I've been travelling for professional reasons since 1988. I never never never put my passport in my bags. I keep it on my person in a securable pocket in a little zip lock bag until I get to where I'm going. If someone gets into your bag or steals it, or the bag sits on an open baggage cart in the rain, you are screwed. It's the most important thing you have. Everything else in the video is great advice.
I just got back from a two week trip to both London and Rome. Let me just say this from the get go; No matter what you read or hear, there is NO "dress code" in either. In both places I saw everything from men wearing socks with sandals and shorts to jeans and t-shirts. I spent a couple of months gathering what I thought would be appropriate and spent hundreds of dollars only to find out I would have been just fine wearing what I have in my own wardrobe. I used only a carry on backpack and carried 7 shirts, 4 pairs of pants, 7 pair of underwear, 5 pairs of socks, a rain coat, a cloth belt and a light pair of "flying" wind pants and jacket. As well, I fit my adapters, eye glass repair kit, spare pair of glasses, personal items and pillow in my carry on personal item which was a smaller backpack. Bottom line...don't sweat the clothing, comfort trumps all. Oh, and I only brought one pair of very comfortable Skechers slip on shoes and easily walked 5 miles a day with them!
Great suggestions. I am a large person (6'4" and husky). A single pair of jeans and a couple of shirts fills up a normal suitcase/backpack when they are larger.
Great explanation of “minimal “ packing. It still amazes me how much actually fits into those packing cubes. I’m personally packing for a cross Canada train and this was good advice.
Very cool! Planning a trip to Normandy France this October and packing light and not looking like a tourist is high on my list and your layout looked perfect and sharp. Thanks a ton for the video!
This video was so helpful for reccomending good clothing options for traveling, i dont want to take bulky items, and its tough to think about what i might actually wear, and the brands youve recommended are super helpful too, video is greatly appreciated
Some of my lessons learned: Tourist travel has become very casual. No one cares what you wear and no one will notice if you repeat an item a few days later after it has been washed. If you wear monotones--in beiges or grays--no one will remember what you wore before. Take fewer clothes. No matter how much I think I have paired down, I always return with one or more clothes items I didn't use. Wear quick drying underwear. Wash clothes in hotel sink or bathtub. Bathtubs often have a string clothesline you can pull out. Hotel soap or shampoo is all you need. Wear one pair of shoes, pack another, but no more unless they are flipf-lops. Use layers which will provide warmth with little bulk in your bag and can be peeled off if the temperature warms up during the day. Carry everything with you when you are heading for your destination. Lost bags, particularly if you are not staying in the city of the airport, can complicate the first days of your trip. On your way home, you can check you bag. The airport will deliver it to you at your home, where you have enough clothes and sundries to get by.
Agree! For undies, I pack 2 Nooz t-shirts, 3 Exofficio shorts and 4 pair of Smart Wool socks. These are quick-drying & take up little space. I also pack a DIY 3-meter clothesline & a 1.5 meter roll of Gorilla tape. I buy flip-flops upon landing & discard upon return. Happy lightweight travel ;-)
@@golfertex What's the Gorilla tape for? I wrap duct tape to a pencil in case I need to patch a broken hiking show in a pinch. Maybe for the same purpose?
My packing needs are a bit different because I'm in the entertainment & teaching business so my travel clothes reflects that but you're spot on about not seeing enough men's packing lists.
Thanks for the tips. I like your aesthetic, especially the bag recommendation. If I can add something you didn't mention; the belt. Take a look at Grip 6 belts. Their bread and butter belts are aluminum or Titanium, but for travellers the one to get is the carbon fiber buckle. There's absolutely no metal so you don't have to take it off to clear TSA. And I think it really aligns with the style you're going for.
So I had the Bose QC with cable for a number of years but last year picked up a cheap pair of their original Bluetooth QC as new models released, and they are great. I was mainly using them for tube/train. However as I was recently going to do a bit of flying with work for first time in a while and had a look into Bluetooth adapters that can be used with airline audio sockets. I looked at a few and went for the Avantree SoundJet R2 as it was on offer on Amazon and had decent reviews. I used it for the first time over last month and have been really happy with it and would recommend one as it’s small, rechargeable and comes with couple of small cables for audio and usb charging, and an airline adapter all in a pouch. They can even connect to two pairs at same time. There are others makes that can also be switched between receive and transmit if you needed that too.
Awesome, sounds like a great selection! Re: socks, I take three pair of Darn Toughs plus a few standard athletic no-shows & stuff them inside my packed shoes.
Great video! Been traveling to Europe since 1975. My friends are always amazed how my wife on I are able to travel for a month at a time with a backpack that the total weight with clothes is under 19 pounds. You hit it right on the hit when you said no one cares what you wear everyday. The one issue I have to take with you is when you said that if you go for a hike and get tired of caring around a plastic bottle to just throw it away. Get a BPA-free plastic water bottle to reuse and tread lite on our planet.
Overall some worthwhile tips on what you need vs. what you want to pack. However... What's missing is a sport jacket and tie and shoes that can at least pass for something more formal. Not everybody vacations in places where the clothes you wore at sixteen will still suit any occasion. The other thing that surprised me is your idea of a heavy sweater. If you ever plan to visit Iceland, Norway, Finland or even Maine in the off-season... good luck with that! All that said, you've got great taste in what you are packing; especially the merino wool. Couldn't agree more.
I'll preface this by saying that I live in Finland and have been to Iceland and Sweden in the colder months too. If you have a decent coat that keeps out the worst of the wind and have multiple layers of wool available, you're better off with two or three thin layers, than a single thicker one. Most of our indoor spaces are kept pretty warm in winter, so I usually reserve my really heavy wool jumpers for outdoor occasions like May 1st picnics, or visiting my UK based MIL who lives in a centuries old stone house which is very chilly in winter.
