How to Pack Lighter | Minimalist Travel

[@joshfenn]

In the wilderness backpacking community they say you 'pack your fears'. I think this 'just in case' type of mentality can be even more extreme for normal travelers. What did you end up not using on your last trip?

[@WhenWillILearn]

I'm always fighting the 'just in case' but the inner minimalist tends to win. Last thing I didn't use probably would be my drone. Never use that thing.

[@joshfenn]

I’m right there with you most of the time. Interesting to hear about the drone, that’s what I assume for myself too and the main reason outside of finances for not picking one up yet. The restrictions as well seem like there’s nowhere to fly it during most of the places I would like to as well.

[@WhenWillILearn]

@@joshfenn I got into drones years ago, it was different back then you could almost fly where you wanted (within reason) and I just can't seem to shake the idea of having one (switched to the Mavic mini because finances 😁) even though it never comes out of the bag.

[@microMobilidade]

Extra notepad. I find it better to carry a small one and then if I really need one I can go shopping and have a local item

[@bentuinstra4441]

@Miller Anson SCAM

[@reddogdude]

I traveled over 25,000 air miles in the last non-pandemic year and consider myself a light traveler. I also use only one bag for quick-hitter (up to 5 days) domestic travel but we approach packing very differently. I pack with the things that I’m actually going to do in mind while it seems to me that you are packing light for the sake of packing light. You will never convince me to skip packing a small, travel tube of actual tooth paste (you won’t ever convince your dentist that you should do without it for 4 - 5 days, either) or skimp on socks and underwear. BTW, an extra set of socks and underwear takes up almost no room and if you ever do need them, you’ll feel like a genius for having them. Different strokes, tho. Happy travels.

[@joshfenn]

Glad you found a setup that’s working well for you! This was definitely meant to be referenced as a base template to add based on your situation and preferences, so not a perfect setup for everyone in every situation.

[@reddogdude]

Thanks for the reply,@@joshfenn. I agree with you totally that different methods apply to different needs. Your vid made me stop to think about what I do - which is a very good thing. Thanks for that. Seriously, tho, pack some extra socks and skivvies dude! 🙂

[@olguineb38]

You make so happy. Most people's 'minimalist travel tips' have them packing 7 shirts and 3 different kinds of bottoms. Thanks for staying true to the minimal side of packing!

[@joshfenn]

Thanks so much for the support!

[@oldsoldier181]

Rule of thumb: never pack for more than 3 days. No matter where you are going, you can wash clothes in a sink, or even buy clothes locally. I dont think I have ever packed for more than 3 days since my military days. Even 10 days in Scotland, I traveled with only a backpack. I simply washed clothes every other night in our hotel room. Takes all of 5 minutes.

[@joshfenn]

Definitely a great strategy, thanks for sharing with everybody!

[@davoshaunessy3428]

Awesome for going thru customs toooooooooooooooooo

[@josephturner4047]

I lived with this amount of kit for four months in Scotland visiting rellies when I got invited to stay for Chrimbo.

[@porcupine783]

That works if you aren’t a girl that wants fabric softener and dryer sheets involved lol

[@oldsoldier181]

@@porcupine783 Well then, it works for me :)

[@biohzrd8164]

This is by FAR the most realistic packing advice I have seen online!

[@joshfenn]

Thanks for the support!

[@JDG.RealEstate]

Excellent video. I don’t think I can go that light, but the logic for deciding what should be carried it’s awesome! This should reduce my luggage to just carry on. Thank you so much!

[@joshfenn]

Glad to hear that! I know this is definitely on the extreme end, but I treat it more like a template and add things around this ‘core’ depending on the individual trip needs. Enjoy your next trip!

[@jonmnelson]

Great video. I packed like this for 10 days in Sweden and the Netherlands in December 2019 and it was perfect. Everything I brought fit in a 25 liter backpack. I did wash my (merino wool) underwear and shirts a few times in the hotel sink at night and was ready to roll by morning. Traveling light with just one small bag is so freeing!

[@joshfenn]

So glad the lightweight setup worked well for you too, thanks for sharing!

[@eladbari]

About Merino Wool Socks/Shirts > Is it recommended to buy 1-size larger since this fabric shrinks a lot, so I hear?

[@jonmnelson]

@@eladbari I just buy my normal size and haven’t had any issues with shrinking.

[@CanBurakGun]

how did you wash them? Did you use only water?

[@booklover11976]

this is the most minimalist packing video ive seen and ive been watching a lot of them. definitely shows that less is more👍

[@joshfenn]

Thanks so much for the support, glad you enjoyed the video!

[@africanmermaid234]

I completely agree! We really don’t need a lot if we’re brutally honest about our intentions. Two items I might personally add is some earrings and a pashmina, which can become a scarf or shawl or sun cover.

[@eugenekey4997]

Good starting base, especially for international travel, is to get your phone, passport and money. All else should be considered as extras, and hence be approached with a very minimalistic diligence.

