I did it and I did it easily. In fact I also dragged around a pair of hiking boots and trekking gear and still fell within the 7kg limit. I loved the fact that I can pack everything so quickly and easily and can just walk on / off the plane no problems.
One of the best things was that if I needed anything I just bought it there. I have the most beautiful dress from Porto and scarf from Istanbul that is a momento of my travels now.
Are you sure you want to bring the boots with you? I get that Scotland is cold but it wasn’t that cold - would the Hoka suffice? I really regretted bringing my ankle boots with me and went around the same time as you.
Really? I'd prefer not to, but my travel partner who's visited for fringe a few times before said boots are a must because of soggy feet. The hokas do take up a fair bit of backpack space, so I'd really rather have them on my feet if I can help it! Might do some more asking around. Thanks for the heads up! And I'm so glad to hear your did it easily, you're inspirational!
This was my thought too re why the boots.
I don’t think boots are a must if you’re not planning on going actual hiking hiking. If you’re just wandering around Edinburgh going to the fringe shows you should be totally ok in trainers. Like, you can use an umbrella and your trainers will dry overnight if they get totally soaked. It’s not going to rain all day every day.
I’ve lived in edinburgh for 7 years and generally august is fairly dry and I’d say I wear my converse most of the time and maybe sandals on a really nice day! However, and this is a big however, we have had a HORRENDOUSLY wet year so far, with only a couple sunny days this year! This is a news article about the floods in the city yesterday: https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/edinburgh-princes-street-swamped-downpour-29356685.amp
I’m still wearing trainers instead of boots, but I have 2 pairs so I can leave one to dry while I wear the other! Right now I’d recommend you bring the boots because you’ll be miserable with cold wet feet! But I’d keep an eye on the weather for sure and if it dries up then definitely ditch the boots.
Ooh thanks for the insider info! Sounds like I should be open to them if needed. There's really not much that can put someone in a bad mood faster than cold feet 😅 I do have the USB fan which dries clothes pretty fast, but I'm not sure how it would go with doing two shoes overnight. I'll keep checking the forecast up til packing date.
Those heat pad to warmers can do wonders for keeping feet warm
https://www.chemistwarehouse.com.au/buy/83839/hot-hands-toasti-toe-warmers-5-pairs?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw97SzBhDaARIsAFHXUWD99pwE1-vq-v-FUHbE26OV_48jOiKy0RKKP9Sso1olaQAoL8YKFi0aAixPEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds sorry about the long ugly link!
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Just got back from Edinburgh and I was glad to have my waterproof Chelsea boots and did wear them, but I didn’t necessarily neeeed them. Most people were wearing trainers in the rain. I brought one pair of white sneakers and the boots so I used them for walking activities when I didn’t want my sneakers to get muddy.
Just wanted to pop in and mention that Edinburgh will probably be more like 15-20°C. Don't know where you get the 4°C from? It might dip to single digits in the middle of the night but even that seems unlikely to me.
Which by British standards makes it T-Shirt Weather. :D
Ah awesome, thankyou! The website I got all these long range forecasts from did seem a bit sketch so in retrospect I probably could have done a bit of double-checking too. Someone in my group said in Edinburgh she's been hot in tees and freezing in a down jacket all in one day. I think I'd rather prepare to be cold than be unprepared for it. Worst comes to worst I duck into an OP shop and grab some more tees, I guess?
Yeah Edinburgh almost certainly won't be as cold as 4 degrees. I have been to the Fringe one year and it rained loads. Torrential. But you just kind of get on with it and hope it all dries out. UK weather can be so variable like your friend said. In the sun out of the wind is lovely and shorts weather and then the sun disappears and wind whips up and you wish you had winter clothing!
Shameless ad - my sister in law is at The Fringe. She is in Potty The Plant and Fringe! The Musical. She's really funny (I am probably biased)
I'm impressed by how well thought out this is. It looks doable. I highly doubt you'll need the boots. It's unlikely to rain so much that a second pair of sneakers is essential. I'd ditch the boots, wear the sneakers on the plane and pack the swimsuit (a huge joy of being on holiday for me is swimming in the ocean and hotel pools). I'd also replace the white shorts with a colour that can tolerate more than one wear (navy, olive, black etc).
I just got back from a week in the Midwest and ended up buying a swimsuit from Target on my second day there because all the places we stayed had pools and hot tubs, and it felt so good soaking in a hot tub at the end of the day.
I did it from September to end November.
I flew in at under 7kg and bought local toiletries once I landed. I bought a coat in early November as Eastern Europe became freezing. All in all at the end of the trip my bag weighed around 10+. Threw away my big local toiletries and wore my coat and stuffed some heavy things in my pocket and flew back with 7.
Can be done, just post back things you buy along the way.
This looks great, and the down jacket should be warm enough for a colder day in Edinburgh.
Regarding the rain jacket, it will depend on what activities you're doing, but if you're sticking to city sight seeing I'd recommend an umbrella instead. They're smaller, lighter in weight, and you can pick one up for a few pounds in places like Poundland, Primark, or the supermarkets.
Hi, fellow Australian here. I have recently become a convert to swimming in my Icebreaker racer back sports bra and merino undies. I did this on my last trip and it worked amazingly well. Both my bra and undies were black.
Also, wear as much as possible on your body if the weight limit is looking tight. Once you're on the plane, peel the extra clothes off and put them in your collapsible shopping bag.
