as you like, and get in contact with our verified hosts.

If a host thinks you’re a good fit for their position, they’ll pre-approve you.

Get your documents and tickets ready for your volunteer trip.

Confirm your trip to enjoy all of the safety of Worldpackers.

Have a transformative experience and make a positive impact on the world.

If anything doesn’t go as planned with a host, count on the WP Safeguard and our highly responsive support team!

After volunteering, you and your host exchange reviews.

With positive reviews, you’ll stand out to hosts and get even more benefits.

Minimalist Travel

Do you constantly dream of expansive landscapes, smooth seas or experiencing new cultures? Well, traveling for minimalists can help you understand just how little you need to enjoy a trip. Going on an international trip with just one backpack can inspire minimalists to cut back on their possessions when returning home. 

Minimalist travel, like anything related to minimalism, is about having only what you need and nothing more. Our guides to packing, planning, and traveling like a minimalist will help you to streamline your travel and focus on what really matters: the experience. 

Here are our travel & lifestyle tips for minimalists.

Articles on Travel & Lifestyle

How to Simplify YouTube Promotion and Earn Money: Packages and Other Secrets for Minimalists

The growth of any YouTube channel starts from scratch. All the bloggers who are now at the peak of fame didn’t have thousands of subscribers,

Building a Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe for Men

While it’s highly popular in female fashion, building a capsule wardrobe for men tends to receive less attention and instruction. In this men’s capsule wardrobe

Minimalist Entertaining: Hosting Simple and Intimate Gatherings

 When it comes to hosting gatherings, minimalist entertaining offers a refreshing approach that emphasizes simplicity and intimacy. Instead of focusing on elaborate decorations and extravagant

Packing Tips for International Travel

Traveling can be exciting but packing for travel can be stressful. Here are our packing tips for international travel.

The minimalist travel planner: trip planning resources + packing tips

Eliminate travel complications with our minimalist travel planning resources and tips on how to pack light.

Penpal letter ideas for adults plus the best stationery for writing letters

Some things require a tangible means of conveying meaning. Personal correspondence is one of those things. Here’s why and how to write physical letters and be a modern day penpal.

Simplify Your Life Bundle

Capsule wardrobe guide, self-care routine course.

• Entertainment

10 Minimalist Travel Essentials – a Minimalist World Traveler Kit

Minimalist travel is an art. It takes a lot of time and practice to master it, and there are many variants. In this context, one of the primary challenges is to find your essentials. Once determined, those essentials will form the basis of your minimalist packing list, creating a set of core items that work on any journey. On this basis, here is my minimalist world traveler kit.

This article may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy  here .

Whether you want to travel full-time or go on a two-week adventure, minimalist travel essentials will simplify the journey. 

I’ve been on the road more or less continually for the last three years and never carry more than two carry-on backpacks.  The two bags fit all of my camera gear, electronics, clothes, and toiletries. 

Some sacrifices are necessary, but you don’t have to travel ultralight to benefit from minimalist travel principles . 

My 10 minimalist travel essentials – how to travel the world full-time 

The following components make up my minimalist packing list. They work in every environment and score points with their versatility and durability. 

1. Two backpacks

First and foremost, a minimalist world traveler kit includes backpacks. 

I don’t particularly rate those huge 80L backpacks that many first-time backpackers use.  They are cumbersome, impractical, and highly conspicuous. In my 1,000 plus days on the road, I’ve never used a big bulky backpack. 

They are also outdated.  In 2006, there weren’t many alternatives, but today, hundreds of forward-thinking companies produce smaller, more low-key backpacks that are much better-suited to long-term travel. 

Enter PacSafe. For the past couple of years, I have been using their Vibe 40L and their VentureSafe 45L . 

I used to travel with an 80L wheeled duffle bag, but I have downsized to the two PacSafes for more comfort and public transport suitability.

I nowadays use the Vibe as a carry-on, mainly for camera gear, and the VentureSafe as my primary luggage.  Both are discrete, stylish, and extremely durable. They can handle deserts, tropical rainforests, and snowy treks.  They also have world-leading safety features, making them excellent companions for rougher cities. 

2. A foldable day-pack (and a dry bag) 

Inside my two PacSafe bags, I keep a foldable day-pack and a dry bag for beach expeditions. 

One of the secrets of minimalist travel is to combine various pieces of luggage and gear into one another. That’s where foldable day-packs come into play. 

The EagleCreek 25L is well-made and sturdy, but most importantly, it folds into a miniature piece that you can easily store in your main backpack. 

As such, it works perfectly for day trips and short excursions. 

For water sports and beach trips, I also pack a 10L EarthPak dry bag .  It doesn’t take up too much space and becomes a life-saving item when you’re carrying expensive electronics on a Southeast Asian island-hopping barge. 

3. A water bottle 

When it comes to minimalist travel essentials, a reusable water bottle is an unmissable component. 

A while ago, I invested in a GRAYL self-cleaning water bottle , and I have not been disappointed.  Usable both in cities and in the wild, the GRAYL purifies water and also keeps your beverage hot or cold.

I stopped buying plastic bottles a long time ago, and the GRAYL has been a driving force in regard. 

4. Packing cubes 

Packing cubes are excellent for minimalist travelers thanks to their versatility and organizational benefits. 

By dividing your luggage into different sections, you always know where everything is.  As such, they will save you valuable time and also simplify the task of organizing your luggage. 

5. A travel wallet with important documents

To keep your passport, credit cards, flight tickets, and other documents safe, use an RFID-proof travel wallet.

Akin to backpacks, PacSafe is my go-to brand for travel wallets.  Their V200 has a sleek minimalist look, high-quality materials, and perfect divisions for all your necessary documents. 

6. Two pairs of shoes 

Many first-time globetrotters ask themselves how many pairs of shoes, pants, and other essential clothing items they need. 

Everyone has different travel priorities, but I found that packing two pairs of shoes works well for long-term minimalist travel. 

I take one pair of rugged outdoor shoes and one pair of white sneakers. I use the former in nature settings and the latter in urban environments. 

When it comes to minimalist travel footwear, the crucial point is versatility . Choose shoes that are discrete and inconspicuous. 

If you travel over long stretches, your shoes will need to suit different occasions. White sneakers, as an example, work both in a casual setting and a semi-formal atmosphere. 

Better still, they can be paired with almost anything – from jeans to chinos and suit trousers. 

All-terrain shoes, on the other hand, should also be usable in a casual environment.  Don’t take mountaineering or trekking shoes if you only spend two days of your two-month trip in the mountains.  You can always borrow special-purpose shoes in particular situations, but your primary footwear should focus on multi-purpose items.

7. A foldable rain jacket 

No matter where you go, a foldable rain jacket is an indispensable piece on your minimalist packing list. 

Choose your rain jacket according to two criteria:

• it shouldn’t take up much space in your luggage. As such, it should fold into a small piece; and
• it should be a high-quality, rain-persistent item. 

8. Clothes for 10 days 

There is an eternal debate among minimalist travelers on how much clothing you need to travel the world.

A straightforward answer doesn’t exist, but in my experience, the ideal solution is to take clothes for ten days.  You could find yourself without a washer for a week, which is why you need some spare items. 

Take discrete colors and always pack outfits , not individual items.  As an example, don’t pack college t-shirts with big logos that make you stand out everywhere.  In that same vein, don’t take brightly-colored items that only fit one specific color combination. 

Choose your clothes with adaptability in mind, and only take pieces that go with different outfits. 

9. Lightweight toiletries 

Toiletries are part of my minimalist travel essentials, but I’ve scaled down a lot over the years. 

The simple truth is that you can find almost anything at your destination. That’s why there is no point in filling your luggage with easily replaceable toiletries. 

Limit your toiletries to essential products, and buy the rest on the road. 

10. Versatile travel electronics 

Finally, any modern minimalist travel kit will include a wide variety of electronics. 

As a photographer, around 30 percent of my luggage contains camera gear. I travel with two mirrorless bodies, three lenses, a Gorillapod, memory cards, etc. 

Aside from camera gear, the following are some of my most vital travel electronics: 

• a laptop: I work online, so my Macbook Pro is my most prized possession; 
• a travel adapter: you may need it to cater to different plugs around the world. I use an EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter ;
• an unlocked smartphone: keep in mind that you may need to change SIM cards; 
• a power bank: I use the Ravpower PD Powerbank ;
• noise-canceling headphones: a critical item on long-haul flights. I use the Bose Soundlink ; 
• Portable Bluetooth speakers to listen to your music in your hotel room or Airbnb. My favorite small speakers are the Anker Soundcore Mini ; and
• external hard drives: if you work as a creator, those hard drives are lifesavers. I use a LaCie 4Tb Rugged HD . I usually carry a few smaller spares.

You may need other electronics depending on your travel style, but those are the ones that secure both peace of mind and productivity on the road.

Useful links on 10 Minimalist Travel Essentials – a Minimalist World Traveler Kit

• more in the category “Design”
• more under the topic “Travel”
• read My 10 Principles of Minimalist Traveling
• read The Best Minimalist Purchases to Simplify Your Life

Don’t miss a beat! 

[mailpoet_form id=”5″]

Meet Kathy, the mindful mind behind the words at minimalistfocus.com. With an innate ability to distill the essence of life down to its purest form, Kathy's writing resonates with those seeking clarity in a cluttered world.

Related Post

Structural wooden pins in furniture making, what are cad skills and how to improve, how sheet metal fabrication shapes the future of humanitarian aid, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Discover the freedom of one-bag travel for digital nomads

Table of Contents

Introduction.

Becoming a minimalist traveler and embracing the digital nomad lifestyle can be an incredibly rewarding experience. This article explores the intersection between minimalist travel and digital nomadism, providing advice for living and working remotely with a minimalistic mindset.

Preparing for Life as a Minimalist Traveler

Assessing personal values and priorities.

Are you ready to take the plunge into minimalist travel? First, reflect on your personal values and goals. What do you hope to gain from this lifestyle? How can minimalism help you achieve these objectives? You can find additional insights and tips for simple travel at The Art of Simple Travel .

Downsizing possessions for the minimalist traveler

• Audit your belongings
• Determine essential items
• Sell, donate, or store non-essential items
• Continuously reassess your needs and belongings

Selecting essential items for minimalist travel

• Invest in high-quality, versatile clothing
• Choose a minimalist travel backpack from our Backpack Size Guide
• Prioritize multipurpose items and gadgets
• Opt for digital versions of books and documents

<Add image of a minimalist traveler with their backpack here>

To learn more about minimalist travel gear, check our guide on the most important minimalist travel gear to consider .

Minimalist Accommodations and Workspaces for the Digital Nomad

Housing options for minimalist travelers.

Co-living spaces

Co-living spaces provide an excellent option for minimalist travelers. These communal living arrangements often include utilities, Wi-Fi, and workspaces, simplifying your life and saving you money. You can find a comprehensive list of co-living spaces worldwide at Nomad List .

Airbnb or short-term rentals

Another choice for the minimalist traveler is booking short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb. These rentals usually come furnished and equipped with the essentials, allowing you to live lightly without sacrificing comfort.

House-sitting opportunities

House-sitting can be a win-win for both homeowners and minimalist travelers. You get free accommodation in exchange for taking care of someone’s home and, occasionally, their pets. Websites like TrustedHousesitters can help you find house-sitting gigs around the world.

Creating a minimalist workspace

Importance of a dedicated workspace

Even as a minimalist traveler, it’s essential to have a dedicated workspace to maintain productivity. Look for accommodations with a desk or a comfortable area where you can set up your minimalist office.

Tips for maintaining a clutter-free, organized environment

A clutter-free workspace promotes focus and productivity. Keep your work area tidy by having a place for everything and using digital tools to minimize physical clutter. Remember, a minimalist traveler’s office should be as light and streamlined as their backpack!

Travel and Transportation for the Minimalist Traveler

Tips for efficient and eco-friendly travel.

Packing light and using carry-on luggage

One of the hallmarks of a minimalist traveler is the ability to pack light. Stick to carry-on luggage to save on checked baggage fees and avoid the hassle of lost luggage. Be sure to read our backpack size guide for tips on choosing the perfect minimalist travel backpack.

Embracing slow travel and public transportation

Slow travel allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture while reducing your environmental impact. Stay in one place for longer periods, and get to know the people and customs of the area. Opt for public transportation whenever possible, and consider walking or cycling to explore your surroundings further. Visit The Ultimate Guide to Slow Travel for more insights and inspiration.

Supporting sustainable tourism initiatives

As a minimalist traveler, aim to support sustainable tourism initiatives. This helps ensure your travels have a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

Choosing Destinations with Minimalism in Mind

When selecting your next destination, think about the cost of living, minimalist accommodations, and access to public transportation. Look for places that match your minimalist values and let you maintain a simple, stress-free lifestyle.