[@birkins1]

I’ve watched a few of these minimalist travel packing and this is by far the best. A common sense approach to lightweight travel, nice 👍 my only addition would be a quick dry town and board shorts if I was on a proper vacation

[@joshfenn]

Thanks so much for the kind words, glad you enjoyed it! Could definitely see the shorts coming in handy depending on the trip.

[@geraldmcmullon2465]

For nearly any trip two complete outfits. I have been caught out in the rain and got soaked. I have had accidents with food and liquids split onto me. Many of my clothes can be washed and dried over night - if there is a place I can hang them to dry off. I have carried sleeping bags liners but didn't need it. I didn't need a microfibre towel but still found it useful for drying off clothes that I washed in the sink.

[@joshfenn]

Glad the towel has been useful for you!

[@susie9893]

Agree with most of your choices but, (and maybe it's different with your family), I think a dress shirt (or a dress, whatever is appropriate) is always a good idea cos I generally get dragged out for an occasion that I didn't plan on and didn't want when I'm home with family. Trips home to family are completely different to other forms of travel imo (and that's not including all the stuff family insist you bring home with you)

[@joshfenn]

I totally understand that! Luckily my family is usually pretty casual so it’s not an issue but definitely an important note for some. The family trips are usually quite a bit different, totally agree haha.

[@2StrokeDust]

I had to adopt minimalistic packing as I started to travel by motorcycle a lot and I started out with one of those traveling/hiking backpacks. I quickly learnt that rolling up your clothes and putting them vertically saves lots of space. I usually didn't have to pack a lot of shirts and pants as I was mostly wearing my riding gear. For warm months I packed flip flops (personal preference, I love flip flops, some hate them), but for colder months I packed some really slip on sneakers that I could basically fold in half and pack them in a side pocket. For toiletries, I put my tooth brush and tooth paste (one of those small container ones) into a zip bag and just stuffed it in with my shoes. Packed a small microfiber towel and some 3 in 1 shampoo and a small deodorant. For tech I usually only carried my phone and a powerbank, sometimes my GoPro and chargers + batteries. Headphones I used my in-ear headphones and just plugged them into my phone which I used as GPS to listen to music while on the road. One last tip I learnt, get some kind of small duffle bag or one of those foldable backpacks and put them into your large backpack. Unpacking all your stuff and using the big backpack is unhandy and annoying on a motorcycle. Hope I could help out someone with my experiences, love y'all!

[@joshfenn]

Definitely some good pointers/examples in here, thanks for sharing your setup!

[@indycog]

Perfectly put, be honest with yourself and pack accordingly. We were brought up on extra socks, undies, and outfits for each day. Its definitely overkill. I've never used any of those things on my numerous out of country trips. Also hand washing your own close in a sink is a big saver! I've done this with socks in the UK.

[@joshfenn]

Those just in case type of items can definitely creep in and load up your travel bag without realizing. Love the sing washing too, thanks for the support on this one!

[@dtwomack]

I just rewatched this for the 3rd or 4th time over the past month or so. After traveling a few times in the past two months, MAN do I get it now! My trip home at Thanksgiving will be much different. Thanks for the videos and your perspective. Keep it up.

[@joshfenn]

So glad to hear that, thanks for the support!

[@CalThompson-oj2kk]

Wear on the flight - Dark jeans, white leather tennis shoes, white T-shirt, white oxford, silkie shorts, socks, jacket, belt, wristwatch, wallet. Pack in bag - pair shorts, pair of khakis, 3 t-shirts (black, blue, charcoal), light blue oxford, sweater, blazer, 7 silkie shorts (multipurpose underwear/workout/swim), 7 pairs socks, flip-flops, micro towel, small toiletries kit, electronics kit, sunglasses, laundry bag. That's it. It fits into a standard personal item, so no paying for a carry-on. It takes under 5 minutes to completely pack. It gives you outfits for every scenario short of the red carpet. I lived an entire summer with just this kit, and never once felt out of place or like I was missing anything.

[@joshfenn]

Sounds like a great setup! Glad it working well for you and I appreciate you sharing.

[@Youbeentagged]

And then there's my mom, who sabotages my every effort to pack light.

[@joshfenn]

Just gotta do your best until you’re on your own for your trips!

[@putojustinbiberxd]

I really feel you

[@JD-vi7pk]

Exactly. "WhY dOn'T yOu PaCk AnOtHeR pAiR Of ShOeS jUsT iN cAsE"... No, mom, I'm going to travel wearing my waterproof shoes, so the chances to get them soaked wet are 0%, and I won't need another pair...

[@222-q7w]

Just travel without her or say one small only or you stay at home.

[@Youbeentagged]

@@222-q7w yes, I travel without her, she still interrupts my packing though.

[@gayemarianesfox2405]

You are so right about being honest with ourselves. We pack for a lot of “maybes”’. Great video!

[@joshfenn]

Thanks for the support!

