Step 1:  Make a list of all of your clothes. How many shirts, shorts, pants, t-shirts, undies, sweaters, etc.

Step 2: Write down the number of each item.

Step 3: Now cut that list in half. Breath you will have plenty of clothes. Choose which clothes to leave at home or to donate and put them in a separate pile.

Step 4: Now write down the number of items in each category again. Depending on if you are a habitual over packer there are two options.

            Option A (for over packers): Cut the number in half again and choose which items not to take.

            Option B: Take one more thing from each pile that you can probably do without.

Worst case scenario is that you realize you want something and you need to buy a new one. I know, buying new clothes on a travel budget doesn’t sound smart but once you are on the road you will realize what clothes you actually want to wear every day.

I left a white cardigan at home and when it was blazing hot on the beach and in Morocco I once wished I had it. Not enough to go buy a new one though, so obviously I could do with out it.

Another example, I had a pair of black dress pants that came with me all through England and the Netherlands. I finally realized I was never going to wear them and donated them. Then in Morocco I wanted to be more covered up because of the religious culture and I was wishing I had those pants. Was it the end of the world? No! I bought cheap new ones at H and M and I actually like them more than the ones I got rid of earlier in the trip.

How do you pack for longterm travel? Please share any other tips with us!