Living a Minimalist Lifestyle as a Digital Nomad

Managing finances and expenses.

Budgeting and tracking expenses

Keep track of your spending as a minimalist traveler. Set a budget, and use expense-tracking apps to monitor your finances. This will help you stay on track and make informed decisions about your lifestyle. Check out Best Expense Tracker Apps for Digital Nomads for a list of recommended apps.

Living frugally without sacrificing quality

Frugal living doesn’t mean giving up quality or enjoyment. Cook your meals, enjoy free activities, and use loyalty programs to stretch your budget and make the most of your minimalist travel lifestyle.

Minimalist digital practices for the minimalist traveler

Streamlining digital files and devices

Just like physical clutter, digital clutter can weigh you down. Organize your digital files, delete unnecessary apps, and ensure your devices are working efficiently. To help you declutter and simplify your digital life, check out Digital Minimalism: How to Simplify Your Online Life .

Using productivity tools and apps

Use productivity tools and apps to streamline your digital life and work more efficiently. Choose apps that help you manage tasks, communicate, and stay organized without adding unnecessary complexity to your digital environment.

Fostering a minimalist mindset

Valuing experiences over possessions

Focus on collecting experiences rather than material possessions. This mindset shift will help you prioritize what truly matters and find joy in the simple, meaningful moments of life.

Regularly reassessing priorities and possessions

As a minimalist traveler, it’s essential to regularly reassess your priorities and possessions. Reflect on your experiences, and consider whether your belongings still serve your needs and goals. This ongoing process will ensure your lifestyle remains aligned with your values.

In conclusion, the minimalist traveler lifestyle offers a fulfilling and sustainable approach to digital nomadism. By embracing minimalism, you can reduce stress, save money, and focus on what truly matters: the experiences and connections you make along the way.

So, pack that minimalist travel backpack, declutter your digital life, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime. After all, life is too short for excess baggage, both literally and figuratively!

Are you ready to become a minimalist traveler and embrace the digital nomad life? What are your biggest challenges or concerns? Share your thoughts and let’s start a conversation!

Launching this year - Join our VIP community list now

More articles, 7 ultimate ways to personalize your backpack.

5 Best Digital Nomad Jobs: How To Earn & Travel Revealed!

Ultimate 7 Best Places Digital Nomads Live In 2023

Hey – Free Stuff! Get access to the Freebie Library here UNLOCK

The Wallet Moth

March 14, 2019 ·

Minimalist Travel: One Year On The Road. One Carry-On Bag.

Lifestyle · Minimalism · Money · Travel

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post, and as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please see my full disclosure for more information.

Minimalist travel means packing light for your travels – ideally, travelling with just a carry-on bag. This means of travel is cheaper, less hassle, and allows you to really appreciate the things you  need  when travelling – and ignore everything else.

In 2017, my partner (at the time) and I embarked on a year-long adventure travelling around the world. We adopted a minimalist travel attitude to packing, with both of us fitting all of our belongings into a carry-on bag each.

Minimalist travel is a concept that 5 years ago, I’d never even heard of let alone considered. I used to take a 20kg suitcase on a 2 week holiday.

Although initially I did struggle with the idea of less choice, I soon realised that, in a way, minimalist travel liberates you rather than limits you .

Now, I happily take a >10kg backpack on long adventures while I work my way around the world , and I’ll never take a check-in bag if I can help it.

Whether you’re planning for a lengthy backpacking adventure like me, or struggle to cut down your packing on a 2-week holiday, learning how to adopt a more minimalist attitude to travel can make your life so much easier, not to mention making travel cheaper.

Today, I’m going to show you  exactly what the possessions of a minimal backpacker look like, but first I think it’s important to cover exactly why  this is a really good choice.

There are so, so many benefits to travelling light.

Minimalist Travel: The Biggest Advantages

It costs less.

Travelling with just a light backpack in tow means no extra charges for check-in baggage on your flights – and no cheeky extra charges for storing your bag under buses when you’re in another country.

What’s more, if you bring less, you break less. When you’re travelling with a huge suitcase, you tend to get the urge to  fill it. Less space

means less stuff, means less spending.

You’re Streamlined

I cannot even put into words the pure joy-smug-relieved feelings I experience when I get off the plane, go through immigration, and walk straight out the exit without waiting another 20 minutes for my bag to come rolling around the carousel.

Minimalist travel means you can travel so much quicker – from flights and transport to packing up your belongings ready for the next destination.

If you’ve ever been to a popular backpacking destination, you’ll know that backpackers stand out like a sore thumb due to their aforementioned heavy loads. Travelling with a light bag simply makes you fit in better. It’s nice to arrive at a new place and not attract countless stares, offers of overpriced transport and accommodation and more.

You Focus on Travel More Than Stuff

Having just a few choice items of clothing allows me to sling on an outfit each morning and be ready for a day of adventures in 5 minutes flat. There’s no dithering about what to wear because I don’t really have that luxury – and I love that.

Even if you do get a little sick of wearing the same thing day in and day out, that liberating feeling of not being owned by your wardrobe makes it so worth it.

Read Next: 10 Ways to Be More Minimal or How To Be A Minimalist

Rules to Minimalist Travel

These a few basic rules to minimalist travel that anyone can follow, no matter how long you’re planning on going away for:

• Don’t take a big bag unless you want to fill it

If you have a big suitcase, you’ve immediately put temptation in your way. Scale down to a small backpack (make sure it’s appropriate to take as a carry-on bag. Having limited space to actually fit your things into will instantly make scaling your packing down easier, too.

• Learn to separate your wants from needs

Let’s say you’re going on a beach holiday. Flip flops? Need. Sunglasses? Need. Bathing suit/trunks? Need. Four sundresses, 2 pairs of shorts, a pool inflatable, and 2 pairs of high heels? Hmm, those are wants.

Pack the essentials first, and then see how much room you have left for your creature-comforts – you’ll probably be surprised by how little you  actually need when travelling.

• Treat your wardrobe as a collection, rather than individual pieces

Packing random individual elements of clothing will probably leave you with outfits that don’t work together at all. If you pack clothes that compliment each other, you could end up with countless outfits by just cycling through the same few pieces.

• Adopt a minimalist mindset

More on that below!

Creating a Minimalist Travel Mindset

I’ve talked previously on this site about the importance of creating a minimalist mindset and clearing your mental clutter , and creating a minimalist travel mindset is just as important.

It is so much easier to happily pack and travel light when you take a look at your lifestyle and identify the best changes for you.

For me, that was definitely my clothing. I realised that I didn’t need multiple different outfits – just a few staple pieces that mix and match perfectly. I didn’t need shorts  and trousers  and  skirts  and  dresses – I needed a pair of shorts, a pair of trousers, and one dress that served as a summer day dress or as a nicer evening outfit if we ever went a little fancy (rare, very rare!).

To achieve a minimalist backpack, you just need to assess what you really  need against those home comforts that you  want.

Minimalist Travel Essentials

Your minimalist travel packing essentials may vary depending on what you are travelling for and where you are going. For example, photographers are going to have multiple cameras and lenses appearing high up on their lists, while most of us can get by with one camera or even just our iPhones.

In general, though, everyone needs at least these essentials:

• Money (Credit or Debit Cards and Cash)
• Phone & Charger
• Comfortable shoes ( never travel with shoes you haven’t worn before!)
• One warm jumper
• One change of clothes
• A small, well-stocked medical kit

Just put yourself in a situation where you can’t access anything for 24 hours – if there’s anything you  need in order to survive, you may want to add it to your list.

My Minimalist Packing List

Below are all the things I kept in my single bag for almost a year of travel. While this is by no means a definitive list of what you  must take with you, I hope it gives you a better idea of what a minimalist’s packing list might really look like:

Minimalist Backpack

First things first; the bag. For the past year, I travelled with my  Under Armour Hustle backpack. It holds up to 30L, has 3 interior pockets and is fantastic quality. I’ve owned it for over a year now and it shows almost zero signs of wear despite being lugged around the world with me and, at times, stuffed to the brim!

• It has a laptop sleeve (a must for anyone working online on the road!)
• It has a main compartment, two large side compartments and one smaller one – ideal for separating clothes, toiletries and essentials.
• The straps are thick and padded so don’t mark my shoulders when I’m carrying it for long periods of time
• The bag is also a good size to use as a day bag when I’m out exploring in the day time
• The bag is not a travel bag by design. While it does the job, the size and design is not ideal. My belongings fit inside, but it is a bit of a squeeze.

Now that I’m a little more experienced as a traveller, in hindsight, I wouldn’t recommend this bag as a top pick for travel. For day bag or a gym bag in general, definitely.

However, in the future, I do think I would be best served by a  high-quality backpack that is actually designed for travelling, such as the Osprey Porter 46 . When your whole life is going in a bag, that bag should really offer everything you need and the Osprey ticks a lot more boxes than the UA.

As I run my freelance business (and this blog!) from the road, my laptop is definitely an essential item for me.

For all of 2017, I had a HP Pavilion Laptop which was over 3 years old before I even started travelling. It worked fine, but it was so heavy. It took up a huge amount of space in my backpack and really weighed me down. In hindsight, one of my biggest mistakes was not investing in a better, more lightweight laptop before setting off.

I now have a Microsoft Surface Laptop and you guys,  I LOVE it.  It is a fantastic laptop; it runs so fast, it’s so well-designed and is so lightweight and compact making it absolutely perfect for when I’m on the go. The screen is still big enough to comfortably work on, but how small and lightweight it means it easily fits in my backpack and I barely notice it’s there. My best investment of 2018 so far.

I travel with my Kanen Ailihen foldable headphones and I’d recommend them as a perfectly good budget pair of headphones to anyone. They’re only $12 so don’t expect AMAZING sound quality, but they work great when I want to drown out background noise when working in a public space, and they fold up really neatly in my bag.

OK, before we get into this, I’m going to admit: I probably still have too many clothes. Compared to the average person, yes I have very minimal belongings. But for minimalist backpacking, I could probably still do better.

As much as I love minimalism, I also love clothes. That being said, all of my clothes for the entirety of 2017 fit into one packing cube (which happen to be the perfect size for my backpack!). I took a pic for you to see here:

Cutting down my clothes to fit in a backpack has been liberating, but also frustrating. I see girls in beautiful outfits in every new city (not to mention some of those Instagram pics!!) and I do despair a little at the clothes I’ve been wearing day in, day out for months now!

Just know that although this list is short compared to someone who has a fixed location, I’d probably have more clothes if I had a wardrobe. Just being honest!

My Typical Clothes Packing List (for hot weather!):

• 1 pair of lightweight trousers
• 2 pairs of shorts – Workout Pair ( Adidas Shorts ) – Everyday Pair
• 1 3/4 length jumpsuit or dress
• 3 t-shirts/tops
• 2 tank tops
• 3 bras (1 regular, 2 sports)
• 4 pairs of socks
• 8 pairs of underwear (more undies = less washing!)

My clothes are mostly second-hand or obscure brands, so I can’t link them directly – one of my go-to outfits throughout Asia was a $1 pair of shorts and a diving t-shirt I got for free! However, my advice would be to go for things you really love – and to pack for the climate. Don’t choose something that you ever have second thoughts about putting on.

Durable clothing that doesn’t show dirt or sweat too easily also comes in handy – a little bit gross, but true!

Read Next:  8 Digital Nomad Job Ideas Perfect for a World Adventure

I started the trip with three pairs of shoes:

• Nike Flex Trainers
• Havaiana Flip Flops

For the first few months, I insisted on dragging all three around, using my beloved Vans as my main shoes and my trainers for working out. It wasn’t the most efficient, but I just couldn’t choose between them!

Eventually, my vans got a hole in the toe and forced the issue. I’m now down to my Nike’s and my Havaianas, both of which are looking a little worn and dusty, but are holding strong!

I really love the Nike Flex shoes because of how light they are. There’s barely any extra weight and having a pair of comfy, close-toed shoes comes in really handy when out exploring all day long!

Packing Cubes

I keep all of my clothes in these Amazon Basics Packing Cubes . I use the smallest bag for my underwear and socks, and then place that inside the biggest one along with all of my clothes.

The medium sized bag serves as our laundry bag.

Life is so. much. easier. being able to just pull out my big packing cube and have all my clothes neatly folded/rolled up all in one place.

They keep all my clothes ordered and together, and help avoid an absolute mess in my bag every time we have to move.

Next time you’re going on holiday, take it from me: these packing cubes will change the game.

The rest of the space in my bag is taken up by miscellaneous items which I’ll list here.