[@abeeby83]

One day I'd like to see a cold weather minimalist packing, for a woman expected at events in dresses and heels. Extra pair of shoes is a must (you can't spend a weekend in heels, or at least I can't), and extra layers and warm pyjamas are essential. I always see minimalist for warm weather and usually guys, who have different dress codes and expectations than women do, esp if it's a business trip. A family weekend trip though for me...this is perfect - except for the socks. I never re-wear socks ever.

[@joshfenn]

This was kind of a minimum/starting base load out meant to add and adjust as needed. Definitely add the second pair of shoes in your case, and I always will add layers as needed depending on the weather for where I’m traveling. 👍

[@johann_espiritu]

Lovely. A workaround for the Kindle, too: there's a Kindle app one may download for their phone in case they really want to read on the trip. Just make sure to sync your books before you leave and you're good to go!

[@joshfenn]

For sure! This is what I do when I’m backpacking outdoors and trying to save weight as well.

[@thecapone45]

Wow. This video was great. A nice mix of “urban EDC” with rugged EDC. A lot of videos were too preppy for me, too “Gucci travel bag” for me with bags that I wouldn’t buy because they’re not quality bags. I’ve got a nice leather backpack and I couldn’t find a good video to display how some people would pack that. Great video.

[@joshfenn]

Thanks so much!

[@bolivian_surfer]

I'm just a couple of hours away from a 4 day trip, looking for some tips to travel light and found this video, awesome content!

[@joshfenn]

So glad to hear this, enjoy your trip!

[@jigneshdarji9104]

Okay, just learned about Castile soap (Dr. Bronner's soap) and my mind is blown. Life will never be the same again.

[@joshfenn]

It’s great!

[@camkib]

I broke a nail at church the one day i decided to leave my clippers at home. It was very painful and snagged on everything. Never again!

[@joshfenn]

I can definitely appreciate that, everyone’s situation will be different. 👍👍

[@222-q7w]

Just use a stone picked up along the way. Actually works the same way. I am a lady.

[@whyurlapsmellsgood69]

Depending on where you are, I have found that finding a store, hotel desk, or friend/family who can provide nail clippers for you isn't a terrible struggle. You did great though and made it a learning process. You can start minimal and slowly learn what you need more as you go along, as long as you're still intentional with what you carry. Good luck on your minimal travel journey!

[@LiLBitsDK]

yeah, you can get the SMALL version of the nailclippers he shows in the video, takes up NO space... have it with me... ALWAYS

[@randallweems662]

I went to Vegas on vacation with my wife who was going to a conference & I chose to pack like this. It was the most freeing experience ever. I wore a set of dress clothes on the plane incase I went to breakfast or dinner with the wife & her colleges. aside from that I had a few black merino wool t shirts, a pair of swim trunks, some nike ultra light pants, my cell phone, dop kit similar to yours(also bearded) & that was about it. My goal is to do a cruise or something in the future where we bring nothing but our clothes & some cash. swim suit will stay clean with swimming & the shirt can be washed & hung to dry nightly or when needed. thanks for the video

[@joshfenn]

So glad to hear this! I know exactly how you feel, it’s really freeing and can get kind of addictive seeing how little you can bring and still be comfortable. Thanks for sharing and have fun packing on future trips!

[@unfi6798]

Hi Josh, I'm your new sub & a season traveler both internationally & nationally, urban & outback country etc. I go places where no human would even think about it. I must say that I am very impressed with this segment. You definitely got it down pack to the last T.! Further more it is Functional. You have a new follower now. Thank you for sharing. Stay safe mate. Greetings from Australia.

[@joshfenn]

Thanks so much for the support, glad to hear you’re enjoying the videos!

[@eiya3]

I used to always take a full roller suitcase if I was going anywhere for longer than one night. Can't believe I did that for so long! Finally started to cut down to less and less stuff for trips using the car/public transport a while ago and now I have my first international flight in a long time coming up and it's like the culmination of everything, going to be just me and my backpack catching that flight! Can't wait to waltz right past everyone waiting for their suitcase on the luggage carousel when I get there.

[@joshfenn]

It’s such a great feeling! I was the same way for a lot of years too and now I can’t imagine having to carry around all of the extra!

[@ericrangel1582]

I love my headphones…..I have been on planes with screaming babies so often that there is no way I could give those up. I love your video, it’s amazing!!!!!

[@joshfenn]

Totally get that, I’ve grown to love the ANC in my earbuds but if the bigger cans are important for you it sounds like it’d be well worth the space :)

[@lisabrinker2099]

The best culling down video I’ve ever seen. Thank you so much!

[@joshfenn]

Happy to hear that, thanks for the support!

[@MoreKit]

This is really the truth about packing and living a life. Thanks for sharing!

[@joshfenn]

No problem, thanks for the support!

[@sarah3796]

You don’t want to know how long I’ve worn these merino socks haha. I enjoyed this, it quenched my need for minimalist packing AND culling viewing. Thank you.

