Last Updated: January 16, 2026
Creating your own minimalist travel packing list is quite simple, actually:
- Choose a suitable bag that you can carry onto an airplane
- Fill it with clothing, gear, and other travel essentials
- Leave everything else behind
By doing so, you’ll experience the world feeling light as a feather, unbothered by the burden of unnecessary stuff.
I’ve learned the value of packing light during my travels to dozens of countries over the past several years.
Everything I need to travel, work full-time, and film/photograph my adventures fits in an ultralight 25-liter personal item-sized bag.
I’m here to share the minimalist packing list (updated for 2026) I use to prepare for travel of a week or more and analyze every piece of gear I bring along.
Stay tuned; it’s time to lighten up.
Pack Less Stuff. (You Won’t Regret it.)
Packing the minimum you need to comfortably explore your destination, much like ultralight backpacking, will reduce the weight on your back as you move from place to place.
The less weight on your back, the more mobile you will be (and the fewer possessions you’ll have to worry about).
In well-executed minimalist travel, everything in your bag serves a purpose, benefits your journey, and pushes you forward.
(If you ever have to ask yourself, “Why did I bring this item again?” you probably should have never packed it in the first place.)
Believe me, I used to be the guy who hauled around an 80-liter backpack, overwhelmed by my excess of possessions.
When I say that traveling with only the essentials is the most liberating way to move about the world, it comes from years of learning the hard way.
Minimalist Travel Bag
Travel Backpack
Ultralight Daypack: Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25
In the world of minimalist travel, it all starts with a personal item-sized backpack. I’m over the moon with my ultralight Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25-liter pack, which is waterproof and weighs a ridiculous 10.7 ounces. Can’t afford to fork out 250 bucks? Check out the Matador Freerain22.
Packing Essentials
Cell Phone
Wallet/Purse
Passport/Visa
Cash/Credit Cards
Insurance Documents
Copies of Passport/Visa
Do-it-All Cell Phone: iPhone 13 Pro
A smartphone should be a key cog of anyone’s travel packing list. My iPhone 13 Pro has ample storage capacity (512 GB), a fast processor, a great camera, and a beautiful display. It was the newest iPhone when I bought it, but I got a considerable discount buying refurbished.
Minimalist Wallet: Slimfold Soft Shell
There’s no room for gigantic, bulging wallets in here, so keep it simple. The Slimfold Soft Shell wallet does everything you’ll ever ask of it while never being a bother. It’s RFID-blocking, waterproof, and super comfortable to carry. Did I mention it weighs half an ounce?
Travel Rewards Credit Card: Capital One Venture
I’ve booked dozens of free flights with rewards miles earned through travel hacking credit cards. Currently, the Capital One Venture is the best travel rewards card with an annual fee of under $100. I recommend it to anyone trying to stack rewards miles.
Worn Clothing While In-Transit
Sweatshirt
Shirt
Pants
Shoes
Hat
Sunglasses
Underwear
Socks
Belt
Sweatshirt: Mack Weldon
I almost always travel in a silky smooth sweatshirt, even when visiting a warmer destination. I love its coziness in airports, airplanes, trains, lounges, and other environments with heavy A/C. My sweatshirt is a bit bulky, so it never goes in my backpack.
Merino Wool T-Shirt: Wool&Prince
If you bump into me while I’m traveling, chances are I’ll be wearing a Wool&Prince tee. These shirts are soft, comfortable, odor-resistant, and fit my frame well. They stay smelling fresh even after several days of consecutive use. Thanks, merino wool!
Do-it-All Travel Pants: Outlier Slim Dungarees
I only bring one pair of pants when I travel, so they’d better be of top quality. My drawers of choice are from a fabric-obsessed NYC-based brand called Outlier. In their words, “If you only own a single pair of pants, these are the ones.” They’re a splurge, but worth it.
Versatile Shoes: Lems Primal Zen Leather
My style of travel — which involves a lot of hiking and city strolling — calls for a durable and versatile pair of shoes. To meet all of these needs, I chose the Lens Primal Zen Leathers. These zero-drop shoes can handle the gym, backcountry, sidewalks, and everything in between.
