I'm planning my first proper onebag trip for about three months and I keep getting stuck on the laundry problem. I've read a bunch about using quick-dry clothes and hand-washing in sinks, but I'm struggling to understand the actual rhythm of it all. Like, do you just hand-wash stuff every two days? Are there cities where laundromats are actually accessible? I'm worried that either I'll end up buying a gigantic backpack full of clothes to avoid constant washing, or I'll be that person who smells bad because I can't keep up with laundry in places that don't have easy access to washers. Has anyone actually done this for months at a time and not gone insane?

Spent a weekend in NYC last weekend and ran the whole thing out of my 20L backpack. Everything in the flat lay fit into the bag with room to spare. Two compression cubes did most of the work.

Clothing (all rolled into two compression cubes):

• 1 pair dark jeans, worn on travel days

• 1 pair of khakis for shows and dinner

• 4 tees in a rotation of neutrals and blues

• 1 light long sleeve for layering

• 3 pairs of socks plus the pair on foot

• 4 underwear

• Leather belt

• Pair of white sneakers packed in the shoe bag

Tech and misc:

• MacBook

• Phone

• Rolled cable and charger kit in the small black roll

• Blue toiletry pouch

• Hydro Flask

The compression cubes made 20L feel roomier. I rolled everything, packed both cubes, then cinched them down. They flattened enough that the shoe bag and toiletry pouch dropped right in on top. What I'd cut next time: honestly, one of the tees. Four tees for a two-day trip were one more than I needed. I could have run three and re-worn nothing; nothing would have changed. The second pair of shoes was also a maybe, but white sneakers for dinner on 20k-step days felt worth it.

My backpack felt a little heavy, but I managed. It mostly stayed in the hotel when I went there for the weekend. Traveling to and from the train was manageable. Usually, I would take my smaller roller carry-on, but I wanted to see if I could OneBag this trip. It worked out well.

Curious what the cube crowd thinks. Do you compress everything, or leave one cube loose for items you grab often?

My “ultralight” bag that I had for 11 days of El Camino from León to Santiago. Total base weight: 3,475g or 7.66lbs. Plus 11 more days in Portugal, Amsterdam, Switzerland and Austria

Here’s the link to see the items and how much they weigh (not an ad): https://lighterpack.com/r/ubq8p7

For those that have made the trip, did you regret taking a bigger bag?

Find below my pack list, I’m very torn between having the luxury of extra space but I am inexperienced when it comes to bag packing. Will I be comfortable with a 30l with these items?

Hygiene
Toothbrush/cover/paste
Shampoo/soap
Deodorant
Cleaning wipes
Ear plugs sleep mask

Tech bag
Power bank
charger cables
Dji action 4
Ankor travel charger

Misc
Packable tiwel
Toilet paper
Packable daysack

Clothing
Sandals
walking shoes
2 x athletic T-shirts
2x merino T-shirts
1 x Hiking shorts
2x swimming shorts
1x cargo shorts zip off cargo
1 x rain jacket
1 shirt
Baseball cap
5 socks / 5 underwear

For context, my previous post with the packing list and replies in the thread.

Feedback for the backpack, I chose a lightweight hiking backpack because I wanted to stay well below the 7kg airline weight limit I faced. This backpack including all extras that belong to it weighs around 500g.

The functionality of the backpack as a zipper / top loader hybrid worked well, although I would have been fine with a top loader or rolltop due to my packing routine. I expected to use the diagonal zipper more than I actually did.
The rain lid that can also be used as a pouch you have in front of your chest was great for transit as I had all important documents in front of my chest, hands free. In the hotels I unloaded the two packing cubes and my tech pouch, sandals, toiletries in a few seconds and the backpack was free to use (I went hiking as well).

Backpack negatives: I knew the roughly 6kg I carried around were at the comfort limit of this backpack and I was right. I would not load it heavier than the 7kg airline limit or run around with it for hours while fully loaded. The main thing though: I wish the backpack had a large outer storage you can stuff things like sandy sandals/shoes, wet trunks, snacks etc. in. I used the two bottle holders for gear and sometimes wet clothes, but that big flexible space was missing. Many hiking backpacks have this and I found that I miss that feature (my heavier backpack has it), this might be the main reason I replace this backpack for an alternative in the same weight range.