[@joshfenn]

Haha, glad you got your fix!

[@AliviaTuttle]

I’m currently watching your video to travel back home to Michigan! It was so cool hearing you’re from there too

[@joshfenn]

That’s awesome! Enjoy your trip ✈️🖐

[@bhikhta]

Bro!! I didn't put in this much work even for my final exams. Genius video dude!

[@joshfenn]

Haha thanks!

[@frankbafumi7025]

This is great. I never thought of packing that way

[@joshfenn]

Appreciate the support on this one!

[@faraazhamza6044]

I ditched my big MacBook Pro for an 11 inch iPad Pro with magic keyboard and it is a great substitute. Having all the functionality in a smaller, more portable size makes me more productive. Maybe you should give it a go, some things just require a proper keyboard and display setup.

[@joshfenn]

Glad the lightweight setup is working well for you! I’ve been wanting to pick up one of the new iPad pros for a while now, my old 2013 iPad Air is basically out of commission now haha. The iPad doesn’t quite work for my video editing workflow so it couldn’t be a full/permanent laptop replacement, but it would be a great upgrade for my general usage otherwise. Hopefully I’ll be able to test it out soon!

[@Mindspectrum]

I once went on a group hike in Scotland and had to take the train part of the way. There was a group of young women there celebrating bachelorette parties. A bottle of chocolate snap landed on my pants. Washing did not help anymore.. My luggage was of course greatly reduced, since it was a hiking trip. So, I sat there at dinner in sweatpants. Since then, I always have a pair of pants more with me and also emergency underwear!

[@ShervinShares]

I wear the same shirt for 1 week, before washing - Merino Wool

[@joshfenn]

Love my merino stuff! Really makes a big difference for multiple wears.

[@ashcabansag3392]

Sir Josh Fenn . Believe me . I love your voice . It’s so relaxing and calming to listen ..

[@joshfenn]

Thank you for letting me know! I worry sometimes that I’m too calm for KZbin, glad it is appreciated.

[@ashcabansag3392]

Mr . Josh Fenn I wish one day I could meet you and atleast have one selfie from you . Heheh

[@missgreenbottles]

This is great. I'm reverting back to some old habits of multiple socks so your tips have helped me to cut down a bit more again😊 only thing I thought I'd just mention is about ibuprofen. I now travel with both paracetamol and ibuprofen. I found out ibuprofen can be more harmful to stomach lining and other organs if taken to much.

[@joshfenn]

So glad the video helped! I’ve definitely heard some horror stories about overuse of ibuprofen, glad you’re being mindful with it!

[@sarahskali8563]

Great video for when I get to travel next; I have been on the one bag only train for 10 years now and just can’t look back.

[@joshfenn]

Same here! About 4 years in myself and I can’t imagine hauling all of that extra around anymore.

[@davoshaunessy3428]

It’s worth it just for the sole destroying look on any custom officers face

[@lefteye129]

Excellent video Josh. It is really necessary to incorporate things we pick up while we travel to amend our carry. One thing you can do is wear a jeans and carry a Chino and other is wear a sport shirt instead of sweat shirt that can provide warmth.

[@joshfenn]

Thanks for the support and sharing your tips!

[@nuvoclassic]

Helpful video! I'm actually going on the same length trip next weekend over the 2021 July4th holiday - 4D/3N staying at a hotel in WI. But I'm going to try to stuff my culled down, minimal wardrobe in packing cubes and then into a 2L hydration back - yikes! You're right - the most important tip is to be realistic about what you are Actually going to do. I enjoy packing videos and practice packing often. As a recovering 'over - packaholic' I appreciate all the packing videos. Thanks - and wish me luck using a 2L daypack!

[@joshfenn]

So happy to hear you’re enjoying the videos, have an awesome trip! 2L is definitely a challenge but I’m sure it’ll be a fun exercise for you :)

[@davoshaunessy3428]

Went to Ja for 2 weeks with a gear bag My favourite tip is to wear a big winter jacket ( stuff all the pockets with underwear an such ) especially with all the luggage restrictions on planes Jacket makes a good blanket as well

[@joshfenn]

Great tip if it’s not too hot where you’re traveling!

[@FRANCOTORO]

Try lemon juice for a deodorant. I carry a small 20ml bottle and it works a treat.

[@joshfenn]

Thanks for the tip, I’ll have to try it out!

[@raymondmay7304]

I'm a new traveling wind tech and I needed to see this.

[@joshfenn]

Glad to hear it helped!

[@Ready2Shoot_309]

This was the tough talk that I needed. Thank you

[@joshfenn]

Glad to hear it!

[@Koinoexiste]

packing is so stressful to me, can even make me have a panic attack! thanks for this video josh

[@joshfenn]

Glad to hear the video helped, hopefully your next time packing is a bit less stressful!

