Is it really possible to travel without a bag? I decided to discover for myself over a weekend trip whether I could manage without a bag.
Was I was successful? Yes! More importantly, I really, really, really enjoy traveling without luggage.
Here’s how I travelled with 0 pieces of luggage (and how you can too).
Save Money
Even budget airlines now charge for taking a largish bag onboard, or to checkin and the cost of travelling especially since covid is really high. Without checking in a bag, or taking one onboard you won’t need to pay additional fees – bonus! If you are travelling on a budget, view my guide how to travel for free.
You Can Fit A Lot in That Vest
Before departing on my trip I bought a special travel vest and I was really surprised with how much you can fit in it. Here was my packing list for a one night trip.
• iPhone
• Earbuds
• iPhone cable and charger
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Deodorant
• T-shirt
• Underwear
• Gym shorts
• Sunglasses
• Wallet
• Pen
• Water bottle (purchased at the airport)
• Snacks (purchased at the airport)
All of that fit in my vest with pockets and comfort to spare. It didn’t feel heavy, off-balance or awkward (though my butt looked a bit bigger due to the clothes stored in the bottom, back pocket).
Top Tip – Take a Pillow
Airlines allow you to take a pillow onboard and it isn’t classed as luggage so is free. Do you also realise how many clothes and items you can fit inside?! This is a great way to avoid bag fees, whilst also taking extra things.
Security = Easy
When I generally travel, I take about 2/3 bins on the x-ray machine (but I move fast so I’m not one of those travelers). But when I wore the travel vest, I only used 1 bin. And not only that, all I had to was take the vest off, place it in the bin and off I went. No need to take my electronics or liquids out.
After my pat-down I picked my vest up with everything in tact. No one knew they stored all my electronics. To the casual traveler, it was just a black vest in a bin. That peace of mind is worth loads.
No Stress Boarding the Plane
I love boarding first. I hate the rushed feeling of fighting your way through the cattle call. But when you don’t need to put any luggage in the overhead bin, you don’t need to board first. I used my extra time in the terminal catching up on my e-mails.
Legroom
With no luggage onboard, you can use the space under the seat in front of you for your feet – not your backpack. Sit back and relax (as best you can in coach).
Pockets are Convenient
A lot of thought went into the placement of each of the 22 pockets. My iphone was easily at my fingertips the whole flight. Sunglasses – a zipper away. The vest is well designed and durable.
No More Lost Luggage (or Fees)
Once I landed, I didn’t need to wait for my bags on the carousel. I avoided the mob. Plus, since I wasn’t checking any bags, or worry about lost bags. I went direct from the jetway to my first destination; Mission Accomplished.
I generally travel with carry-on baggage only – thinking that this is the easiest way to fly. But the truth of the matter is, traveling with no luggage is even easier. I loved it, and once you try it yourself, you too will find the experiencing very “freeing”.
What’s the least amount of luggage you’ve ever traveled with? Share by commenting.
