How I Pack Light for a Two-Week Trip

Packing light is a skill, not a talent. For years I over-packed, dragging heavy suitcases through cobblestone streets and up hotel stairs. Now I travel for two weeks with a single carry-on, and I have never looked back.

The secret is a capsule wardrobe built around two neutral colors. Everything mixes and matches, which means fewer pieces and more outfits. I roll my clothes instead of folding them, and I use packing cubes to keep everything organized.

Shoes are the biggest space thief, so I limit myself to two pairs: one comfortable walking shoe and one that works for dinners out. Toiletries go in solid form whenever possible to avoid liquid limits.

Most importantly, I leave room for the journey. A little empty space in your bag is a gift to your future self — the one who finds a scarf in a Marrakech souk or a bottle of olive oil in Tuscany.