Day 7: Tried-and-True Tips for Super-Light Packing

Packing Hacks is a 31-part series devoted to helping you become an expert packer! Each installment offers advice on how to get organized, pack smarter, save on bag fees, and eliminate packing stress. New to Packing Hacks? Start at the beginning.

You've aced choosing and packing your main luggage set. Now it's time to get into the nitty-gritty of lightening your load dramatically when you travel.

Packing really, truly light doesn't have to mean ditching everything but the toothbrush and a pair of underwear. But to become the lightest version of your traveling self, you'll likely have to dramatically rethink your packing habits. Ultralight packing takes an ounce-by-ounce approach, until you ultimately shave weight off just about everything in your suitcase.

You'll learn:

√ Why your lightweight luggage may not be light enough

√ When to (and when not to) look to backpackers for inspiration

√ How to deal with those overpacking urges

Up next: Day 8: How to Pack for a Weekend Getaway.