• Travel Wallet Belt (I never actually wear this out, but it’s super handy for keeping my documents in one safe place – plus this one has built-in protection against electronic pickpockets!) – Passport – Spare bank card (separate from our wallet!) – Vaccination records
• Travel Cards
• iPhone Charger
• Universal Travel Adaptor  (an absolute must when visiting multiple countries)
• Small cosmetics bags (incl. concealer, powder, mascara, and brow kit)

I’ll pick up toiletries at each new destination if I’m staying a longer period of time, or get a travel-sized set for shorter trips. A lot of Airbnb’s and hotels do give you free toiletries too!

Minimalist Travel

Aside from your belongings, I think it’s really important to try to apply a minimalist attitude to your trip in general.

That means taking photos and experiences away from a trip, rather than cheap souvenirs that end up cluttering your home forgotten. It also means spending intentionally while you’re away.

For me, I’d much rather spend $2 on a  delicious meal from a local restaurant than dine out at an expensive tourist place. Keep things light, bring some awareness into your spending, and you’ll be amazed at how this lifestyle just starts making sense. I know I was.

This is everything I have to live on. It’s not much, but we really don’t need a whole lot. Minimalist travel just makes more sense.

Sure, sometimes I smell my t-shirt and think, jeez girl, what have you become? But then I get to go on an adventure and see beautiful beaches, cities and sunsets and suddenly a smelly t-shirt is the least of my worries!

Were you surprised by how much (or how little) I have in my bag? What are your minimalist travel essentials?

Let me know in the comments, about yasmin purnell.

Hi - I'm Yasmin Purnell! I'm a personal finance & frugal living expert, and the founder of The Wallet Moth. Here, we aim to inspire and educate anyone interested in improving their personal finances and ultimately help our readers live their best, financially-independent lives. I've also been a finance and insurance writer for more than 6 years, providing my clients with expert content that aims to educate and inspire financial freedom. I have been featured in online publications like BBC Worklife, Bankrate, Yahoo Finance, MSN, GoBankingRates, Refinery29, Parade.com, and Quidco.

Don’t miss out!

Reader interactions.

Mrs. Picky Pincher says

July 17, 2017 at 1:58 pm

This is so neat! Thanks for letting us peek into your bag. 🙂 But it’s so true that you can travel with very few possessions. Who wants to lug around two giant suitcases, anyway? And plus, you can save a good bundle on airline fees by taking it as a carry-on.

The Wallet Moth says

July 18, 2017 at 4:44 am

No worries! 🙂 Exactly, two huge suitcases is too much hassle for just having a few more outfits!

Brittany @ Tiny Ambitions says

July 17, 2017 at 4:41 pm

Thanks for letting us peak inside your bag! I think it’s fascinating what items people choose to live with, when space and lightness are at a premium. I think it reflects who we are as individuals in the most unique way. My kindle is the same as your iPad in this scenario. Whenever I go anywhere I always bring it and I almost never use it! As for my own essentials, I think packing cubes are going to be the next thing I buy!

July 18, 2017 at 4:45 am

Me too, I love knowing what people prioritise! I regret bring my iPad so much – with an iPhone and a laptop, it’s pretty redundant.

Can’t recommend the packing cubes enough, they help make my insanely messy-self very organised! 😛

Kylie Travers says

July 23, 2017 at 4:14 am

I am a total minimalist when I travel which has infuriated family members. It’s always a backpack or carry on only. I can fit both my daughters and my gear in one usually, although I get them to pack and take their own carry on now. This covers conferences I speak at as well as swimming, hiking etc. So quite varied activities. I hate check in luggage and just want to travel light. My sisters can’t seem to do it.

July 24, 2017 at 12:37 pm

I think the fear of not having enough options scares people! I just say try it, and most people become converts for how easy it is to walk off your flight and straight out the airport with no hassle of waiting for bags etc! Managing to pack your work gear and hobby stuff is quite a feat

[…] now I’m travelling with my life’s possessions fitting in just a few bags, I barely feel like I’ve scratched the […]

[…] post Minimalist Travel: How Minimalism Helped Me Travel the World with One Bag appeared first on The Wallet […]

Don't miss all the latest!

Affiliate Disclosure

The Wallet Moth is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com or amazon.co.uk

• Privacy Policy
• Freebie Library

About The Wallet Moth

The Wallet Moth exists for one main reason: to give our readers the tools they need to build a life they really love. The definition of your ‘best life’ is different for everyone. But the tools – and the steps – you need to get there are surprisingly similar. On this website, you’ll learn how to find your priorities, adjust your lifestyle to align with those values, and ultimately start making your finances, your home, your job, and your life look exactly how you want them to – go here to get started.

Minimalist Travel: 20 Genius Tips for Normal People to Pack Light

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. That means that if you make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Read more here .

Are you looking to travel light and avoid the headache of packing and lugging around too much stuff? If so, this guide to minimalist travel is for you! From packing smart to choosing the right luggage, here are the best minimalist packing and travel tips to help make your trip a breeze.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to start planning your next minimalist vacation today!

What does “minimalist travel” mean?

Minimalist travel means applying the principles of minimalism to your trip, packing light, and traveling with only the essentials. It can also mean being intentional with how you spend your time, money, and energy on your vacation.

Consider this the complete guide on how to pack like a minimalist, whether you’re a family who wants to pack minimally for your next trip or an extreme minimalist who wants to travel around the world with only a backpack!

After you read these minimalist packing tips, you’ll be able to decide how much to bring and what to leave off your list to pack less and have more fun.

The Best Minimalist Packing Tips

1. bring carry-on only.

This minimalist packing tip is number one for a reason. It’s the simplest way to travel lighter! By bringing only a carry-on bag, you have no choice but to downsize your list and pack minimally.

After all, you can’t bring everything when you’re limited to such a small space.

Not only do you avoid the extra fees for checked baggage, but it also helps ensure your luggage doesn’t get lost! Trying to find and get your stuff back would be a headache; if you don’t, it could cost you a pretty penny to replace everything.

Given that claims for stranded baggage have jumped as much as 30% since 2019, it’s a good idea to keep luggage close at hand to reduce the likelihood that it gets lost or mishandled.

2. Choose the right minimalist luggage

One of the most critical minimalist travel tips is to choose the right luggage. You want something durable, easy to carry, and lightweight – the lighter, the better!

Airline standards for carry-on are 21 inches or 55 cm max height but check with your airline before you fly to ensure you comply with their requirements.

Keeping these factors in mind, here are a few popular minimalist luggage options:

• Samsonite Base Boost Upright Hand Luggage (our luggage, in Black)
• Tortuga Travel Backpack
• Rockland Melbourne Hardside Luggage (30+ colors)

3. Keep a minimal list

It can be tempting to over-pack when you’re going on a trip but resist the urge! One of the best minimalist travel tips is to make a packing list and then edit it until you’re only bringing the essentials.

Start by brainstorming everything you think you might need for your trip. Then, go through each item and ask yourself:  “Do I really need this?”  You’d be surprised how much you can eliminate from your list of things to pack when you get honest about what is and isn’t essential.

One of my favorite minimalist packing hacks is to use the Google Keep app to create my list.

I create separate lists for each family member and check them off as I pack. Make sure to keep the list instead of deleting it because you can repurpose the same list to make sure you don’t forget anything when you’re packing to go home!

4. Limit electronics

Electronics are often heavy, so limiting yourself to 1-2 devices can lighten the load. Luckily, for most people, a smartphone is all you need to perform most of your daily tasks.

However, if you are traveling for work, you might need to bring a lightweight laptop and charger. Likewise, a small camera, lens, and a few accessories might be on the must-bring list for serious photographers or videographers.

5. Travel adaptors

If you’re relying on your smartphone for communication and navigation, bring a travel adaptor to keep it charged. Make sure you choose the correct adaptor for the location you are traveling.

6. Minimize your toiletries

For shorter trips, you don’t need to bring an entire bottle of shampoo or body wash when a smaller amount will do. You can save a lot of luggage space by choosing travel-sized toiletries or decanting your liquids into smaller bottles.

The standard travel container size for liquids, gels, and aerosols is 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. Place all of your liquid containers in a transparent and resealable plastic bag of up to 1 liter in size.

If your hotel or Airbnb includes these items or they can easily be purchased locally, then you might not need to bring any at all.

7. 2-in-1 or multipurpose soap

Bringing a small bar or bottle of multipurpose soap can save you a lot of space in your luggage by cutting down on how many toiletries you need to bring.

We used a drugstore 2-in-1 shampoo and body wash for our kids, but I have minimalist friends who swear by Dr. Bronner’s castile soap , which has up to 18 uses, including shampoo, body wash, laundry detergent, dish soap, and more!

8. Go for simple matches and fabrics

If you already have a  minimalist wardrobe , then you know one of the best ways to reduce the total number of clothing items you own is to choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of different looks.

The same principle applies to packing for minimalist travel.

Choose clothing items made from simple fabrics that can be easily washed and opt for neutral colors that can be paired together so you can easily swap tops and bottoms.

Don’t forget to keep the climate in mind when making your choices. Cotton and linen are breathable and excellent for warmer temperatures, while wool and fleece can keep you warm in cooler weather. Synthetics are more resistant to wrinkles. 

Take all of these factors into consideration when you are packing!

9. Wear your heaviest clothes on the plane

Wearing your heaviest clothes on the plane will save you a lot of space in your suitcase. Bulky coats, heavy boots, and big hats can quickly eat up all the room in your luggage, so it’s best to put them on your body instead.

This minimalist travel habit has the added benefit of keeping you warm on the plane. Airlines keep cabin temperatures on the low side, which purportedly reduces the risk of passengers fainting, so you’ll be less likely to feel the chill.

10. Two pairs of shoes

When packing minimal for travel, it’s important to remember that you can usually get away with only bringing two pairs of shoes, at maximum.

One pair should be comfortable walking shoes, and the other should be more casual that can be dressed up or down.  Extreme minimalist  travelers can wear one pair of shoes while globetrotting for years, so two isn’t that big of a stretch!

Check out this extreme minimalist travel video – it’s unbelievable!

11. minimalist folding hacks

When trying to fit a lot into a small space, it’s essential to utilize every inch. Rather than lying items flat in your suitcase, try standing them up on their side.

This will help you make the most of the limited space and keep everything more organized; read the complete guide on  how to fold clothes vertically here .

You could also try “ranger rolling” your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles.

Ranger rolling is a military folding technique that’s found its way into mainstream use because it’s so practical; it’s accomplished by folding clothes into thirds and then rolling them from bottom to top.

12. Use packing cubes

Packing cubes are a minimalist traveler’s best friend. By compartmentalizing everything in your suitcase, you can make the most of the space and keep your belongings organized. Not to mention, it makes unpacking a breeze.

This minimalist travel hack is a lifesaver if you’re a frequent traveler.

13. Dirty laundry bag hack

This is one of my favorite minimalist packing tips! Particularly if you travel with kids who are messy eaters like mine, it’s helpful to be able to keep soiled or stinky clothing apart from the rest.

In that case, bring a laundry bag like this one along with you. They are lightweight and fold up easily to store in your suitcase, taking up barely any space. When clothes get stinky or dirty, you can plop them in the bag to wash at your leisure and keep them separate from the clean clothes until it’s time to return.

We took one of the largest laundry bags from our set with us and only filled it up about halfway. Which brings me to the next point on this list…

14. Wash clothes in the sink

When my minimalist family of 4 traveled to Spain for two weeks, I packed half the amount of clothes, KNOWING that I would need to do some laundry while we were there.

The Airbnb amenity list informed us there was on-site laundry, but when we got there, we found there wasn’t any laundry detergent actually to wash our clothes. This was  no problemo  for us because I used another of my favorite minimalist travel hacks, which is to wash clothes in the sink, after which I hung them on the balcony to dry.

While I went low-maintenance and used dish soap that our Airbnb provided, you could also bring your own in a small bottle.

15. Experiences over souvenirs

It’s like the popular  minimalist quote  says: “ Collect memories, not objects .”

Instead of buying a bunch of cheap tchotchkes that will end up in the back of a drawer or cluttering up your bookshelf, spend your money on unique experiences. For example, go zip-lining through the rainforest or buy tickets to take the kids to the local zoo or aquarium.

After all, experiences make the best souvenirs!

Have stories to tell, not stuff to show. – Unknown

16. Save money by cooking yourself

This minimalist travel tip is to help you save money on food. Eating out can be expensive when traveling, so the more you cook and eat at home, the more money you will save!

Most of the time, when we travel, we pick a location with a kitchen we can cook in, so that we can eat two meals each day at home. This allows us to save money and splurge on one excellent dining-out experience every day – which is essential to us as eating good food is one of our top priorities when traveling!

We prepared for this trip by  doing a no-spend challenge  and keeping our budget on track.