Baseball Hat: Proof Rover
Like many one-bag travelers, I can’t be bothered with styling my hair every single day. For that reason, I always travel with a trusty baseball hat. The stylish and versatile Rover allows me to get up and go without needing to look in a mirror first.
Sunglasses: Knockaround Brooklines
I’ve tried countless sunglasses brands, but I always end up back at Knockaround. I recently retired my Fast Lanes, for the Brooklines, a frame that pulls off both retro and modern at once. These look and feel far pricier than their $35 price tag.
Breathable Underwear: Mack Weldon
Comfortable underwear is crucial in the world of travel (and life in general), and the Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey Boxer Briefs are my new favorite travel undies. They’re exceptionally soft and wick away moisture, keeping the stink of travel at bay.
Super-Comfortable Socks: Darn Tough Crew
I’m a sock snob. That’s why I’ll only buy Darn Tough brand socks, even if they cost $20 a pair. They’re expertly crafted from an ultra-comfortable Merino wool blend, and each pair comes with a lifetime guarantee, though they’re so durable you may never need to use it.
Reversible Belt: Perry Ellis
I used to sport an Arcade Ranger stretchy belt, but it was a little too stretchy, and my pants would slowly start to sag as the day wore on. I recently switched to this reversible leather belt that still allows some stretch but just the right amount.
Packed Travel Wardrobe
Button-Down Shirt
T-Shirts (3)
Athletic Shorts
Underwear (2)
Socks (2)
Packing Cubes
Button-Down Shirt: Everlane Japanese Oxford
Though I’m a t-shirt guy through and through, I always bring a button-down shirt for fancier occasions. The Japanese Oxford is my favorite shirt of its kind in my at-home wardrobe, and thus, it has earned a spot in my backpack. It looks great, both buttoned and unbuttoned, and has held up for years.
Merino Wool T-Shirt: Wool&Prince
Well, hello again, incredible Wool&Prince Merino wool t-shirt! I usually pack an extra one of these when I’m traveling to stay fresh and switch up my color schemes as needed. As I mentioned earlier, these rarely trap odor, so I can wear them for days on end without raising a stink.
Performance Tee: KETL Mountain Apparel Nofry
Although I love my Wool&Prince tees, I’d rather not wear them when working out or having a beach day. That’s where my KETL Mountain Apparel Nofry t-shirts come in. They’re insanely lightweight (2.9 ounces each), ultra packable, breathe extremely well, and provide UPF 30+ sun protection.
Athletic Shorts: Patagonia Multi Trails
I wear my Multi Trail shorts when washing my travel pants, working out, or swimming. They’re comfortable, extremely breathable, dry quickly, and take up virtually no space in my bag. They make my minimalist wardrobe all the more versatile.
Breathable Underwear: Mack Weldon (2)
I’m addicted to my Mack Weldons; they’re the only underwear I ever want to wear. When traveling, I cycle between three pairs of these and wash them frequently. I can stretch their usage an extra day or two between washes if needed.
Super-Comfortable Socks: Darn Tough No Show (2)
When I find a product I love, I sing its praises. That said, my Darn Toughs are so delightful — so utterly comfortable — that I’d like to offer you some advice: buy these socks. When traveling, I bring one pair of crew socks and two no-shows. I wash them regularly, usually by hand.
Packing Cube: Peak Design Ultralight (Mesh)
To put it bluntly, this is the best packing cube I’ve ever had the privilege of traveling with. It’s stretchy and lightweight but as durable as you could ask for. Gone are the days of jamming clothes into a packing cube and praying they’ll fit.
Optional Cold and/or Rainy Weather Clothing
Winter Jacket
Rain Jacket
Long Underwear
Headwear
Gloves
Lightweight Down Jacket: Arc’teryx Cerium LT
For cold-weather trips, a packable down jacket should be part of every traveler’s arsenal. I travel with my trusty Arc’teryx Cerium LT, which weighs 10 ounces and packs down to the size of a Nalgene bottle. It keeps me toasty warm in temperatures well below freezing.
