Hello everyone!

I'm going to be in Albuquerque, NM, for 3 days for a 2.5 day work event, with 2 travel days.

I'm getting back into minimalist packing now that I'm fully recovered from a fibroid surgery several years ago (no more back pain!) and flying for the first time for work since 2019, so I'm worried about being gate-checked unlike the past few years when I've only done train travel.

Here's my tentative packing list. Is this about right for where I'm going, or is it going to be a struggle to fit it all in a backpack? I'm planning to do a two-hour guided bike tour on my last afternoon in Albuquerque (I can't afford to go on non-day trip vacations with my salary, especially with US inflation being so bad, so I try to bundle at least one fun thing into every work trip), and I'm going to be packing everything in a 30L Nemo overnight backpack (the one with the duffel opening). There's a small grocery store about a 10-minute walk from my hotel where I can get more sunscreen.

I used to need to pack a lot more because I took a collapsible meditation bench with me, so I had to use a suitcase, but I think I may just be able to go without if I stack pillows on the hotel bed? I could use some advice on what to do with that because my meditation practice is sometimes the only thing holding me together.

Apparel & Footwear

• 2 pairs linen pants (one worn on plane)
• 2 linen blouses (one worn on plane)
• 2 cotton work-appropriate dresses
• Cotton shrug for over-air-conditioned building
• Linen activewear shirt and 1 pair informal shorts (for bike thing)
• Linen blazer (debating whether to wear this on the plane)
• Sleeping shorts and a tank top
• 8 pairs of underwear (yup)
• Hiking shoes + 2 pairs socks
• Ballet flats (for my presentation day)
• Ergonomic work-appropriate sandals (wearing on plane)
• Basil City Bike Handbag (8L, functions as a purse because the KlickFix panel and pannier hooks can be hidden when not using that function, could theoretically put some of my things in it on my travel days)

Gear

• Supernote tablet + spare pen
• Kobo
• Hearing aid charger
• 2 USB-C chargers with 2 wall plugs
• Bluetooth keyboard for phone
• Phone
• ANC headphones
• Hearing aid clamshell
• Modl straps (never know when you need 'em)
• Maybe my work laptop ... I'm pretty sure I can get by with taking notes on my eink tablet and using the external phone keyboard ... I just need to check with the organizers that the room has a presentation laptop in it

Wellness

• Prayer beads + icon
• Yoga therapy balls
• Instant matcha and magnesium single-serving sticks
• Vitamin C
• B complex supplement
• Empty water bottle
• Gluten-free protein bars/snacks for flight day
• Solid shampoo and conditioner bars
• Electric toothbrush + travel case
• Face moisturizer
• Deodorant
• Mini bottle of sunscreen
• OTC allergy medication
• Face masks for travel days + public bathrooms
• Hand sanitizer (travel size) and sanitizing wipes

Hey all! I’m planning a trip through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia in late July/early August and although I’ve searched this sub, my search results haven’t brought up many posts specific to this region/season combination.

I’d love to see trip reports and capsule wardrobes from anyone who has traveled through the Baltics in summertime.
When Googling, the weather seems wildly inconsistent. Some sources say it can be sunny and in the upper 80s°F, while others say daytime highs are more like low 70s°F (21–23°C). I get chilled easily around daytime highs in the low 70s, especially if it's overcast, so that temp difference really changes how I pack. Originally I was planning mostly lightweight cottons and linens, but now I’m wondering if I should be thinking more in terms of merino layers and warmer outerwear.

I’ve also seen conflicting info about rain frequency, which will probably determine my footwear choices. Trying to decide whether I can get away with lighter sneakers/sandals or if I should prioritize water resistance.
I’ve posted in a few general travel subs already, but those discussions always end up focused on itineraries instead of packing 😅

Trip details:
10 days on the ground +2 travel days
2 days in Vilnius, Lithuania
2 days in Riga, Latvia
4–5 days exploring various cities in Estonia (north to south)
2 days in Jūrmala, Latvia
Current plan is 1–1.5 bag travel (carry-on roller + small backpack). (I could probably 1 bag it if i didn't HAVE to bring 3 pairs of shoes for my ridiculously problematic feet, also i want extra room to bring home souvenirs from this trip)

Would really appreciate any trip reports, packing lists, outfit formulas, footwear recommendations, or general advice from people who’ve done this region in summer.
Thanks so much y’all!

Eight days, seven nights in Southern California last month. Wanted to challenge myself to pack a capsule wardrobe in spring colors rather than my usual black. Weather was variable, getting cool in the evenings and warm in the daytime. Trip was casual to see friends & family. Ended up hiking, shopping, walking, and visiting with people; unfortunately I got pretty sick halfway through and spent the last three days in bed.

Bag

40L men's REI Ruckpack (oversized for this trip but don't have a mid-sized bag) and a very small, packable cloth backpack for daily use.

