Packing is a skill most travelers pick up through trial and error. You forget things, carry too much, or realize halfway through your trip that you packed all the wrong stuff. That's how you learn. But for travel writers, especially those from teams like Lonely Planet who spend months on the road, packing becomes second nature. It's part instinct, part habit, and definitely part creativity.

Their approach isn't about having the latest gear. It's about staying practical, thinking ahead, and making room for the unexpected. If you've ever looked at your suitcase and thought, "Why did I bring all this?"—this list is for you. These ten packing habits come straight from people who live out of their luggage more often than not.

1. Always Pack Half As Much As You Think You'll Need

You've probably heard this before, but it hits different coming from someone who's had to haul a suitcase up an old apartment staircase in Rome or sprint through a train station in Tokyo. The trick isn't just about taking less. It's about being honest with yourself. Are you really going to wear four pairs of jeans? The answer is probably no. Most guidebook writers bring two outfits they can rotate and layer. They stick to things that dry quickly, match well, and don't wrinkle much.

2. Roll Instead Of Fold To Save Space

This one's more than just a clever trick. Rolling clothes takes up less room, and it helps stop deep creases from forming. It also lets you see what's in your bag without digging to the bottom. Some writers even go further—grouping rolled clothes by type or outfit and putting them in mesh cubes. It makes it easy to unpack fast or find something when you're in a rush.

3. Bring A Small, Lightweight Day Bag

A big bag gets you there, but a smaller one gets you through the day. Travel writers almost always carry a foldable daypack or sling that can tuck inside their main luggage. It's for walks, hikes, grocery runs, or last-minute errands. Even a cloth tote can do the job. It keeps hands free, shoulders light, and it doesn't take up much space at all.

4. Ditch The "Just In Case" Items

This is one of those things that feels risky at first. Leaving things out—like a bulky sweater, an extra pair of sandals, or a backup hat—goes against every packing instinct. But guidebook writers swear by it. If something is only being packed for a "what if" moment that may never happen, it probably shouldn't be packed at all. The space you save is better used for something you'll actually wear or need more than once.

5. Carry A Set Of Clothes In Your Personal Item

Checked bags get lost. It's not common, but it happens. That's why experienced travelers always keep a clean shirt, underwear, and socks in their backpack or carry-on. If you arrive before your luggage does, at least you can freshen up or feel human again. It's also handy after a long-haul flight when you want to change into something more comfortable without unpacking everything.

6. Don't Forget A Multi-Use Cloth Or Scarf

This is one of those items that gets used more than expected. A cotton scarf, large bandana, or sarong isn't just an accessory. It becomes a blanket, a towel, a beach wrap, a sunshade, a curtain, or even a picnic cloth. It's light, folds small, and serves more purposes than most things in your bag. Writers who've traveled through different climates often call it one of their most-used items.

7. Choose Footwear You've Already Broken In

New shoes and long walks don't mix. Every experienced traveler has a story about regretting a pair of fresh sneakers or boots on their first day out. The best shoes for travel are the ones your feet already trust. Travel writers usually carry one pair of walking shoes and maybe sandals or slip-ons for downtime. The key is comfort, not style. Blisters can ruin a trip fast.

8. Keep Toiletries Small And Always Refillable

Big bottles don't belong in a carry-on. Writers who are constantly on the move stick to the basics: solid shampoo, bar soap, refillable bottles under 100ml, and a tiny zip bag of first aid items. Toothbrushes go in a small case or sleeve to stay clean. If you run out, it's usually easier to buy a replacement than to carry extra supplies for "later."

9. Use Your Phone's Camera To Record What You Packed

This tip helps when you can't remember what's in your bag or need to repack in a hurry. Some writers take a quick snapshot of their open suitcase before zipping it up. It acts like a visual list. It also helps if your bag is lost or damaged, giving you a record of what was inside for insurance or airline reports.

10. Don't Pack Your Day Around Outfits—Pack Your Outfits Around Your Day

This one sounds backward at first. But when you think about it, your clothes should serve your plans—not the other way around. Writers pick clothing that fits their trip's activities and weather, not trends. Hiking in Costa Rica, walking in Paris, or working from a café in Bangkok all ask different things from your wardrobe. Pack to match your daily rhythm, and you'll get more use out of less stuff.

Conclusion

Packing doesn't have to be a battle with your suitcase. It can actually become part of the joy of traveling—like a quiet ritual before the chaos of the journey. These habits from people who live out of a bag for a living aren't about perfection. They're about travel that feels a little smoother, a little lighter, and a lot less stressful. Whether you're flying across the ocean or catching a bus to the next town, good packing keeps your head clear and your hands free. The less you carry, the more space you have to enjoy what's ahead.