✈️ Want to travel, but you’re short on cash? If you have trouble saving money, grab this FREE 2-page budget planner to help you spend less and save more. You can also read this guide on the best tips and ideas for budgeting like a minimalist here .

17. Portable charger

If you’re going off-grid or might find yourself in situations where you don’t have access to electrical outlets to charge your devices for a while, you might consider taking a portable charger with you.

This lightweight device can be a lifesaver, especially if you rely on your phone for GPS; just remember to keep it charged up before you go!

18. Minimalist travel with kids

If you’re traveling with kids, it helps to pick a place to stay with amenities you need for feeding, travel, and sleep.

While our kids are older, we did appreciate that our Airbnb had strollers, car seats, Pack’ N Plays, high chairs, and other family-friendly items that would make traveling with kids easier. (You can find a list of such amenities on the website or app listing.)

We did bring our own waterproof and foldable picnic blanket for the beach, but our host provided sun umbrellas, sand toys, and chairs to enjoy the beach to the fullest without needing to bring or buy these bulky items ourselves.

READ MORE: 10 Minimalism with Kids Tips That Can Save Your Motherhood

19. Pack a few medications

No matter where you’re traveling, it’s a good idea to pack some medications and first-aid items in case of an emergency. We packed a few band-aids, acid reflux tablets, pain relievers, etc.

20. Downsize your to-do list

One of the best things about minimalist travel is that it encourages you to consider what’s important to you and your loved ones. When material possessions do not bog you down, you can focus on experiences and making memories.

While it might be tempting to try and pack your schedule with a million different activities, it’s often better to choose a few key experiences you really want to have and savor them.

Downsizing your to-do list will help you be more present and better appreciate your vacation. It gives you space to be intentional with how you spend your time, reduces stress, and allows you to slow down.

When it comes to minimalist travel, less is  definitely  more !

Minimalist Packing Lists + Essentials

I’ll let you in on a dirty little secret: there’s  no such thing  as a one-size-fits-all minimalist packing list because minimalist travel essentials vary widely from person to person and trip to trip.

What one minimalist traveler dubs an essential on their must-pack list might be completely disregarded by someone else.

Please keep that in mind as you read through this list of ideas for packing light.

We consider this an ultralight packing list that still includes everything we need to be comfortable traveling as a minimalist family of 4 for two weeks in Europe with carry-on luggage only. This is NOT an extreme minimalist packing list, but more of a guide to minimal packing for normal people. 🙂

You can also watch the pack with me video linked below from our trip to see us in action.

Minimalist Packing List for Women (2 Weeks)

Here is the exact packing list I used for our two-week trip to Valencia, Spain; it’s a summer packing list because it was mid-July when we traveled there.

The next time we travel in cold weather, I will update this blog post with a winter packing list!

• 1 pair of linen pants
• 1 light linen jacket
• 3 bottoms (2 skirts, 1 pair of shorts)
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 1 bra (strapless, nude color)
• 1 pair of sunglasses
• 1 pair of socks
• 2 pairs of shoes (one pair of flats, one pair of waterproof sandals )
• 1 bathing suit
• sunscreen ( Shiseido )
• 1 pair of pajamas
• contacts + glasses
• 2 ponytail holders
• travel-sized moisturizer
• travel toothpaste
• eyebrow pencil + shadow
• lip balm (Aquaphor)

Minimalist Packing List for Men (2 Weeks)

• 1 light hoodie jacket
• 5 pairs of underwear
• 1 pair of swim trucks
• 2 pairs of shoes (sandals + sneakers)
• 5 pairs of socks
• travel hair spray + creme

Minimalist Kids Packing List (2 Weeks)

• 1 pair of pants
• 1 light jacket
• 4 bottoms (shorts)
• 5 tops (T-shirts)
• 1 bathing suit (bottom + sun shirt)
• 1 pair of goggles
• 2 pairs of shoes (flip flops + sneakers)
• 3 pairs of socks
• kids sunscreen
• 2-in-1 shampoo + body wash

Our Minimalist Travel Essentials

• 1 laundry bag (to hold dirty laundry)
• packing cubes
• travel adaptor
• portable charger
• facemasks x 8 (may be required to board airplane)
• medicine (acid reflux tablets, medicinal tea, etc)
• waterproof picnic blanket
• 1 extra large beach towel
• smartphone (I have the iPhone XS Max in Rose Gold )
• camera + accessories (optional)

Final thoughts about minimalist traveling

Packing light doesn’t mean you have to skimp on the essentials – in fact, minimalist travelers often find that they enjoy their trips more because they’re not lugging around tons of stuff in a heavy suitcase or cluttering up their hotel room.

Following these minimalist packing and travel tips, you can learn how to pack smart and travel lightly without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Do you have a minimalist travel tip to share? Drop it in the comments section below; you might help another aspiring minimalist in the future!

Pin this minimalist travel guide to save!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me via e-mail if anyone answers my comment.

• Destinations
• Japan Guides
• Hiking Guides
• Gear Guides
• Wildlife Guides
• About/Contact

Minimalist Backpacking (The Ultimate Guide)

• by Jonny Duncan
• September 6, 2022 September 27, 2022

Why trust me for advice on minimalist backpacking? Well, I’ve been backpacking for over 20 years now and this is what I recommend to pack for your journey wherever you may be.

It should be said straight away that this post is about ‘backpacking’ in the term used for travel, not hiking. I know those two get mixed up a lot so if you’re after a hiking gear post this isn’t it.

Having said that, I do have a separate post which is for backpacking light (basically a minimalist hiking gear guide). You can read the minimalist hiking gear guide here if that’s the advice you were after.

Now back to the minimalist backpacking in the travel sense. I got into minimalist backpacking a long time ago and wished I had known about it when I first started out.

Back in 1997 when I first started backpacking around the world I made the mistake most travellers make and packed way too much stuff. I realised this on my 3rd day. I then proceeded to give half of it away to homeless people on the streets.

Over the years I perfected what items to carry for worldwide travel and have given a lot of advice to other travellers since.

In this post, I will show you exactly what I travel with. If I’m not 100% sure about the kind of adventure I will have then this is what I will take.

I have a general philosophy in life that:

The less you have the less you have to worry about.

That is true for minimalist backpacking.

Ever watched movies like Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark? You don’t see Indiana running around with a heavy pack. I know it’s just a movie, but you can easily put that into real life.

Disclaimer : The links to the items I recommend are affiliate links to Amazon which means if you purchase anything through them I get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Everything I have linked to are things I have personally used myself.

What To Pack For Minimalist Backpacking

Minimalist travel backpack.

The size of your backpack is important. The smaller it is the easier your life will be, either from the ease of carrying it, being able to take it as a carry-on when flying, simply being able to stuff it in tiny lockers, and more.

I currently use a 36-litre pack that I find to be a perfect size, and really you don’t need any more than that.

If you need a little more room then stretch to a 40-litre pack, but no more.

Don’t buy a wheeled bag or suitcase, they are totally not appropriate for travelling in many places.

For any kind of real adventure, they are a bad idea. Can you imagine heading into the desert with a wheeled bag? That’s just one example of many. Yeah, it’s a stupid idea.

A backpack is easy to carry anywhere.

When looking for a backpack look for decent side pockets to store things and two compartments or more are better for organising.

Another good thing about buying a smaller pack is that it will generally be cheaper than getting a large one.

Having said that don’t get the cheapest bag as it won’t be as comfortable compared with a more expensive bag.

It’s best to get one designed for hiking as it will be very comfortable for carrying.

Having the smaller pack will allow you to take it on as hand luggage saving you money on budget airlines where you have to pay extra for hold luggage.

Also if you show up somewhere and have a few hours to kill before moving on, but want to have a look around, it’s easy to do that with a small pack, whereas having a larger pack will be heavy and uncomfortable.

There are lots of backpacks to choose from, but as I said before I am only recommending products I have used.

The North Face Recon has a 30-litre capacity, zip enclosures, stretchy pockets, 2 compartments with organising pockets, laptop/water bladder sleeve, and is comfortable and durable.

The small daypack:

Taking a smaller daypack and storing it inside the main bag, or carrying it on the outside is something new I have been doing.

This came about due to the Rainshadow not having a laptop sleeve. The small daypack has one and I use it as storage for my laptop when travelling between places for protection.

I then use it for day trips as a small ultralight pack for carrying day supplies or taking my laptop to a coffeehouse to work online.

As it is small enough and light it packs down easily into the main backpack without taking up much space.

The one I use right now is the  Berghaus Twentyfourseven  20 litre backpack. In fact, I know people who use just a 20-litre backpack for travel.

There are plenty more small daypack options out there for you apart from this one though.

Read my guide to choosing a good minimalist backpack .

Clothes For Minimalist Backpacking

This is generally all the clothing I carry for minimalist backpacking. It varies but this is what I would normally have.

I pack so that I can get down to temperatures around freezing point as this is a good overall average to aim for.

If I end up in colder climates I will buy a cheap pullover and leggings for the time that I am there, and then give them away to a homeless person when leaving for a warmer climate.

It saves you lugging around extra cold-weather gear when you may only need it for a short part of your trip.

For example, I went from hot Thailand to the freezing Himalayas in the middle of winter and picked up a warm pullover for only $3 when there.

Even in expensive countries, you can find very cheap clothing in the cheaper clothing stores.

I pack very minimally as you can easily wash your clothes in the evening, leave them overnight to dry, and have all of them clean the next day. It only takes a few minutes of your time every few days.

No one likes washing their clothes but it’s better than lugging around extra smelly clothing in your bag for days until you do a bulk wash.

I only recommend the clothing that I have tried and know is good. There are women’s versions of the same gear but (being a guy) I haven’t tried them (no s**t).

However, they also get good reviews and are the same gear in a woman’s fit so should be great.

Use what I have mentioned before as a guide, such as having zips or button closure pockets on trousers.

Clothing is obviously a personal thing. What will work for someone obviously might not be as good for another. Some of the clothing items are unisex.

Cold Weather Clothes

This is a selection of down and synthetic insulated jackets that are perfect for minimalist backpacking.

These will easily cover you down to 0 degrees (32 Fahrenheit), especially when added with a lightweight fleece top like the  North Face Glacier.

Down is more expensive than synthetic but is warmer for the weight and more packable. Naturally, if you will only be heading to warmer places then you will not need a jacket like these, a simple lightweight fleece would.

But if you plan to visit some colder regions then these jackets would be perfect. I recommend getting a jacket with a hood for more cosiness and warmth.

I’ve always loved the brand Arc’teryx (from Canada). They’re worth the money for the performance you get and they consistently get high reviews from outdoor experts.

My current favourite down jacket is the  Montane Featherlite Down Jacket.

As for synthetics, the  Arc’Teryx Atom LT Hoodie  is my top pick.

These are the women’s versions for the  Montane Featherlite Down Jacket women’s  , and the  Arcteryx Atom LT Hoody.

Rain gear is always a good idea as it’s easy to get caught out when in the mountains for instance and rain will make you cold very quickly.

I have been in North Thailand where it was nice and warm in the city but when hiking in the mountains the rain came in and things got cold very fast.

You can’t go wrong with the  Marmot PreCip Rain Jacket  and the  Marmot Precip pant. 

They are excellent value for money and will do the job.

However, my current favourite rain jacket for backpacking light is the  StormLine Stretch Rain Shell   by Black Diamond.

It’s very lightweight and offers good rain protection. Perfect.

Pants and Shorts

I take only one pair of pants with me, one pair of casual shorts. and one pair of running shorts.

Make sure they are reasonably lightweight as you will need that comfort for hot places, and synthetic cotton/blend is better for easy drying and comfort.

The shorts (or maybe a dress instead for women) are obviously for a warmer climate.

But try to get the shorts (or dress) to cover the knees, as in some cultures this is more respectable, especially for visiting religious sites. Also, try to have at least one zipper pocket for storing money or your phone safely.

I know people who fell asleep on a bus and their phone slipped out of the none zipped pocket, and they lost it without realising in their tired state that it had fallen out.

Every pocket in my pants and shorts has a zippered or buttoned pocket.

As for underwear that’s up to you!

I really like the brand prAna for clothing. They are always very comfortable!

These are the pants I use by them  prAna Stretch Zion Pants  and the shorts  prAna Stretch Zion Shorts.

As for running shorts, the  Brooks Sherpa  do the job just fine.

My friend also uses prAna and she recommends these women’s pants and shorts by them – prAna Living Halle Pant and prAna Halle Shorts.

Clothing Accessories

One of the best things you can travel with when minimalist backpacking is a  Sarong . I use it as a towel, for relaxing around somewhere hot, as a sheet, for a screen when staying on a bottom bunk in a dormitory.

It’s a multiple-use item that is perfect for travelling.

I carry a pair of  running gloves  that keep my hands warm enough.

