Packing light is part science, part art—and for many, it takes years of trial, error, and split seams to get it right. But what if you could fast-track your journey to lightweight packing mastery? This guide offers a shortcut to help you pack like a pro, without leaving behind what you truly need.

Through this guide, we will help you reach your magnum opus of packing techniques. No more puckered seams or left-behind charging cables. 

The Art (and Science) of Packing Light 

There’s a delicate balance between packing 20 pairs of socks for a three-day trip and skipping a toothbrush to save space. Packing light without missing necessary items? It could easily be considered an Olympic sport.

However, we won’t gatekeep our packing secrets from you. Here are our three strategies to ensuring you travel light without sacrificing what you need:

• Planning with Intention

• Modular Packing

• Dual-Use Gear

These techniques prioritize internal organization and the use of well-designed, space-saving packing modules to allow you to pack everything you need (yes, even your toothbrush.)

Planning with Intention

Planning is the cornerstone of packing light. It’s not about trying to guess what you might want—it's about knowing exactly what you will need.

Start with the basics:

• Trip duration: Pack for the number of days you're gone, not your whole closet.

• Destination: Consider the weather, local customs, and your planned activities.

• Reality check: Be brutally honest with yourself. That second pair of heels “just in case”? Leave them behind.

Pro Tips:

• Write out a full packing list before you pack anything. Seeing everything listed helps identify redundancies.

• Lay everything out visually before it goes into your bag. This “flat lay” technique helps you spot excess and keep only what’s necessary.

• Choose clothing that layers well and works across multiple outfits. Versatile pieces are key.
  
  

And if you catch yourself saying “what if I need it?”—you probably won’t.

Modular Packing

Modular packing is a highly effective strategy for maximizing space when traveling with a backpack, duffle bag, or suitcase. Instead of stuffing everything into a jumbled main compartment, modular packing involves using purpose-built packing cubes, organizer pouches, and stuff sacks to create tidy, efficient zones in your bag. 

By dedicating specific modules to different categories of items—for instance, one for socks and undergarments and another for shirts and tank tops—you can fit a significant amount of gear into a compact space.

We recommend the Techonaut/Aeronaut 30 and Synik 30/Western Flyer Packing Cubes, as they come in a variety of sizes and are designed specifically for TOM BIHN bags. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even add in a Travel Stuff Sack to separate your dirty clothes while still keeping your bag organized. 

Dual-Use Gear

The final secret to traveling light? Make every item work harder.

Our Organization bags aren’t just for packing—they’re designed to become daily-use bags once you’ve arrived. That small pouch that kept your cords tidy on the plane? Clip on a shoulder strap and now it’s your day bag. Your toiletry cube? Morning bathroom kit. Minimal gear, maximum flexibility.

Here are our recommendations for packing cubes, though the world is your oyster when it comes to this part! All of our recommended packing cubes can be converted into bags with a shoulder strap. 

• Cubelet: Perfect for charging cables, medications and hair accessories.

• Packing Cube Shoulder Bag: Ideal for bulky clothing items, such as pants, sweaters and dresses, attach a Shoulder Strap and it becomes your day bag.

• All Fabric 3D Organizer Cube: Great for skincare and toiletries.

• Extra Pro Tip: For both domestic and international flights, consider utilizing Clear 3D Organizers for liquids. These organizers are designed to comply with the TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule.

• Handy Little Thing (Size 1 or 2): Perfect for charging cables, writing tools and small game pieces.

Packing smarter also means:

• Rolling instead of folding.

• Nesting unused cubes inside others to eliminate dead space.

• Stuffing socks inside shoes, storing accessories in your laundry sack, and using every nook available.

• Prioritizing lightweight, compressible items that can handle multiple functions.

When every item earns its place and doubles its duty, you’ll find you can pack lighter without leaving essentials behind.

Don’t Sacrifice What You Need 

Traveling light doesn’t mean traveling without. The goal isn’t to see how little you can survive on—it’s to pack only what you truly need and make smart use of space. With thoughtful planning, modular systems, and gear that adapts to your needs, you’ll carry less but feel more prepared than ever.

What are your go-to tips for traveling light? Let us know in the comments—we’re always looking to learn from fellow travelers.