Electronics

- Airpods
- Daily watch (luv u baby Casio)
- Exercise watch (only wear this for running as I dislike the bulk and am loyal to the Casio)
- Phone
- Misc. chargers

Clothes & Shoes

- One Lulu fast & free running hat
- One cotton handkerchief
- One pair Everlane denim shorts
- One pair Athletica running shorts
- One pair Lulu athletic shorts for sleeping/lounging
- Five prs socks, five prs underwear
- One sports bra, one wire bra
- One pair Everlane jeans*
- One long cotton shirt*
- Light Adidas windbreaker*
- Two cotton t-shirts
- One cotton tank
- One athletic top
- One nice tank/bodysuit

Shoes

- Hoka running shoes
- Adidas tennies for walking*

*Travel day outfit

Misc. Not Pictured VIPS

- TRAVEL SNACKS (stress-ate pretzel goldfish through turbulence)
- Earplugs (I carry both foam and loop earplugs)
- Silk eyemask
- Extra migraine meds
- Mini card case instead of my bulky wallet
- Gifted Noshinku hand sanitizer (I would probably never buy this insanely overpriced sanitizer for myself, but damn if its sleek design don't make me feel a little better and cleaner every time I use it)

What Worked Well

I've begun to dial one bagging in well and used every piece of clothing except the running shorts, only because I did not follow my training plan after I got sick. I do love that I got to wear something other than my usual black capsule wardrobe. I know many are anti-denim for travel, but I still find the comfort and structure worth it. I just avoid their bulk by wearing the jeans on travel days.

What I Would Have Done Differently

Not much! I would still like to one day purchase a smaller bag (~26-30L) for mid-length trips like this, but until then the bulky 40L works fine. I could likely have cut the longsleeve cotton tee, but I thought I might want that extra layer at some point. Lastly, I wish I had fully masked on the flight over -- I never figured out what virus I contracted, but finding medical care outside your home state suuuuuucks.

https://preview.redd.it/h798d0sfao2h1.jpg?width=4284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=398b3250c369160fab0c19fe2794e944ba652a0e

https://preview.redd.it/7tgbf0sfao2h1.jpg?width=4284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e5c91ca3b06070aebabe46f171b93627fcea3a23

https://preview.redd.it/0zqd76sfao2h1.jpg?width=4284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=05c3a7079122dbe3f402207f9723ee643b907171

This is exactly perfect for how I travel (get to a place, unpack, use the packing cubes as handy day bags) but I generally prefer much smaller packing cubes, like small size is fine. (Don’t get me started on why packing cubes almost always come in sets that are all too large except the smallest one). I’d love to find small packing cubes with securely attached hardware so I can clip a crossbody strap onto one. Any ideas?

I have been looking through the Reddit posts, searching on websites, even asked ChatGPT for help...and now I'm finally asking here if the bag I want even exists? What I'm looking for is:

• Backpack around 25-30 litres
• Can be expanded for extra space
• Stowaway backpack straps
• Attachable shoulder/duffle strap (may have to buy this separately)
• Clamshell or lay flat opening
• Main compartment having a U-zip mesh cover
• Trolley sleeve
• Does NOT need a laptop compartment (just adds to the weight and I don't want to bring a laptop with me)
• Doesn't need a ton of extra pockets or straps
• Water bottle pocket nice but not necessary
• Must be able to purchase in Canada

Right now I'm leaning towards:

• Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC but it's not expandable.
• Topo Global Travel 30L bag but it's also not expandable and the hip straps don't stow away.
• Osprey Transporter Travel Pack 36 but again, it's not expandable.
• AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack but it's a little large and I worry about quality.

Maybe I'm just being too picky but I really want to one bag travel and have the right bag for all my needs.

Hi. I have an extra pill organizer and I was wondering if anyone has tried using one to travel with makeup powders? I have a few of the larger mineral makeup pots that I want to take with me but I’m trying to lighten my load.

Update on this post:

https://www.reddit.com/r/HerOneBag/comments/1sgyfeh/8_days_chengdu_overthinker_first_time_poster_need/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=mweb3x&utm_name=mweb3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button

I got back from my trip to Chengdu last week and I had an absolutely amazing time! 

Here’s my “packing review”. All in all, I’d say that I packed pretty well!  I’ll list some highlights from things I brought depending on how useful they were/ additional thoughts 

Let’s start with the thing(s) I was missing:

-A belt/ better fitting shorts 

I tried on the one pair of shorts I brought while it was straight out of the wash and I didn’t realise that they were very large on me until we landed in China. I was able to sort of fold over the top, but just having them fit would have been better 

-iberogast

I probably would have been fine without this but I did end up taking some my friend had brought on a few days that my stomach felt queasy so I thought I should include it in the list 

Stuff I brought that wasn’t on the original list

-chia seeds (fibre to help digestion)

-duct tape 

We ended up actually needing it (but I lost it somehow)

-rain jacket (mentioned in first post)

Bought it for this trip and it came in quite handy on the one day it was 20-ish degrees and drizzling 

-Aux cable for headphones 

Used it on the first flight to watch 30min of weck it Ralph part 2, could have lived without this but eh.