A BUFF UV Headwear  can be used for head warmth and also as a mask, which is especially useful if travelling in desert or dusty environments.

I use a  sun hat for hot weather , but you can use a wide-brimmed one like the well-known  Tilley Endurables .

If going somewhere hot make sure you have a hat to protect you from the sun.

Footwear For Minimalist Backpacking

The footwear I have is a simple pair of trail running shoes and flip-flops.

You should not take hiking boots unless your trip is mostly based around hiking and even then I have been 4000 metres high in the mountains in winter and was fine with trail running shoes.

Unless your whole trip will be based on cold weather conditions boots will be a waste of space and weight.

That being said I do have a pair of Solomon boots that I would take with me if I know I will be in very cold conditions like when I was in the Arctic.

They are very comfortable and kept my feet warm at -30 degrees celsius. Salomon Men’s Quest Boot  and the  Salomon Women’s Quest Boot.

Flip flops are always handy. If somewhere hot they are comfortable for wearing outside and even in cold places can be used for walking around inside a hostel/hotel, or for giving your feet a breather after a day of hiking.

I like these ones:  Teva Men’s Mush II Flip Flop

Teva Women’s Mush II Flip Flop

For shoes, I have been using the U.K.-based brand Inov8 for over 10 years now and at the moment really like their unisex  Inov-8 X-Talon Runner. 

I kid you not I have never had a blister in any of their shoes and they fit like slippers straight away.

Darn Tough  are my favourite socks. Comfy and long-lasting.

Packing Accessories For Minimalist Backpacking

Accessories are for what your personal requirements are.

I keep things simple, as that is the principle of minimalist travel.

In the past, I wouldn’t carry a mosquito net as they are bulky and in places that you really need them, like malarial zones, the hotel or hostel would normally have a mosquito net on the bed.

Nowadays though you can get a double-sized mosquito net (like the  Sea To Summit Mosquito Net ) that packs down very small.

I have found that it has come in handy in non-malarial zones to keep out insects in cheaper places, and also dengue fever mosquitoes.

It’s not a must-carry, but I enjoy the peace of mind of keeping the creepy crawlies away. Only take one if it packs small though.

Take a headlamp  like the Petzl Tikka  as it will come in useful when camping/hiking or for reading a book on the bus at night. A head-torch is more convenient than a handheld one.

I carry a  SteriPEN Adventurer UV Water Purifier  for water purifying. This is not essential if travelling in places where you can safely drink tap water.

But if you’re going into parts of the world where you can’t drink tap water and need to buy bottled water, then the Steripen will be a good investment.

The Steripen is not cheap to buy in the beginning, but calculate how much money you will save in the long run when you don’t have to buy plastic bottles.

Also not buying plastic bottles will help the environment. Take a  Wide Mouth Water Bottle  for the water purifier for purifying.

Take a padlock with you so you can lock the zips on your backpack (if they have zips) and for when using lockers in hostels. Make sure it is a key code one and not with a key, as losing the key would be bad.

Another item that is highly recommended depending on where you are is a  compact umbrella . It’s very good to have it in rainy places like South-East-Asia.

A minimalist travel packing essential, I would even say.

Get a decent enough wind-resistant umbrella (like the one above I linked to) as they will last longer.

I have a  wash kit bag  that holds the bare essentials- toothbrush and toothpaste, shower gel or soap bar, beard trimmer, earplugs (essential for noisy sleeping environments), and the medication that I take.

Naturally, it will all depend on what your personal needs are.

You may also want to take some  packing cubes   to help organise your things.

Electronics For Minimalist Backpacking

Electronics will depend on what you do when minimalist backpacking around.

I recommend not taking a laptop with you unless you need it for professional work, or are seriously into photography and want a laptop for photo editing.

If I wasn’t blogging and doing photography work I would just travel with my smartphone and iPad.

This will be enough to keep in touch with friends, search the internet, and watch the occasional movie/tv show.

You can even use your smartphone as your main camera if you don’t care about taking very high-quality photos as smartphone cameras are good these days.

If you are looking to get a new smartphone, especially for travelling, don’t worry about getting a more expensive one unless you want a higher quality camera, etc.

Make sure it’s unlocked so you can add foreign sim cards.

When it comes to my laptop and camera I don’t go for the really expensive options, but I don’t get the cheapest either as I am making my living from blogging and photography, so I want decent enough gear for that.

I have been using Macs for years now and wouldn’t change at this point. I have the  Apple Macbook Pro 13   which is a good size and weight for minimalist backpacking.

It’s also fast enough to do my photo editing within Lightroom, and I don’t need it for anything heavier than that.

Cameras For Minimalist Backpacking

As far as a camera for backpacking goes I’m only recommending Sony cameras (I swear I don’t work with them) because they are the brand I have been using for several years now.

Plus I said I’m only recommending items I have personal experience with and would buy myself. A point and shoot will do most people for travelling. If I was going to get a smaller camera as an “always with me” camera I would get the –  Sony DSC-RX100

If you want to take your photography a bit more seriously then I recommend a compact system camera mirrorless setup.

They are not so big to carry and you still have an interchangeable lens to expand the system, and the quality is good.

The first 2 years of photos on my blog were taken on a compact system camera. Unless you’re really into photography don’t bother with a large and heavy DSLR setup.

The camera I use is a  Sony Alpha a7II  which to me is the perfect pro travel camera as it’s full-frame, great quality, and not that big and heavy.

You will have to do research on the additional lenses for whatever camera you may buy as there are so many.

The lens can cost as much or much more than the camera itself. My favourite lenses for the Sony A7ii are the  Sony 55mm F1.8 Sonnar , and the  Sony 28mm f/2-22. 

These are both prime lenses (no zoom) and perfect for portraits, landscape, and street photography. I like prime lenses more than zooms as it makes me think more about the composition of the picture and the image quality can often be much better.

If you are serious about photography then a good lens setup is the way to go. If you cant afford it in the beginning then start cheap and work your way up.

Be aware:  if you are going to invest in a changeable lens camera do your research for what brand you want to go with as you will be buying into their lens system as well.

The  Lowepro Event Messenger 100 Camera Bag  fits my camera and the two prime lenses. It’s a small and compact bag and the entire setup is ideal for travelling with quality gear taking up little space.

These are two other mirrorless cameras that I would recommend.

The  Sony Alpha a6000  is an older model but still good quality and excellent value for money and the Sony Alpha a6500 .

Another option if you are planning on doing some adventurous activities is to take a  GoPro. 

The GoPro isn’t that expensive and is very popular with travellers around the world, for its durability, good quality, and waterproofness.

This is a good selection of  GoPro accessories  for adventure.

Read my article about the 10 best cameras for backpacking .

Minimalist Backpacking Lifestyle

So that gives you an insight into the kind of things I pack for minimalist travel anywhere in the world.

You can use this for advice on what to bring if you want to know how to pack light for two weeks, or how to travel light for years.

It will work for you. Trust me. And all this gear fits into a 30-40 litre backpack.

Although it would squeeze in as well, I tend to carry the camera bag on my shoulder so I have fast access to my camera if a photo opportunity comes along.

This system has worked for me for over 20+ years covering most places you could go.

Safe and light travels, and a happy minimalist life!

One thing I highly recommend to anyone going backpacking, whether it be in the travel sense of the word or hiking, is to take good travel insurance in case something goes wrong.

These are some of the adventures I have had with this gear to give you an idea of how this guide for what to pack for backpacking light can work anywhere for minimalist travel.

• Backpacking in Mongolia
• Backpacking in Ethiopia

So there you have it! A rundown on what minimalist backpacking is and what to get to do it yourself.

I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip, just in case, it’s best to be prepared.

Share the minimalist backpacking advice:

Related Posts:

Keep updated with new posts by email (no spam, I promise!)

You have successfully subscribed, leave a reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Pin It on Pinterest

38 Gifts Ideas for Minimalists [Simple & Practical]

It’s challenging to find perfect gifts for people who already have everything they want. I’m talking about those who choose to live with very few possessions. To keep your gift out of their white elephant dumpster, here are a few tips on the best gift ideas for minimalist men and women .

Before we dive in, however, I’ve got a confession — I’m a minimalist myself, so it feels strange to be compiling a long list of things to give to people who don’t want a lot of  stuff in their lives! But, irony aside, I’ve tried to focus on gifts that are likely to come across as thoughtful, useful, and on-target.

Men and women with the “less-is-more” lifestyle don’t always value things so much as experiences — high-quality consumables, subscriptions, travel, stylish but versatile clothing, and other choices that reflect their simpler lifestyle. Give them quality essentials and they’ll know you see them for who they are.

So when shopping for a picky someone, consider one of these gift ideas for Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, travel, or other special occasions. Here are my best gift ideas for for minimalists.

Best Gifts for Minimalists

• Practical Stuff

Minimalist Travel Essentials

Clothing & accessories, books & audiobooks.

• Consumable Gifts

Memberships, Gift Cards & Experiences

• Rules for Minimalist Gift Buying
• Final Thoughts: Gifts for Minimalists

Practical “Stuff”

“Practical” is always welcomed by minimalists for every occasion from birthdays, Valentine’s Day, Father’s/Mother’s Day, and major holidays. Practical items make everyone’s lives a little easier, which is always a good thing.

Headphones : AirPods Pro 2

A tangle of cords? Nobody wants that. Give the gift of untangled audio bliss with Apple Airpods Pro headphones. And while you’re at it, why not get extra credit by pairing these with an annual Spotify subscription? Give a great pair of gifts like these and no one will blame you if you bask in the gratitude.

BUY AT AMAZON

Journal : Moleskine

Journaling can be rewarding, especially for minimalists. They can organize their thoughts on paper, which may be what led them to a simpler lifestyle in the first place. Encourage the habit with the old-school gift of a high-quality journal. They’ll feel duty-bound to write only nice things about you.

Pen : Space Pen

Life’s too short for cheap, messy, and unreliable pens, especially when journaling. Choose something silky-smooth and versatile for your less-is-more friend. Fisher Space Pens write upside down, underwater, and through butter. A joy to use, and rumored to promote a zen state of mind. What’s not to like?

Water Bottle : Titanium Aurora

Single-use plastic containers suck. Long-lived water bottles like the Titanium Aurora are part of the solution. They come in a rainbow of colors as well as double-wall insulated models for hot or cold liquids. There’s even a sake bottle model. Practical, lightweight, and perfectly suited to minimalism.

BUY AT SNOW PEAK

Handmade All Natural Candles : Etsy

Men, women, and children — a flickering candle can captivate and calm us by shifting our focus to living in the moment. That’s a fairly good definition of minimalism. Relax, and listen to the whispering flame. And then there’s the clean aroma of melting beeswax, my personal favorite. Inhale deeply.

BUY AT ETSY

Plants : Lively Root

Plants are quiet and soothing companions that don’t demand our attention the way pets do. Plants enrich our living spaces, and tending them is a metaphor for simple living. (Disclaimer: I am, however,  not  a pacifist when it comes to the dandelions in my front yard. Those I tend to in a very different way.)

BUY AT LIVELY ROOT

Bare essential travelers are obsessed with shedding as much as possible, especially when traveling. Here are several minuscule gifts for the nimble traveler in your life:

Minimalist Backpack

Traveling with too much stuff means paying exorbitant gate fees or having to check your bags at the airport. Minimalists often opt for a single carry-on to avoid nasty fees as well as the freedom to leave the terminal immediately, while everyone else waits at the luggage carousel. Check these out:

BEST MINIMALIST BACKPACKS

Packable Day Pack : Matador

Talk about minimal! This tiny packable daypack compresses down to fit inside your coat pocket. And since it’s waterproof, packable, and practical, it’s a very thoughtful present for a shrewd and unpretentious traveler. Many folks use such bags on their trip home, for packing souvenirs and gifts.

BUY AT MATADOR

Passport Holder : Wanderings

A friend dropped his passport while getting into a cab in Chile. He eventually found it (shredded) and now has this RFID-blocking full-grain leather holder to avoid a repeat. For savvy travelers constantly on the go, this passport holder is a convenient, must-have safeguard as they race hither and yon.

Travel Towel : Packtowl

A lightweight and versatile microfiber towel can trim a lot of bulk from a travel bag. Bulky cotton towels don’t work for one-bag travel, so frequent fliers almost never pack them. Instead, they grab compact, cushy and very functional towels like this one to dry off. Someone you know will love this.

BUY AT PACKTOWL

Wallet Kickstand : Nite Ize

This is a useful and lightweight accessory for digital nomads. It’s a wallet-sized kickstand/easel thingie that lets you prop up your phone or tablet next to your laptop. It also works well for taking on-the-go zoom calls or watching movies , MMA bouts, or YouTube cat videos on cramped airplane tray tables.