Ultralight Jacket: LEVE Ultralight
I haven’t yet received this jacket (there was an 8- to 10-week lead time on it), but I’ve heard only great things about it. Weighing a crazy light 3.2 oz, the LEVE Ultralight Jacket should be packable and breathable. I’ll report back on its durability.
Long Underwear: Patagonia Capilene
If the weather on my upcoming trip is chilly enough to warrant packing a down jacket, I’ll also pack my long underwear. I bring the ultra-packable 5.3 oz Patagonia Capilene bottoms to insulate my lower half on my adventures to cold-weather destinations.
Multifunctional Headwear: BUFF
Neck warmer, bandana, face mask, beanie – this BUFF can transform into whatever type of headwear I need. It takes up zero space in my pack and is far more versatile than a typical winter hat. It’s a lightweight traveler’s cold-weather dream.
Computer, Photography & Other Tech Gear
Laptop
Laptop Case
Bluetooth Keyboard
Bluetooth Mouse
Laptop Stand
Camera + Lens
Tripod
Microphone
Power Bank
Camera Case
Camera Clip
Headphones
Speaker
Cables
Travel Adapter
Laptop: Apple MacBook Pro 14
I know a laptop is so not ultra-minimalist, but I’m a travel blogger and rely on my computer to make a living. For now, it’s an essential part of my weeklong packing list. I’ve considered switching it out for an iPad Pro, but I’m not mentally there yet.
Laptop Sleeve: tomtoc 360°
I rely dearly on my laptop and must keep it protected at all costs. This well-padded, water-resistant case shields my computer from the harsh rigors of travel and fits perfectly into the back mesh pocket on the outside of my Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25 backpack.
Laptop Stand: Roost
I’ve been dealing with a herniated disc in my lower back recently, and this super lightweight and portable laptop stand has been a godsend. It raises my computer to eye level, reduces hunching, fixes my posture, and takes the strain off my back.
Bluetooth Keyboard: Apple Magic Keyboard 2
Since I use a stand to elevate my laptop, I need a Bluetooth keyboard so I don’t have to reach up to type on my computer. Though there are slightly more compact options on the market, my Magic Keyboard is a comfortable clone of my MacBook’s keyboard.
Bluetooth Mouse: Apple Magic Mouse
My old Keychron mouse broke, so I turned to the brand I trust for computers. This mouse has been excellent for me and has stood up well to life on the road. What can I say? I love Apple products, and they all work seamlessly together.
Lightweight Travel Camera + Lens: Fujifilm X-T4
A camera isn’t necessary for most travelers since most cell phones take great photos. That said, I’m about to dive into YouTube soon (gulp), and I recently purchased this camera and lens. Expensive? Yes. The best mirrorless camera kit at its price point? Also yes.
Mini Tripod: NEEWER TP09
What good is a fancy camera if you don’t have a packable carbon fiber tripod to hold it steady? Though it only goes 20 inches tall, this is the tripod I’ll pack as I earn my chops as a videographer. It weighs just under a pound and will stash away easily in my pack.
Mini Microphone: Rode VideoMicro
A badass camera deserves a worthy microphone. Though this compact little fella won’t capture audio as well as some of the higher-end options on the market, it has done a respectable job for me in the past. It only weighs a few ounces and packs away unnoticed.
Power Bank/Camera Lighting: NEEWER RGB61
I replaced my old Nitecore light/battery bank with this little beast. It creates a delightful, soft light, can produce any color you ask of it, and has a magnetic back. Though I lose out on charging capabilities, my phone’s excellent battery life means it can go a whole day between charges.
Ultralight Camera Case: HMG Camera Pod
It’s not easy to find a lightweight yet protective camera case, yet here we are. As an ultralight backpacking gear nerd, I’m familiar with Hyperlite Mountain Gear and their super-light and innovative products. I recently came across this space-age camera case, which weighs only a couple of ounces.