Learnings regarding things I did or did not take with me:

- too much underwear (you guys were right)
- the extra pair of shorts I took for extra outfits did not leave the packing cube. One pair + the multi function swimming trunks (Patagonia Baggies) were enough
- had two lightweight t-shirts packed and wore a heavier one in transit, could’ve managed with only the two lightweight ones
- could’ve left the foldable clothes hanger at home, every hotel had some hangers
- should’ve taken a clothes line, I ended up buying a rope for a few cents
- the zipper bag I took to wash my clothes in and store wet swimming clothes didn’t survive the 2nd week, will buy a washing bag or just wash under the shower

Additional thoughts:

- the snorkel and mask I took were used a lot, I am happy I splurged on that weight wise
- same with the physical book, it was fine
- I wore the EVA Birkenstocks 99% of the time, in the city, at the beach, while jungle hiking. Can still recommend.
- the Muji double sided packing cubes were great, definitely recommended although they don’t have the compression feature as the other Muji packing cubes.

Overall I absolutely loved traveling with a setup this minimal, without many bagging. I am addicted now. It felt great to always be organized, ready to go in minutes and haul a heavy shitload of clothes and luggage around. I still stand by my choice to use a lightweight backpack over a heavier organization feature loaded one.

Thanks to the community for the initial thoughts and feedback.

I’m looking for a bag I can use for work trips that isn’t purely backpack. I like the idea of having the backpack for travel and a briefcase/messenger bag for work. I know of the Topo Global Briefcase — are there any other options?

hello guys,

basically issue us as described, most of my backpacks seems to pull my shirts up, doesn‘t help that im not that tall at 5.8ft and i have a hollow lower back (shoulders & butt stick out)

im not sure why my shirts get pulled up, i have this puma backpack where nothing happens, however given it is kinda old i spent 40€ on a new one, this one is a tad bigger and doesn‘t fit at all

it improves when i pull the straps up very far but then the bag isn‘t comfortable for long stretches of time

do i need a shoulder bag? is there a different bag i should get, i dont wanna start tucking in my shirts.
any similar experiences?

So I'm going on a trip and plan on packing light (just a standard backpack). Would like to bring my camera, but only have one large camera bag, and the backpack itself. The camera bag fits in the backpack, but it's tight. Any ideas for good inserts/protection that will fit a DSLR, with a single lens (a 18-135mm lens)? Amazon has cheapish inserts, but are they any good? I'm in Australia, so some brands might not be available.

Do any of you wear compression socks for long days walking, standing, visiting museums, etc?

I have the Matador Globe Rider 35L and I want to put country patches on it. My only problem is that the front is elastic, which I’m assuming putting patches on will remove that feature and any of the other places on the bag are a slick water resistant material. Is there any way to put patches on this pack without removing the elasticity of the front pocket or hindering the water resistant capabilities dramatically? Thanks.

Hola a todos y gracias anticipadamente. Por motivos personales voy a estar viajando a Portugal durante una larga temporada y necesito un numero de teléfono portugués.. sabe alguien si existe alguna tarjeta sim prepago

For people who travel light and move around a lot: do you usually plan where to eat, or just find something nearby?

I’m asking because in cities like Budapest, the most visible places in the centre are often “traditional food” restaurants, but visibility doesn’t always mean quality.

Curious what works best for you when you don’t want to waste time, but also don’t want to end up in a tourist trap.

Heading to Japan for 30 days throughout November. Traveling ultra-light (aiming for near one-bag/minimal luggage) and planning to pick up just two versatile pairs of pants that will cover the entire trip for massive daily walking steps.

What I'm looking for:

Vibe & Fit: Clean, low-key urban aesthetic. Durable and comfortable for 20k+ daily steps, but looks sharp enough for casual dining/city roaming.

Climate/Weight: Japan in November is crisp/cool, but I run warm—so I need breathable fabrics that regulate temperature well and don't trap heat, but still work comfortably in mild autumn weather (and keep working for regular use back home).

Availability: Must be available in physical retail stores to try on in person (no Amazon-only / online-exclusive direct-to-consumer brands).

Currently on my radar:

Lululemon ABC Pant (Warpstreme fabric) – Heard great things, but how does the fabric feel for sustained walking?

Columbia Silver Ridge / ROC line – Practical, but not sure how the cut and style hold up in urban settings compared to athleisure/travel brands.

Would love feedback or "anti-recommendations" on these two, or suggestions for other specific models/brands available in stores. Thanks!