[@jeh02571]

If you roll your close vs folding them (including socks) you can save space too. I wear undershirts so those are a must. Also, I would advise not using Dr Bronners soap for toothpaste..., you can get travel toothpaste that will fit in that smaller travel case you have.

[@joshfenn]

Rolling is great, helps with space and preventing wrinkles. For the toothpaste, I recently switched to solid tabs actually and have been loving it.

[@lordteabelly]

very informative and great to see how minimal you really can be if your strict with yourself. the only thing I definitely wouldn't swap out is the headphones, just because I seem to have a reaction to the 'in ear' pod types and always get rashes inside my ears when I wear them so I stick with overheads now

[@joshfenn]

That’s great! This is mainly just a baseline of ideas to be adjusted and tweaked based on everyone’s individual preferences and needs. Glad the over ear headphones are working well for you and worth carrying!

[@kevinonthank]

Awesome video! So true, just be honest with yourself! If I go on a beach vacation I bring a bathing suit with a liner and wear it at least 3 times. You can swim in it, workout in it and can serve as shorts with built in underwear. Lol

[@joshfenn]

Love it!

[@versexscape7540]

I am about to go on a trip and I am going to test and implement this and let you know how this works! Thanks for the suggestions!

[@joshfenn]

Happy to share!

[@jxsvr]

This was by far the most useful video I've watched, you definetly deserve a sub.

[@joshfenn]

Thanks so much for the support!

[@IdeaStudioBKK]

Great tips josh! I also try my best to travel light, and I do a lot of weekend or mid-week trips, thought because most of my travel is in tropical countries and I sweat like crazy there are no re-wearable shirts for me. LoL. However, for most places I travel to frequently I stay in the same place and will make sure that I either have a washer and dryer in the room or that there is a cleaning service in the hotel. As a bearded man myself, traveling with my beard treatments and tools is key. I don't like to travel with oil, but what I do is get a small tin, like the size of a lip balm tin and transfer some of my beard balm into that and I will just use balm when I am traveling. that size is generally enough to get me through 4-5 days, 6 if i scrape out the edges lol

[@joshfenn]

I could definitely see the tropical spots getting problematic, haha. Usually my trips have been going somewhere colder or the same as Portland the past few years. Good tip on the balm!

[@BirdTurdMemes]

hey vsauce

[@terrariumelio974]

When I traveled for work I would have 2 pair of underwear, 2 t-shirt worn as under shirts and 2 pairs of socks. I'd wash them in the evening when I was traveling for more than a couple of days. I'd put them on or close to the heater once they had stopped dripping. I used the shampoo supplied in the hotel. This worked fine for me.

[@joshfenn]

Love the idea of washing with the hotel shampoo, thanks for sharing!

[@calebbilti538]

great vid, and yes it's pretty extreme but provides great perspective. One pointer is those synthetic shorts that everyone wears. I can pack three of those and they will take up barely any space😂. There's some stuff you won't have to worry about in terms of space, instead worry about, "am I overpacking like a paranoid maniac right now."

[@joshfenn]

Haha absolutely! Synthetics definitely seem to pack up far easier and smaller than thicker cotton and similar fabrics.

[@theninthcloud]

Great video. Seen a lot of other packing videos but I like how you showed a before and after. I generally am a one bag traveler as well but I tend to bring a few more tops and I can't get past the idea of using dr. bronner's for toothpaste *and* soap even if it is a minty soap. But travel toothpaste tubes are also small and last a long time so it's not a big issue

[@joshfenn]

Glad you enjoyed the video! I’m with you on the dr bronners, I’ve started using toothpaste tabs in recent years since I made this one. A few extras is great though if the carry is comfortable, glad your setup is working well!

[@maziarzarea2540]

Leaving all the tech and big camera at home makes the trips so much better. Enjoy living in the moment not worrying about $6000 worth of stuff

[@joshfenn]

For sure!

[@awkwarddog88]

13:55 is my favorite. The only minimal place I can truly claim is my bathroom drawer. I’m getting there though! I used to have a garage and storage unit full, now down to all my possessions in one room. Hard to imagine you filling that Pakt backpack full. 😉 I did order mine. I might use it as a benchmark for what I really need. Thanks for inspiring me!

[@joshfenn]

13:55 😂 glad the bit worked! It’s a process for sure, glad to hear that you’re making good progress for yourself. Definitely my lightest possible carry for this video, this is kind of my ‘baseline’ with usually an item or two needing to be added depending on the trip/situation. The Pakt bag is quite large for me if I’m going without my laptop or camera! I sometimes bring treats from Portland to my family when I travel too so it’s nice having the extra space. Enjoy the bag when it comes, ive been really impressed!

[@mac2105]

About deodorant, this might sound crazy but give lemon juice a try. If your skin can handle it, it's the best deodorant ever. You can use the little yellow lemon plastic juice thingies from the supermarket, doesn't have to be a squeezed real lemon.

[@joshfenn]

I’ll keep this in mind!

