The Light Traveller's Note Book

Hey there!We’re guessing you’ve landed on this e-book because you’re about to embark onan exciting new adventure that involves hopping on a plane…

But you’re also wondering about all the stuff you have to bring with you (and weigh down on your conscience).

We get it. We’ve been there. We’re a community that love to travel too. We’re also conscious of the environmental impact that comes part and parcel with plane trips.

That’s why we created The Light Traveller’s Note Book. We’ve packed it just like how we pack our carry-on: with simplicity, practicality and purpose.

This note book contains 7 chapters of tips, lists and resources made for light travelling. It’s everything we wish we could have read before getting ready to experience the true freedom of travelling with only one bag.

The Below7 team are bloody passionate about the movement towards minimalist travelling, and through this e-book we hope to share our perspective with you.

After all, one must depart from the burden of heavy baggage… to arrive at their new destination feeling light, free and ready to have an experience of a lifetime.

The Light TravellerThe minimalism movement has taken the world by storm. Some may think it’s about owning less than 50 items, having hardly any furniture in your home, and rotating between 2 sets of outfits… but we see it as a tool to assist you in finding freedom.

Freedom from fear. Freedom from worry. Freedom from overwhelm.

It’s freedom from the trappings of the consumer culture we’re all too familiar with. It’s assigning less meaning to ‘things’, and more meaning to our health, relation-ships, passions, and personal growth.

That’s not to say you should do away with material possessions. Minimalism simply lets you make these decisions more consciously, deliberately and purposefully. It can filter out what’s not important so you can live in the moment instead. And what better way to “live in the moment” than to see the world through your travels?

That’s right. The minimalist movement extends to travelling too.

The mindset surrounding minimalist travel is about choosing to value the experience and freedoms of travel, over the stress of lugging your entire life around in a suitcase and worrying about its contents. It’s being able to let go of the stuff that weighs you down, and get a true sense of feeling the moment. The now.

You could call this being a “light traveller”, in every sense of the term.

The light traveller:• Embraces minimalist travel by bringing only what need and nothing more

• Only travels with a 7kg limit carry-on

• Is not weighed down, or slowed down by material possessions

• Focuses on experiences, not stuff

• Is mindful of the environmental impact of travelling

• Actively offsets travel CO2

Chapter 1

You may think the minimalism mindset is about saying no when you want to say yes. Think of it as the opposite – you’re saying no to things you don’t want, and yes to things you do. Instead of week-end shopping sprees and obligatory after work drinks, you’re opting for passport stamps, different cultures, exotic food and new friendships.

3. It’s Mobile

Less stuff means more mobility, and more options. Breeze in and out of the airport and elude the long lines of baggage carousels and customs inspection queues. You can cope better when there’s a delay or missed connection, or seize unexpected opportunities without having to be strapped to your luggage. You can switch to other flights when there’s a spot available, or even sell your airplane seat by volunteering to be bumped on full flights. You can afford to be more spontaneous.

4. It’s for your Wellbeing

Travelling light reduces stress because it’s simply a hassle-free way to get around. You have more time, because packing takes very little of it. You exert less energy hauling stuff around (which is better for your back too). You don’t worry about your possessions because you know exactly what you have, where everything is, and that it’s enough. No more losing track of something or leaving anything behind. Foreign travel can be challenging because it’s unfamiliar and unpredictable, but the one-bag traveller has a considered, curated bag of essentials that sets the foundation for everything they possibly need.

5. It’s Eco

The first four points are all about the short-term benefits one-bagging brings to you. But travelling light also yields long-term benefits to the planet. It means…• Less stuff to manufacture• Less waste• Less use of vehicles to move your belongings around• Less fuel for those vehicles that move you• Less greenhouse gas production• Less damage to our earth.

It’s not often that the most convenient option to travel is also the most environmentally responsible.

Now that we have unpacked all the reasons why we shouldembrace one-bag travelling…

One-Bagging - What is it? Why do it?“One-bagging” is sort of considered the holy grail of minimalism. There’s minimalism, and then there’s one-bagging. It’s the concept of simplifying your life into a single bag. While it’s really hard to adopt on a permanent basis, it’s the perfect way to travel flexibly.

The idea is to pack light so that everything can be carried on your persons in a single bag that meets international size and weight requirements, whether you’re gone for a weekend or even a month!