Going to Germany in June...my first international travel. Historically a very heavy packer no matter where I go. Have to take mostly business casual clothing for this trip since it is a work trip. Thanks for this video that still gave me some things to think about for the trip. Think I've already decided to not take a laptop due to weight, potential damage, etc and just get by with using ipad the whole trip. Will definitely be taking a dedicated camera as I am big into photography so have to figure that out too yet.
Just came back from a trip to Japan and only took an IPhone 15 Pro Max (Left the Hasselblad at home) and didn’t feel as though “I should have brought my “big” camera”. With the ability to take 48MP photos, I am not giving up much by only having an IPhone.
I recommend considering a BUFF, like the BUFF Lightweight Merino Wool Neck Gaiter. In addition to the many listed uses, I find it works decently as an sleeping mask.
All my clothes are just like what you have, except for my Proof shirts, I use the polo versions. For me they are more versatile. A little fancier, but I can even wear them while working out. Same material though. I love Proof 72-hr merino.
I didn’t see socks? Did I miss them? The merino wool tees are a new one on me and would be welcome in my wardrobe for home, travel, and fulltime RV that we start next year. I like the fast drying approach.
RE Flip flops. I prefer to use simple sandals without the toe post. That way I can wear with socks as well, which is super handy on the plane. I take two plastic grocery shopping bags and thrown my boots in the overhead bin, which keeps them out of the way on a long flight and does not get other peoples luggage dirty. That is the only two sets of footwear I take
I might be wrong, please excuse me if I am, but the size of this backpack might be a little too large as a carry on for Ryanair, which represents at least half of budget traffic in Europe. I have a backpack for this purpose, which meets the dimensions required by Ryanair, and it’s at least 75% the depth of this one.
Super important if traveling around Europe. Budget carriers like Ryanair, Whizz or EasyJet all have SMALLER CARRY ON SIZING to regular carriers. So useful tip google their limits to ensure your luggage will FIT their flights
Great video, definitely not a minimalist style but a great start/intro to one bag travel. A few suggestions, as you said high quality items... I would swap those sneakers for a pair of vivobarefoot shoes or runners that are much lighter and smaller profile. Maybe a patagonia nano puff as a midlayer instead of all those extra mid layers. Can definitely downsize that toiletry kit with some solid soap/shampoo options. I agree wholeheartedly about the merino wool. Typically on a trip of more than a week I bring... 4 merino t-shirts, 1 merino long sleeve, merino sweater, 2 pairs of travel pants, 5 pairs of merino underwear, lightweight rain jacket, and an extra midlayer depending on weather. I pack into a 25L goruck or mystery ranch bag. Keep up the great work!
Greatly appreciated! Your suggestions are spot on and yes, my list certainly isn't mimimalist in this case -- we actually host tour groups and recommend "snappy casual" as our dress of choice, so I pack more (and a bit more elevated) than if I were traveling alone or just with family. In those cases, I often opt for a Synapse or Synik in lieu of the Aer TP2 with less mid-layer "options". That said, I will definitely make some changes for future trips and hope to put together a video of things I learned this go-round. Hopefully soon. Thanks again for the kind message!
Great video and tips. I found that over the years that suggested packing lists are a good place to start. However, if my trip is 3 months away then I probably won't be buying a lot of new clothes otherwise it will break the bank!
What I miss is an alternative jacket! That's from the experience of one bike tour that it's nice to have some different cloth than usual! With this rather thick jacket you'll be not very comfortable in the south of France when the evenings are a little fresher and you feel to need a jacket. Jackets are also more versatile than an other sweater (even your button-up one)!
*had a cruise booked--Baltic see cruises cancelled due to Russia/Ukraine fiasco. Off to the Mediterranean, I guess. (London-Seville-Barcelona-Marseille-Florence-Rome-Sardina-Gibraltar-London)
I’m a pretty seasoned traveler, spending 14 years traveling 200 nights a year. Loved your pics of tshirts, etc. only nit was - I’m a foodie, and need to dress nicer than what is shown, at least a couple of times/week. Would love to know your thoughts on selections when elegance is needed…
Can you post a list with the clothing mentioned? That looks good and smart, what you show. It takes a loooog time to find all this without recommendation, though. 🙈
Great video! I appreciate very much your thoughtfulness and consideration. Subscribed. I’ve got similar objectives but slightly different needs and priorities. One is, I find I need shirts with pockets for readers and sunglasses. I also do prefer using a dedicated camera. Tried Spain with only my iPhone but was disappointed. Also, although I use a similar bag, I take a dedicated daypack, both for the plane and during days. I prefer a hub and spoke approach where I stay in the same spot for a few days, but the venture out on day trips so I’ve put much more thought into that day pack. Looking forward to more videos and updates to see how your packing changes, if at all.
I can totally relate to needing pockets! As you can well imagine seeing out company name, we are all about the Hub & Spoke travel methodology! Happy travels!
Thanks Jason, always good to meet kindred packing spirits! We’ve been in EU for two months now and often go live on FB @gohubandspoke if you’d like to follow along.
Good solid advice. Note: First times I went to Europe in 80s, I had no electronics. Ironic that everyone preaches minimalist approach, but needs at least three electronic items. I take my iPhone - that is only electronic.
I'm planning on going to Ireland next year, I finally get YT algorithm working and get the travel perspective from a male traveller. One store which I can find clothes to fit my 6'4" frame is eddie baurer , light weight dwr treated dress pants and dress shirts at a somewhat affordable price ( I usually wait for online sales); I recently upgraded my carry on to a cotopaxi 35L backpack which can be converted into a carry on (tuck away the shoulder straps into the back of the bag). Thank you for providing your expertise in packing tips, every bit helps.