[@Lisatwade]

Really good video on the subject, especially the toiletries. One thing I learned from a dermatologist is to use benzoyl peroxide face wash on your armpits to control the bacteria that causes odor. Might work to eliminate deodorant but you’d still have wetness. You can downsize to a travel size deodorant; the one you're using as an example is really big. Also, you referred to sudafed as allergy pills; but those really just help to drain you if you're congested. Zyrtec is a great daily allergy medicine. Enjoyed the video. Thanks!

[@joshfenn]

Thanks for the support and for sharing your tips with everyone!

[@teenprez]

You BAFFLED me when you first pulled out the dopp kit-- how could someone who reuses socks take such massive toiletry bottles?! Thank god you switched that out! 😂

[@joshfenn]

😂😂

[@kulturamoto3302]

This is perfect for us who travel long distances on a motorcycle

[@joshfenn]

For sure!

[@babanachiket]

I really enjoyed the video! Thanks for sharing; Nice videography and ambiance!

[@joshfenn]

Thanks so much, glad you enjoyed it!

[@Azav312]

Outfit I am wearing plus sweater. 3 socks & 3 underwear. 1 pair of Shorts & pants . Charging brick plus power bank. Comb, deodorant, Irish spring bar. Everything else I buy as needed.

[@joshfenn]

Simple and efficient, sounds great!

[@francinejaninesarmiento1797]

Mine I use the Bento Bag from Nomad Lane. It's good for both light and heavy packer. So I use it all the time.

[@joshfenn]

I’ll check it out, thanks for sharing!

[@zoelee8471]

This is amazing! Thank you for all the tips and talking through each decision. Definitely helps to travel lighter

[@joshfenn]

Glad to hear it, thanks for the support!

[@MyCovertNarcissism]

Always one of the best channels on KZbin Josh, great video as always.

[@joshfenn]

Thanks so much for the kind words and support, I appreciate it!

[@jasonmichaeljimenez]

You’re a hard man brushing with Dr. B’s. Been on a similar journey, we should be friends. Try the Go Toob’s for creams, those Nalgenes are great for liquids but fishing with your pinky finger sucks. Try backing off the background music in volume a bit or going without. Great video, I need to try merino wool shirts.

[@joshfenn]

Haha, the dr bronners isn’t the most pleasant toothpaste, but it gets the job done. To be fair for me too, a lot of my trips are couch surfing with friends and family so I do end up using other folks’ toothpaste from time to time. Definitely will check out those go toobs, totally agree on the difficulty with the creams. Noted on the music as well 👍

[@Peter.Charles]

You know there are very small travel size toothpaste and body soaps at the drugstores. 😉

[@austin.crocker]

Awesome video Josh. I like to ask myself with each item: "What is the worst situation I'll find myself in if I don't bring this?" I end up with a lot less in my 19L

[@joshfenn]

This exactly! I remind myself of this constantly, if something goes horribly wrong with an item I’ll usually be in a situation where I could replace it if absolutely need to. Still haven’t ever needed to as well so that idea is constantly reinforced for me. Thanks for the support!

[@linalorenz9434]

Great video Josh, Thank you for sharing 👍🏼🌟🙏

[@joshfenn]

Thank you!

[@RooneyTunesSessions]

Your content impresses me, very professional young lad! 😘✌🏻

[@joshfenn]

Glad to hear that, thanks for watching and supporting!

[@mahalingama231]

One word straight up.... "Superb!" I second you as a seasoned traveller myself. Super Liked and subscribed ! Good Luck and Want to see your other videos as well mate.

[@joshfenn]

Thanks so much for the support!

[@TheLeopardBrightsky]

For those of us who menstruate I've found that the extra pair of underwear actually is needed. Sometimes travel (especially overseas) messes up the menstrual cycle and so I'll never leave home without extra just in case

[@joshfenn]

Definitely a good tip to share for everyone! Not a situation I have to deal with, but being married and growing up with one bathroom and two sisters I know there’s always a chance you’ll need them.

[@babyramses5066]

dude THIS. also I've been packing my menstrual cups for years. better for the environment, more comfortable, more hygienic, cost effective and my suitcase isn't bulked up with so many pads/tampons like how it was before. Another thing I like to pack is little spray bottles of alcohol and I use that to sanitize anything I want to be extra clean which is nice if I visit places with low access to clean 💧🚰.

[@deytims]

In all seriousness, I get at least 2 weeks out of a pair of pants without washing them, given it´s my normal (pre-pandemic) work routine. BUT as wearing the same jeans in the office for 2 weeks straight might attract looks, I usually have 2 to 3 different looking pairs (a blue, a black and a light grey one) and switch them up every 2 to 3 days. This way they can "breath" a bit and odors don´t occur. I´ve done this for years and from the jeans I do this with i had to throw away 0 since at least 4 years and they all look capable of another 4. Oh and btw: if you buy a new pair of darker jeans, there are some people recommending not washing them for at least 1 to 2 years as they will break in while wearing and stain in an absolute marvelous way when you wash them for the first time. Did this once: 10/10 would recommend... just don´t wear them when hiking or riding a bike in the rain...