Mini Toiletries Kit : Sea to Summit

Single-use plastics are a planetary cancer. Don’t trust your personal care items to resealable sandwich bags — this mini-toiletries kit from Sea-to-Summit is reusable and will keep those disposable bags out of the landfill. This is sturdy, transparent, and TSA-approved, so it’s very carry-on friendly.

Minimalists love simple, well-fitting clothing that’ll pair well with the rest of their wardrobe. Below, I’ve included some of my favorite clothing brands and accessories for those who want to add some simple style to their closet.

Clothing: Wool&Prince or Wool&

Minimalist travelers pack fewer clothes and need garb that’s odor-resistant. Wool&Prince (men) and Wool& (women) check all the boxes by offering premium wool clothes that are stylish, versatile, and sweeter smelling. Help a traveler stretch the time between their washer loads!

BUY AT WOOL&PRINCE

BUY AT WOOL&

Minimalist Shoes : Xero

Sleek, simple, and ultra-comfortable Xero Shoes can make people think they’re wearing clouds, not shoes. And when you’re walking all day, navigating streets and concourses, that’s a blessing. Xero Shoes supportive design promotes a healthy and fluid walking motion that syncs with a simpler lifestyle.

BUY AT XERO SHOES

Minimalist Sandals

We previously compiled this list of the  best barefoot sandals  for running, hiking, and travel. If the minimalist in your life is an open-toed sort, they’ll love one of these airy sandals. They’re lighter than regular shoes, have roomy toeboxes, and help keep your feet cool and blister-free.

BEST MINIMALIST SANDALS

Analog Watch : Fossil

Complex smartwatches aren’t for everyone, so consider giving your minimalist traveler a tried-and-true analog watch as a simpler alternative. Seniors especially love these since they grew up talking about “o’clocks” and writing in cursive. Weird! That aside, check out this minimalist watch from Fossil.

Minimalist Wallet for Men : Slimfold

A bulky, inefficient wallet is an overstuffed lump in your pocket that cramps your style and hurts your posture. The minimalist in your life will thank you for this thin wallet from Slimfold that will allow him to keep all his cards, cash, and ID in a smaller and elegant package. Simplicity rules!

BUY AT SLIMFOLD

Minimalist Wallet for Women : Travelambo

Minimalist women don’t want purses like my Grandma’s with its load of gum, bobby pins, bandaids, a bible, and other contents of the black hole. This much simpler and organized budget buy holds the essentials and not a speck more. Now, isn’t that a metaphor for the life we all aspire to? I think so.

Wool Socks : Darn Tough

It’s inevitable — we all buy socks as gifts at some point, but why not choose those rated for  a lifetime  of use? No more big toes sticking out, no thin spots on the heels, and no sagging elastic uppers. Darn Tough makes socks with lifetime warranties that also stay odor-free far longer than most. Boom, gifted.

BUY AT DARN TOUGH

Books make great gifts for minimalists. They are the gift of knowledge and can also allow people to escape their mundane surroundings by teleporting their imagination to a zillion different places without ever leaving their chairs.

Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up

Just because someone has dedicated their life to living with less doesn’t mean they’ve perfected the craft. In my experience, minimalism is a life-long learning process that requires periodic refreshers. This book reminds us how to declutter and keep things pointed in the right direction over the years.

Digital Minimalism

Everyone’s guilty of staring at their phones and getting stuck in zombie doomscrolling and consumerism. This book by Cal Newport explores practical ways to declutter and gain control of your digital life, which can be a key element in regaining control of your personal time and purpose.

The Joy of Less

If you know someone just starting out as a minimalist, or simply wanting to hone the craft, The Joy of Less offers excellent insights into the positive aspects of simplifying. Author Francine Jay explains how choosing to have less actually gives you more: More time, more insight, and more freedom.

Essential: Essays by the Minimalists

Don’t want to read an entire book on minimalism? Here’s a collection of the best essays from TheMinimalists.com, and it’s a masterclass on simplicty and core values. It’s full of practical everyday techniques from successful 30- and 40-somethings who have gotten off the hamster wheel and back to basics.

Stop Overthinking

No one wants to overthink their lives, but it’s a hard habit to break. Don’t obsess and complicate things — read this and rediscover your deeply-held values that are currently buried under mental chatter. Author Nick Trenton shares practical tips for achieving more focus and less noise in your head.

Atomic Habits

This book focuses on tiny changes that produce remarkable results. Author James Clear asks (and answers) the key questions: What sparks good habits? What drags us down into bad ones? This book taught me that rock-solid habits give me more time going forward by making small but effective changes now.

Walden, or Life in the Woods

When pondering minimalism, Henry David Thoreau often springs to mind. But all too often, his 1854 classic book about escaping to the simplicity of nature is ‘more revered than read,’ so why not give the gift of his full insights? Let your deep thinker friends read the whole thing and decide for themselves.

Consumables

We all crave good food, drink, and other consumables that can bring a little joy to our day. Here are some of the best options to consider if you’re searching for a gift that won’t gather dust or get tossed in a closet shortly after you give it.

Foundational Nutrition Supplement : AG1 by Athletic Greens

It’s not easy to maintain a balanced diet in a world of fast and nutritionless eats, so grab your loved one some AG1 nutritional supplement powder. It’s packed with vitamins, prebiotics and probiotics, and phytonutrients that’ll bolster the immune system and keep them running at 100%.

Coffee Subscription : Bean Box

Very few are immune to the seductive aroma of coffee. I know I can’t live without it.  A premium coffee subscription can deliver that sweet nectar every month. Give them the gift of focus, and check out this service from Bean Box. (Fun fact: the Finns drink three times more coffee than Americans.)

BUY AT BEAN BOX

Healthy Food Box : Daily Harvest

Minimalists who live clean and simple lives will assuredly appreciate clean and simple food sent straight to their doorstep. Give them the gift of healthy and delicious convenience with a Daily Harvest gift box that’s full of easy-to-prepare smoothies, bowls, bakes, flatbreads, and more.

BUY AT DAILY HARVEST

Chocolate Sampler : Hu

Everyone has room for chocolate in their lives. If someone you love enjoys it, grab this organic fair-trade chocolate sampler. It’s delightfully delicious. Plus, chocolate can always be rationalized as being rich in antioxidants, etc., etc. As if anyone needed yet another reason to love chocolate!

Wine Subscription : Wine Insiders

Pass up that pair of hilarious Michael Scott socks from  The Office  in favor of a top-shelf bottle of wine that’s delivered monthly. It’s even more special when shared with a friend over chocolate and cheese. Yet more proof that high-quality consumables are the kind of experiences that minimalists treasure.

BUY AT WINE INSIDERS

Biodegradable Soap : Dr. Bronner’s

I gift Dr. Bronners because a little bit goes a long way. That fits the lifestyle of many minimalist travelers committed to packing the bare minimum. It’s an iconic, practical, and versatile soap that makes a statement. Plus, reading the entire label will help you pass the time while waiting for your flight.

Minimalists enjoy learning new skills as they rise to life’s challenges. Help them in their journey with a membership, course, or other learning experience that encourages them to enjoy the ride!

Skillshare Membership

Everyone benefits from practical skills. Skillshare helps teach those skills with thousands of enticing mini-courses on topics ranging from freelancer skills for a side gig to professional audiobook narrating. It’s a thoughtful gift to help your friends get their self-development balls rolling.

BUY AT SKILLSHARE

Amazon Prime Membership

Love them or hate them, Amazon is focused on providing near-instant gratification. In that regard, minimalists are like all of us, eager the get their (simpler) things delivered ASAP, without shipping fees. Other perks include Prime Video and Music, making it a multi-faceted and practical gift.

Audible Membership

Nothing resets and defrags my brain during lengthy plane or train trips like a good audiobook. With a membership from Audible, the minimalist in your life can be soothed or uplifted no matter where they are. In fact, one of my recent audiobook purchases was ‘Essays by the Minimalists,’ reviewed below.

Spotify Gift Card

Spotify supports a simpler lifestyle by playing the music people love, when and wherever they want it. If your minimalist friends don’t have this service, they’re missing the boat. No ads, no interruptions, and the world’s largest catalog of streaming music and podcasts as they travel the globe.

REI Gift Card

For outdoor junkies, a gift card from REI guarantees they’ll find something for their passion in life. (And for indoor people, REI may be the catalyst to adopt a simpler lifestyle in nature. Win/win.) REI also has a large selection of rugged, minimalist travel items, including backpacks and comfy shoes.

National Parks Pass

What simpler way is there to practice a simpler outdoor lifestyle than with a National Parks Pass? Parlay your sleeping bag purchase into a week in Rocky Mountain National Park or one of 63 other US parks. When it comes to memorable experiences, nothing tops the majesty of these national treasures.

Five Simple Rules for Minimalist Gift Buying

If you’ve looked through this list and still don’t have a clue what to buy the minimalist in your life, the least I can do is offer up some advice to help you keep searching. Here are five rules to keep in mind as you keep looking for that perfect present.

1. If You’re Going to Buy A Minimalist Clothing, They’d Better Love it

The minimalists I know own fewer items of clothing than most of us, so they emphasize high-quality, versatile, durable, and stylish stuff. Pay close attention to what they choose to wear.

Instead of getting them a pair of novelty socks or a goofy tie they’ll never wear, consider buying garments that you know will match their minimalist lifestyle. If you have any doubts, consider purchasing an accessory like sandals or a belt instead.

2. If You’re Buying a Minimalist a Thing, They’d Better Need it

Don’t be shy about asking people what they need. Not only will you avoid getting something they already have or don’t need, but they’ll see that you care about their lifestyle.

Remember, minimalists are everyday people. They just prioritize making do with less. That doesn’t mean they don’t need specific items. This list is focused on practical stuff for those with fewer belongings.

3. Buy Minimalists Things They Can Eat & Drink

It’s simple: we all have to eat, and we cherish our most memorable meals. So when you give someone the gift of tasty food & drink, it’s a gentle nod that you understand their discerning lifestyle. From homemade to haute cuisine, the best is always appreciated.

Treat them to a great restaurant, a nice bottle of wine, or even beef jerky subscriptions. Gifts like these can cover a lot of bases, so ask your minimalist friends what kinds of food or drink tickles their fancy.

4. Minimalists Love Gift Cards, Memberships, and Experiences

When a loved one buys me a gift card, it probably doesn’t mean they’re taking the easy way out with a lazy gift. Instead, it lets me know that they understand me and my lifestyle. I can carefully choose something I need and will use, rather than setting aside the item they chose.

Minimalists also love memberships and experiences because, first and foremost, these are not ‘things.’ They don’t clutter a minimalist’s life. To avoid the risk of buying them an off-target item, consider giving them a membership or experience.

5. If a Gift Can Simplify A Minimalist’s Life, Look No Further

People with modest lifestyles don’t get there by accident. It’s usually the result of carefully calculated habits and time management. Overall, minimalists value their time and constantly look for ways to set aside more of it for meaningful purposes.

A gift that simplifies daily processes or habits is the ultimate “I get you” statement for those modest folk in your life.

Which Gift Will You Grab for Your Minimalist?

Minimalists are ordinary people trying to balance the answers to two fundamental questions: Do I own my possessions? Or do they own me? By living simpler lives, minimalists emphasize their inner values rather than the sum of their shiny toys.

When you give a thoughtful gift that reflects their inner values, minimalists know that you truly ‘get them,’ and that makes them happy. And that’s the whole point of gift-giving.

Has this list of gift ideas for minimalists been useful? I hope so. There’s a lot here from my wishlists, so maybe a few of these will also tickle the fancy of those special men and women in your life who choose to live modest lives unburdened by mountains of ‘stuff.’

What gifts are you thinking of giving for Christmas, birthdays, weddings, or other special occasions? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Last Updated on March 19, 2024

Affiliate Disclosure : Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links help support this website and keep it 100% ad-free.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

City life: Moscow

With a resurrected trainline, a high-concept park, edgy art spaces and changing attitudes, in moscow old and new are starting to dance — and it's a fascinating show to watch.

A wind orchestra plays in the small park beside Red Square

Inside the moodily lit Moskovsky Bar in the Four Seasons hotel, Ilya, the barman, is making me a Moscow Mule. It's a quiet evening and the ground-floor watering hole is almost empty, but Ilya is performing with a panache that suggests an audience. In goes the vodka with an arc of the arm, lifting the bottle like a ballerina in flight. The ginger beer is added with a splash. Then, like a magician unveiling an assistant who, it transpires, has not been sawn in half, he reveals the secret ingredient: kvas, the Russian version of coca cola, glugged from St Petersburg to Vladivostok in the Soviet era. The final touch has come from just as far. "The ice is from Lake Baikal, in Siberia," he tells me, producing a cube the size of a brick. As he hands me the copper mug I half expect him to say "ta-dah!"