Asher - This is my favorite video about packing light. I found it after injuring my back hauling 50 lb bags around on the last vacation because that's the airline limit. Now I'm committed to packing light. On a test run, I was able to pack more items than you have described in the video in an oversized carry-on bag at a weight of 24 lbs. My question is if I trim the number of items so I'm closer to your list (and 20 lbs), what would the game plan be for washing clothes (assuming no washer/dryer available) on a 4 week trip that is half guided and half on my own?
Great advice! While I appreciate those who feel the need to alter their daily carry simply because they’re in a different country, I'm personally opposed to it … in fact, my premise behind packing is to keep things as similar as possible abroad & at-home. It reduces cognitive load, decreases the likelihood of mistakes, and ensures I’m always comfortable and confident. A “neck pouch” doesn't accomplish that for me … otherwise I would already be wearing one on a daily basis, right? Do you? And if not, why not? Too impractical? That said, I do keep vital belongings on my person and recommend the same for all our travelers … I shared in the video that I use that backpack pocket **when going through security** (4:41) … it means I have only one item to concern myself with when gathering myself on the other side (yet again something a neck pouch doesn’t offer unless, of course, you put it in your backpack) … apologies if that wasn’t clear. :) Any other recommendations based on my video? I’m all ears.
@@hubspokeboutiqueeuropeanex2753 when traveling overseas I keep my passport, credit cards, and cash in a moneybelt on me at all times. It is comfortable and I forget I'm wearing it. It's true I don't wear that in daily life at home, but at home I'm not traveling through great cities of Europe so I am already doing things different.
Disagree with your comment. I’ve traveled to dozens upon dozens of countries in in Europe, Asia and Africa … never felt the need for a neck pouch and don’t want one.
Great choices and elegant without looking gaudy. It'd be nice to see the interior of the waterproof jackets if they have pockets inside for passport and cash- Thank you. I quite enjoyed the way you presented this video. Cheers from Spain!
Thanks so much, Hill! I don't personally keep anything important in my jacket pocket because that's the first layer to be removed and (possibly) forgotten somewhere. I do plan on doing a follow-up, though, and will show in more detail what I've got!
I have several AER travel bags and use them frequently. AER Travel Pack 2 - Length: 21.5" (55 cm), Width: 13.5" (34 cm), Depth: 8.5" (22 cm). In future, can you measure your packed bag as it appears you may have exceeded the depth requirements for most domestic and international carriers. I monitor depth very closely and carry a foldable backpack as a personal item should I need to transfer items out of my single bag. Thanks for the video.
Howdy Anthony! My preferred airlines (domestic & international) limit carry-ons to 22"x14"x9" (a little deeper for international), so that's my rule-of-thumb. I've never had an agent question my pack on a "major" airline, but if one did, I would just remove a few things and put them in my day-backpack mentioned in the video to balance the load -- or simply toss on my jacket to remove some bulk. If someone regularly travels budget regional airlines (like Ryan, etc.), then micro-measuring may be worth the attention. Really appreciate your comment!
Nice one, great tips! I just manage to take my first short trip since 2019! Thanks! I've smashed all the smashers! Salutations from astonishingly grey, wet & weirdly open Ireland! ☘☮🤘🏽🤠👍🏽☮☘
Somehow, I just found your video. Excellent! I too am of a similar mentality and am familiar with many of the items you showed in this video. I dig the XPac vs of your AER Travel pack. I wonder... have you tried barefoot shoes like Vivobarefoot? It's all we've been wearing for the past few years and I can't speak highly enough about them. Best part is they roll or flatten down like thin flip-flops yet still function as capable shoes. Also if you haven't tried DUER's jeans or their adventure pants you really must. Most comfortable I've owned. Also love the Western Rise Evolution.
Great video! I do think an important consideration is weight! Carryon size/weight is limited in some/most European airlines. Something like: 21 in x 15 in x 9 55cm x 40cm × 23cm 8kg (17 lb 10 oz) Do you also carry a small personal item bag? Weight Limits: 4kg (8 lb 13 oz) So my plan is to carry on on the transatlantic flight (US-EUR) and then check in on a Paris to Belgrade flights. Could talk about weight, please? Thanks!
Your video was very informative. We are planning a trip to Central Europe for 3 weeks and the video was very useful. By the way, your house is beautiful, can you please share the layout plans? 🙏
Great video. Highly informative. I am now obsessed with the idea of merino wool and I have over 1k in my proof huckberry shopping cart. Also, is Asher ok? He made this video and 1 other and then nothing else after Switzerland, you didn’t get organ harvested did you? Kidding. Western Europe this summer, maybe I’ll see you there!
Awesome tips and packing list! Makes me want to pack my bags and travel as soon as I graduate. Any tips on first time travellers? Haven't experienced going on a plane and leave my country before but it surprisingly doesn't make me feel nervous to go alone. LOL
Congrats on your upcoming graduation. Traveling alone is great, it just takes a little confidence and adaptability. The best packing tips I can give a new traveler are: 1) Don’t feel like you need to buy anything new for your first trip(s), just go with what you’ve got. Experience is the best advisor. 2) Same as #1, but with shoes! Comfortable shoes are a must, even if they’re not “ideal”. Don’t even attempt breaking in new shoes on a trip. Good luck on future travels!