Camera Clip: Peak Design Capture V3
If you’re traveling with a camera and this clip isn’t part of your packing list, you’re doing it wrong. This ergonomic and lightweight clip allows you to securely stash your camera on your belt, backpack strap, or any other convenient location. It’s incredible.
Lightweight Earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro 2
I used to travel with cheap $10 Panasonic headphones until I tried out my friend’s AirPods Pros. Now, I can never go back. These little beasts pump out the best sound of any headphones I’ve ever owned and have three different settings to control the amount of external sound that comes in.
Compact Bluetooth Speaker: JBL Go 3
As much as I adore my AirPods, I always pack a speaker to play tunes in my Airbnb, hotel room, or at the park. My compact little JBL Go 3 is waterproof, has a solid battery life, and can get surprisingly loud. This speaker is the most “luxury” item that I travel with.
Charging Cables: Apple
No, these aren’t the most exciting items on my packing list, but they are some of the most necessary. They help keep my precious MacBook Pro, iPhone, and AirPods charged, and I’ll never take them for granted. To juice up my camera, light, and speaker, I use this tiny 6-inch USB-C cable.
Wall Adapter: Anker 523
This is about the lightest adapter on the market that’ll charge my MacBook Pro adequately. It’s far smaller than anything I’ve ever used, and it has come in handy during both domestic and international travels. It has two USB-C ports, which is all I’ll ever need.
Travel Toiletries Kit
Toiletries Bag
Soap
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Dental Floss
Glasses/Contacts
Contact Solution/Case
Ear Cleaner/Swabs
Razor
Nail Clippers
Tweezers
Medications
Advil
Sleep Aid
Multivitamins
Toiletries Bag: UltraLite Sacks
No, this ditty bag (Regular size) isn’t advertised as a toiletries kit, but it works perfectly for my current travel hygiene needs. It’s lightweight, durable, waterproof, and fits snugly inside my pack. I use an ultralight trail wallet and a small zippered pouch for extra organization inside.
Biodegradable Liquid Soap: Dr. Bronner’s
Dr. Bronner’s is the perfect travel soap. Why is it so special? For starters, it’s a liquid soap, making it extremely easy to travel with. It’s highly potent and has 18 different uses: body wash, dishwashing liquid, and laundry soap, to name a few.
Bamboo Toothbrush: SeaTurtle
This isn’t the exact bamboo toothbrush I use, but life goes on. So, why do I use a bamboo toothbrush when I travel? To begin with, it’s a more environmentally responsible choice than using a traditional plastic toothbrush. It works just as well and is entirely biodegradable.
Travel-Sized Toothpaste: Arm & Hammer
I could brush my teeth with the Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap I mentioned earlier, but I’ve tried that before, and I’m just not feeling it. That said, Arm & Hammer makes the best toothpaste on earth, which also comes in a travel size. Sign me up.
Flosser Sticks: Plackers Micro Mint
Traditional floss can get tangled, grimy, and messy during travel, so I bring these handy flosser sticks instead. They’re washable and reusable, making flossing your teeth quick and convenient. Two or three of these should be sufficient for a week of travel.
All-Natural Deodorant: Schmidt’s
My search for an all-natural deodorant that could withstand the rigors of travel seemed hopeless until I came across Schmidt’s. This stuff keeps my B.O. at bay and smells excellent. It also comes in a compact .7-ounce travel-size, which frees up a lot of space in my toiletries kit.
Ear Cleaner: Mudder Ear Pick
Traveling with a ton of pesky Q-tips is annoying, wasteful, and inefficient. That’s why a metal ear pick will always be a part of my packing list. It’s compact, easy to clean, and healthier for ear hygiene than traditional Q-tips.
Noise-Deadening Earplugs: Howard Leight
Earplugs are one of the most underrated travel essentials. They’re like a mute button for the constant annoyances of travel. Screaming baby on an airplane? Loud party outside of your hotel room? Snoring in the bed next to you? Pop these in and enjoy the sweet silence.