[@joshfenn]

Thanks for the tip on the dark jeans, I’ll definitely be keeping it in mind! Totally agree on the washing frequency, I usually get quite a few wears out of my pants and jeans as well.

[@Ron-Ton_78]

Thanks for the Dr. Bronners tip! I gotta bring the mail clippers though. I keep my nails really short and I can’t stand when they need to be cut haha.

[@joshfenn]

The dr bronners worked okay, but since this came out I actually switched to solid soap and toothpaste tabs! Definitely preferred in my experience if you wanted to check into it for yourself

[@AF9D2]

Exceptional Josh! I am a consummate over-packer. I plan on using your tips for my upcoming trip,

[@joshfenn]

That’s great, just start small with the changes and evaluate after the trip to see what you didn’t need from what you brought, and what you did need that you may have skipped. Each trip it gets easier to evaluate 👍👍

[@olyalyaka1994]

Great video. Informative, aesthetically pleasing. Thanks😊

[@joshfenn]

Happy to share, thanks for the support!

[@Mloofylicious]

A simple white button-down shirt is both elegant and relaxed so definitely pack that unless you want to show up at a nice restaurant or a dinner party looking like you came from a gym workout straight over there. And put a good hand cream, lip balm, peeling, moisturizer, eye cream and a perfume in your toiletry bag. Chinos and a dark pair of jeans is a must because you never know if a rainfall might force you to change pants. I made that mistake once, never again.

[@joshfenn]

That’s a few too many extras for my personal taste, but I’m glad your setup has been serving you well. Thanks for sharing with everyone!

[@Mloofylicious]

@@joshfenn People don't spend nearly enough time taking care of their skin compared to their muscles, unfortunately. Sure, there are always multifunctional clothes that cover more eventualities than one.

[@vidhyapathi7100]

Incredible! Its very neat packing.

[@joshfenn]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@vidhyapathi7100]

@@joshfenn it's because of your output. Great going man.

[@damiendavila105]

I really love this content! Awesome tips as usual.

[@joshfenn]

Glad to hear that, thanks so much!

[@hesgone6699]

You can take a regular toothbrush and cut 2 or 3 inches off the handle, leaving about 4 inches. With a razor you can cut most of the handle off, leaving only an inch.

[@joshfenn]

I’ve heard of some folks even drilling holes to save more weight while doing this for backpacking. Great idea, thanks for sharing!

[@josephturner4047]

And like Mr Bean, just take one sock and cut an ear off your Teddy Bear.

[@ChrisWhite-dt3dz]

Great tips to shave base weight for one bag travel, very helpful. But, I would suggest military rolling your socks, shirts, and underwear for better packing. Just a thought. Keep up the good work. 👍👍

[@joshfenn]

For sure! I usually roll but end up making a mess of things while filming the videos to show the other items. Saves a ton of space!

[@bertnl530]

What you want for your medication is a separate small box with one day ration of pills you keep inside a locked pocket (zipper) of your jacket. When you need a pill, say before you are eating lunch, you don't have to dig in your backpack, you always have an extra ration in case you loose your luggage or when you want to be longer on the road.

[@joshfenn]

Great tip for those with daily medication, thanks for sharing!

[@bertnl530]

@@joshfenn I have boxes with my pills in all my jackets at all time (due to chronical disease) I get a new package with all my medication every three months so then it is time to "refresh" these boxes and put new pills in it. This way you never have to think about them, also not when you suddenly have to stay somewhere overnight. I ve had that one time and could not get my pills. Happened to me in a hospital of all places. Buildings, medical apparatus, disposables and stocks worth a billion and not like 1 euro of pills.

[@marssambo7759]

I always go back to this video when packing for a trip 😅

[@joshfenn]

Glad to hear it, thanks for the support!

[@dennism6664]

Excellent! Very inspiring. What is your total packed weight including backpack?

[@joshfenn]

Unsure of the total weight for this loadout unfortunately, it was quite a few years ago. I’ll be sure to keep this in mind though and share for future setups!

[@abyssPonderer]

Nice! I usually travel with a single backpack at most a week (if I can do laundry), loots of useful tips than I'm gonna try. And Damn! the soap, it mindblow me, an all purpuse soap to brush your teeth, I'm definitely getting one but still going to pack a small toothpaste. The one think missing for me is foot powder, I haven't came up with a good solution, powder is messy and hard to contain, pressurize can is absolutely no, just haven't find the right lotion or spray but eventually I guess

[@joshfenn]

Haven’t had a lot of experience with the foot powder to give any advice, but be sure to share if you come up with any ideas! I know the soap came off a bit crazy, haha. I’m usually lucky and have some regular toothpaste around where I’m at and use that most of the time while saving dr bronners as a backup. I’ve changed that a bit though recently, utility bar from beard brand and dry toothpaste tabs 👍 Covered it in my more recent travel load out videos if you’re interested!

