Are you a fashion girlie who wants to travel with only a carry-on? Continue to read my minimalist packing list for the girl who needs options.
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Ask anyone about 10 years ago, and they would’ve laughed at the thought of me writing a blog post about minimalist packing for women. Because I’m a girl’s, girl. I like fashion and I need options!
But after years of travel, I’ve learned the importance of packing light and the correct tools to use to allow me to bring options while fitting it all in a carry-on. Traveling with only a carry-on is so much easier, and cheaper. Plus, it’s just a better experience overall.
Minimalist packing makes it easier to carry your luggage, plus you don’t have to worry about paying for a checked bag at the airport or waiting at check-in counters or baggage claim and hoping your large checked bag didn’t get lost along the way.
It’s because of these reasons that I started looking into minimalist travel and began using a minimalist packing style for both myself and my family.
So, after years of doing a minimal travel style, I’ve written this minimalist packing list guide to help you do the same- pack options in only a carry-on. This minimalist packing list includes everything from the best minimal travel backpack to travel essentials for women.
What is Minimalist Travel?
The concept of minimalism is that less is more, and traveling with fewer things allows you more flexibility (and less stress) while traveling.
The main approach to minimalist packing is to include versatile clothing options that can be re-worn and limit the number of “backup” outfits (your girl always has at least one!)
If it’s your first time traveling with only a carry-on, you may be a little skeptical. However, it is so much easier to travel lightly and it’s worth trying minimalist travel to see if it works for you.
Especially for those who are new to this, I recommend going through each section of this minimalist packing list and coming up with a list of exactly what you need to pack lightly.
Now I’m not a pure minimalist. Because like I mentioned earlier, I need options. However, I only pack my “must haves” first. From there, I only add the “options” that can fit into my carry-on. Continue reading, I’ll explain as we go along.
The Best Minimalist Packing List
Packing light is not easy, and determining what to include in your minimalist packing list can be difficult. Below, I’ve included all the travel essentials for women who want to try a minimal travel style, while looking fashionable.
Minimal Travel Backpack
One of the most popular types of luggage for minimalist travel is a minimal travel backpack. This isn’t your typical backpack, instead, it has more compartments for storage and most of them also can compress.
I recommend getting one that has compression because if you’re anything like me, you’re utilizing every possible inch- so there’s no space to be carrying air. This travel backpack from Amazon even comes with packing cubes. For one with a little more room, this is another great travel backpack.
And I’ll be honest with you, as a girlie who needs her things, I can travel with a backpack only for an extended weekend. Any longer, than I’ll need my carry-on luggage.
Carry-On Luggage
Traveling with just a backpack most definitely is for the seasoned minimalist traveler. If you’re new to packing light, I recommend that you start with a traditional carry-on luggage that can be rolled. Rolling carry-on luggage is super convenient and easy to take around (especially in airports). Just make sure whichever kind you get has 4 wheels and is easy to maneuver around.
I recommended this carry-on luggage to my friend, and she loves it!
Do note, that some international airline carriers require smaller carry-ons than American airlines. CNN noted that carry-on bags up to 21.5 in x 15.7 x 10 in are allowed by most major international airlines. This carry-on luggage will work with most international airlines and has great reviews.
Compression Packing Cubes
These compression packing cubes are perfect for staying organized as you can divide your clothes into them.
Unlike normal packing cubes, these cubes have 2 zippers. One zipper allows you to add your clothes, and the other zipper releases excess air to compress it down. It’s a great way to save space in your bag.
I have been using the Eagle Creek Pack-It set for over a decade now, and it still works like new. If you want to invest in quality- this is no doubt the way to go!
Another option is these travel roll-up compression bags which also allow you to compress your clothing so that you can save space and stay organized.
Portable Wardrobe
I absolutely love having a portable wardrobe. It makes it so easy to organize your clothes! Plus, when you arrive at your destination you don’t need to worry about unpacking or searching through your luggage for anything.
This portable wardrobe fits perfectly in a travel backpack. I’ve used it for 6+ months of travel and it’s been amazing.
Compact Organizers
Bringing some compact organizers is another great way to use space wisely in your luggage, especially if you are like me and still want to have options when it comes to accessories.
