Forget baggage claim roulette and the frantic packing tetris of ‘what if’ scenarios. Mark’s travel philosophy is simple: pack light, stay nimble, and truly immerse yourself in the destination.
Mark usually travels with just a carry-on, whether it’s for a week or a month. For him, it’s not about sacrificing comfort; it’s about freedom. Freedom from the physical strain of lugging around a heavy suitcase, freedom from the mental burden of just-in-cases, and perhaps a little freedom for the planet too.
Less baggage means less fuel consumption. Plus, with limited space, Mark avoids unnecessary purchases that may end up in landfill. Instead, he collects photos, memories, and experiences — not things.
Travelling light also makes Mark agile. He can easily navigate crowded streets, hop on and off trains, and explore hidden alleys without feeling like a pack mule.
But how does he do it? Here are Mark’s tips for packing light:
It’s in the bag
Along with a small daypack for work essentials, Mark will usually travel with a hard-shell case. He’ll keep one side free for shoes and eventual laundry. For trips that may involve small planes or uneven terrain, he prefers a duffle. He’s also a big believer in using an item until it is beyond repair so while his bag may not look new, you know that it’s likely as experienced a traveller as Mark is.
When less is more
When it comes to clothes, Mark chooses colours and materials that can be mixed and matched, so that he can create multiple outfits from a few key pieces, ensuring he’s prepared for any occasion without overpacking. A bit like the royal family, Mark ensures that at least one outfit is suitable for a more formal occasion. And he always ensures he has swimmers packed — even in winter. One thing he doesn’t skimp on is undies and socks.
Rolling with the punches
It’s an ongoing argument between us. I’m a folder, he’s a roller. According to Mark, not only does rolling save space, but it “magically” minimises wrinkles. Debatable.
Go small or go home
Mark is not a man who travels with a tonne of toiletries and what he does bring is small. He also avoid liquid items (so shampoo and soap bars). This means that he can zip through security at the airport with a light bag.
Travel unplugged
Mark travels with a lightweight laptop, a smartphone, and a universal power adapter. He leaves extra gadgets, relying on his phone for photos and navigation. By minimising electronics, he reduces weight and avoids the tangle of cables and chargers.
Paperless and proud
Gone are the days of carrying physical copies of travel documents. Mark stores all his important documents digitally on his phone and laptop, backed up to the cloud. This reduces clutter and ensures he has access to them anywhere. Apps like Google Drive or Dropbox are perfect for this, and some travel apps can store boarding passes and itineraries.
Mark’s minimalist approach to travel isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about opening up to the serendipity of the journey. The world becomes more accessible and every adventure more intimate when you’re not weighed down by the unnecessary. So next time you pack, remember: true freedom lies not in what you bring, but in what you leave behind.
Read: What’s in my carry-on: Gaya Avery, Karryon, Features Editor