Ok, Americans need to chill. Most clothes, but especially, ESPECIALLY! merino wool do not need to be constantly washed. Most everything can air out a few times, but merino wool can go through 10 wears without washing . Just hang it up, it airs out and boom, done. There are plenty of online tests and articles about it as well as studies on how over washed/showered Americans and their clothes are. Of course do as you like, and us Europeans are known for our "funk." But I'd rather have a funk than wash merino wool after every wear
The problem with Marino wool tshirts is that either you have high wool content but it doesn’t hold its shape, or low wool fabric blend and it’s just fancy polyester at that point.
Great video! Question: You pack your travel pack tight. That’s good. However, you also said you wear jeans and a jacket in transit. Question: With a fully packed pack wear do you put your jeans and jacket if the weather is warm at your destination? Thanks in advance!
My experience with IT luggage is poor. Two suitcases broke down quickly - 1 on the first trip. IT replaced it with another bag which lasted a year or so.
American living in the UK for 27 years. Wear what you want. Keep your passport or any legal document secure but you don’t need special hidden packs on your body. Just be sensible. I feel more secure in Europe than walking down the streets in the US.
Hello Asher, great video (I am traveling for 3 weeks to some countries in Europe and I am definitely following your recommendations). About the cubes, are they medium size? I am planning to get a TP2 but not sure if I can fit 1 large and 1 medium in it or if I should go for 2 mediums? Thanks and cheers from Costa Rica!
Hello and thanks for making this...very helpful for someone who really doesn't like to think about packing much! Anyway, what size travel cubes do you purchase to fit in the AER backpack? Thanks!
I love the bag based of reviews and marketing, but read realistically it carries less than bags with the same rated volume. For a 2 week winter trip I like to take two pair of jeans, 7-8 shirts/underwear etc and a few long sleeve tops so only have to wash once per week or so. Also a pair of shoes and or flip flops. My Northface Overhaul 40 handles it without the expandable zippers used. So when I pick up some gifts I expand before returning home. I want a new bag and like the Aer travelpack 3, but seems the Peak or Alpa 35 or 42 may be better. Wonder if Aer plans to have a 30 vs 35 vs 45 expandable/retractable like Peak any time soon? I really like the bags style and features but I am concerned it will be practical for trips over 4 days. Maybe this pack requires thin travel pants or more washing for longer trips.
I'm trying to find info about the Anker travel charger you talked about in the video, but the link to "Tech Gadgets" on your Hub & Spoke blog doesn't seem to work. Can you provide any info? I am traveling to Italy and Ireland and want a device to charge to multiple items. Thanks!
Did you put that backpack under the seat in front of you or did up store it above? I'm going to France in a few mo ths and I don't know what size bag I can have under the seat with me
A good video about packing for Europe. However, like a previous video by another UA-camr, there was no consideration given to weight. It’s been my experience that more and more airlines are limiting carry-ons to 7 kg, about 15 lbs. I’ve had airlines weigh my carry-on before, and in one instance in Asia was forced to discard items to meet the weight requirements.
I've been travelling for professional reasons since 1988. I never never never put my passport in my bags. I keep it on my person in a securable pocket in a little zip lock bag until I get to where I'm going. If someone gets into your bag or steals it, or the bag sits on an open baggage cart in the rain, you are screwed. It's the most important thing you have. Everything else in the video is great advice.
I just got back from a two week trip to both London and Rome. Let me just say this from the get go; No matter what you read or hear, there is NO "dress code" in either. In both places I saw everything from men wearing socks with sandals and shorts to jeans and t-shirts. I spent a couple of months gathering what I thought would be appropriate and spent hundreds of dollars only to find out I would have been just fine wearing what I have in my own wardrobe. I used only a carry on backpack and carried 7 shirts, 4 pairs of pants, 7 pair of underwear, 5 pairs of socks, a rain coat, a cloth belt and a light pair of "flying" wind pants and jacket. As well, I fit my adapters, eye glass repair kit, spare pair of glasses, personal items and pillow in my carry on personal item which was a smaller backpack. Bottom line...don't sweat the clothing, comfort trumps all. Oh, and I only brought one pair of very comfortable Skechers slip on shoes and easily walked 5 miles a day with them!
Great suggestions. I am a large person (6'4" and husky). A single pair of jeans and a couple of shirts fills up a normal suitcase/backpack when they are larger.
Great explanation of “minimal “ packing. It still amazes me how much actually fits into those packing cubes. I’m personally packing for a cross Canada train and this was good advice.
Happy that we could help you out. Yes, those packing cubes are great space savers. Have fun on your train journey.
Very cool! Planning a trip to Normandy France this October and packing light and not looking like a tourist is high on my list and your layout looked perfect and sharp. Thanks a ton for the video!
This video was so helpful for reccomending good clothing options for traveling, i dont want to take bulky items, and its tough to think about what i might actually wear, and the brands youve recommended are super helpful too, video is greatly appreciated
Some of my lessons learned:
Tourist travel has become very casual. No one cares what you wear and no one will notice if you repeat an item a few days later after it has been washed. If you wear monotones--in beiges or grays--no one will remember what you wore before.
Take fewer clothes. No matter how much I think I have paired down, I always return with one or more clothes items I didn't use. Wear quick drying underwear. Wash clothes in hotel sink or bathtub. Bathtubs often have a string clothesline you can pull out. Hotel soap or shampoo is all you need. Wear one pair of shoes, pack another, but no more unless they are flipf-lops. Use layers which will provide warmth with little bulk in your bag and can be peeled off if the temperature warms up during the day.
Carry everything with you when you are heading for your destination. Lost bags, particularly if you are not staying in the city of the airport, can complicate the first days of your trip. On your way home, you can check you bag. The airport will deliver it to you at your home, where you have enough clothes and sundries to get by.
Couldn't agree anymore with you comment! The horror stories of lost baggage this summer are proof that traveling light is the way to go.
