Frequently asked questions

Do I need to carry a backpack?

Whether you travel with a backpack or a wheelie bag/suitcase is entirely your choice. It will depend on your own physical ability and the weight of your bag what style of bag you choose to use.

This site is all about making travel easier. It's not a competition. Do what works for you.

Can I really travel with only 5kg?

I know travelling with 5kg or 11lbs CAN be done. But whether you SHOULD do it, is completely up to you. You can travel with what ever weight bag you choose.

The information on this website is simply to reduce some of the weight you carry. It's about lightening your load.

What if I'm travelling for a month or more?

As with all trips, packing for a longer one means packing layers and making sure you have the gear you need for the activities you're doing and the seasons you're travelling in. Although with climate change, I pack for all sasons as you have no idea what the weather will do. And be prepared for handwashing.

Here's a blog I wrote on packing for longer travel adventures.

How do I do laundry while travelling?

Handwashing is how you can pack less. Light travellers tend to handwash their underwear in showers daily, and clothes in a sink every two or three days.

I personally travel with a Dr Bonner all-in-one unscented soap bar - it's also a body soap, shampoo & dishwashing bar.

I also carry a universal basin plug as I frequently find the basin plugs either don't hold the water or are completely absent.

What if I need more clothes?

I had this happen to me on the Amalfi Coast. I didn't feel dressed up enough going out for dinner, so off I went to the local market. Noew I have a lovely silk top as a souvenir.

The great thing with travel, is that there are usually plenty of shops around. Recently in Peru, we needed more thermal clothing for hiking. In an outdoor focused town, the options were endless.

Second-hand stores are also an option, as is hiring gear, or borrowing from a local friend.

Where should I start if I've never travelled light before?

Oh this is definitely the most frequently asked question...where on earth do I start? It can seem overwhelming. I recommend you start with a weekend away. Try to pack an outfit for each day and each evening. Allow for weather changes. Pack three pairs of shoes. If this seems too scary try a weekend away at home. Set aside what you'd like to wear at home and stick to it. Then evaluate it. Did it work?

Check out my blog on how to avoid packing too much (aka those just in case items!)

Is solo travel safe for women over 50?

I take great care of my personal safety whether I am at home or travelling. I tend to follow the same rules. I'm careful about going out after dark, I let someone know where I'm going.

I find when I travel alone my safety radar is switched on and I am hypervigilent. I notice more and I'm much more attuned to my gut instincts.

At the end of the day, travelling solo is not compulsory and you get to decide what you feel comfortable with. Here's a blog I wrote about safe solo travel.

What bag do you recommend?

I don't recommend any particular bag. This is the homework you need to do for yourself. You need to be able to carry/pull/lift or push it. And only you know what your abilities are.

Of course I love a small daypack, but what works for me may not work for you. But here's some general tips when looking for a bag...

The lighter the bag the better - it gives you more weight for gear. Bonus tip - less pockets=less material=less weight.
A decent harness system if you're carrying the bag.
Sturdy wheels if a wheelie bag.
A lockable bag keeps things secure.
Go to an outdoor store and do your research before you buy.

Won't people notice that I'm wearing the same things?

Another of my most frequently asked questions...It's surprising how little people do actually notice. If they were to comment, I use it as a conversation starter - that this minimal wardrobe is giving me the freedom to travel with ease.

It's about being comfortable in yourself, picking outfits that you love wearing, and packing some nice scarves or jewellery to change the look.

Did you know that in general people only wear 10% of their wardrobe? I know I wear certain clothes on repeat at home.

How do I overcome the fear of travelling alone?

I felt this too. That fear is real. I suggest going on a small trip somewhere local to dip your toes into solo travel.

My biggest tip is to slow down. Bad decisions are often made when we're rushing, so I deliberately take a deep breathe, sit at a cafe, head into a shop, or simply stop where I am and actively slow down.

If I'm being pushed to commit to something, I say I need more time. Call a friend (if they're in a similar timezone). Eat takeaways if eating alone is too scary. Give someone your schedule if you want someone to know your whereabouts. Put a locator app on your phone and share it with a friend.