[@dominikd.1507]

Great video, great explanations!

[@joshfenn]

Thanks for the support!

[@tomchiu4170]

To be honest to myself, you make awesome content. Keep going

[@joshfenn]

Thanks so much for the support!

[@eladbari]

Bout Merino Wool Socks/Shirts > Is it recommended to buy 1-size larger since this fabric shrinks a lot, so I hear?

[@joshfenn]

I haven’t had any issues with most modern wool items, but it’s always really important to follow care instructions. I typically wash cold in the machine and air dry.

[@MrSurfingbudha]

Awsome video. The only thing I cant do that you said was brush your teeth with Dr. Bronners soap. I tried that one time and the taste to me was pretty bad. I have to use a small tupe of travel toothpaste. But other than that I think Dr. Bronners is pretty good.

[@joshfenn]

Totally understand that! To be fair, a lot of my trips are staying at friends and families places and I do usually use their toothpaste when I’m there, but I got used to the dr bronners from camping and backpacking so I’ll suck it up on some short trips usually.

[@gmlouieod]

@@joshfenn Hi Josh, Do you let them know you are using their toothpaste!!

[@eunicef1]

Thanks. Great vid. Are you sure you can use that Dr. Bronner's soap as toothpaste?

[@joshfenn]

Haha yeah it doesn’t taste the best but it’s safe. I’ve since switched to toothpaste tabs, much better to use and nice to not worry about liquids for carry-on luggage.

[@cheikhdiop7223]

I give out this comment because this video is so realistic.. i watch it because I gotta travel home tomo

[@joshfenn]

Glad you enjoyed it, hope it helps for your trip!

[@mirkolanux]

Great Insight Josh! I agree for the most part of the video with you, except for pants and socks. I always take worh me a second pant because it could happen (it happened to me very often) it can get a stain on it; Especially if I am on a business trip, It has been a disaster XD. Concerning the socks... to me they are just like underwear

[@joshfenn]

I totally get that, every situation and trip will be a little different. I just wanted to make this as kind of a ‘baseline’ for packing in general to be customized depending on the situation.

[@expatadventureturkey9324]

Love to hear your thoughts on Outliers Slim vs Western-rise Evolution pants.

[@joshfenn]

I’ll keep this in mind and see if I can get a pair to compare!

[@expatadventureturkey9324]

Josh Fenn Thanks always enjoying your content and perspective on things.

[@sarah3796]

I don’t know these but I want to know

[@jamesAL9]

A good face moisturiser can be good for your beard too. I just take that, rather than any beard products. Re the kindle/book. Download an audio book. Just as things like notes, maps, tickets etc will also be on the phone.

[@joshfenn]

Good tips, thanks for sharing!

[@OldManGlitch]

Given these few Items, in truth, how long would you say you could actually stay on travel with them and what would you need to add to extend to say 10 days?

[@joshfenn]

I’ve actually made an updated video pretty recently to cover a 7-10 day trip with no problem. A lot of it just comes down to your clothing fabrics and ability to do some sink laundry (or regular laundry) while you’re out. Here’s the link to the newer video: 7+ Days of Travel with ONLY A Personal Item kzbin.info/www/bejne/jWeag2p5irCSeK8 I also did one a little while back for indefinite travel, I can grab the link for that too if you’re interested

[@mirzashahzaibmumtazbeg306]

This is great can you give tips about 3-4 months travel

[@joshfenn]

Been brainstorming a video around a long term travel setup for a while now, glad to know you’d be interested!

[@mirzashahzaibmumtazbeg306]

@@joshfenn will be waiting ❤

[@taf8903]

6:45 When you're 800 miles from home and you shit your pants you're going to regret mocking that "extra" pair of underwear.

[@joshfenn]

Sounds like you’ve had a rough go of it in the past. 😂

[@taf8903]

@@joshfenn I was in the Boy Scouts and they always taught us to "be prepared." Next time I'm packing for a trip I will consider this idea of minimalism. Great video!

[@SophieSnip]

Sounds dumb but I always bring an old pair of underwear as an extra, when/if I use it I can just discard it after. If it for some reason doesn’t fit in my bag on the way back, I’ll throw it away.

[@susie9893]

@@SophieSnip but if you continually wash out your undies you'll never need that 'extra' pair cos all your pairs will be extras

[@leddybearrr]

Straight gangster. Great advice

[@joshfenn]

Haha thanks!

[@TILR]

The only thing I would change is getting a Anker 3 Port Charger and a small cable for each thing or a multicable

[@joshfenn]

That would be nice and clean!

[@boris1387]

I roll up my tshirts but when I do I roll up my small bottles and tooth brush up into them. I also pack items into my trainers inside socks. That way the trainers don't get too squashed.

[@joshfenn]

Definitely some good tips, thanks for sharing!