I take the cocktail from him, noticing his tattoos as I do so. Snakes coil their way around his wrist, poking out from underneath his crisp white shirt. For a moment, they throw me, seeming to posit this cool cat of a cocktail maker in Shoreditch, Brooklyn, Kreuzberg or some other hip area of a city that has embraced the 21st century. Not in the Russian capital, where, some might argue, the 20th century is still alive and glowering.

Outside, Moscow is keeping up appearances. Two minutes walk south west, the soldiers who protect the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier — the monument dedicated to Russia's dead from the Second World War — are ending the day in a choreographed march back to barracks. Above them, the wall of the Kremlin looms. Behind this stark red barrier, the lights are on in the Senate building where the Russian president has his office. There's rain on the breeze, and the city is lost in a gloom redolent of Bond films and Le Carré novels. Back in Moskovsky Bar, Ilya reaches for the apricot brandy and asks: "How about a Pavlovan Mystery?" There'll be no frosty relations tonight. At least, not in here.

Despite its old-fashioned elements, however, in Moscow old and new are starting to dance ­— and it's fascinating to watch the show. On a Saturday morning I glimpse their faltering steps, their unsure foxtrot. It's 22 April, Lenin's birthday and a fortuitous time to be in Red Square. A crowd of well-wishers has congregated at the revolutionary icon's tomb to mark the anniversary. The red flags of the Russian Communist Party are waved in the misty air. Three elderly gentlemen, stooped and frail, are assisted by a son or daughter towards the tomb. Adjacent on the slippery cobbles, millennial Moscow looks on in bemusement and then passes by. There are selfies to be taken, smartphone conversations to be had and trainers to be bought in GUM, a department store that faces the mausoleum. Mirroring the trio of septuagenarian soldiers saluting their hero, metres away three teenage girls skip through the shop's giant entrance, arms linked, giggling in unison.

But it's too simplistic to say that Russia in 2017 is witnessing a schism between yesterday and tomorrow. Moscow is being pulled slowly and subtly in all manner of directions — by financial changes; by a glacial infrastructure overhaul; by cultural undercurrents; by the motion of youth and social media. Each tugs at the moorings of tradition, politics and ingrained attitudes. The process isn't tearing the city apart, but it's certainly stretching the stitches.

Some of the signs are obvious. Moya Ulitsa ('My Street') is an ambitious, overdue programme that began in 2014 to remove the city's electrical cables from overhead pylons and bury them beneath the pavement. In a metropolis of 13 million residents, it has only added to the traffic chaos — jams are constant. Some of the gridlock has been eased by the resurrection of the Moscow Central Circle, a 34-mile ring railway line around the centre. It was initially constructed in 1908, closed to passengers in 1934, and reconfigured as a fast commuter service last September. Travellers can ride it to Delovoy Tsentr station and the Moscow City business district, an image of 'new Russia', where buildings like the 1,227ft-tall Federation Tower scratch at the heavens.

A mile south west of the Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour encapsulates Russia waltzing between old and new. It was originally built between 1839 and 1883 in thanks for Russia's deliverance from Napoleon, but was obliterated by dynamite on Stalin's orders in 1931, in the epoch of state atheism. Its replacement was built between 1990 and 2000 under the more benevolent eyes of Mikhail Gorbachev and Boris Yeltsin, a looming giant of white walls and gold domes that admires its reflection in the River Moskva.

And yet, though a child in years, the cathedral belongs to a Russia of unflinching centuries. It was here, on 21 February 2012, that the all-female rock band Pussy Riot played a guerilla gig, an act of political defiance aimed at Vladimir Putin that would see three of its members tried on charges of hooliganism motivated by religious hatred, and jailed for nearly two years in the harshest case. Watch the YouTube video of the incident and it appears utterly innocuous, but standing in the same vast space on a Saturday lunchtime, I'm suddenly not surprised that it provoked such a severe response. This cathedral represents the Russia of fervent Orthodox faith and extreme devotion. Elaborate mosaics and frescoes adorn the walls. The aroma of incense floats on the air. Women in headscarves rub tirelessly at brass candle stands, quietly angered by the wax that drips from burning wicks.

It's beautiful but stifling, an improbable context for protest, and I feel the need to flee to the roof, where an observation deck offers views of a shapeshifting conurbation. Moscow City is visible in the distance, but the past is also swarthily insistent. In the distance I spy the Seven Sisters, the septet of colossal gothic skyscrapers, commissioned by Stalin between 1947 and 1953 and an inalienable part of the Moscow skyline. They are magnificent in size and scope, serving as (among other things) Moscow State University, the five-star Hotel Ukraina and its luxury sibling the Hotel Leningradskaya. But with clouds gathering behind them, they also resemble hands clawing their way up from a grave.

Going underground The sense of a Russia braced against dissent is amplified by a ride south-west on the tube. The Moscow metro is a masterpiece, surely the planet's most spectacular subterranean transit system, but it pledges visual allegiance to the Soviet straitjacket. Park Kultury station, on Line 1, is a Stalinist celebration of Russian prowess, the concourse between its platforms peppered with marble statues of godlike youths, carved between 1931 and 1935: gorgeous boys reading literature, aspiring actors performing, athletic girls triumphing at tennis. It was carved out between 1931 and 1935, and does not seem too concerned that the world has moved on.

But a defiant flame flickers above ground. At first glance, Gorky Park — Moscow's prime green enclave — would seem to toe the party line as well, named after Russian literary giant and Stalin's favourite author Maxim Gorky, and featuring an enormous seven-archway entrance that booms with Soviet grandeur. The year 1955 is imprinted on its facade next to Lenin's face.

Yet inside, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art is a clever question mark, probing at the fabric of the society around it. Its moniker is a red herring, referring to the former bus depot in which it was originally housed. It now occupies the shell of the Vremena Goda ('seasons of the year') restaurant, the park's culinary focal point in the Soviet decades. A mosaic of a female autumn clad in orange still adorns the main hall. The whole gallery, in fact, might be an act of misdirection, showcasing art that could be considered critical of the status quo, yet which wraps its barbs in ambiguity. 'Numbers', a 2015 work by the 28-year-old Chechen artist Aslan Gaisumov examines the destruction of his home city of Grozny by Russian forces in 1999. It reconstructs a street via the silent device of fixing salvaged house numbers — one to 99 — to a board. The reasons for the gaps' placement, in a pattern that approximates a mouth of broken teeth, are left to your interpretation. Similarly, photos by Anastasia Bogomolova capture the bleak mundanity of life in the city of Bakal (1,000 miles east of Moscow), without explicitly stating that it was born out of slavery, the site of one of Stalin's Gulags from 1941 to 1943.

Russia's left field is also identifiable two miles east of the Kremlin at Winzavod, another contemporary art hub cocooned in a onetime brewery and wine factory. Travelling to find it feels like a journey beneath the city's skin. Line 5 of the metro goes both above and below ground, surfacing next to Kurskaya railway station, from which drab armies of carriages trundle off in search of Moscow's southern suburbs. Further on, it passes through narrow roads lined with warehouses and splattered with graffiti. The gallery is entirely at home in this post-industrial realm. Since 2007, its brick outhouses have displayed the work of many of the country's brightest young visionaries and will continue to do so this summer via its Farewell to Eternal Youth exhibition. Video artist Evgeny Granilschikov will take centre stage until 16 July, and sculptor Irina Korina will come into focus for two months from 15 August. Both will enjoy audiences larger than you might expect of so scuffed a location. Hidden in the corner of the compound, diner-drinkery Kraftwerk is testament to Winzavod's popularity. A chalkboard behind the bar lists 29 beers, with titles as evocative as Red Sonya and Fucking Perfect. A DJ booth promises loud, late nights. I ask the waitress dashing between tables what time it closes. "We're open until our last customer leaves," she says with a shrug that suggests she is used to lengthy shifts.

A fragment of a less introverted, more expressive Russia? Maybe. And maybe Zaryadye Park, Moscow's current big creative project, is part of the same thing. Here is a flight of fantasy — a green lung. Due for completion in 2018, the space will incorporate everything from ecological zones that represent the flora of the Russian landscape to an orchestral concert hall and a half-bridge made from glass that will jut partially out over the Moskva River. That this will be the first new park in Moscow in 50 years is remarkable. That it's being crafted to the blueprint of Diller Scofidio + Renfro, the New York design team who created Manhattan's iconic High Line walkway, is even more so. That this place of public promenade will sit directly next door to the Kremlin, on the footprint of the demolished Rossiya Hotel, the 3,000-room kraken that became an emblem of squat Soviet sixties architecture, seems almost impossible to conceive.

"Part of the idea is to open up the city for pedestrians," Timur Bashkaev, one of the architects responsible for the interiors of some of Zaryadye's futuristic buildings, tells me as we examine a scale model of the site at his office in the shadow of Christ the Saviour. "People will walk out of Red Square and into the park. It will alter the centre."

Later that day I take a stroll to inspect it, peering over wooden barricades to spy on the work in progress. All around, 20-something Muscovites are scurrying into the dusk, aiming for the shops of the Okhotny Ryad mall, a retail temple wedded to American capitalism with such enthusiasm that it offers Dunkin' Donuts. But around the corner, guards are still statuesque at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Mother Russia watching her children, uncertain where the future will carry them.

Getting there & around British Airways flies direct from Heathrow to Moscow's Domodedovo Airport, which lies 26 miles south east of the city centre. Russian national carrier Aeroflot serves Heathrow and Gatwick from Sheremetyevo Airport, 18 miles north west of the Kremlin. The Moscow Metro covers the city in depth and, including the Moscow Central Circle, it incorporates 15 lines, 245 miles of track and 237 stations. Single journeys are R55 (75p). The Aeroexpress aeroexpress.ru train service links Sheremetyevo and Domodedovo airports to the centre (the Belorussky and Paveletsky train terminals respectively), from R420 (£5.75) one way.

When to go The Russian winter can be notoriously fierce, but Moscow can hit temperatures of 23C in July and August. September, with average temperatures of around 16C, is also an ideal month to visit.

Places mentioned Bolshoi Theatre Cathedral of Christ the Saviour Four Seasons hotel Garage Museum GUM Kraftwerk Kremlin Museum Winzavod

More info visitrussia.org.uk

How to do it Steppes Travel , a Russia specialist, offers five-day breaks at the Four Seasons hotel, B&B, from £1,975 per person, including British Airways flights, a private guide, transfers and visa assistance.

Follow @LeadbeaterChris

Published in the Jul/Aug 2017 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

• Travel and Adventure

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

Read Next: Things To Do on Socotra

To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

How to Get a Decent Haircut in a Foreign Country

Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Travel Itinerary for One Week in Beijing

If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

How I Planned My Trip to Vietnam

The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

Places to Visit in Barcelona That Aren’t Beaches

First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

20 Travel Tips I’ve Learned From Travelling The World

There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

12 Stunning National Parks and Regional Parks In France

If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

How To Stop Procrastinating When Trip Planning

Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

Two Weeks In Thailand: The Perfect 14-Day Itinerary

I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

You Will Also Like: 3-Day London Itinerary

Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

How to Save Money While Traveling in Europe

The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

JOIN MY FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER!

Email Address *

YOU WILL ALSO LIKE

10 Dishes You Must Try When Going To Moscow

15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips Close to Moscow

When Is the Best Time To Visit Russia

24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

My website uses cookies so that I can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to my website and helping me to understand which sections of Mind The Travel you find most interesting and useful.

You can adjust all of your cookie settings by navigating the tabs on the left hand side.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that I can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, I will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit my website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• United Arab Emirates
• Switzerland
• The Netherlands
• Puerto Rico
• United States
• New Zealand
• ➨ Choose from World Map
• Budget Travel
• Family Travel
• Getting Around
• Visas & Passports
• Work with Us

Browsing Category

• Czech Republic
• Saint Martin
• Uncategorized

Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

Leave a comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Meet The Author - Greg

Recent Post

How Much Does a Trip to Egypt Cost: Budget Breakdown

March 10, 2024

Best Time to Visit the India Gate in Delhi [2024]

March 1, 2024

Flying with a Sinus Infection: Tips to Avoid Pain

February 20, 2024

11 Best Things to Do in Breckenridge Besides Skiing

February 12, 2024

10 Best Beaches in Mexico for Families (We Lived Here)

February 3, 2024

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

Things minimalists never have in a living room

'In a minimalist living room, every item is meticulously chosen and placed, ensuring that the space breathes tranquility and order,' says Tadas Pukas CEO and founder of Minimalistic Linen .

Here are some specifics that you won't find in a minimalist space.

1. Excessive, bulky furniture

'Minimalist living rooms steer clear of bulky, oversized furniture,' says Elizabeth Grace , founder of Dream Home Making. 'Instead, opt for sleek, streamlined pieces that serve a specific purpose.'