Agree! For undies, I pack 2 Nooz t-shirts, 3 Exofficio shorts and 4 pair of Smart Wool socks. These are quick-drying & take up little space. I also pack a DIY 3-meter clothesline & a 1.5 meter roll of Gorilla tape. I buy flip-flops upon landing & discard upon return. Happy lightweight travel ;-)
@@golfertex What's the Gorilla tape for? I wrap duct tape to a pencil in case I need to patch a broken hiking show in a pinch. Maybe for the same purpose?
@@lj746 Yes, for fixing holes. Also, to hold up your clothes line and make an emergency bandage.
I love that you said WE bought her one too. I like it when couples operate as one. All the best to you both!
Excellent presentation! No one ever talks about packing for men. Thank you so much 😊
Happy to bring it to you.
My packing needs are a bit different because I'm in the entertainment & teaching business so my travel clothes reflects that but you're spot on about not seeing enough men's packing lists.
Thanks for the tips. I like your aesthetic, especially the bag recommendation. If I can add something you didn't mention; the belt. Take a look at Grip 6 belts. Their bread and butter belts are aluminum or Titanium, but for travellers the one to get is the carbon fiber buckle. There's absolutely no metal so you don't have to take it off to clear TSA. And I think it really aligns with the style you're going for.
So I had the Bose QC with cable for a number of years but last year picked up a cheap pair of their original Bluetooth QC as new models released, and they are great. I was mainly using them for tube/train.
However as I was recently going to do a bit of flying with work for first time in a while and had a look into Bluetooth adapters that can be used with airline audio sockets. I looked at a few and went for the Avantree SoundJet R2 as it was on offer on Amazon and had decent reviews. I used it for the first time over last month and have been really happy with it and would recommend one as it’s small, rechargeable and comes with couple of small cables for audio and usb charging, and an airline adapter all in a pouch. They can even connect to two pairs at same time.
There are others makes that can also be switched between receive and transmit if you needed that too.
excellent choices in wardrobe. I wear Unbound merino,Bluffworks,Public Rec and Icebreaker.I didn't see any mention of socks. Have a great trip.
Awesome, sounds like a great selection!
Re: socks, I take three pair of Darn Toughs plus a few standard athletic no-shows & stuff them inside my packed shoes.
Great video! Been traveling to Europe since 1975. My friends are always amazed how my wife on I are able to travel for a month at a time with a backpack that the total weight with clothes is under 19 pounds. You hit it right on the hit when you said no one cares what you wear everyday. The one issue I have to take with you is when you said that if you go for a hike and get tired of caring around a plastic bottle to just throw it away. Get a BPA-free plastic water bottle to reuse and tread lite on our planet.
But please make sure you don't throw away the litter where it's not supposed to go, make sure there's a garbage can somewhere.
Thanks for the information and the clear visuals! This will be helpful.
Overall some worthwhile tips on what you need vs. what you want to pack.
However...
What's missing is a sport jacket and tie and shoes that can at least pass for something more formal. Not everybody vacations in places where the clothes you wore at sixteen will still suit any occasion.
The other thing that surprised me is your idea of a heavy sweater. If you ever plan to visit Iceland, Norway, Finland or even Maine in the off-season... good luck with that!
All that said, you've got great taste in what you are packing; especially the merino wool. Couldn't agree more.
Glad it was helpful.
I'll preface this by saying that I live in Finland and have been to Iceland and Sweden in the colder months too. If you have a decent coat that keeps out the worst of the wind and have multiple layers of wool available, you're better off with two or three thin layers, than a single thicker one. Most of our indoor spaces are kept pretty warm in winter, so I usually reserve my really heavy wool jumpers for outdoor occasions like May 1st picnics, or visiting my UK based MIL who lives in a centuries old stone house which is very chilly in winter.
I always travel with a hoodie - just so versatile
Going to Germany in June...my first international travel. Historically a very heavy packer no matter where I go. Have to take mostly business casual clothing for this trip since it is a work trip. Thanks for this video that still gave me some things to think about for the trip. Think I've already decided to not take a laptop due to weight, potential damage, etc and just get by with using ipad the whole trip. Will definitely be taking a dedicated camera as I am big into photography so have to figure that out too yet.
You'll regret packing heavy for a trip like that. You won't miss the extras, I've even given items away because they're cumbersome.
Just came back from a trip to Japan and only took an IPhone 15 Pro Max (Left the Hasselblad at home) and didn’t feel as though “I should have brought my “big” camera”. With the ability to take 48MP photos, I am not giving up much by only having an IPhone.
I recommend considering a BUFF, like the BUFF Lightweight Merino Wool Neck Gaiter. In addition to the many listed uses, I find it works decently as an sleeping mask.
All my clothes are just like what you have, except for my Proof shirts, I use the polo versions. For me they are more versatile. A little fancier, but I can even wear them while working out. Same material though. I love Proof 72-hr merino.
I didn’t see socks? Did I miss them? The merino wool tees are a new one on me and would be welcome in my wardrobe for home, travel, and fulltime RV that we start next year. I like the fast drying approach.
In the shoes
RE Flip flops.
I prefer to use simple sandals without the toe post. That way I can wear with socks as well, which is super handy on the plane. I take two plastic grocery shopping bags and thrown my boots in the overhead bin, which keeps them out of the way on a long flight and does not get other peoples luggage dirty. That is the only two sets of footwear I take
That's a great idea.
Great video I travel to Asia and I only travel with a 30l backpack I hate those rolling suitcases plus am a minimalist
I might be wrong, please excuse me if I am, but the size of this backpack might be a little too large as a carry on for Ryanair, which represents at least half of budget traffic in Europe. I have a backpack for this purpose, which meets the dimensions required by Ryanair, and it’s at least 75% the depth of this one.