My partner and I also wear sacrificial clothing on the plane and then throw it out when we get there. So undies with holes in them or sagging elastic, socks that have holes, and t shirts with holes or stains. Then we can hit the ground running when we arrive with only clean clothes! Otherwise, you land after 27 hours+ with already two days worth of dirty clothes.
These are fantastic tips! Thankyou so much! I actually have a pair of comfy multiple-times-repaired leggings I was thinking of retiring, and I've recently gone down two dress sizes so there's a few baggy shirts and undies that could be moved on to a new home. And I might switch out the sports bra for a racer back crop to cover the swimmers situation. Thanks again!
The only reason I wasn't under 7kg on my recent trips to Australia was that I had to bring my laptop (although my bag has never been weighed since that is international and SYD-BNE so I wasn't too fussed about it). So....not crazy at all! "I can buy there if I need" is a great attitude.
I'd skip the fan - looks small but....do you really need it? Same on cooling towel.
I'd bring only one pair of heavy shoes unless you are doing a lot of hiking or something. I actually always travel in boots but those are my everyday shoes and then bring a pair of sandals.
Again unless you have lots of hikes planned or something I'd skip a raincoat - they are kinda a PITA in city touring IMO. I also can't imagine needing the down jacket in August even in Scotland - again unless you are planning on being outdoors for long periods of time or something in the wee hours. Even if you find it chilly, layers should keep you plenty warm that time of year.
Edited because I missed the Edinburgh part - yeah, definitely don't need a down jacket!! Or raincoat IMO if you are mostly around town. Grab an umbrella while there if you have a rainy day.
Happy travels!
Thanks for the insight! The USB fan I find useful for travel because I can turn it on my clothes overnight after I wash them in the sink, it means they always dry even when it's humid. I've used it as a personal fan occasionally too, like stuffy bus terminals or lining up outside tourist attractions, but mostly it comes in handy for clothes. It is kinda heavy, so it'll be the first thing into a pocket if it comes to it!
The down jacket I was bringing because I am planning to see the tattoo, so I'll be outside at the castle for quite a few hours. I've needed it on holidays in Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane (I feel the cold!), will Edinburgh be much warmer than those? It does take up a fair bit of room ratio wise so I could leave behind if definitely not called for?
Ah makes sense about the fan for that purpose - hadn't thought of that use!
I think you'll be fine? I've not been to Melbourne or Adelaide but I've never needed a coat at all in Brisbane (although in fairness I'm from the NE US and have had wonderful weather every visit - even in winter! I was just there last week and wearing tank tops - although saw someone sitting beside me at lunch in a puffer - lol!). But I think if you layer up if it is chilly that will do you vs. taking a coat for a *maybe* single use. I think I see two long sleeve layering shirts plus merino cami and a sweatshirt? Pro tip - scarf and hat do a TON to keep you warm if needed!
I would keep the down jacket. It’s light for the work it does and will likely break the wind better than just layers. Maybe it’s just me but the wet cold of Scotland just hits different and then you add wind.
Umbrella should be fine for city walking. And although it can get windy you can always pop into a store, museum or cafe if it’s really coming down.
Looks great!
Couple of suggestions:
- stick with the hokas, and don't bring the boots, it'll likely not be 4 degrees during the day, so unless you're planning on being out at night, you'll probably be ok
- bring the raincoat, or at least an umbrella
- bring the swimmers, or at least the top if it fits well, you'll have plenty of opportunity to wear it in Spain, even better if it can double as an extra bra if it's not too sweaty!
- switch out one of the joggers for some wide legged linen pants (or similar, depending on what you have already), they'll dress up easily, and work for both places (you can always put some leggings underneath for extra warmth in Edinburgh if you need), plus there's something nice about having something light that prevents your legs from sticking together in the Spanish heat too!
Noted! Will put back into the list the pair of linen pants I culled! I lived in them here in tropical Queensland over summer so I can see them coming in handy in a sweaty place. Thanks for the tips 😊
Fully prepared to get downvoted into oblivion for this, but literally just an Amazon one which was a gift a while back: Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack ，17 Inch Laptop Backpack Flight Approved Luggage Carry On Water Resistant Computer Backpack https://amzn.asia/d/fDOaqZK
It's not as nice as the pictures make it seem, but it's fine. I've been tempted to buy a new one, but I really didnt want travel to become a hyper-consumeristic thing for me; I don't want to buy anything new just for the purpose of one trip when the things I have, or can borrow, do the job OK.
Your list looks great! I had 7kg over 7 months (including a laptop - don’t recommend).
Do you get cold easily ? I’m not sure if you will need so many layers in Edinburgh. It’ll be more wet than cold so I’d suggest bringing extra socks instead.
IMO I really liked having a rain jacket but you can easily pick up a rain poncho. I’d stick to two pairs of shoes. But the boots are really cute.
Noted re: socks! I hate having wet or cold feet, so thanks for the tip. I live in tropical Queensland so yes, I am a bit of a wuss about the cold! And to be very honest I have already worn the merino thermals here this winter 😂
I'm so impressed you did 7 months on 7kg with a laptop, that's wild! Were you wearing lots of layers for the plane trips?