For example, this sunglass holder fits 5 pairs of sunglasses in a small space. This means you can have options while still traveling light!
Similarly, another compact organizer that I swear by is this compact jewelry organizer. It allows you to fit several pieces in a small space- so you can switch up your outfits simply by how you accessorize.
Day Pack
Having a day pack is a great option for day trips, hikes, or other activities. It’s also great if you are exploring somewhere with kids as you can keep snacks and other necessary items in here as you walk around.
You’ll want to get a collapsible day pack so that you can easily store it when you aren’t using it. This Osprey Day pack is a perfect choice as it is lightweight, durable, and collapsable. Plus it comes in a variety of bright & fun colors.
If you’re looking for a more “fashion-forward” option, this one looks more like a purse and comes in a variety of colors.
Female Travel Essentials
Of course, you will need different women’s travel essentials, such as a hairbrush, toothbrush & toothpaste, deodorant, etc. The key to bringing toiletries such as these is to only bring what you will need and also bring a travel size of it.
If you need to bring shampoo or other liquids, you can get these travel toiletry containers and just add your product from home. I absolutely love the lay flat pouches that are included in this set as they take up less space as you use the products inside.
Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it’s also more sustainable and environmentally friendly than purchasing essentials for every trip.
Tops
Make sure you bring tops that can be mixed and matched with different things. More neutral colors without patterns work great for this, but really you just want to wear what you are going to be most comfortable and confident in.
Most minimalist travelers recommend bringing 3-4 shirts for a5-dayy trip. This is where I disagree.
If you sweat like I sweat or spill things like I do, you’re going to want a shirt for each day. Shirts are also the item that I will bring extras as you can go from day to night simply by changing your shirt and accessories.
When picking shirts, aim for ones that are easy to fold and don’t take up too much space.
Bottoms
Just like with tops, you’ll want to bring bottoms that are versatile and that you can wear more than once. Jeans are great for this as they go well with a variety of tops, making them very versatile. Depending on the thickness and style of the jeans, they could take up a decent amount of space. Opt for jeans that are easier to pack.
I’d recommend bringing 1, at max 2 pairs of jeans due to space, as well as 2-5 pairs of shorts or skirts that are a neutral color and can easily be matched with different tops. You can also bring other pants made of easier-to-pack materials.
When space is limited, bottoms are where I limit my options the most as it’s rather normal to wear a bottom more than once before washing it.
Dresses
Depending on your personal style choice, a cute dress may be considered a female travel essential! This is because most dresses (think maxi dresses or sundresses) can be worn as a casual day outfit or you can pair it with some dressy accessories for a night out.
Since dresses can be versatile, I think it’s great to have 1 or 2 dresses as a part of your minimalist packing list.
Jackets
Depending on the weather, you may want to pack a jacket or sweatshirt. Even if you are going somewhere warm, it’s good to have a light jacket for chilly nights or if it gets cold on the plane.
Since you will probably only want to bring 1 jacket, try to bring something that will match with lots of different outfits.
If you’re going somewhere during the rainy season, or simply in need of a lightweight jacket, this jacket compactly folds into itself.
Undergarments
Obviously, you won’t want to re-wear undergarments without washing them, so plan on packing enough for every day on the trip or until you know you can do laundry. Luckily these don’t take up too much space!
Swimsuit(s)
If you are going somewhere with a beach or pool, don’t forget a swimsuit!
If it’s more of a tropical vacation, it’s good to bring 1-3 swimsuits so that you have a few different options. You’ll want one that is good for water activities and swimming, plus 1 or 2 cute suits for lounging on the beach.
The good thing about swimsuits is that they don’t take up much space so it’s easy to bring a few.
Shoes
This is where I have to limit myself the most- shoes! Shoes can take up your entire suitcase if you’re like me and want to bring one for each day. The key is to think about what scenarios you will wear the shoes you bring and only bring 1 pair for each of those scenarios.
In general, it is good to bring 1 pair of shoes for walking/activities and 1 pair that is a bit more dressy. You may also want to throw some flip-flops for a pool or beach.
If you have extra space in your suitcase, you may want to bring an extra pair of shoes but try to limit it to ones that don’t occupy too much space.
