Chapter VII: Efficient Way of Travelling

I've always been a big traveler. My journey into the world of exploration began shortly after my teenage years, driven by a desire to see and experience everything the world had to offer. Over the years, my travels have taken on various forms. Sometimes it’s for leisure, other times for studying, and now more frequently, for business trips. Each journey, regardless of its purpose, has taught me valuable lessons, shaping my approach to travel.

When I first started traveling, my packing strategy was far from efficient. I would leave home with an overstuffed suitcase filled with items I thought were essential. In reality, most of these things were just unnecessary burdens. I vividly recall lugging around heavy bags, struggling with the weight, and often feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of stuff I had brought along.

As I gained more experience, I began to realize that I only used a fraction of the items I packed. Most of my clothes remained unworn, and the multitude of just-in-case items rarely saw the light of day. I discovered that little things could be bought at my destination if needed, and clothes could easily be washed. There were many items I carried that I only needed on rare occasions, if at all.

I then gradually adopted a minimalist approach to packing. My goal became to bring as few items as possible, focusing only on what was truly necessary. This transition didn't happen overnight; it was a gradual process of trial and error, learning from each trip, and refining my packing list. The most significant progress in this area occurred during my working years, when business trips became frequent.

Traveling for work demanded efficiency and practicality. I needed to move quickly and navigate airports and taxis without being weighed down by unnecessary baggage. This necessity accelerated my shift toward minimalism. I learned to pack smartly, prioritizing versatility and functionality over sheer quantity. A well-chosen wardrobe, a few essential gadgets, and a mindset geared towards adaptability became my travel staples.

This evolution in my packing philosophy not only lightened my physical load but also made my travels more enjoyable and less stressful. By embracing a minimalist approach, I could focus more on the experiences and less on managing my belongings. Travel became more about the journey itself, the people I met, and the places I explored, rather than the logistics of what I had packed. It’s a lesson I value deeply, one that continues to enrich every new adventure I embark upon.

What type of traveller are you?