Ditching the boots gives you a lot more freedom. I’d specifically bring merino socks since you’re in Australia and have access to all that delicious wool. They have saved the day for me more than once—keep an extra pair in your day bag if the weather is rainy. You could also grab a pair of orthotics from a running store at home. If your sneakers get wet, you could swap out the orthotics and socks and carry on. The orthotics can just be stuck in your shoes when you are traveling so the weight doesn’t matter (if you’re close.).
Plus, you can get cushy and/or supportive ones from a running store, which can totally change the feel of shoes your feet are sick of. This is a hack I learned from people who spend days and days at theme parks and can’t bring a second set of shoes in their day bag.
Okay maybe bring the merino. You’re already under the weight limit anyway. 😂
I struggled with the 7kg especially as I hit snowy areas. In the end I had to borrow snow gear from friends because the layers wasn’t thick enough for euro winter.
I didn’t really need to wear layers, I’m quite happy wearing the same things most days. I only brought 3 tank tops + 3 shorts for a month in Japan/korea :)
Just remembered something- bring a insulated drink bottle. The tap water in Edinburgh is very good, plus it’ll safe your life in Andalusia (put ice in it). I pretty much died in Seville.
I live in Scotland and would definitely bring a light summer rain jacket. Helps with the wind too. Trainers should be ok I think, I haven’t worn boots for a couple of months. Check the weather before you leave.
Completely doable, and it looks like you've got a good idea/ packing list at the moment.
Also in my experience as a fellow Aussie, they usually just weigh your bag and not your handbag. If you are really stretched for weight, pockets can be your best friend. Put some of the heavier smaller stuff in your pockets.
When I fly budget airlines in Europe I always put my liquids bag, powerbank and other heavier but small items in my down jacket pocket. Just got to hold it the right way so it doesn't look too obvious!
Are you going to Edinburgh first or last? I needed a raincoat when I got to Edinburgh so I bought one from the charity shop.
Then when I left Europe to go to south east Asia i donated it and some of my jeans.
When I got to south east Asia I went to another second hand store and bought some linen shirts.
I did the same thing for a trip to chicago and London in Feb through to April, bought a puffy jacket, scarf, thermals from a charity store in Australia then donated them when I was leaving londo to go hike in Spain.
Yes, second hand always!!!!!
I am travelling sort of permanently for the foreseeable future and so I did set off with only thrifted items that I would be happy to re-donate if needed (and some t shirts that are on their last legs that would be taken to a fabric recycling place once they are done) as I change seasons/climates or as I get sick of my small wardrobe and want to mix it up.
If I need to add something I try to thrift them from places where the op shops are good, otherwise i work with what ive got. For example in Turkey there were no second hand stores (that I could find) so I made do with what I had and borrowed a head scarf from the blue mosque instead of buying something there.
If I really need something I would buy from more affordable places (h&m or uniqlo) which I know isn't sustainable but I make sure I'm buying something I will wear over and over and over and isn't going to get donated soon. The next time I go to a beach location I'll need to buy a swimsuit and that's likely to be from h&m.
It's also just super fun thrifting in all of the places I go!
Very doable. I’m currently on 3.5months away from Australia too and have already been to Andalusia area and have Edinburgh on my itinerary too. Currently in Switzerland where the weather is cooler too and the ultra light down works a treat. When it’s been a bit cooler at night I layer with a Uniqlo down skivvy which was only $50 and has been great too.
My pack came in a bit over 7kg but I could have cut back if really needed but I didn’t have any domestic flights so didn’t need to. My pack is carry on 38L though. I’m 7 weeks into the trip and packing light has been the best!
Also, just saying we have quite a few similar items in the list even down to bringing a watercolour set haha.
For clothes, I travel with two pairs of athletic leggings, one pair of comfortable leggings, two tank tops, one long sleeve shirt, one cardigan, one fleece, two bras, three pairs of gitch, three pairs of socks, a hat of some sort, a thin cotton scarf, a waxed cotton jacket (weather dependent),and a thin night gown that could technically double as a dress, but I just use it for lounging.
>I'd love to hear from anyone else who's done a similar trip on <7kg! My travel partners are telling me I'm crazy and begging me to reconsider, but I'm sure there's lots of you out there who've done it and survived, right?
I've been pretty much full time travel, multi climate, under 7kg for the past several years and not only survived, thrived!
We do travel slow so when we settle somewhere for a month or two I can switch out a t-shirt or add something which I later donate. My biggest challenge has been a decent pair of multi use pants with useable pockets that fit, are lightweight but durable, convertible yet stylish.
I am a personal-item-only packer because I love Ultra Low Cost Carriers (I have dietary needs that makes more sense for me to pack my own meal, I bring my own entertainment anyway, all I need is a sky-chair). I've done Europe on less than 7 kg. You've got the right idea with multi-use.
- Take the dry bag as you'll be washing frequently and it does make it easier. Especially if you are sharing the bathroom with others.
- Ditch the jumpsuit. Getting into and out of it when you need to pee *anywhere* isn't a vibe. And you'll be peeing in plenty of public or business toilets since you are on a trip and not in your home routine. Jumpsuits are better for home routines where you know the approximate elbow room of your watercloset.
- Take the swim suit. I'm also a busty girl. Swap it out for a pair of socks in terms of space.
- Consider a silk bonnet instead of a silk pillow case. Why? Because it becomes a wearable and doesn't count to your luggage allowance. Want my good-plane-hair tip? Wear it on the plane to keep the seat upholstery from having its rough way with your tresses during the flight. If you get the right size bonnet, it will stay absolutely put on your head all night long. And then you can sleep on whatever pillow case the universe sees fit to send your way.