Super important if traveling around Europe. Budget carriers like Ryanair, Whizz or EasyJet all have SMALLER CARRY ON SIZING to regular carriers. So useful tip google their limits to ensure your luggage will FIT their flights
I knew you are damn good as soon as I saw the first thing that you pulled out from that bag! Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
Great video - your walk through was excellent. Keeping producing content ! Thx.
Nice video, but how on earth is 20lbs approved as carry-on? Most flights I take are limited to 7kg.
7 kg = 15.4 pounds
Great video, definitely not a minimalist style but a great start/intro to one bag travel. A few suggestions, as you said high quality items... I would swap those sneakers for a pair of vivobarefoot shoes or runners that are much lighter and smaller profile. Maybe a patagonia nano puff as a midlayer instead of all those extra mid layers. Can definitely downsize that toiletry kit with some solid soap/shampoo options. I agree wholeheartedly about the merino wool. Typically on a trip of more than a week I bring... 4 merino t-shirts, 1 merino long sleeve, merino sweater, 2 pairs of travel pants, 5 pairs of merino underwear, lightweight rain jacket, and an extra midlayer depending on weather. I pack into a 25L goruck or mystery ranch bag. Keep up the great work!
Greatly appreciated! Your suggestions are spot on and yes, my list certainly isn't mimimalist in this case -- we actually host tour groups and recommend "snappy casual" as our dress of choice, so I pack more (and a bit more elevated) than if I were traveling alone or just with family. In those cases, I often opt for a Synapse or Synik in lieu of the Aer TP2 with less mid-layer "options".
That said, I will definitely make some changes for future trips and hope to put together a video of things I learned this go-round. Hopefully soon.
Thanks again for the kind message!
I am a fan of the under 30L bag for travel! It’s all you need.
Great video and tips. I found that over the years that suggested packing lists are a good place to start. However, if my trip is 3 months away then I probably won't be buying a lot of new clothes otherwise it will break the bank!
What I miss is an alternative jacket! That's from the experience of one bike tour that it's nice to have some different cloth than usual! With this rather thick jacket you'll be not very comfortable in the south of France when the evenings are a little fresher and you feel to need a jacket. Jackets are also more versatile than an other sweater (even your button-up one)!
Just what I needed. I have a cruise booked to the Baltic Sea in SEP2023 (14 Days).
Happy to help. Safe travels!
*had a cruise booked--Baltic see cruises cancelled due to Russia/Ukraine fiasco. Off to the Mediterranean, I guess. (London-Seville-Barcelona-Marseille-Florence-Rome-Sardina-Gibraltar-London)
@@slydogger Sorry to hear that your plans changed. But the Med will we awesome.
I’m a pretty seasoned traveler, spending 14 years traveling 200 nights a year. Loved your pics of tshirts, etc. only nit was - I’m a foodie, and need to dress nicer than what is shown, at least a couple of times/week. Would love to know your thoughts on selections when elegance is needed…
Can you post a list with the clothing mentioned? That looks good and smart, what you show. It takes a loooog time to find all this without recommendation, though. 🙈
Great video. Helpful tips.
Great video! I appreciate very much your thoughtfulness and consideration. Subscribed.
I’ve got similar objectives but slightly different needs and priorities. One is, I find I need shirts with pockets for readers and sunglasses. I also do prefer using a dedicated camera. Tried Spain with only my iPhone but was disappointed. Also, although I use a similar bag, I take a dedicated daypack, both for the plane and during days. I prefer a hub and spoke approach where I stay in the same spot for a few days, but the venture out on day trips so I’ve put much more thought into that day pack. Looking forward to more videos and updates to see how your packing changes, if at all.
I can totally relate to needing pockets! As you can well imagine seeing out company name, we are all about the Hub & Spoke travel methodology!
Happy travels!
Solid vid and packing tutorial 👍 I plan to get a new 40L travel bag so this comes in handy.
Great start to this channel, you pack very much as I do! I’m always interested in how other people pack minimally for traveling. Good stuff🤘🏻
Thanks Jason, always good to meet kindred packing spirits!
We’ve been in EU for two months now and often go live on FB @gohubandspoke if you’d like to follow along.
Hi. What is the Jacket you are wearing at 10:00? Does it have good pockets? Great video. Thanks.
Nice 👌🏻
But please give link to all the Items - Backpack, Anker charger, etc
Good solid advice. Note: First times I went to Europe in 80s, I had no electronics. Ironic that everyone preaches minimalist approach, but needs at least three electronic items. I take my iPhone - that is only electronic.
That's the way to keep it light.
So packing and wearing your clothes in Europe would include a day in Luxembourg and an evening in Trakya --with the same outfit? Amazing!
Thanks for the great video. H-E-B when traveling I miss that store. Okay! Seriously, why don't you use compression cubes? Have a great trip.
I'm planning on going to Ireland next year, I finally get YT algorithm working and get the travel perspective from a male traveller. One store which I can find clothes to fit my 6'4" frame is eddie baurer , light weight dwr treated dress pants and dress shirts at a somewhat affordable price ( I usually wait for online sales); I recently upgraded my carry on to a cotopaxi 35L backpack which can be converted into a carry on (tuck away the shoulder straps into the back of the bag). Thank you for providing your expertise in packing tips, every bit helps.
Asher - This is my favorite video about packing light. I found it after injuring my back hauling 50 lb bags around on the last vacation because that's the airline limit. Now I'm committed to packing light. On a test run, I was able to pack more items than you have described in the video in an oversized carry-on bag at a weight of 24 lbs. My question is if I trim the number of items so I'm closer to your list (and 20 lbs), what would the game plan be for washing clothes (assuming no washer/dryer available) on a 4 week trip that is half guided and half on my own?