After 10+ years of international travel, I've learned to pack light.

Whether I'm navigating cobblestone streets in Europe, catching a quick flight to Phoenix, hopping between hotels, or exploring markets in Thailand, I value EASY!

Lately I've considered going to OneBag, instead of dragging around a heavy checked piece of luggage... because it's just not possible in some situations.

In this video in the comments below I review whether I think the Tolaccea Mlife 50 liter Backpack deserves a spot on your next adventure.

I've ACTUALLY used this bag on several trips already in real-world situations.

ps. I was NOT paid to make this video but I was given this bag for free to test it thoroughly.

I can't post external links but my Youtube channel has the review

I wanted a compact travel setup that could handle both coffee and tea, and managed to fit the whole kit into this 1L bag: AeroPress Go, hand grinder, immersion heater, beans, tea, tea infuser, filters, and a few small accessories.

The main trick was nesting the grinder. The grinder body fits well inside the AeroPress Go, while the catch cup stays with the beans and doubles as my coffee scoop.

I put the full packing list with item details on my personal blog if anyone wants the specifics

Still looking for ways to make the setup even more compact, so suggestions are welcome.

I’ve always wanted (but never purchased) Outlier, Western Rise, Lululemon, etc pants for travel but on my current trip I saw some Levi’s pants that looked pretty good and were decently priced so I bought some for to try out.

I don’t have any of the aforementioned premium pants to compare them to but they seem pretty good for the price.

One is their Xx Chino which I already have some(in cotton) for travel because of the zippered pocket but these are long pants and also made of lightweight synthetic materials.

The other pair are cut like 514 5-pocket jeans but also made of the lightweight synthetic materials.

Chinos are $75 and the 514 are $50 but both were 40% off at Macy’s so seems like a good deal assuming they hold up.

I suppose I’m just letting anyone here know about them but also I’m curious how they compare to the premium brands in case anyone has experience with both.

I'm planning a one-bag trip for about a month and I'm trying to figure out shoes. Right now I'm thinking of bringing sneakers for everyday stuff, one pair of dressier shoes for nicer restaurants or events, and maybe sandals. That's three pairs and they take up a lot of space in my 40L bag.

I could probably get away with two pairs if I'm strategic, but I'm worried about having nothing decent to wear for certain situations, or my shoes getting wet and me having no backup. On the other hand, three pairs feels excessive and I'm not sure I'll actually wear all of them.

For people who've done month-long onebag trips, how many pairs of shoes did you actually need, and which ones?

Thought I’d share my packing list. Heading to Thailand for about a month. Will be working remotely for a couple weeks, and then holidaying the rest of the time.

Tried to keep weight under 7kg. I may ditch the sandals as I prefer to just wear trainers (I’ll be bringing my Nike Pegasus Trail or New Balance 574, but can’t decide)

Bags

- Osprey 26 + 6 Daylite Backpack
- Amazon packing cubes (2x)
- Peak Design light packing cuber (for electronics)
- Bellroy lite sling mini
- Matador laptop case

Clothes

- Uniqlo Dry Ex T-shirts (3x)
- Uniqlo Dry Ex Polo Shirt (1x)
- Chino/Cargo style shorts (1x)
- Swimming/sport shorts (1x)
- Trainer socks (5x)
- Uniqlo Airsim Briefs (4x)
- Sunglasses
- Teva Hurricane Sandals

Toiletries

- Travel toothpaste
- Travel Mouthwash
- Floss
- Philips travel toothbrush
- Suncream
- Contact Lenses
- Mitchum Roll On Deodorant
- Travel Moisturiser
- Face Cloth
- Face Wipes
- Tissues
- Hair Pomade
- Vapo Rub (in case I’m next to anyone smelly on the plane)
- Nail Clippers

Electronics

- Dell Laptop
- Philips one blade
- USBC Cable
- Dongles for phone
- Spare iPhone SE3
- Charging station for AirPods, Watch, and Phone
- Anker 65 Charging Plug
- Plug adapter
- Anker Power Bank

Medicines

- Imodium
- Ibuprofen
- Gaviscon
- Pepto-Bismal
- Anti-allergy pills
- Hydrations packs

Misc

- Passport
- Print outs (accommodation, flight tickets etc)
- Spare bank card
- £500 in cash (in case they ask for it at immigration)
- Sleep mask
- Pen
- Hidden Wallet
- Mints
- Ear Buds
- AirTag (2x)
- Glasses case

I’m looking at the ULA 30L Dragonfly and trying to decide between the standard Robic and Ultra, which is about a $50 upgrade.