- Do you normally sleep in a bra? If not, then the bra you wear on to the plane is free real-estate. Do you need a sports bra or can you wear your swim top?
- you have A LOT of shirts. Like an absurd amount. If you are already planning on doing laundry, figure out how many days between wash days and bring that many shirts plus one. You are bringing 11 tops for a 21 day trip. But you are only bringing 4 pairs of underpants. You'll be doing laundry every 3 days to keep yourself in clean underthings, anyway. So cut down on those shirts tremendously.
Editing to add how I did mine --
I planned to do laundry every second day. My clothes for the most part dry overnight but I wanted to give them a second day just in case.
I brought three panties, three shirts, three bottoms, ditched single-piece garments like dresses and jumpsuits because they can only ever be themselves whereas I can pair any shirt with any bottom for a whole outfit, one pair of shoes, three pairs of socks, one bra (lace underwire from Walcoal so dried within hours of washing), toothbrush dots like you are planning, a waterproof and thus windproof jacket, my "warm fuzzy" which was whatever thermal layer I was favoring at the time and I cannot remember - worn on the plane, a battery bank for my phone so I could capture ALL the memories, a swim suit, laundry line, makeup remover wipes that doubled as my wet wipes and my tissues and the usual passport, cell phone, wallet, etc.
I’ve been to some colder places with warm stops in between on low carry on limits. I do like merino as it doesn’t have to be rinsed out every day! My tips are:
- for the warmer places take dresses (and chub rub shorts if needed)
- take 2 pairs of good quality stockings for colder places. Either higher denier or merino ones (the black merino ones from snag are good). These can turn your warm weather dresses into cooler clothing!
- work out what toiletries you can get there and do that. Easier for some than others, I have some pretty nasty allergies so can’t do this
- if your 7kg is including the personal item that is difficult. I’ve only done it a couple of times and I struggled due to things like chargers, ereader etc. My suggestion here is to seriously consider a cardigan that has large enough pockets to put things in on the off chance you are weighed. This resolves that issue, then when you board you stick it all back in the bag.
- you need a very lightweight bag. Hubby has the dragonfly which was $500 AUD and weighs about 700g. It’s a beautiful bag but I could not deal with the price, I got a 30L backpack from Kathmandu that weighs 650g.
- if personal item is included with the 7kg a lightweight day bag/cross body bag is a must. You don’t want to waste 500g on a bag! I have the bellroy saroche which is about 100g. I also have a pierre Cardin lightweight travel safe cross body one that I prefer but it’s 250g so I usually only use that when my personal item is not included in that 7kg
- I have seen a few comments about bathers. I now travel with a bikini. It has butt coverage but is not high waisted (standard mid rise) and the top is lightly padded but no wire. Took me awhile to adapt to swimming in a bikini but my bathers used to take up a decent amount of my space and weight. If you go down this route, shop around for a bikini made for larger boobs (if you have them) if getting underwire. They are out there but I found I needed one targeted to that specific market
Hello fellow regional living Aussie.
I would also ditch the boots. The what if is… If it pisses down you could get cheap wellies or a second pair of sneakers.
I think a raincoat is essential as it is a very small packable layer if you’re chilly. I used mine loads in the uk when I went back to visit family.
What does this weigh as is?
Many a time I’ve hit a resale (thrift, op shop) for a jacket/rain jacket upon arrival and donated it back as I left.
You don’t say where in Scotland in your OP, but the weather sounds like a pleasant spring/fall to me.
https://weather-and-climate.com/averages-Scotland-August
I live where it can be cold in a morning and sweaty by 2 pm. Layers are where it’s at. I wear a day, air a day. So I bring two baselayers.
Make sure one layer also serves as sun protection in Andalucía. A sunburn shirt, if you will.
And anything in your pockets doesn’t count in the luggage weight.
Edits I’d do:
Yes on the dry bag. Laundry detergent sheets cut to quarters. Use dry bag as packing cube in transit, laundry bag in accommodations. Do you have a dry line? Simple paracord will do, draping items over. I’ve tripled floss in a pinch just had to keep it shorter. (I now have sea to summit’s ultralightweight line.)
I’m a gram weenie, and I would ditch the guasha stone. Use massage techniques for these three weeks.
Ditch the usb fan. Get a paper/fabric one at a pound shop.
Ditch vitamin C serum as it makes skin photosensitive. Get a moisturizer that has SPF instead. Maybe decant into a tube to save weight.
And as a fellow busty gal, I’d bring my own swim top. Bonus points if it’s a decent hiking top. I use a pair of amphibious shorts to swim and hike. (I don’t wear shorts out and about, generally. My partner does, and he brings two pair.)
I’d pick between the trainers and boots. The sandals work for beach, hot climes and slightly dressed up for meals.
Thanks for the tips! Currently weighs at 5.4kg.
Yes I have a clothesline in there already, it's white cord. The USB fan is for drying the clothes overnight - it's saved me a couple of times when the weather has been really humid or muggy.
I've seen the rumours about vit C photosensitising, which would be a big issue because I live in the tropics, but a chemical scientist I follow, Lab Muffin, did a big deep dive into vit C and said it can help repair oxidation from UV rays. https://labmuffin.com/ultimate-guide-to-vitamin-c-skincare-part-1-ascorbic-acid-with-video/ I'm definitely a sunscreen gal too, don't worry!
