Fewer things, more experiences – that’s the essence of travel minimalism. In an age of cheap flights, carry-on luggage, and a growing desire for freedom and mobility, more and more people are realizing that you don’t need your entire wardrobe to be happy on the road. So how can you pack your suitcase efficiently, smartly, and stress-free? Here are practical tips to help you travel light – and with a smile.
1. Start with Planning, Not Packing
Before you pull your suitcase out from under the bed, we recommend thinking about:
- Where are you traveling to? (climate, weather)
- For how long?
- What activities await you? (formal dinners, hiking, swimming)
Make a list of the things you truly need. Minimalism doesn’t start with the suitcase – it starts with deciding what is truly essential.
2. Pack a Capsule Wardrobe
Travel minimalism loves a capsule wardrobe – clothing pieces that coordinate well and can be mixed and matched.
Here’s how to do it:
- Choose neutral colors (white, black, beige, gray, navy blue).
- Mix and match tops and bottoms so that a few pieces create many outfits.
- Don’t forget an extra layer – a light jacket or sweater comes in handy even in warmer destinations.
TIP: Choose materials that don’t wrinkle, dry quickly, and don’t require ironing.
3. Footwear? Maximum of 2 pairs!
You might say, "I’m wearing my shoes, so I don’t need to pack them." But having one extra pair comes in handy. For example, on the plane, you’ll appreciate sneakers and socks to keep warm during the flight, and at the beach, comfortable flip-flops are a must. Shoes take up the most space in your suitcase, especially if you’re going hiking and need trekking boots. Here’s an ideal minimalist selection for a summer holiday or sightseeing trip:
- 1x comfortable walking shoes (sneakers, sandals)
- 1x lightweight shoes for evenings or city outings
We recommend packing your shoes in a plastic or cloth bag to prevent them from soiling your other clothes.
4. Toiletries: travel-sized versions + multifunctionality
Forget about full-size shampoo or shower gel bottles. For travel, these will do perfectly:
- Travel-sized containers up to 100 ml
- Multifunctional products – for example, a solid shampoo that also works as a shower gel
- Puella laundry perfumes in mini bottles or samples – perfect for travelers who like to keep their clothes smelling fresh and fragrant even away from home.
TIP: Transfer products into reusable bottles and pack them in a clear pouch. You’ll save space and time during airport security checks.
5. Laundry on the road – simple, practical, and fragrant
Even while traveling, you can keep your clothes clean and fresh – without needing a washing machine.
Great solutions from the Puella brand:
- Puella laundry sheets – ultra-thin, lightweight, eco-friendly, and effective. Just add a little water, a bowl or sink, and you can wash anywhere.
- Puella mini laundry gel bottles – perfect for carry-on luggage.
- Puella laundry perfume samples – add a beautiful scent to every clothing piece without using fabric softener.
This way, you can wash your clothes during your trip and manage with fewer pieces. Clean, fragrant, and practical – just as it should be.
6. Puella quick-drying towel – a must-have for every traveler
Another practical gadget is the Puella quick-drying towel. Why pack it?
- It takes up minimal space
- Dries quickly – so you can pack it almost immediately after use
- Easy to keep clean
- Rolls up into a small bundle – perfect for both backpacks and carry-on luggage
Tip: This towel is perfect for the beach, hiking, car trips, hostels, and even five-star hotels.
7. Place your items wisely – pack using a system
To maximize space, we recommend rolling your clothes instead of folding. Clothes wrinkle less and you save room.
Tools that will simplify your packing:
- A small suitcase or backpack
- Packing cubes (organizer bags)
- Small containers for cosmetics
- Vacuum bags
- A small daypack for excursions
Tip: A smaller suitcase naturally forces you to pack less – and that’s exactly the goal of travel minimalism.
8. Electronics and cables: reduce to a minimum
Think carefully about what you truly need:
- Phone + charger
- Power bank
- Headphones
- Laptop, e-reader, or tablet – only if you really need them
Tip: Don’t forget to download offline maps, e-books, and documents before your trip.
9. Don’t fall for “what if” scenarios.
The biggest enemy of travel minimalism is the phrase: “Maybe I’ll need it.”
👉 If you don’t use something at home, you probably won’t need it on vacation either. Pack your tried-and-true items, and buy the rest if needed at your destination. Especially small consumables—there’s no point in carrying them when you can easily buy everything you need there.
10. Don’t forget your “invisible gear.”
Minimalist travel isn’t just about physical items. Pack also:
- An open mind
- Ease in decision-making
- Curiosity and respect for other cultures
Experiences don’t fit in your suitcase, but they stay with you forever. So make sure you carry only the best ones. Let go of how things “should” be and enjoy the moments you’re living.
Travel light, experience more
Travel minimalism brings you more than just a light suitcase. It brings freedom, simplicity, and joy in every step. Thanks to practical solutions from Puella, you can pack less and easily wash your clothes anywhere. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, fragrant clothing, a scent of home, and minimalist comfort wherever you go.
Would you like to learn more about our minimalist travel solutions? Ask us! We’re happy to help.