Other Personal Items
Journal
Pen
Water Bottle
Travel Journal: Moleskine Soft Cover
Whenever I travel without a journal, I feel naked, and I’m a hell of a lot less productive. But when I do bring my journal, I use it to take notes, make to-do lists, and recap my days. When my memory fails me one day, I’ll have my Moleskines to pore over and relive my glory years.
Pen: BIC Glide Bold
I tend to lose my fancy $30 Space Pens, so I decided to make the practical decision of downgrading to a less exciting BIC pen (about $1 each). I’m not knocking its performance, but it’s not quite as fun to write with as a space pen. Give and take.
Titanium Water Bottle: Snow Peak Aurora
Staying hydrated while traveling can be challenging, so I always bring an ultralight titanium water bottle with me. This bottle is a joy to travel with and a testament to perfectionist Japanese engineering. It’s expensive, but as a gear nerd, I couldn’t help myself.
Minimalist Packing List Variations
Ready to travel with way less?
Great, because I’ve given you the exact packing list I use for trips of a week or more.
I don’t pack the same way for every trip, though, so here’s a brief overview of my setup, along with a few variations depending on the type of trip.
Note: None of the following weights include the ‘in-transit clothing’ I wear while traveling.
Weight of Backpack: 19.0 lb | 8.6 kg
This setup includes everything on my packing list, including cold-weather clothing. I can travel in cold climates, take professional-quality photos and videos, and work on my blog full-time with this setup.
Weight of Backpack: 17.5 lb | 7.9 kg
This setup includes everything on my packing list except for my cold-weather clothing. I can travel in mild-to-warm climates, take professional-quality photos and videos, and work on my blog full-time with this setup.
Weight of Backpack: 13.7 lb | 6.2 kg
This setup includes everything on my packing list except for my laptop, keyboard, mouse, and carrying case. I can travel in cold climates and take professional-quality photos and videos with this setup.
Weight of Backpack: 12.2 lb | 5.5 kg
This setup includes everything on my packing list except for my laptop, keyboard, mouse, carrying case, and cold-weather clothing. I can travel in mild-to-warm climates and take professional-quality photos and videos with this setup.
Weight of Backpack: 16.1 lb | 7.2 kg
This setup includes everything on my packing list except for my camera equipment. I can travel in cold climates and work on my blog full-time with this setup.
Weight of Backpack: 14.6 lb | 6.6 kg
This setup includes everything on my packing list except for my camera equipment and cold-weather clothing. I can travel in mild to warm weather and work on my blog full-time with this setup.
Weight of Backpack: 10.8 lb | 4.9 kg
This setup includes everything on my packing list except for my laptop, keyboard, mouse, carrying case, and camera equipment. I use this setup for cold-weather adventures when I won’t need my computer or camera.
Weight of Backpack: 9.3 lb | 4.2 kg
This setup includes everything on my packing list except for my cold-weather clothing, laptop, keyboard, mouse, carrying case, and camera equipment. I use this setup for mild-to-warm-weather adventures when I won’t need my computer or camera.
Remember this as you review my packing list: What works for me might not work for you.
Want to bring along your favorite pair of sandals?
Do you think Bluetooth speakers are entirely unnecessary?
Don’t want to bring your camera?
Great! Bring what’s essential for you and leave everything else behind.
And if, after reading over this packing list, you’re convinced that minimalist travel will leave you cold, dirty, and underprepared, try it anyway.
You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how little you need.
You Can Pull Off Minimalist Travel
Packing like a minimalist traveler doesn’t come naturally to most people.
When traveling, we rely on our possessions for comfort and familiarity, so packing next to nothing can make us feel a bit vulnerable.
I get it.
But choosing to pack only what adds value (and nothing more) is liberating and eye-opening.
So, before your next trip — whether it’s a day, a week, or a year — I challenge you to roll with your own minimalist packing list.
You’ll experience the world with light feet, a clear mind, and a weight off your shoulders.
Hey, this is a fantastic list! I have a similar one that I am trying to upgrade for winter travel in pretty cold climates and wanted to get your thoughts:
1. Do you layer the Versalite over the cerium LT when it’s really warm or windy? I’m considering the versalite or something more substantial as a winter shell. Do you think the versalite works as a winter shell? Do you even find it necessary?