So... Why travel light?Travelling is a chance to acquire new life skills, and learning to lighten your load is likely going to give you a much more enjoyable, productive, stress-free travel experi-ence. Here are the main benefits:

1. It’s Economical

Airlines can bring in nearly $5 billion in baggage fees. You don’t need to contribute to a cent of that if you only pack a carry-on. It’s not just the airlines you’re avoiding. You’re also dodging extra fees for porters and luggage storage. You’re also able to take public transportation rather than costly shuttles and taxis. You can even walk, and experience interaction with locals as a result of this alternative route.

2. It’s Secure

Oh the woes of lost luggage. Millions of bags go missing every year, and the last thing you want to do is lose it at the baggage carousel. Avoid having to hand your belongings over to the care of others, and the likelihood of theft, damage ormisrouting. Peace of mind is priceless here.

Chapter 2

Where do we start?

The ultimate carry-on packing listThe goal is to reach a point where your one bag will be small and light enough to carry without consequence. That means finally letting go of any stress associated with your ‘stuff’, and truly experiencing the freedom beyond being bound to a bag.

The proficient one-bag traveller masters three core elements of light travel:

• Packing moderation: abandon the idea of lugging too much stuff• Weight reduction: find travel-friendly versions of items you’re bringing• Bag optimisation: looking for efficient and effective luggage solutions

A good packing list is like a personal blueprint that continues to develop alongside your interests. It’s everything you can’t travel comfortably without, it’s something tangible you can refer to, and it ensures nothing important will be forgotten.

This list broadly covers everything we’ve got on our list. Remember, you’ll need to create one that’s unique to your own needs, but you can use this as a guide.

Luggage• Shoulder bag• Day pack• Lightweight duffel/laundry bag• Digital luggage scales (to weigh your bags)

Wardrobe• 2-3 shirts/blouses/tops• 2 pairs of pants/bottoms• 3+ pairs of socks• 3+ pairs of undergarments• 1 swimsuit• 1 pajama top and bottom• 1 layering item (e.g. cardigan or jumper)• 1 rainwear• 1 pair of gloves• 1 sun hat / knitted cap• 1 pair of walking shoes / boots• 1 pair of sandals• 1 belt• 1 pair of sunglasses• 1 sarong (can function as a cover up, sheet, towel, tablecloth, laundry bag, sling, blanket, shower curtain)

Toiletries• Toothbrush, cap, floss• Shaving product• Comb or hairbrush• Shampoo, soap and container• Deodorant• Tweezers• Mirror• Washcloth or towel

Chapter 3

The question on everyone’s minds: “What do I pack?”This determines the extent of your luggage, the weight of your load, how much freedom you will have. It’s your top priority then, to create a good packing list that serves as a pact with yourself before you start packing. “If it’s not on my list, it’s not going in my bag”.

Tools• Watch• Flash light/head strap• Utensils (spoon, fork, plate or bowl, collapsible cup)• Safety pins, cord, fasteners• Sewing kit• Light sleeping bag or liner• Repair tape• Universal Travel adaptor

Health• Antiseptic gel• Bandages• Water purification tablets or filter• Medication (painkillers, malaria tablets etc)• Insect repellent• Sunscreen

Valuables• Passport• Vaccination certificates• Extra passport photos• Copies of important documents• Travel tickets• Security pouch• Mobile phone and charger • Power bank for recharging devices

What you can't carry-onMost airlines have baggage restrictions for carry-on bags. You’ll either need to leave them at home or find an alternative. Here’s what you can’t bring on your carry-on:

• Liquids over 3.4 ounces or 100ml• Sharp objects• Knives• Razors• Sporting equipment (sticks, poles, bats, clubs)• Tools• Lighters, matches, flammable items• Meat, fruit, vegetables and agricultural products• Certain electronics *check with your airline

Despite this list, we think it’s still pretty easy to carry with carry-on only. Just be realistic about what you need to take with you, and buy the restricted items once you arrive.

Remember, this list of what not to pack in your carry-on bag isn’t all inclusive. Regulations change often, so make sure you check the airline websites before you fly.

Now that you have your packing list… How do you fit this all under a 7kg carry-on limit?

Let's look

into it.

