October 3, 2025

The Minimalist's Guide to Packing an Overnight Bag

9 comments
The Minimalist's Guide to Packing an Overnight Bag

How do some people fit everything in a single bag?

Packing light: it sounds simple until you're actually standing in front of your closet. Suddenly, "just one night away" starts looking like three outfits, two pairs of shoes, your entire bathroom counter, and maybe a backup jacket in case the weather changes its mind.

We've all been there: overpacking for an overnight trip, lugging around way too much, only to end up wearing the same T-shirt the whole time. The truth is, traveling light isn't about deprivation—it's about strategy. And, lets be honest, a good bag helps too. 

Here's how to pack smarter, not heavier, and maybe even impress your sleepover pals with how much you don't bring to the slumber party.

 


 

12 Travel Essentials to Pack For An Overnight Trip

These are the bare-bones essentials. Think of it as a "you'll survive and even thrive" list of supplies. Customize as you see fit—after all, we’re not the ones explaining to your friend why you thought deodorant was optional.

 

Clothing

  1. One pair of pants (yes, one. We believe in you.)

  2. One clean T-shirt or long-sleeve shirt

  3. A set of pajamas

  4. One clean pair of underwear (pack more if you're a just-in-case underwear overpacker—we don't judge.)

  5. One pair of socks

Toiletries

  1. Toothbrush and toothpaste

  2. Deodorant (your travel buddy will thank you)

  3. Hairbrush and styling products

  4. Contact lens case (and solution) or glasses case

  5. Prescription medications (non-negotiable)

Electronics

  1. Cell phone (you weren't leaving it behind anyway)

  2. Portable charger and adapter cables

Optional Extras

This is where things get dicey. These items would technically disqualify you from meeting the strictest definition of a minimalist traveler—but depending on where you're going and what you have planned, they might be essential items to add to your packing list.

If you can leave these items off your list, your bag will be lighter and your shoulders will be happier. If you can't—no shame. Pack what makes sense for you.

 


 

How to Avoid Overpacking


Pack only what you truly need

Groundbreaking advice, we know. But it's true: check the weather, look at your itinerary, and be ruthless—no what-ifs allowed. 

 

Double-duty clothes are your best friend

Your day outfit can double as pajamas. Your jacket can be your blanket. Minimalism: unlocked. But in all seriousness, pack items that can be transitioned from day one to day two—like wearing sweatpants and a comfy hoodie on your way over. That way, your day clothes can double as pajamas—leaving more room in your bag for really important stuff, like that book you swear you will read before bed.

 

Don't let empty space tempt you

That big duffel might be whispering, "Bring another hoodie, you'll need it." Don't listen. The smaller the bag, the fewer temptations to bring your entire pajama collection—unless it's a pajama party, of course. 

 


 

Choose the Perfect Overnight Bag

Speaking of bags—backpacks, duffels, and tote bags are usually the best options for an overnight trip. 

 

So, what is a good overnight bag?

Here are a few of our favorite overnight bags:

 


 

Don't overthink things: Lighter is better (We promise)

When your bag feels light, you might panic—did I forget something? Chances are, you didn't. You just packed like a pro. And if you did forget? Odds are, you'll survive a single night without it. (Except your toothbrush. Seriously—don't forget that one.)

So, next time you're zipping up your overnight bag, remember: less really is more. 

That said, if there's anything we've forgotten to list in our packing checklist, help a fellow traveler by letting us know in the comments below!

9 comments

Tirod - June 28, 2024

Really minimalist suggestions: no bigger than a TSA carryon. Merino underwear will last twice as long as the trip with no spares,and can be washed if needed. Gym clothes can be a swim suit or jammies, avoid cotton, loose fit. Water shoes work as slippers. Bring ziploc bags for wet items.
A good pair of walking shoes works both days, choose complementary colors for the 2d day that work. Packing cubes are a big clue there is too much!
Chargers & cables are lighter than a powerbank, a paperback smaller than a tablet. I charge a phone 4-5 days apart, a tablet 3-4 days – minimalst use.
Yes, we do go too far frequently, but much of it is lifestyle, not necessity, and a lot can be weeded out. Consider most of what we take didnt exist before our parents were born – annd they did fine without it.

gordon - January 9, 2024

Overnight is a change of shirt and undies, plus toothbrush + whatever you pack to amuse you. You could almost go with a small cafe bag, but the daylight backpack is more than large enough. 30 litre bags for one night is for going camping…

Cathy Anderson - August 27, 2023

Please change the picture that goes with this article! Looks like an A45—all you need for 3 months on the road, much more than you need for an overnight!

Chris - August 17, 2023

Those bags are all way too big for an overnighter! I usually just use my DLBP or Paragon if I’m doing one night.

Dean Johnson - August 11, 2023

Just added a Synapse 25 to my Synapse 19, so that I can more gracefully handle 1+ nights away. They are identically outfitted and the 19 is now just for trips up to my office (83 miles away)

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