2. How cold can you get down to with all of the winter gear on?
Your list is obviously super well thought out and I really enjoyed the read! One thing I often throw in for urban travel would be a lightweight umbrella, like the ones sold at Montbell 🙂
Thanks!
Tyler
Hey, Tyler! I’m glad you enjoy the list and practice ultra-minimalist travel of your own. It’s definitely the most efficient way to move around the world.
Let me answer your questions:
1. I can remember layering the Versalite over the Cerium LT on a couple of occasions during cold rain/snow and it worked very well at keeping precipitation from seeping into the down jacket. That said, the Cerium LT is a very, very warm jacket and does pretty well at blocking wind on its own. The Versalite will work well as a winter shell, mainly for blocking moisture rather than wind. I would travel with the Versalite when you are going to cold/humid environments since the Cerium LT doesn’t shed moisture well.
2. On its own, the Cerium LT is very, very warm. If I pair it with my thermal layers, the Versalite, my Buff, and some gloves, I feel comfortable in temperatures well below freezing. I haven’t yet taken this setup out into brutally low temps, but I’d venture a guess that it would keep me warm down into the 0-10 degree Fahrenheit range. I’d definitely consider getting warmer gloves than my Smartwools and possibly a more substantial hat, though, if you’re visiting places with temps this low.
Thanks for the kind words about the blog post! I put a lot of thought, time, effort (and money) into it. I’ve never been much of an umbrella person, as I usually fall back on rain gear, but I might change my tune with more of an ultralight version like the ones sold at Montbell or Zpacks. I’ll consider one for my next wet-climate trip!
Take care, thanks for the feedback, and keep me posted on your travels! I’d love to hear what gear systems you end up putting together.
Thanks, Noel. That is super useful information.
I previously traveled long term in 40-90 F weather with a OR helium 2 rain jacket and a synthetic insulated jacket, but that combo wouldn’t be adequate for freezing temperatures. I’ll be spending this winter in northern Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, so need something pretty legit. The versalite + cerium LT seems like a killer combo. I guess I can try that out and see if I need to upgrade anything later. Glad you found the versalite works well as a winter shell, I was a bit worried because of it’s thinness. Also was looking into some of the Arcteryx FL options (like zeta FL). But worried about breathability and packability.
Out of curiosity:
1. Do you ever wear a windshirt? Or does the versalite do a good job at being breathable over the thermal layers? Some people have different opinions on the necessity of windshirts.. I would prefer wearing one instead of a rain jacket if it’s cold and not raining, but I dont know if I’d call it a ‘necessity’. Do you have any thoughts on that? The houdini only weighs 100g but it’s a bit redundant with the rain jacket.
2. Do your WP trail runners do well in the snow? This would be my only concern. I have a pair of Salomon trail runners (sense ride, non-WP) but I think my feet would get wet if hiking on snowy trails. Thinking about picking up some waterproof trail runners if they will do the trick in snow.
My personal packing list happens to be really similar to yours (with a few substitutions from your winter list) after tuning it obsessively for quite a while. So there must be something to it! Here’s my lighterpack if you’re curious: https://lighterpack.com/r/32vbgs
Thanks again for your advise!
Tyler, it seems like you’re just as obsessive with your gear list as I am! Always happy to chat with another gear nerd about the inner workings of our packs. Our lists do have a lot in common, even down to the headphone splitter! (I need to add that to my post.)
Sound like you’ll be in for a very cold winter, so getting your down jacket game dialed in key. As I said, the Cerium LT is incredibly warm, but I’ve never tested it in temperatures below zero. I imagine it would perform well, but I can’t tell you with 100% certainty. I think it would be a great addition to your pack, though, and if it doesn’t keep you completely warm, you can always add another layer to your setup.