Never carry your passport, cash, credit cards etc in your pack. Get a neck pouch for under your shirt to keep these items always on your person.
Commendable tip.
However, It's useless telling people such information. If they don't know it already, they soon will aka live & learn.
Great advice!
While I appreciate those who feel the need to alter their daily carry simply because they’re in a different country, I'm personally opposed to it … in fact, my premise behind packing is to keep things as similar as possible abroad & at-home. It reduces cognitive load, decreases the likelihood of mistakes, and ensures I’m always comfortable and confident. A “neck pouch” doesn't accomplish that for me … otherwise I would already be wearing one on a daily basis, right? Do you? And if not, why not? Too impractical?
That said, I do keep vital belongings on my person and recommend the same for all our travelers … I shared in the video that I use that backpack pocket **when going through security** (4:41) … it means I have only one item to concern myself with when gathering myself on the other side (yet again something a neck pouch doesn’t offer unless, of course, you put it in your backpack) … apologies if that wasn’t clear. :)
Any other recommendations based on my video? I’m all ears.
@@hubspokeboutiqueeuropeanex2753 lollll this may be the most passive aggressive response I've ever read on youtube, hilarious.
@@hubspokeboutiqueeuropeanex2753 when traveling overseas I keep my passport, credit cards, and cash in a moneybelt on me at all times. It is comfortable and I forget I'm wearing it. It's true I don't wear that in daily life at home, but at home I'm not traveling through great cities of Europe so I am already doing things different.
Disagree with your comment. I’ve traveled to dozens upon dozens of countries in in Europe, Asia and Africa … never felt the need for a neck pouch and don’t want one.
Great choices and elegant without looking gaudy. It'd be nice to see the interior of the waterproof jackets if they have pockets inside for passport and cash- Thank you. I quite enjoyed the way you presented this video. Cheers from Spain!
Thanks so much, Hill! I don't personally keep anything important in my jacket pocket because that's the first layer to be removed and (possibly) forgotten somewhere. I do plan on doing a follow-up, though, and will show in more detail what I've got!
My husband likes Bento bag more than backpacks. He likes using the one from Nomad Lane. It's his favorite!
I’ll have to look into that. Thanks!
Nice. Packing for 7 weeks! Merino wool is the foshizzle.
Happy you liked the video.
I have several AER travel bags and use them frequently. AER Travel Pack 2 - Length: 21.5" (55 cm), Width: 13.5" (34 cm), Depth: 8.5" (22 cm). In future, can you measure your packed bag as it appears you may have exceeded the depth requirements for most domestic and international carriers. I monitor depth very closely and carry a foldable backpack as a personal item should I need to transfer items out of my single bag. Thanks for the video.
Howdy Anthony! My preferred airlines (domestic & international) limit carry-ons to 22"x14"x9" (a little deeper for international), so that's my rule-of-thumb. I've never had an agent question my pack on a "major" airline, but if one did, I would just remove a few things and put them in my day-backpack mentioned in the video to balance the load -- or simply toss on my jacket to remove some bulk.
If someone regularly travels budget regional airlines (like Ryan, etc.), then micro-measuring may be worth the attention.
Really appreciate your comment!
Nice one, great tips! I just manage to take my first short trip since 2019! Thanks! I've smashed all the smashers! Salutations from astonishingly grey, wet & weirdly open Ireland! ☘☮🤘🏽🤠👍🏽☮☘
Thank you and happy travels--let's get back out there!
Somehow, I just found your video. Excellent! I too am of a similar mentality and am familiar with many of the items you showed in this video. I dig the XPac vs of your AER Travel pack. I wonder... have you tried barefoot shoes like Vivobarefoot? It's all we've been wearing for the past few years and I can't speak highly enough about them. Best part is they roll or flatten down like thin flip-flops yet still function as capable shoes. Also if you haven't tried DUER's jeans or their adventure pants you really must. Most comfortable I've owned. Also love the Western Rise Evolution.
Thanks for your thoughtful response to our video!
Tis Irish Bob saying hello
Well Lad do ye wear socks on yer adventure trips?
Interesting advice either way. Thank ye.
Irish Bob
🤗😇😎🇮🇪🇨🇵🍀☘️🦾🩺🥂
great video. very helpful
Great video! I do think an important consideration is weight! Carryon size/weight is limited in some/most European airlines.
Something like: 21 in x 15 in x 9 55cm x 40cm × 23cm 8kg (17 lb 10 oz)
Do you also carry a small personal item bag? Weight Limits: 4kg (8 lb 13 oz)
So my plan is to carry on on the transatlantic flight (US-EUR) and then check in on a Paris to Belgrade flights.
Could talk about weight, please?
Thanks!
Your video was very informative. We are planning a trip to Central Europe for 3 weeks and the video was very useful. By the way, your house is beautiful, can you please share the layout plans? 🙏
I’d like to know the weight of your bagage. It seems to have more tan the allowed 10 kg.
Excellent information by the way.Tks.
Nice video, thanks for sharing.
Happy that you liked it.
Great video. Highly informative. I am now obsessed with the idea of merino wool and I have over 1k in my proof huckberry shopping cart. Also, is Asher ok? He made this video and 1 other and then nothing else after Switzerland, you didn’t get organ harvested did you? Kidding. Western Europe this summer, maybe I’ll see you there!
Awesome tips and packing list! Makes me want to pack my bags and travel as soon as I graduate. Any tips on first time travellers? Haven't experienced going on a plane and leave my country before but it surprisingly doesn't make me feel nervous to go alone. LOL
Congrats on your upcoming graduation. Traveling alone is great, it just takes a little confidence and adaptability.