-Small earbuds / headphones 

Slept in these at the hotel, probably could have gone without the additional big over-ears but I liked having the option of noise cancellation. Next time I’ll only take these. 

-50€ cash 

Just in case , didn’t need it 

-pack of tictacs 

Better case than my mints

-sweatpants 

A lot of people suggested I wear linen pants on the plane but I would have frozen my ass off on my way to the airport and on the first flight. The second flight was surprisingly warm so I stayed in my shorts and changed in a bathroom when we got back to Germany. Totally worth it

-sweater

Word on flight and in the hotel at night because my roommates wouldn’t compromise on not blasting the AC like crazy 

The other stuff I brought (highlights):

-neck pillow 

Someone in the comments under my last that I could skip this but let me be clear: BRING A GOOD NECK PILLOW if you plan on sleeping on the plane. I used a borrowed (sort of shitty) inflatable one of the first flight and had an awful time (though I was glad to have it at all) due to intense fatigue and desperation I got an ergonomic pillow at the airport on my way home and it was the best 30€ I’ve spent in long time 

I know it’s not “minimalist”, lightweight and bulky but so incredibly worth it. I don’t think I’ll use it anytime soon but I’ll keep it for next time I need to take an overnight journey. If you’re in the market for a neck pillow really consider investing in an ergonomic one. I tried the basic one my friends had brought and they were as bad as my shitty inflatable one. 

-sleep mask

Essential on the plane + the blinds in the hotel didn’t fully close so I used it for the entire week 

-tooth brush 

I could have left this at home bc we were provided with some at the hotel but I liked having my own and being able to brush my teeth on the plane 

-the amount of clothes I had was perfect

-used an entire tube of pain-gel (shared with my friend) and took two ibuprofen a day. Next time I’ll take it easy the first few days and maybe avoid this lol) 

-my waterproof hiking shoes are ugly as shit but perfect for all occasions, we even went to one slightly upscale restaurant , but I don’t think anyone noticed or cared 

-tissues 

There’s no toilet paper in a solid 60% of bathrooms, so I was glad to have my pack and ended up buying new ones

My slightly excessive edc:

I brought my normal every day edc with a few swaps and used almost all of it

-loved tictacs 

-used the salt just straight up on my tongue when I felt like I needed some electrolytes 

-THE PAPER WAS AN ABSOLUTE WINNER!! BRING PAPER!!! completely unforeseen but there were MULTIPLE spots where I could get cute stamps (better than any souvenir)

-got a blister despite my hiking shoes being absolutely amazing, but I could have brought less

-lip balm with spf50 was my best friend 

-used the scissors multiple times 

Stuff I could have left at home/didn’t use 

-earplugs

I brought an entire pack of wax earplugs that I only used one pair of in chongquing bc I was getting overwhelmed by the noise. Didn’t need to bring an entire pack, since I mostly slept in headphones anyways. Might invest in re-usable ones next time and just bring one pair in my edc

-umbrella

We had good luck with the weather and I didn’t bring the umbrella on the one day that it actually rained. not sure if this was a “should have left it at home” item bc Chengdu is usually super rainy during this time of year 

the stuff I didn’t bring that was on the list/stuff I didn’t bring and didn’t miss

-my wallet 

Used one of those large paper-clip thingies instead 

-daybag 

I agonised over this so much but I just used my slingbag on a day to day basis and carried a few additional things like a water bottle / shoppingbags in my hands. This was way less annoying than I thought

-Plug adapter 

The hotel had usb-A and European outlets (one of my friend had the issue of only having brought usb-c to usb-c cables and had to borrow my charger) 

-portable charger 

thanks to a helpful commenter on my last post i knew to leave my portable charger at home. I bought one when I got to China and would recommend doing the same, since you’re sort of lost without your phone 

-jeans 

Took the advice of everyone In the comments on my last post.

————————————

Additional notes

-Despite some people warning me of this i didn’t get any stomach issues 

-this probably disqualifies me from being a “one bagger” but i bought a small suitcase and packed it with souvenirs (a few gacha, a really nice mug otherwise mostly candy and tea), will bring it empty on any future trans-continental trips. Honestly curious how other “one-baggers” deal with souvenirs? When I travel in europe I don’t really get things/ If anything I get consumables but I knew I wanted to get a lot of tea in china. I probably could have gotten less stuff in general and fit it in my bag but that would have been annoying/felt limiting. Genuinely interested in hearing everyone’s thoughts!! 

-Feel free to ask me any questions about my trip! 

I have some merino clothes, mostly tops and socks, that I am very satisfied with. But, planning a summer trip, I’m worried about being too hot during the day.

Does anyone have experience with bamboo or hemp, for tops or underwear? I’m interested in coolness, un-stinkableness, and how quickly they dry after sink washing.

Any other fabrics, including manmade, you would recommend for those qualities?

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