1. I pack the 48 gram Zpacks Ventum Wind Shell when I’m hiking and backpacking, but don’t normally take it with me when I travel. I usually don’t use it as a shell over my Cerium LT, since the jacket has been warm enough so far, but I imagine it would be great at stopping the wind and adding some warmth in the frigid winter temperatures you’ll be dealing with. It packs down insanely small (slightly smaller than a tennis ball) so it might be a nice non-redundant addition to your pack.
2. I actually just sent my WP trail runners back to REI because they weren’t breathable enough for me. I head the GORE-TEX versions are much more breathable than the ones treated with Climashield, so keep that in mind. They were extremely comfortable but would leave my feet sweating in normal conditions. It doesn’t help that my feet run hot to begin with. I haven’t removed them from my website because I haven’t decided on a suitable replacement quite yet. I imagine the GORE-TEX Salomon Trail runners would work well in the snow but know that they won’t keep your feet dry in snow above your ankles. Snow will enter the shoe from above, melt, and get your feet wet. You might want to consider a Salomon boot if you’ll be hiking in deep snow. I’ve used the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX in the past, but they might not be minimalist enough for your needs. These ones could be a good compromise between boots and trail runners for the deeper snow you’ll likely be experiencing up north.
I hope this reply helped you out a little bit more. Feel free to keep asking questions, I’m always glad to help if I can. I do leave for the Colorado Trail on Saturday the 15th, so I’ll be out of range starting then.
Feel free to check out my ultralight backpacking gear list if you haven’t already, as I think you might also find it useful.
Thanks again for the feedback!
Take care.
Hey Noel,
Thanks for the advice on the windshell and boots, i’ll keep those in mind.
BTW, the versalite and cerium LT arrived a few hours ago and I’m extremely happy with them. The cerium fits great and is insanely warm, as you said. The versalite has a really nice design too for the most part. Definitely a huge upgrade from the helium 2! Certainly keeping the and thanks again for the recommendation and answering my detailed questions 🙂
I did check out your backpacking post as well and really enjoyed it. I only go backpacking a few times a year and don’t have too much gear of my own. But I do enjoy learning about how to live and survive as simply as possible, so I always like studying the systems people use for backpacking. A lot of them I’ve incorporated in my own travel systems.
I think you’ve answered my questions for now, thanks again. And hope you enjoy yourself on the colorado trail!
Oh, man… the feeling when new gear arrives in the mail. Can’t beat it!
So glad your first impressions of the gear are positive; I think the Cerium LT and Versalite will serve you well during your travels.
Keep me posted on your gear/travel journey, and always feel free to stop by and drop a comment. I’d be happy to chat any time (especially about gear, hiking, and traveling).
Thanks again for reaching out. I always appreciate the feedback.
Take care, and stay tuned for some Colorado Trail content coming this fall.
Hey Noel, I had one last question for you:
I noticed you have the Montbell puffy now. I didn’t end up keeping the cerium LT because it was pretty tight on my armpits when layering and was actually checking out the Montbell Plasma 1000 Alpine Down Parka. I thought it might be warmer and lighter than the cerium LT (even though I really liked the fit and finish of the cerium and may just size up). Do you have any thoughts on how the two jackets compare? Also eyeing the EOS from feathered friends. Thanks!
Hello again! Sorry for the late reply. I’ve been hiking the Colorado Trail for the last month and just returned. I’ve been completely off the grid!
The Plasma 1000 is a much looser fit and will work better for layering underneath. You might want to give it a go if you can digest the price tag. Both jackets are extremely warm; it’s hard to say which is warmer. Keep me posted!
ALSO! You might find this article useful: https://www.thepackablelife.com/hiking/gear/reviews/montbell-plasma-1000
Hey, hope you had a great time on the Colorado Trail! I went with a custom down jacket from goosefeet gear. For a similar price to the cerium and plasma, it seemed like the way to go (custom fit, a bit more down (4oz fill), and lighter (~8oz)). Only thing is I’ll need to wait several weeks to get it! I’m sure it will be comparable to the other two options, thanks for all of your advice!