Electronics
There are a few important electronics you’ll want to add to your minimalist packing list. These include things like your phone, chargers, camera, and any other electronics you use daily. Depending on where you are going, you also may need an electronic adapter.
Travel Insurance
A travel insurance policy is an absolute must-have when it comes to international travel essentials for women.
Travel insurance is important because depending on your policy it can help cover things like unexpected delays or unexpected medical costs. Since US health insurance does not work abroad, you want to make sure you have some travel insurance with healthcare coverage.
👉 Learn more about the travel insurance I use 👈
10 Minimalist Packing List Tips for Women
As I mentioned, making the switch to minimalist packing can be hard! Especially when you love fashion. So, below I’ve listed my best women’s packing list tips for traveling as a minimalist.
1. Find the Best Minimal Travel Bag or Carry-On Luggage for You
Finding the right minimalist travel backpack or carry-on luggage is one of the most important parts of your minimalist packing list. Some people prefer a travel backpack that is lightweight and compresses, while others may prefer a carry-on luggage that you can wheel around.
Honestly, when necessary, I bring both. On some trips, it will make more sense to use a travel backpack, for example when you are traveling somewhere that you’ll utilize a lot of public transport or walk on cobblestone streets.
Other times it will make sense to use carry-on luggage, like if you are going to be in a few different airports or visiting a resort and don’t want to carry a backpack.
2. Organization is Key
Organization is key for minimalist packing. Staying organized allows you to bring all your travel essentials while still having space. Plus, once you arrive at your destination you can easily find things if you are organized. I recommend this portable wardrobe to fit all your female travel essentials and stay organized.
3. Compression Items are a Must-Have
Compression items are a must when it comes to traveling with only a carry-on. This allows you to fit all your items into one bag easily. I highly recommend either using compression packing cubes or getting these travel roll-up compression bags as they will save you so much space.
4. Pack Versatile Clothes
When it comes to clothing, pack items that can be mixed & matched to create different outfits. Many times this involves bringing some basic colors or neutral color clothing that can easily go with other pieces.
You also want to think of clothing that can be used for a variety of occasions. For example, a cute sundress can work as a daytime outfit for exploring a new city, but can also be used as a beach coverup or you could dress it up with some jewelry and wear it to a nice dinner.
Depending on your destination, you may also want to have clothes that can be layered so that you can reuse them in different weather conditions.
Overall, packing versatile clothing is one of the biggest female travel essentials because it allows you to pack light yet still have options.
5. Plan to Wash Clothes on the Go
If you are traveling for longer than a week, you may need to wash clothes while on the go. Don’t worry, this is easier than it sounds. Some hotels or apartment rentals will have laundry facilities available so that you can wash clothes.
If your accommodation doesn’t have laundry you can always use a local laundromat. When traveling for more than a few days, I have to wash my workout clothes because ummm…I’m a sweaty individual. I normally hand wash them, along with any other items I may want to re-wear with Tide travel laundry soap.
Another tip for keeping clothes smelling fresh and clean is to put a few scented dryer sheets in your luggage. I usually put a few fresh linen-scented dryer sheets in my bag and it keeps my clothes smelling so fresh while traveling.
6. Minimize Toiletries
While you may have different hair and skin products that you love to use at home, I’d recommend minimizing what you bring on a trip.
Most hotels will offer different toiletries such as soaps, shampoos, and conditioners. So, stick to the basics and bring things you’ll absolutely need or can’t get at the hotel.
Also, if you are traveling with only a carry-on bag, make sure you know the liquid requirements for the plane. In the US, you’re allowed 1 clear quart-sized bag with travel-sized (3.4oz or less) liquid containers.
7. Limit Shoes to 1-3 Pairs
Shoes can take up a large part of your luggage, so it’s better to limit it to 1-3 pairs of shoes. This way you have 1 pair that you are wearing and just 1 or 2 pairs to fit in your bag.
Think versatile with shoes – you want to bring a pair of shoes that can be used for multiple activities.
The shoes you bring depend on your destination, but typically when I travel I bring a good pair of tennis shoes for walking around, a pair of casual shoes, and a pair for at night or dressier outfits. I try to opt for shoes that don’t take up too much space like sandals.