How to stay under the 7kg limitPacking light and packing under 7kgs are two different things. You need to be ruthless and realistic about what you actually need. We’ve compiled a list of 10 tips from the onebagging community to keep you treading lightly:

1. Start with a good foundation

Don’t make the mistake of starting with a heavy bag, it’ll be over before you even begin! Invest in a light, good quality carry-on bag.

2. No “just in case” packing

Be realistic and say no to things you don’t actually need. “Maybe I’ll take those jeans, just in case.” Just in case of what? Pack smart and do your research on the place you’re going and dress in the style the locals wear.

3. Plot a capsule wardrobe

Choose clothing items that can go from day to night, and are interchangeable so you can create new combinations every day. Work with neutral colours like black, grey, navy and khaki. If you want to make sure the clothes match the other items, try things on before you pack and make sure they go with at least half of the wardrobe.

4. Select your shoes carefully

Shoes are the heaviest things you’ll pack, and take up heaps of space too. Choose a pair of shoes that can be worn for different occasions; like nice dinners and walking around town. If you’re planning on hiking, find a pair that are waterproof yet stylish. For casual activities, pack a lightweight pair of sandals. Wear the heaviest on the plane and pack the others.

5. Minimise your toiletries

Don’t think that the 100ml liquid restriction means you should take 100ml of every-thing, it’s going to add up. Decant your toiletries into smaller containers, or simply buy these at your destination if it’s possible. A good tip is to ask the store for small samples, which are the perfect travel size. Using soap and shampoo bars also take up less space and is kinder to the environment as you’re cutting down on plastic packaging.

6. Get smart with your electronics

Charge all your electronics via USB if possible. Replace cameras, books and maps with your phone. If you want to read, you can even download the Kindle App on your phone for free. Keeping electronic copies of all your documents on your phone also reduces the stress of carrying and losing bits of paper, and keeps all your files stored neatly in one place.

7. Use a small handbag or backpack

As well as your 7kg carry-on, you’re also allowed a small personal item. Make use of this and pack some of your heaviest items in there, as it’s not often weighed. You can also pack the things you need easy access to in this smaller bag.

Chapter 4

Eco conscious travel tipsWe all know about the carbon footprint associated with travelling. But there are ways we can do our part to travel mindfully and consciously of the environment.

First things first; one-bagging and packing lightly makes a big difference because every kilo counts when flying. The more a plane weighs, the more carbon emissions it produces. Having said that, here are 10 more ways you can practice eco-travel-ling:

1. Fly non-stopTry to book non-stop flights whenever you can. It’s the take-offs and landings that make up most of an airplane’s carbon emissions.

2. Slow down your travelsIf that’s unavailable, find an alternative off-air mode to get to your destination. If you cut out just one 5-hour flight, your carbon footprint will be a tonne lighter! See more of the countryside and experience a slower, local form of transport on the ground, whether it’s via bus, train or ship. Where possible, walking, trekking and cycling are also highly recommended! Not only does it have a less negative impact than a plane, it can add an extra layer of adventure to your trip (and with only one-bag, it’s so doable).

3. Say no to airline earphonesThis is a tiny action that could have a huge impact. Airlines supply poor quality sin-gle-use ear phones, and these little pieces of plastic get thrown out after every flight. Keep the little adaptor that comes with the airline ear phones for all future flights, and use your own earphones with this adaptor. The sound quality will be so much better!

4. Feel ‘home away from home’Treat your accommodation like you would at home – don’t ask for clean towels when it’s not necessary, don’t have excessively long showers and don’t forget to turn off the TV, lights, heater or air conditioner when you leave the room. You can even try to request no disposable toiletries as you’ll be bringing your own.

5. Make use of the ‘do not disturb’ signA simple way of being eco-minded is by hanging up the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on your door. You’re saving the electricity needed to vacuum, the water needed to wash the linens and clean the bathrooms, not to mention the harsh chemicals used for cleaning.

6. Stick to the pathIf you’re going hiking, always stay on the marked trails and maintain a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter. Going off the beaten path might sound like a fun adventure, but it could mean you accidentally trample on protected or endangered plants.

7. Tour in small numbersSmaller tour groups tend to have less of an environmental impact. If you’re booking a tour, check what size the group will be and even ask how the tour operator gives back to the community you’ll be visiting.