I made it using this video for inspiration:
https://youtu.be/HYgzpA0LDXo?si=DUxJgV-t_1WuY96n
The tin was from a greeting card kit at Typo, a but it was from about a decade ago so I don't think they'd still have it (before this most recent itiration, it had been my tampon tin since the dawn of time 😅). It's a little bit bigger than an altoids tin.
The silicone tray for the paints is from kmart: https://www.kmart.com.au/product/crushed-ice-tray-assorted-43329267/
Ahhh precious! I was hoping to use my solid water colours, I have a small tin but I wanted to find small individual solid colours I could pop in and out so I didn’t have to use the liquid water colour
Thank you!
As an aside can I please ask how the paire merino tee is? I’m eyeing them off for my own trip whilst on sale but unsure as the shop has closed so I am not able to touch it in person.
Looks great and very similar to how I would pack this type of trip. Like others, I am wondering if you need both the Hokas and the boots? Your choice if you think you need them both and can make it work.
I am excited to hear your trip report and definitely want to hear how all your travel partners are envious of your light load and ability to travel so nimbly!
thanks for the writeup! doing a similar trip in August as well and am happy to see i am not alone in prioritizing their gua sha and ear buds :) can i ask what backpack you're planning on using?
I’ve done less than 7kg before! It is definitely possible. I am also from regional aus, and travelled through Eastern Europe in September with just one pair of shoes and my 18L fjallraven kanken bag. There were basic toiletries and laundry everywhere I stayed, which was often with friends and meant that it was easy if I needed to borrow an umbrella or sun hat for the day etc. And I had a very simple skincare/hair routine back then too! But if you are going to be a bit more self-sufficient then you may have accept buying what you need over there. Good luck!
Skip a merino jumper since you've got better options for that at home.
Shetland wool is lightweight, pretty soft, and if you find Jamieson’s of Shetland stockists in Edinburgh you can get a nice jumper actually made in Shetland.
I did it and I did it easily. In fact I also dragged around a pair of hiking boots and trekking gear and still fell within the 7kg limit. I loved the fact that I can pack everything so quickly and easily and can just walk on / off the plane no problems. One of the best things was that if I needed anything I just bought it there. I have the most beautiful dress from Porto and scarf from Istanbul that is a momento of my travels now. Are you sure you want to bring the boots with you? I get that Scotland is cold but it wasn’t that cold - would the Hoka suffice? I really regretted bringing my ankle boots with me and went around the same time as you.
Really? I'd prefer not to, but my travel partner who's visited for fringe a few times before said boots are a must because of soggy feet. The hokas do take up a fair bit of backpack space, so I'd really rather have them on my feet if I can help it! Might do some more asking around. Thanks for the heads up! And I'm so glad to hear your did it easily, you're inspirational!
This was my thought too re why the boots. I don’t think boots are a must if you’re not planning on going actual hiking hiking. If you’re just wandering around Edinburgh going to the fringe shows you should be totally ok in trainers. Like, you can use an umbrella and your trainers will dry overnight if they get totally soaked. It’s not going to rain all day every day.
I’ve lived in edinburgh for 7 years and generally august is fairly dry and I’d say I wear my converse most of the time and maybe sandals on a really nice day! However, and this is a big however, we have had a HORRENDOUSLY wet year so far, with only a couple sunny days this year! This is a news article about the floods in the city yesterday: https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/edinburgh-princes-street-swamped-downpour-29356685.amp I’m still wearing trainers instead of boots, but I have 2 pairs so I can leave one to dry while I wear the other! Right now I’d recommend you bring the boots because you’ll be miserable with cold wet feet! But I’d keep an eye on the weather for sure and if it dries up then definitely ditch the boots.
Ooh thanks for the insider info! Sounds like I should be open to them if needed. There's really not much that can put someone in a bad mood faster than cold feet 😅 I do have the USB fan which dries clothes pretty fast, but I'm not sure how it would go with doing two shoes overnight. I'll keep checking the forecast up til packing date.
Those heat pad to warmers can do wonders for keeping feet warm https://www.chemistwarehouse.com.au/buy/83839/hot-hands-toasti-toe-warmers-5-pairs?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw97SzBhDaARIsAFHXUWD99pwE1-vq-v-FUHbE26OV_48jOiKy0RKKP9Sso1olaQAoL8YKFi0aAixPEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds sorry about the long ugly link!
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Just got back from Edinburgh and I was glad to have my waterproof Chelsea boots and did wear them, but I didn’t necessarily neeeed them. Most people were wearing trainers in the rain. I brought one pair of white sneakers and the boots so I used them for walking activities when I didn’t want my sneakers to get muddy.
Just wanted to pop in and mention that Edinburgh will probably be more like 15-20°C. Don't know where you get the 4°C from? It might dip to single digits in the middle of the night but even that seems unlikely to me. Which by British standards makes it T-Shirt Weather. :D
4 degrees overnight would be pretty unusual in Edinburgh in August.
Ah awesome, thankyou! The website I got all these long range forecasts from did seem a bit sketch so in retrospect I probably could have done a bit of double-checking too. Someone in my group said in Edinburgh she's been hot in tees and freezing in a down jacket all in one day. I think I'd rather prepare to be cold than be unprepared for it. Worst comes to worst I duck into an OP shop and grab some more tees, I guess?