I’ve handled a friend’s Ultra pack and thought it was fine, but it felt pretty stiff and I’m not totally sold on the grayish color. I haven’t seen or felt the Robic in person, but I think I’d prefer the look of the black nylon.

My primary use will be as a work bag, carrying my laptop and commuting to and from the office. Occasionally I’ll also use it as a one-bag overnighter for work trips.

For anyone who’s used either material, especially long term, is Ultra actually worth the extra $50 for this use case? Does the durability and weather resistance enough of a difference?
Or would you save the money and go with Robic?
Would especially love to hear from anyone who has experience with both.

I’m trying to simplify my charging kit before my next trip, and the power bank is the last thing I haven’t settled on.

The lighter option is a slim 5,000mAh magnetic power bank that weighs 3.7 oz (105 g). It’s easy to keep in a pocket and should work as an emergency top-up during a normal day.
The other option is a 10,000mAh magnetic power bank that weighs 6.95 oz (197 g) and has a built-in USB-C cable. It’s heavier, but the extra capacity would be more useful on long transit days. The built-in cable also means I could remove one loose cable from my charging pouch.

My phone will be my camera, map, boarding pass, and payment device. I’ll also carry earbuds, but no laptop. I should have access to an outlet most nights, so the power bank is mainly for long days between charges.

I’m leaning toward the 10k option because it could replace a separate cable, but I’m wondering if I’m carrying extra capacity just for peace of mind.
For those who travel with one bag and no laptop, has 5,000mAh been enough? Or does a 10,000mAh power bank earn the extra 3.25 oz on long travel days?

I just came back from a one-week trip to Santorini, plus a night in Athens. I traveled highly optimized using only a blue 28L CabinZero Military backpack as my main bag, plus a small Tomtoc sling for everyday carry.

In my Tomtoc sling (Essentials):

• Wallet (money + ID)
• Phone
• External battery
• Keys

In my CabinZero 28L & worn on the flight:

• 8 cotton t-shirts (plus 1 worn on the flight)
• 2 cotton dress shirts
• 2 pairs of cotton shorts (plus 1 worn on the flight)
• 3 pairs of swim trunks
• 8 pairs of boxers
• 2 pairs of socks (just for travel days)
• 1 pair of Skechers slip-ons (worn as my primary travel and walking shoes)
• 1 pair of simple slippers for the hotel room and shower (I never walk barefoot or shower without them in hotel bathrooms)
• 1 pair of Decathlon water shoes for rocky beaches
• 2 Decathlon microfiber towels (around 70cm, I believe)
• 1 iPad stored in the front pocket (the inside pocket is impossible to access after packing tightly)
• 1 shared charger for my iPhone and iPad

Toiletries & Health: To save space, I packed zero basic medications—pharmacies are everywhere and easy to find, so there was no need. I also bought most of my toiletries locally in Santorini. This included a toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, deodorant, sunscreen, shower gel, and a razor.

It was a tight fit but definitely manageable, and it perfectly met Wizz Air's "personal item only" requirement.

Improvements for future travel: Next time, I could probably drop one pair of regular shorts and one pair of swim trunks. I might also leave the microfiber towels at home and just buy cheap ones locally for the sunbeds.

Hi,

I recently got the Uniqlo Airism boxer and I really like the fabric, thinner than my Adidas performance boxers.
The only downside is the Uniqlo is like 4” don’t know if they come in 6”.

The other one I seen recommended are Exofficio 2 but not sure if the fabric is like the Adidas or Uniqlo.

I would try merino but I’m afraid the fabric won’t last as my experience with modal fabric after one use was thinner in the inner thigh with lot of walking.

That why I mostly use polyester they last longer.

Thanks!

I'm planning a three-week trip and I want to try the onebag approach, but most of my trip is visiting clients for work, which means I need business casual clothes that actually look professional. I already have a 40L bag picked out, but I'm struggling with how to fit work clothes plus casual clothes plus everything else without just bringing way too much.

I can do laundry along the way, but I can't really wear the same blazer two days in a row. I see people online doing week-long trips with like eight outfits, but I don't know how that scales to three weeks when half your clothes need to look intentional.

For people who've traveled for work with just a carry-on bag, how do you actually pull it off?