Lessen the load when traveling with limited mobility

 

Your luggage can weigh you down, especially if you’re traveling with limited mobility. So pack light! You’ll be more flexible without a heavy suitcase. If you’re traveling to Europe or destinations with cobblestone streets and small walkways, the last thing you want is to be stuck lugging a 50 lb suitcase over uneven terrain. Lighten your load, your future self will thank you.

 

Here are a few tips for how to travel light:

 

Start with a carry-on size bag.

Trust me, if you bring out that monster suitcase, you’ll be tempted to fill it up. Limit yourself to a carry-on bag and resist the temptation to overpack. If you can navigate carry-ons on an airplane, roll the bag with you. Or, check it and include a Tile or location tracker so you can feel confident that you know where your bag is at all times.

 

Make a packing list before you start.

Planning what you need alongside what you will be doing each day will help you think carefully about each item. You’re less likely to forget essentials with a packing list, and you can identify where you can use the same things multiple times. Being organized will pay off!

 

Be intentional with each item.

Ask yourself: “Will I really use this? Do I really need this on this trip?” If the answer is, “no” or even “probably not,” leave it at home. (This excludes extra medical supplies, never skimp on these items since it may be difficult to track them down should an emergency occur.)

 

Bring items that you can re-wear or that serve multiple purposes.

Plain pants and long skirts can be worn with a variety of tops and vice versa. If you’re nervous about not matching, stick with neutral-toned colors that will go with more pieces. Check out Pinterest for travel wardrobe ideas, there are thousands of examples that may spark inspiration!

 

Layer!

Did I tell you I was in Maui when they had a snowstorm for the first time in 150 years?! You truly never know what the weather might look like. Bring layers. If it’s cold, you can layer your shirt under a longer sleeve. If it’s warm, you won’t need the layers. Planes, trains and indoor places can get chilly so having this extra coverage will likely come in handy.

 

Choose light fabrics.

Nylon, polyester, or merino wool are lightweight, durable, and flexible. They’ll help save space in your bag and keep you comfy as you’re adventuring.

 

Take advantage of laundry facilities if they’re available at your destination.

Especially if you know you’ll need to re-wear clothes, doing laundry along the way will help keep your clothes clean and comfortable. Check ahead with your lodging accommodations to see if they provide laundry or if it’s accessible nearby. Bring laundry detergent pods or a little liquid soap to hand wash items, especially if you have skin sensitivities.

 

Cut down on footwear.

It might be tempting to bring those nice dress-up shoes, but try to pack no more than two pairs of shoes, including the ones you’re wearing when you travel. The best shoes are those that you can wear for as many scenarios as possible and that fit your feet well. Socks that are lightweight, breathable, and that keep your feet dry are also worth their weight in gold. Stick with your best walking shoes. It’s best to leave those special-occasion shoes at home and bring footwear that are comfortable and versatile. Especially if you have mobility issues. If those selfies don’t include your feet, noone will ever be the wiser!

 

Use packing cubes.

At Wise Blue Yonder, we find that packing cubes keep your stuff tidy and organized. You create extra space, and if something spills, everything is protected. You can pick up some packing cubes at many luggage, travel, or outdoor stores.

 

Use travel-sized toiletries.

Not only will you save space in your luggage, but you can ensure your liquids will be the right size to go through TSA. Pick up some small and reusable shampoo and conditioner bottles, toothpaste, mouthwash, etc. at your local shop. Because many Wise Blue Yonder travelers have sensitivities, try to stick to your known brands so you don’t spark an allergic reaction when you are miles from home.

 

Traveling somewhere cold? Wear your jacket and boots on the plane.

You might need to bring your winter coat with you to your destination. Wear it onto the plane to save space in your suitcase.

 

Pack for one week, even if you’re going for longer.

Re-wearing, washing and mixing & matching clothes will make your week’s wardrobe last longer than you think. And your back and your travel companions will thank you for lightening the load – literally!