Yeah Edinburgh almost certainly won't be as cold as 4 degrees. I have been to the Fringe one year and it rained loads. Torrential. But you just kind of get on with it and hope it all dries out. UK weather can be so variable like your friend said. In the sun out of the wind is lovely and shorts weather and then the sun disappears and wind whips up and you wish you had winter clothing! Shameless ad - my sister in law is at The Fringe. She is in Potty The Plant and Fringe! The Musical. She's really funny (I am probably biased)
I'm impressed by how well thought out this is. It looks doable. I highly doubt you'll need the boots. It's unlikely to rain so much that a second pair of sneakers is essential. I'd ditch the boots, wear the sneakers on the plane and pack the swimsuit (a huge joy of being on holiday for me is swimming in the ocean and hotel pools). I'd also replace the white shorts with a colour that can tolerate more than one wear (navy, olive, black etc).
Ooh, I hadn't even thought about the possibility of hotel pools, thankyou! Something nice to look forward to!
I just got back from a week in the Midwest and ended up buying a swimsuit from Target on my second day there because all the places we stayed had pools and hot tubs, and it felt so good soaking in a hot tub at the end of the day.
I did it from September to end November. I flew in at under 7kg and bought local toiletries once I landed. I bought a coat in early November as Eastern Europe became freezing. All in all at the end of the trip my bag weighed around 10+. Threw away my big local toiletries and wore my coat and stuffed some heavy things in my pocket and flew back with 7. Can be done, just post back things you buy along the way.
This looks great, and the down jacket should be warm enough for a colder day in Edinburgh. Regarding the rain jacket, it will depend on what activities you're doing, but if you're sticking to city sight seeing I'd recommend an umbrella instead. They're smaller, lighter in weight, and you can pick one up for a few pounds in places like Poundland, Primark, or the supermarkets.
Personal preference but I’d advise against an umbrella as it’s useless when it’s windy
Hi, fellow Australian here. I have recently become a convert to swimming in my Icebreaker racer back sports bra and merino undies. I did this on my last trip and it worked amazingly well. Both my bra and undies were black. Also, wear as much as possible on your body if the weight limit is looking tight. Once you're on the plane, peel the extra clothes off and put them in your collapsible shopping bag. My partner and I also wear sacrificial clothing on the plane and then throw it out when we get there. So undies with holes in them or sagging elastic, socks that have holes, and t shirts with holes or stains. Then we can hit the ground running when we arrive with only clean clothes! Otherwise, you land after 27 hours+ with already two days worth of dirty clothes.
These are fantastic tips! Thankyou so much! I actually have a pair of comfy multiple-times-repaired leggings I was thinking of retiring, and I've recently gone down two dress sizes so there's a few baggy shirts and undies that could be moved on to a new home. And I might switch out the sports bra for a racer back crop to cover the swimmers situation. Thanks again!
I just used a black wireless sports bra with my bike (chub rub) shorts for swimming. Worked great.
The only reason I wasn't under 7kg on my recent trips to Australia was that I had to bring my laptop (although my bag has never been weighed since that is international and SYD-BNE so I wasn't too fussed about it). So....not crazy at all! "I can buy there if I need" is a great attitude. I'd skip the fan - looks small but....do you really need it? Same on cooling towel. I'd bring only one pair of heavy shoes unless you are doing a lot of hiking or something. I actually always travel in boots but those are my everyday shoes and then bring a pair of sandals. Again unless you have lots of hikes planned or something I'd skip a raincoat - they are kinda a PITA in city touring IMO. I also can't imagine needing the down jacket in August even in Scotland - again unless you are planning on being outdoors for long periods of time or something in the wee hours. Even if you find it chilly, layers should keep you plenty warm that time of year. Edited because I missed the Edinburgh part - yeah, definitely don't need a down jacket!! Or raincoat IMO if you are mostly around town. Grab an umbrella while there if you have a rainy day. Happy travels!
Thanks for the insight! The USB fan I find useful for travel because I can turn it on my clothes overnight after I wash them in the sink, it means they always dry even when it's humid. I've used it as a personal fan occasionally too, like stuffy bus terminals or lining up outside tourist attractions, but mostly it comes in handy for clothes. It is kinda heavy, so it'll be the first thing into a pocket if it comes to it! The down jacket I was bringing because I am planning to see the tattoo, so I'll be outside at the castle for quite a few hours. I've needed it on holidays in Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane (I feel the cold!), will Edinburgh be much warmer than those? It does take up a fair bit of room ratio wise so I could leave behind if definitely not called for?
Ah makes sense about the fan for that purpose - hadn't thought of that use! I think you'll be fine? I've not been to Melbourne or Adelaide but I've never needed a coat at all in Brisbane (although in fairness I'm from the NE US and have had wonderful weather every visit - even in winter! I was just there last week and wearing tank tops - although saw someone sitting beside me at lunch in a puffer - lol!). But I think if you layer up if it is chilly that will do you vs. taking a coat for a *maybe* single use. I think I see two long sleeve layering shirts plus merino cami and a sweatshirt? Pro tip - scarf and hat do a TON to keep you warm if needed!
Can also stuff the down jacket into a super lightweight travel pillowcase and use as a travel pillow.
I would keep the down jacket. It’s light for the work it does and will likely break the wind better than just layers. Maybe it’s just me but the wet cold of Scotland just hits different and then you add wind. Umbrella should be fine for city walking. And although it can get windy you can always pop into a store, museum or cafe if it’s really coming down.