This means they typically steer clear of oversized or unnecessary pieces such as bulky chairs, couches, and multiple coffee tables.

Instead, minimalists focus on a few carefully chosen, subtle but impactful and versatile pieces that serve their intended purpose without overwhelming the space.

Streamlined, multifunctional furniture options can be ideal in a minimalist living space where to goal is to avoid visual clutter since these can reduce the appearance of a busy living space.

Was $598.00, now $358.80

Tuck all your items away using this storage bench, the perfect item to the minimalistic appearance in your living room.

This coffee table is the perfect spacious coffee table for a minimalist living space, with clean lines and warm natural oak wood.

Designed with velvet upholstery, this chair promotes the ultimate cozy and comfortable feel. Whilst it comes in a range of colors, this 'gold' shade is perfect for fall. 

2. Over-the-top patterns and textures

Minimalists always avoid excessive patterns and prints, from ornate wallpapers, heavily patterned rugs or curtains, to busy upholstery fabrics.

'Complex, tight patterns and floral designs are avoided as they tend to draw unnecessary attention and complicate the visual aesthetic,' explains Tadas Pukas.

'Similarly, minimalists shy away from fussy rugs, such as those with intricate Moroccan or Persian designs. The aim is to select unassuming, neutral-colored rugs that complement rather than dominate the space.'

Instead, they choose solid, neutral colors or subtle, minimalist patterns with clean lines or geometric patterns if needed, to maintain a serene atmosphere.'

3. Decorative clutter

'When we talk about what minimalists don't have in a living room , we're referring to a key idea of minimalism: purposefully excluding what's not needed,' explains James Scaife, owner of Olson and Baker . 'Minimalists bid farewell to clutter and knick-knacks. Instead, they opt for clean, unobstructed surfaces that evoke a sense of serenity.'

'Open shelves and coffee tables adorned with an assortment of knick-knacks and clutter disrupt the minimalist aesthetic,' advises Elizabeth Grace.

Minimalists opt for a more simplified and purposeful approach, with décor pieces that hold personal significance or add to the overall aesthetic without overcrowding the space.

 suggests 'Steer clear of excessive ornamentation. Every decor piece is chosen for both aesthetics and utility.

Minimalists also keep coffee tables clutter-free. When it comes to items never to store on a coffee table for a minimalistic aesthetic, Avoid filling it with too many items. 'Avoid stacks of magazines, remote controls, or an abundance of decorative items,' says Artem Kropovinsky, founder of Arsight . 'Unnecessary clutter is a minimalist's pet peeve. Select a few carefully curated items or a single statement piece,' adds Artem Kropovinsky.

'Then, there are those open shelves. They're trendy, no doubt, but in a minimalist setting, they can quickly turn into showcases for all our odds and ends,' says Ryan Fitzgerald, owner of Raleigh Realty . 'Closed storage or built-ins are a smarter choice here. They hide those items that we don't necessarily want on display, ensuring the living area maintains that clean, peaceful feel.' If you do opt for open shelves, ensure you have a well-balanced and limited display of items.

So, a minimalist living room, embrace concealed storage solutions to keep the living room tidy and uncluttered. Floating cabinets or closed bookcases can help achieve this.

4. Saturated color palettes

'Minimalist color palettes use soft, neutral colors to create a calm atmosphere,' says James Scaife. 'Bold, contrasting and busy patterns are replaced with simplicity,' for a sense of calm and cohesion. 

Tadas Pukas adds, 'The color palette in a minimalist living room is restrained, often built upon a neutral base, perhaps with soft, complementary colors like deep blues or blush pinks. The key is to avoid having too many competing colors in one space, ensuring a serene and visually soothing environment. 

This applies to all elements in the living room: 'Cushions, if used, adhere to a cohesive color scheme or pattern, ensuring unity and avoiding clashes.'

5. Overly large and busy artwork

'While art can be a beautiful addition to a minimalist living room, avoid oversized or dominating pieces that overpower the space. Minimalists favor subtle and meaningful art that complements rather than dominates,' says Artem Kropovinsky.

'When it comes to art, it's amazing how the right piece can light up a room. But crowding the walls with too many pieces, especially if they don't quite mesh, can be overwhelming,' agrees Ryan Fitzgerald, 'The solution is to focus on one or two standout items that really resonate, and let them take center stage.

'You'll see that minimalism is a lot about choosing, and in a world that has SO many items, choosing what to have and being happy with it is the real cornerstone of a living room!'

While you can still choose artwork that stands out, it should be in its simplicity that it acts as an anchor for your minimalist living room decor, rather than because it is busy and therefore eye-catching. 

Anthropologie has a range of minimalist wall art to inspire you.

6. Excessive electronics

'While technology has its place, minimalists often eschew large, dominating screens like oversized televisions, preferring to focus on other design elements,' says James Scaife. 

'Keep the number of electronic gadgets to a minimum. Avoid excessive entertainment systems or multiple screens,' recommends Elizabeth Grace. 'Conceal wires and opt for sleek, modern technology that seamlessly integrates into the room's design. '

Jacky Chou principal and director at Archute agrees, 'Minimalists keep TVs discreetly tucked away, perhaps hidden in a cabinet or mounted on the wall, with cords and accessories veiled from plain view.'

For example, this square accent cabinet from Wayfair can keep this visual clutter hidden.

7. Excessive throw pillows

Resist the temptation to load your seating with an abundance of throw pillows. 

'Too many pillows can transform your living space from cozy to cluttered in the blink of an eye. In minimalism, a restrained approach is crucial,' advises Jacky Chou. 'A select number of well-coordinated pillows, in tune with your color scheme and furniture, is best.'

For ultimate warmth this fall, this pillow is guaranteed to bring the cozy-factor to either the bedroom or living room. It's neutral color means it pairs well with lots of design styles. 

8. Heavy window treatments

'Heavy curtains or elaborate window treatments can disrupt the minimalist flow of natural light,' says Elizabeth Grace, 'Instead, opt for sheer or light-filtering window coverings that maintain a sense of openness and simplicity.'

Jacky Chou also explains, 'While curtains do a splendid job of blocking out undesirable rays and noises, at times, they can do this job too well. Since minimalists love natural light and invigorating breezes, they opt for blinds or shades. This ensures that sunshine reigns supreme and their space is regulated for privacy. Also, the options they choose create simplicity and harmony with the wall color.'

Is ornate decor minimalist?

Ornate decorative items are not typically part of minimalist style .

'Ornate, overly embellished decor items have no place in a minimalist living room,' says Elizabeth Grace, founder of Dream Home Making. 'Say no to intricate picture frames, heavily adorned mirrors, or overly detailed sculptures. Instead, choose simple, clean-lined decor pieces that add visual interest without overwhelming the space.'

Minimalists create a relaxing environment by removing unnecessary things and reducing visual clutter, helping them to feel more connected to their space.

To create an inviting minimalist living room, choose only simple, intentional, peaceful, and aesthetically pleasing decorative items.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Riding in Style on Japanese Trains

Luxurious rail cars offer countryside views with a range of cultural itineraries and budgets.

By Vivian Morelli

Reporting from Tokyo

Japan’s public transportation is known for its punctuality, efficiency and high-quality service, which means train travel is a great way to see the countryside and to experience Japanese culture — even if you’re squeezed into Tokyo’s crowded Yamanote line at rush hour or experiencing the popular high-speed Shinkansen bullet train .

But many savvy visitors crisscross the country in another way, using luxury trains that resemble five-star hotels on rails.

Luxury rail travel appeals to “someone who wants slow travel, the experience of excellent service in a contained environment, the finest dining, the most exquisite accommodation with private bathrooms,” Simon Pielow, co-founder of the Luxury Train Club , said by phone from Wiltshire County, England. “Things that many people have no idea is possible on anything other than a royal train.”

One trip chartered by his agency starts and ends at Hakata station in the city of Fukuoka, crossing the southern Japanese island of Kyushu on the Seven Stars , a seven-car luxury sleeper train. Journeys for either two days and one night (per person, double occupancy) range from 650,000 to 900,000 yen (about $4,292 to $5,942), or four days and three nights from ¥1.2 million to ¥1.6 million. (A single supplement would apply.)

“The train is very much sought-after because of the quality of the service on the train and its exclusivity,” Mr. Pielow said. “The people who come to us are desperate to travel on the train.”

With limited space, most would-be travelers need to apply several months in advance.

The Seven Stars, or Nanatsuboshi in Japanese, was named in part after the number of its carriages, in part after the seven prefectures of Kyushu: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki and Kagoshima, and for seven of the main attractions of the region, including its nature, food and hot springs. (Other stars have been known to ride these rails: The actress and producer Margot Robbie told Vogue last year that she and her husband had traveled to Japan in part to ride the Seven Stars.)

The train consists of a lounge car, a bar, a tatami-mat tearoom and a souvenir shop, as well as eight 108-square-foot private rooms and two larger suites, the biggest measuring 226 square feet.

Guests don’t necessarily have to spend all their time on board. They can also get off to participate in activities such as a guided walk along the Wakimoto coast, a seaside area of Kagoshima Prefecture, that lasts about an hour.

Meals can be consumed aboard the train or at restaurants along the way, and one night can be spent in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn.

So how does that work on a train? Some stops last an hour or more, enough time for guest excursions. But often, the train will keep rolling and pick up the guests at a later station.

But there also are other luxury trains in Japan. (Seven Stars and the Shiki-Shima, detailed below, can be booked from overseas. The others listed here must be booked from within Japan.)

The Twilight Express Mizukaze is an Art Deco-inspired sleeper train decorated from traditional crafts such as pottery and cut glass. Onboard entertainment includes a tea ceremony, live music and a signature cocktail from the bar. Five routes are offered, including a two-day, one night one-way trip and a three-day, two-night round trip. A suite includes a private balcony and bathroom with a tub at ¥875,000 for a shorter journey and ¥1.4 million for a longer one. A “royal” twin room with windows on both sides of the car was recently listed at ¥385,000 per person, double occupancy.

The Aru Ressha is known as a “dessert train” that runs between Hakata and Yufuin in Kyushu. The one-way, three-hour itinerary is just enough time to indulge in appetizer, fish, meat and dessert courses for ¥35,000 per person. The train is decorated with black and gold arabesques on the outside and baroque styling inside.

The Spacia X offers a more budget-minded luxury experience. This six-carriage train equipped with plush sofas and private lounges links Tokyo to Nikko, a picturesque city in Tochigi Prefecture. Simran Nagra, a 33-year-old Canadian actuary who lives in Tokyo, used the train for a two-hour, ¥3,840 trip in July to the hot springs resort of Kinugawa Onsen. “I was really excited to ride it because it’s a luxury train, but has very affordable pricing,” she said. “The windows are huge and hexagonal, to highlight the views,” she said, and the cafe car featured Nikko specialties including craft beer on tap, two types of sake and locally sourced coffee.

GranClass was the choice out of necessity for the Australian journalist Jake Sturmer, 35, and his wife, Rachel, in 2018. “We had just moved to Japan, some friends invited us on a trip, and the only seat available for us to travel was on GranClass,” he said, referring to the first-class cabin on the Shinkansen. “What a luxury it was,” he said, mentioning the large, cushy seats, the hot towels to cleanse hands and faces, and bento boxes they were served during a two-hour ride from Tokyo to Iiyama in Nagano Prefecture.

The Train Suite Shiki-Shima was created to contribute to the recovery from the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in northern Japan.

Riders can choose from four seasonal routes lasting from one to three nights and departing from Tokyo. One goes northward along the Sea of Japan to Hakodate and the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park in Hokkaido Prefecture. Another is a wintertime itinerary through the snowy Tohoku region, where guests will get off the train to view traditional dancing and participate in woodwork or sewing workshops with local artisans. Prices range from ¥420,000 to ¥1.3 million per person, based on double occupancy in a sleeper car.

Shinobu Ohashi, 34, a paper-cutting artist who lives and works in Saitama, Japan, used the Shiki-Shima in December 2020 and April 2022. “I wanted to experience the design of the Shiki-Shima train, which I had seen on TV and in magazines, and the hospitality provided,” she wrote in an email.

The attention to detail impressed her: “When my companion complimented the garnishes that were offered only to the women on the dishes,” she said, “he was then also brought the same ones. We were both surprised.”

During one trip the cherry blossoms in Hakodate were in full bloom, she said: “We were taken to a cherry blossom viewing spot that was not on the trip schedule.”

The train has special meaning for her. “I am from the Tohoku region, from Fukushima Prefecture,” she said. “Even though a lot of time has passed since the March 11, 2011, earthquake and tsunami in Japan, I believe that Shiki-Shima is a reassuring presence.”