8. Limit Your Options
The key to packing light is to limit your options. Read that again- I said limit, not “only bring what you know you’re going to wear”
Limiting your options is essential to packing light, especially when packing shoes as they can take up so much space.
My personal light packing strategy is to assign a specific outfit for each day- and pack those items first. After that, I can see how much space I have left which helps me prioritize the “extra options” I have room to bring.
This way, I have everything I must- have, and a few items that I may want to wear while traveling.
9. Use Compact Organizers
Like I’ve said, I’m a girl that needs options. And that’s not only for my clothing. It includes sunglasses and jewelry as well. I can’t just bring 1 option.
This compact jewelry box has truly been a game changer. It allows me to switch up my jewelry for the variety of “looks” I’m going for. Likewise, for my beach trips, bringing only 1 pair of sunglasses is equivalent to blasphemy. That’s why I love this compact sunglass holder which can hold up to 5 pairs!
10. Plan to Wear the Heaviest Clothes on Your Flight
Some airlines have weight limits on carry-on luggage, so it’s a good idea to wear heavier items on the flight.
For example, if you are bringing tennis shoes and sandals, you’d want to wear the tennis shoes on the flight since they are heavier and take up more space.
Additionally, if you are bringing a jacket I’d recommend wearing it on the plane because it’s another item that tends to take up extra space. Plus, if you are like me you may feel a bit chilly while on the plane anyway.
Women’s Travel Essentials: 1 Week Packing List
I honestly think minimalist packing is a bit more difficult for women vs men. Part of this is that we want to pack extra things so that we are fully prepared and have a variety of cute outfits – unlike most guys who just throw on a shirt and jeans and call it good.
So, I’ve created this women’s packing list which includes travel essentials for women who want to try minimalist packing while still being fashionable.
This women’s packing list is based on a 1-week trip but can easily be modified for shorter or longer trips. If you’re looking for guidance that’s a little bit more specific, I also offer packing lists for Miami, guides to what to wear in Caribbean destinations like Aruba, Jamaica, and Colombia, and even a guide for how to dress as a woman in Jordan!
The Minimalist 1-Week Packing List for Women
Clothing
- 3 short sleeved tops
- 3 long-sleeved tops (or tank tops depending on destination)
- 1 lightweight jacket
- 2 pairs of jeans
- 2 pairs of shorts or skirts
- Undergarments
- 1-2 sun dresses or maxi dresses
- 1-2 swimsuits
- 2-3 pairs of shoes
Toiletries
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Makeup & makeup remover
- Hairbrush and styling tool
- Deodorant
- Facial wipes
- Travel-sized containers for liquids
Minimalist Travel Essentials
- Travel backpack or carry-on luggage
- Day pack
- Compression packing cubes or travel roll-up compression bags
- Portable Wardrobe
- Sunglass holder
- Waterproof phone case
- Compact jewelry organizer
Travel Documents
- Passport or ID
- Travel insurance policy
Electronics
- Phone charger
- Portable battery
- Adapter (if needed)
- Portable Bluetooth speaker
- Camera & portable tripod
Minimalist Packing List FAQs
The rule of 3 packing is a minimalist packing list trick where you pack 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 pairs of shoes. This way you can mix and match and have at least 9 different outfits! It’s a great way to pack light while still having different looks for each day.
Packing light with a carry-on only is the best way to pack for a 5-day trip. This can easily be done by using compression packing cubes and selecting clothes that are versatile and can be mixed and matched. For a 5-day trip, plan to bring 3 tops, 3 bottoms, 2 pairs of shoes, and 1 dress.
The 1 to 6 rule is another minimalist packing list method that works perfectly for a 1-week packing list. This involves packing 1 jacket, 2 dresses, 3 pairs of shoes, 4 bottoms, 5 tops, and 6 undergarments. Then, you’ll mix and match the items to have several different outfits.
The Wrap-Up: Minimalist Packing
As someone who has switched over to team carry-on, I can definitely say that it is so worth it to travel as a minimalist. Not only is this travel style cheaper, but it also gives you a sense of freedom and flexibility.
So, if you are looking for an easier way to travel that maximizes your travel time and is less stressful, then minimal travel is for you. Use this minimalist packing list to ensure you include the travel essentials most women need when traveling with only a carry-on.