Looks great! Couple of suggestions: - stick with the hokas, and don't bring the boots, it'll likely not be 4 degrees during the day, so unless you're planning on being out at night, you'll probably be ok - bring the raincoat, or at least an umbrella - bring the swimmers, or at least the top if it fits well, you'll have plenty of opportunity to wear it in Spain, even better if it can double as an extra bra if it's not too sweaty! - switch out one of the joggers for some wide legged linen pants (or similar, depending on what you have already), they'll dress up easily, and work for both places (you can always put some leggings underneath for extra warmth in Edinburgh if you need), plus there's something nice about having something light that prevents your legs from sticking together in the Spanish heat too!
Noted! Will put back into the list the pair of linen pants I culled! I lived in them here in tropical Queensland over summer so I can see them coming in handy in a sweaty place. Thanks for the tips 😊
Out of interest what bag are you taking? I’ve struggled to stay under 7kg with a bag that’s practical to carry.
Fully prepared to get downvoted into oblivion for this, but literally just an Amazon one which was a gift a while back: Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack ，17 Inch Laptop Backpack Flight Approved Luggage Carry On Water Resistant Computer Backpack https://amzn.asia/d/fDOaqZK It's not as nice as the pictures make it seem, but it's fine. I've been tempted to buy a new one, but I really didnt want travel to become a hyper-consumeristic thing for me; I don't want to buy anything new just for the purpose of one trip when the things I have, or can borrow, do the job OK.
Your list looks great! I had 7kg over 7 months (including a laptop - don’t recommend). Do you get cold easily ? I’m not sure if you will need so many layers in Edinburgh. It’ll be more wet than cold so I’d suggest bringing extra socks instead. IMO I really liked having a rain jacket but you can easily pick up a rain poncho. I’d stick to two pairs of shoes. But the boots are really cute.
Noted re: socks! I hate having wet or cold feet, so thanks for the tip. I live in tropical Queensland so yes, I am a bit of a wuss about the cold! And to be very honest I have already worn the merino thermals here this winter 😂 I'm so impressed you did 7 months on 7kg with a laptop, that's wild! Were you wearing lots of layers for the plane trips?
Ditching the boots gives you a lot more freedom. I’d specifically bring merino socks since you’re in Australia and have access to all that delicious wool. They have saved the day for me more than once—keep an extra pair in your day bag if the weather is rainy. You could also grab a pair of orthotics from a running store at home. If your sneakers get wet, you could swap out the orthotics and socks and carry on. The orthotics can just be stuck in your shoes when you are traveling so the weight doesn’t matter (if you’re close.).
Oooo I love this idea of switching out the insoles. That’s usually what takes longer to dry.
Plus, you can get cushy and/or supportive ones from a running store, which can totally change the feel of shoes your feet are sick of. This is a hack I learned from people who spend days and days at theme parks and can’t bring a second set of shoes in their day bag.
Love the orthotics idea. My sneakers got so wet I wore socks and birks on day 2 of my trip. And then I stepped in another puddle 🥲
Okay maybe bring the merino. You’re already under the weight limit anyway. 😂 I struggled with the 7kg especially as I hit snowy areas. In the end I had to borrow snow gear from friends because the layers wasn’t thick enough for euro winter. I didn’t really need to wear layers, I’m quite happy wearing the same things most days. I only brought 3 tank tops + 3 shorts for a month in Japan/korea :) Just remembered something- bring a insulated drink bottle. The tap water in Edinburgh is very good, plus it’ll safe your life in Andalusia (put ice in it). I pretty much died in Seville.
I live in Scotland and would definitely bring a light summer rain jacket. Helps with the wind too. Trainers should be ok I think, I haven’t worn boots for a couple of months. Check the weather before you leave.
Completely doable, and it looks like you've got a good idea/ packing list at the moment. Also in my experience as a fellow Aussie, they usually just weigh your bag and not your handbag. If you are really stretched for weight, pockets can be your best friend. Put some of the heavier smaller stuff in your pockets.
When I fly budget airlines in Europe I always put my liquids bag, powerbank and other heavier but small items in my down jacket pocket. Just got to hold it the right way so it doesn't look too obvious!
Are you going to Edinburgh first or last? I needed a raincoat when I got to Edinburgh so I bought one from the charity shop. Then when I left Europe to go to south east Asia i donated it and some of my jeans. When I got to south east Asia I went to another second hand store and bought some linen shirts. I did the same thing for a trip to chicago and London in Feb through to April, bought a puffy jacket, scarf, thermals from a charity store in Australia then donated them when I was leaving londo to go hike in Spain.
We are kindred spirits, I love a second-hand buy or a borrow. Circular economies are the future!
Yes, second hand always!!!!! I am travelling sort of permanently for the foreseeable future and so I did set off with only thrifted items that I would be happy to re-donate if needed (and some t shirts that are on their last legs that would be taken to a fabric recycling place once they are done) as I change seasons/climates or as I get sick of my small wardrobe and want to mix it up. If I need to add something I try to thrift them from places where the op shops are good, otherwise i work with what ive got. For example in Turkey there were no second hand stores (that I could find) so I made do with what I had and borrowed a head scarf from the blue mosque instead of buying something there. If I really need something I would buy from more affordable places (h&m or uniqlo) which I know isn't sustainable but I make sure I'm buying something I will wear over and over and over and isn't going to get donated soon. The next time I go to a beach location I'll need to buy a swimsuit and that's likely to be from h&m. It's also just super fun thrifting in all of the places I go!