8. Support localHelp the local communities you travel to. If you intend to shop, choose to support local artisans and makers, and eat in local restaurants. Remember to bring your eco-bag so you can say no to plastic.

9. BYO waterThere’s a lot of places where it’s unsafe to drink tap water, but constantly buying plastic bottles isn’t an option either. Invest in a water filter and re-fillable bottle so you always have clean water on the go. Water purification tablets are also a solu-tion.

10. Reduce CO2 emissions from flying by choosing a budget airlineFlying with a budget airline is actually the best option for eco-conscious travel. Due to high yields per plane, most budget airlines have a reasonable per passenger CO2 emission rate. This isn’t great, but it’s still better than flying in a half full plane.

Chapter 5

Speaking of CO2…“How do I reduce the environmental impact of my flying?”

Sustainable air travel and carbon offsetting

With the exciting adventure that is travelling to see the world, comes hand in hand with the reality that it’s actually killing it slowly. Air travel is the leading cause of air pollution, contributing 4.9% of human-caused climate change.

Planes inevitably produce carbon emissions. The engines burn fossil fuels, which produce emissions such as carbon dioxide, the main cause of climate change. Our society is responding to climate changes in many ways, like carbon trading schemes and offsets.

One approach is creating a trade in carbon where carbon credits can be bought and sold. Nations that emit less than their quota will be able to sell emission credits to nations that exceed their quota. The Australian Government is currently developing a national emissions trading scheme.

But on an individual level, “How do I reduce the environmental impact of my flying?”

The obvious answer is to fly less or take ground transport, but if it’s not possible, the best solution right now is through carbon offsetting each flight you take.

Individuals can ‘buy’ greenhouse gas credits from projects that are reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This compensates or ‘offsets’ the greenhouse gasses they are releasing into the atmosphere. Examples include tree planting, increasing energy efficiency in businesses and collecting methane. From landfill or livestock. There are many projects you can invest in that generate carbon offsets, including solar, wind, small hydro, geothermal and biomass energy projects. You can pay into carbon offset projects online, or through some airline providers.

The cost of carbon offsetting isn’t huge, with most schemes offering options for as little as $3-5 AUD. You can use a Carbon Footprint Calculator to figure out the carbon offset of your trip. https://www.carbonfootprint.com/calculator.aspx

While there is some contention around carbon offsetting being a band aid solution, right now, any small solution helps. It’s not possible for anyone to completely reduce CO2 emissions, but offsetting is one approach we do have that ensures our actions don’t contribute to contribute to climate change.

If done well, carbon offsetting can genuinely reduce emissions in the long run by providing funds to develop low carbon technologies and projects.

Chapter 6

Useful resourcesLearning about the ins and outs of light travelling can be overwhelming. We’vecompiled a list of handy resources you can refer to any time.

These are our go-to places to learn more about travelling, minimalism, the one-bagging movement, sustainable travel, as well as keeping up to date with the latest travel gear.

Carry on size charts

• https://travel-made-simple.com/carry-on-size-chart/• https://www.atas.com.au/blog/a-travellers-guide-to-carry-on-luggage-rules• https://below7.com.au/baggage-charges/

The lightweight movement

• https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/• https://www.reddit.com/r/onebag/

Bag recommendations and guides

• https://www.carryology.com• https://www.reddit.com/r/onebag/comments/bb4t3o/ronebag_buying_guide_bags/• https://www.mamamia.com.au/carry-on-luggage-australia/

Carbon footprint resources

• https://www.carbonfootprint.com/calculator.aspx• https://www.atmosfair.de/en/offset/flight/• https://cncf.com.au/

Chapter 7

ConclusionWe hope you’ve walked away feeling ready to embark on your next travel adventure with a fresh perspective – we’re sure you have lots to think about, and we had a lot to pull out of the bag!

When you’re ready to jet… feel free to flick back through the chapters in The LightTraveller’s Note Book and refer to our lists and tips for a lightweight trip that doesn’t weigh on your conscience.On the topic of conscious travelling…We know not everything is absolute, and there’s always multiple perspectives to every problem. But all solutions start with a conversation. And a conversion starts with a question.

The question for you now is… Are you ready to embark on your ‘one-bag’ journey?

Below7 is passionate about lightweight travel gear, and compassionate about the earth we get to tread lightly on.

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