Amale Bouzlafa

I often get a lot of questions on how I manage to travel so light, without packing that much. It’s a curious thing for many people, especially in a world where we are so used to collecting things. However, there is a profound lesson in traveling light: you realize how little you actually need. One thing that becomes clear while traveling is the unnecessary weight we carry, both physically and mentally. When you focus on the essential, you begin to see the world differently. You become more aware of experiences than possessions. This change in perspective has taught me a lot about attachment and fulfillment.

I don’t really see the point in placing so much attachment to material things, especially when we consider the transitory nature of our existence. It is important to remember that we are going to leave this earth and with that we are going to leave everything behind. So, why bother ourselves with so much stuff? Why not focus on what makes our lives more interesting? For me, that means experiences, discoveries, and knowledge. These are the best and most important investments we can make.

Now, this doesn’t mean that I don’t like to own things or never buy anything… I do. However, I’ve learned to prioritize what I truly need and what adds value to my life. When I travel, I pack only the essentials. It’s a conscious choice to live simply and to focus on what matters most. I wouldn’t even say minimalist because I’m not sure I consider myself a minimalist… But it’s true that I feel freer without a lot of things, and I don’t usually get attached to things.

For travelers and adventurers, here’s something that will change the way you travel: you don’t need that much to travel! Anything you do need, you can usually find it along the way! Just think about it, there are people—women and men—living where you are going. And this is also the best way to actually experience living like the locals, experiencing their lifestyle and their ways to do daily things. The world is more connected than ever, and it’s easy to find what you require, no matter where you are. This realization can be incredibly freeing and maybe reassure some…😅 It allows you to travel with a light heart and an open mind.

When I first started traveling lightly, it was kind of a challenge. I was used to packing for every possible scenario. But I quickly realized that I didn’t use most of what I would take with me. So, I started to reduce the things I would pack by prioritizing multifunctional items, and it taught me to be resourceful. This shift in mindset didn’t just change how I travel; it changed how I live as well. Living without clutter has made me appreciate the simple things in life. It has taught me to value experiences over possessions. The thrill of discovering a new place, the joy of meeting new people, the satisfaction of learning something new—these are the things that make life rich and meaningful. They are what I carry with me, no matter where I go. Traveling light also makes you more adaptable and resilient. You learn to make use of what you have, to be creative, and to find solutions. It’s a mindset that can be applied to all areas of life. When you’re not weighed down by material things, you’re free to explore, take risks, and embrace new opportunities.

One of the greatest joys of traveling lightly is the sense of freedom it brings. You’re not tied down by your possessions. You’re free to move, explore, and experience the world in a way that is unattached and authentic. It’s a beautiful way to live, and it’s something that I cherish deeply. To anyone considering traveling lightly, I encourage you to give it a try. Start by prioritizing things and keeping only the essentials, and you will see how it feels. You might be surprised at how little you actually need. And you might find, as I have, that the things you leave behind are replaced by experiences and memories that are far more valuable.

Also remember that in the end, it’s all about finding a balance that works for you. It’s about recognizing that our worth isn’t determined by what we own, but by who we are and what we experience. It’s about embracing the journey with an open heart and a light spirit. So, the next time you pack for a trip, ask yourself: do I really need that fourth pair of high heels? Maybe I can live without it? And most importantly, what am I making room for by leaving it behind? You might find that what you gain is far more precious than what you leave behind.

Trusting it will bring some light to someone’s shadow,

Amale 💫💙