About Me

My journey into “onebag” traveling officially began back in 2017. Like many people, I used to travel the traditional way with a large almost 23kg checkekd in roller suitcate until a trip to Hong Kong changed everything. When I arrived after an 8 hour flight from Arlanda, Swecden, before checking into our hotel, we wanted to go on a hike near the airport. Trying to find a temporary place to stash my massive bag was an absolute hassle. To make matters worse, by the end of the trip, the wheels were broken, and the handle had completely snapped off.

I realized right then and there: This is not the way I want to travel anymore.

I initially slimmed down to a standard carry-on suitcase, but even that felt like too much. That’s when I stumbled across the onebag subreddit. Back then, it only had about 40,000 subscribers (compared to well over 700k today!), but I immediately knew I had found my people.

I’ll admit, obsessing over bag liters, zippers, and packable gear is a very geeky and sometimes dirty thing to obsess about. But it’s also one of the absolute best travel hacks in the world.

These days, I experiment with different bag sizes and philosophies, from my Thule Landmark 40 for trips requiring extra space (like packing a suit or heavy winter gear) to my current favorite, the Peak Design 30L Travel Backpack, which perfectly houses my hybrid travel and photography setup.

Ultimately, my goal is to figure out exactly what I need, cut out what I don’t, and share those lessons so you can experience the ultimate freedom of traveling light.

Why Onebag Traveling?

Why fit your entire life into a single backpack? If you’re used to traveling with a checked suitcase and a heavy carry-on, the idea of downsizing to 30 or 40 liters might sound impossible. But once you make the switch, you’ll likely never go back.

Here is why I thik onebag traveling is the ultimate way to see the world:

The Ultimate Sense of Freedom

When you travel, you are essentially bringing your life, everything that is necessary for your day-to-day, with you. Carrying all of that in one simple backpack provides an unmatched feeling of physical and mental freedom. You aren’t weighed down by your possessions.

A lot less waiting at the Airport

When you don’t check a bag, your transit time plummets. You can skip the bag-drop line before your flight, and when you land, you walk straight past the baggage carousel and out the front doors. You simply get more time at your destination.

Ultimate Maneuverability

Navigating crowds, walking up narrow hostel stairs, or catching a train is a breeze. You don’t have to worry about dragging a broken wheel across a dirt road, and you have an extra hand free whenever you’re in transit.

No More Lost Bags

Airlines lose, delay, and damage luggage every single day. When your bag is on your back or stowed under the seat in front of you, you are (almost) immune to lost luggage. You’re also much less prone to theft, as your belongings never leave your sight.

Intentional Consumption

Having limited space forces you to rethink what you actually need. It pushes you toward a more sustainable way of consuming. You learn to rent gear at your destination, buy multi-purpose items, or use digital alternatives (like reading on your phone instead of packing heavy books).

Financial Savings

Airlines are charging more for checked bags than ever before, often $30 to $50+ each way. By sticking to a single carry-on or personal item, you can save hundreds of dollars over the course of a few trips. That’s money you can spend on a great dinner or an unforgettable experience at your destination.

Better Local Transportation

If you have a giant roller suitcase, you are practically forced to pay for expensive taxis or Ubers. With a single backpack, you can easily hop on local buses, ride the subway, squeeze into a tuk-tuk, or even rent a motorbike or scooter to get to your accommodation.

Flexibility and Spontaneity

When you have all your belongings on your back, it is incredibly easy to change your plans on the fly. Missed a connection? Catching a last-minute train? Decided to stay in a different city for the night? You can pivot instantly because you aren’t tied down by heavy luggage stored at a hotel across town.

No More Decision Fatigue

Packing light means creating a minimalist “capsule” wardrobe where all your clothes mix and match. Because you only have a few shirts and pants with you, getting dressed in the morning takes zero mental energy, leaving you more brainpower to plan your daily adventures.

You Avoid “Packing Your Fears”

Most people overpack because of “what ifs.” What if I go to a fancy gala? What if there’s a blizzard in July? Onebagging teaches you to pack for the best scenario and trust your own resourcefulness. If the unexpected happens, you can always buy a cheap umbrella or borrow a sweater!