I should mention this one has hood, full zip, and 950 fill power, DWR treated down (downtek) and I went with a burlier 20D face fabric for durability, wind, and moisture protection. Will report on it, or might make a full review at some point.
Congrats! Sounds like an incredible jacket. Please do report back once you get it, as I’ve been interested in their gear for a while now. I’ve been considering buying a pair of their down socks for my winter backpacking endeavors. Hope your jacket arrives quickly!
Hey Noel, the jacket from Goosefeet gear is great! 4oz of 950 FP down and came in at 9.1oz. So it’s a little warmer than the Montbell one, which has 3.4 oz of 1000FP and a weight of 8.4oz. I did end up getting some extra internal pockets, which added about 0.5 oz or so. And also am glad I went with the 20 denier outer fabric because I’m already super paranoid about ripping it. I’d say it’s a great jacket but it sounds like if you’re happy with the montbell, you can’t go wrong with that one :). They are probably very similar at the end of the day
Take care!
Tyler
Thanks for the update, Tyler! Your jacket does sound a little warmer and less delicate than mine (I’m pretty sure my jacket is 7 denier!), so good work finding it! I’d love to see a picture of it if wouldn’t be too much trouble to send one to my email, noel@thepackablelife.com. I’m highly considering Goosefeet Gear’s down socks and down pants for winter hiking/backpacking. Glad you got the perfect jacket for your needs, and I hope it kicks ass for you this winter.
Bare Bones (Warm Weather)
Weight of Backpack: 3.6 lb | 3.2 kg
Volume of Setup: 16 liters
There’s a mistake in the weight conversion here, 3.6lb is 1.6kg, not 3.2kg. I was confused why the Warm Weather bag was heavier than the Cold weather bag when I was looking through.
Thank you for pointing that out! Going to fix it right away.
Great lists! Mine are fairly similar with minor alterations such as an extra set of clothing, swim trunks, a merino hoodie etc. The biggest difference is my pharmacy. I have everything from muscle relaxers, inhalers(prescription) sunscreen, aloe vera, throat lozenges, bite cream, anti-odor spray, anti-fungal cream, nasal spray etc. So much but needed at one point in the past. It’s all well and good to travel without in my own country but nothing beats walking around Kutaisi trying to ask for anti-histamines in broken Georgian; showing people how bad your mozzie bites are. lol
Glad you like the list, Michael. I’m going to be updating mine soon, as it has changed over the last year or so. I like your compact traveling pharmacy! I don’t bring much of one, but have ended up regretting it in the past. How do you enjoy traveling in Georgia? It’s always been a pretty fascinating place in my eyes.
Happy travels!
Hi Noel,
I prefer to travel light myself. Your post is helpful and inspiring. So thank you! My pack for 2 months of work travel in Vietnam and Nigeria is now very similar to yours. Have to take semi-formal wears for meetings and presentations :).
Regards,
Kaus
Thanks for commenting, Kaus! Traveling light is definitely the way to go. How did you enjoy Vietnam? One of my favorite countries. My packing list has changed a bit and is definitely due for an update, so stay posted.
Cheers!
If you are bringing more than just a cell phone for electronics, you are not an ultralight minimalistic traveler. Total pack weight should be less than 10 pounds/4.5 kg to be ultralight. Mine is 7 pounds for two weeks in Europe in winter.
Fair enough, Michael. You do you. I travel with a computer, camera, and other electronics because they’re vital to running my business, as I mention in the article. My gear list isn’t meant to tell you how to travel, rather it’s meant to show others what works for me. Cheers, and happy traveling.
Hi Noel,
I’ve found this to be one of the most helpful packing list summaries I’ve come across. I was amazed at how similar your list is to mine—just with different brands. I also just ordered that deodorant you recommended. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Glad you found the packing list useful, Reg! Use minimalist think alike. Cheers!
Just discovered your site and I’m still getting oriented, but I’m so far interested in what I see.
Your link for the Anchor 523 charger goes to the three port 65W charger on Amazon, not this smaller, lighter 47W charger you picture. I thought you’d want to know.
Thanks for the heads up, Jim! Will change it now.