The best packing tips I can give a new traveler are:
1) Don’t feel like you need to buy anything new for your first trip(s), just go with what you’ve got. Experience is the best advisor.
2) Same as #1, but with shoes! Comfortable shoes are a must, even if they’re not “ideal”. Don’t even attempt breaking in new shoes on a trip.
Good luck on future travels!
@@hubspokeboutiqueeuropeanex2753 Thank you very much! This helps a lot. Only thing I know I need to buy is a luggage because I don't have any. 😅
Ok, Americans need to chill. Most clothes, but especially, ESPECIALLY! merino wool do not need to be constantly washed. Most everything can air out a few times, but merino wool can go through 10 wears without washing . Just hang it up, it airs out and boom, done. There are plenty of online tests and articles about it as well as studies on how over washed/showered Americans and their clothes are. Of course do as you like, and us Europeans are known for our "funk." But I'd rather have a funk than wash merino wool after every wear
Yes, us Americans do like to wash our clothes a whole lot! ;-) But merino wool should absolutely be the exception.
Are there any brick and mortar stores that carry the merino wool garments in your video ?
What jacket is that? Love it!
Great advice... what was the weight of your backpack packed plse
Asher so solid Bro!
Great video
The problem with Marino wool tshirts is that either you have high wool content but it doesn’t hold its shape, or low wool fabric blend and it’s just fancy polyester at that point.
100% agree a carryon sized backpack is the perfect bag for trips. We have done 16 days with just carry-ons but expect we could do much longer
Great video! Question: You pack your travel pack tight. That’s good. However, you also said you wear jeans and a jacket in transit. Question: With a fully packed pack wear do you put your jeans and jacket if the weather is warm at your destination? Thanks in advance!
I don't see any of your links on this site. You didn't list the brand of those travel pants either. Otherwise great video.
Check out hubandspoketraveler.com
I like the minimalistic, ultra pragmatic approach to packing. Question. How do you manage your dirties (dirty clothes) when packing so tight? TIA
Hi Asher, where did you get the great artwork piece on your wall behind you? Who is the artist? Loooove it!
i really like your black jacket!
What kind of socks do you wear and then care for?
What is the brand and model of the backpack? perfect on what Im looking for. thank you for sharing
My experience with IT luggage is poor. Two suitcases broke down quickly - 1 on the first trip. IT replaced it with another bag which lasted a year or so.
Where can I get that luggage bag from its awesome
Can you provide a link for your quilted jacket?
American living in the UK for 27 years. Wear what you want. Keep your passport or any legal document secure but you don’t need special hidden packs on your body. Just be sensible. I feel more secure in Europe than walking down the streets in the US.
Hello Asher, great video (I am traveling for 3 weeks to some countries in Europe and I am definitely following your recommendations). About the cubes, are they medium size? I am planning to get a TP2 but not sure if I can fit 1 large and 1 medium in it or if I should go for 2 mediums? Thanks and cheers from Costa Rica!
I would go for the mediums!
Hello and thanks for making this...very helpful for someone who really doesn't like to think about packing much! Anyway, what size travel cubes do you purchase to fit in the AER backpack? Thanks!
You are welcome, Jeff. Try these handy packing cubes in your AER:
www.aersf.com/packing-cube-medium-black
I love the bag based of reviews and marketing, but read realistically it carries less than bags with the same rated volume. For a 2 week winter trip I like to take two pair of jeans, 7-8 shirts/underwear etc and a few long sleeve tops so only have to wash once per week or so. Also a pair of shoes and or flip flops.
My Northface Overhaul 40 handles it without the expandable zippers used.
So when I pick up some gifts I expand before returning home. I want a new bag and like the Aer travelpack 3, but seems the Peak or Alpa 35 or 42 may be better. Wonder if Aer plans to have a 30 vs 35 vs 45 expandable/retractable like Peak any time soon? I really like the bags style and features but I am concerned it will be practical for trips over 4 days. Maybe this pack requires thin travel pants or more washing for longer trips.
What do you wear for socks?
The Western Rise AirLoft Quilted Jacket in the video appears to no longer be available. Can you recommend an alternative?
I'm trying to find info about the Anker travel charger you talked about in the video, but the link to "Tech Gadgets" on your Hub & Spoke blog doesn't seem to work. Can you provide any info? I am traveling to Italy and Ireland and want a device to charge to multiple items. Thanks!
I was looking at your website for the various clothing brands but am not sure what the underwear is?
Did you put that backpack under the seat in front of you or did up store it above? I'm going to France in a few mo ths and I don't know what size bag I can have under the seat with me
What is this large rag / cloth for wiping glasses? Thanks!
great tips!
Glad it was helpful!
What brand are the black shoes in your graphic?
What jacket are you wearing ?
Hi thanks for the tips, os the bag water proof?
So, what the total weight of the backpack and do you also carry a personal item bag and weight?
Carry on is considered personal item on lot of airlines now
That's pretty good advice to only have carry ons going to EU and getting a cheap luggage to check a bag back home
Thank you brother 😎
I like the natural fibers. Merino wool no stench for weeks!!
Laura, I couldn't agree more!
Great video, just one thing that is triggering my OCD: Europe is a continent and Italy is part of it. 🤓
It's all for the algorithms. ;-)
Any winter jackets?
What about socks?
What jeans do you recommend? Thanks
A good video about packing for Europe. However, like a previous video by another UA-camr, there was no consideration given to weight. It’s been my experience that more and more airlines are limiting carry-ons to 7 kg, about 15 lbs. I’ve had airlines weigh my carry-on before, and in one instance in Asia was forced to discard items to meet the weight requirements.
Do they check the weight of carry on where you go?