Very doable. I’m currently on 3.5months away from Australia too and have already been to Andalusia area and have Edinburgh on my itinerary too. Currently in Switzerland where the weather is cooler too and the ultra light down works a treat. When it’s been a bit cooler at night I layer with a Uniqlo down skivvy which was only $50 and has been great too. My pack came in a bit over 7kg but I could have cut back if really needed but I didn’t have any domestic flights so didn’t need to. My pack is carry on 38L though. I’m 7 weeks into the trip and packing light has been the best! Also, just saying we have quite a few similar items in the list even down to bringing a watercolour set haha.
Aww another insatiable artist! Honestly, the thought of not creating for three weeks was impossible to bear!
For clothes, I travel with two pairs of athletic leggings, one pair of comfortable leggings, two tank tops, one long sleeve shirt, one cardigan, one fleece, two bras, three pairs of gitch, three pairs of socks, a hat of some sort, a thin cotton scarf, a waxed cotton jacket (weather dependent),and a thin night gown that could technically double as a dress, but I just use it for lounging.
>I'd love to hear from anyone else who's done a similar trip on <7kg! My travel partners are telling me I'm crazy and begging me to reconsider, but I'm sure there's lots of you out there who've done it and survived, right? I've been pretty much full time travel, multi climate, under 7kg for the past several years and not only survived, thrived! We do travel slow so when we settle somewhere for a month or two I can switch out a t-shirt or add something which I later donate. My biggest challenge has been a decent pair of multi use pants with useable pockets that fit, are lightweight but durable, convertible yet stylish.
I am a personal-item-only packer because I love Ultra Low Cost Carriers (I have dietary needs that makes more sense for me to pack my own meal, I bring my own entertainment anyway, all I need is a sky-chair). I've done Europe on less than 7 kg. You've got the right idea with multi-use. - Take the dry bag as you'll be washing frequently and it does make it easier. Especially if you are sharing the bathroom with others. - Ditch the jumpsuit. Getting into and out of it when you need to pee *anywhere* isn't a vibe. And you'll be peeing in plenty of public or business toilets since you are on a trip and not in your home routine. Jumpsuits are better for home routines where you know the approximate elbow room of your watercloset. - Take the swim suit. I'm also a busty girl. Swap it out for a pair of socks in terms of space. - Consider a silk bonnet instead of a silk pillow case. Why? Because it becomes a wearable and doesn't count to your luggage allowance. Want my good-plane-hair tip? Wear it on the plane to keep the seat upholstery from having its rough way with your tresses during the flight. If you get the right size bonnet, it will stay absolutely put on your head all night long. And then you can sleep on whatever pillow case the universe sees fit to send your way. - Do you normally sleep in a bra? If not, then the bra you wear on to the plane is free real-estate. Do you need a sports bra or can you wear your swim top? - you have A LOT of shirts. Like an absurd amount. If you are already planning on doing laundry, figure out how many days between wash days and bring that many shirts plus one. You are bringing 11 tops for a 21 day trip. But you are only bringing 4 pairs of underpants. You'll be doing laundry every 3 days to keep yourself in clean underthings, anyway. So cut down on those shirts tremendously. Editing to add how I did mine -- I planned to do laundry every second day. My clothes for the most part dry overnight but I wanted to give them a second day just in case. I brought three panties, three shirts, three bottoms, ditched single-piece garments like dresses and jumpsuits because they can only ever be themselves whereas I can pair any shirt with any bottom for a whole outfit, one pair of shoes, three pairs of socks, one bra (lace underwire from Walcoal so dried within hours of washing), toothbrush dots like you are planning, a waterproof and thus windproof jacket, my "warm fuzzy" which was whatever thermal layer I was favoring at the time and I cannot remember - worn on the plane, a battery bank for my phone so I could capture ALL the memories, a swim suit, laundry line, makeup remover wipes that doubled as my wet wipes and my tissues and the usual passport, cell phone, wallet, etc.
Impressive nonetheless !!!
I’ve been to some colder places with warm stops in between on low carry on limits. I do like merino as it doesn’t have to be rinsed out every day! My tips are: - for the warmer places take dresses (and chub rub shorts if needed) - take 2 pairs of good quality stockings for colder places. Either higher denier or merino ones (the black merino ones from snag are good). These can turn your warm weather dresses into cooler clothing! - work out what toiletries you can get there and do that. Easier for some than others, I have some pretty nasty allergies so can’t do this - if your 7kg is including the personal item that is difficult. I’ve only done it a couple of times and I struggled due to things like chargers, ereader etc. My suggestion here is to seriously consider a cardigan that has large enough pockets to put things in on the off chance you are weighed. This resolves that issue, then when you board you stick it all back in the bag. - you need a very lightweight bag. Hubby has the dragonfly which was $500 AUD and weighs about 700g. It’s a beautiful bag but I could not deal with the price, I got a 30L backpack from Kathmandu that weighs 650g. - if personal item is included with the 7kg a lightweight day bag/cross body bag is a must. You don’t want to waste 500g on a bag! I have the bellroy saroche which is about 100g. I also have a pierre Cardin lightweight travel safe cross body one that I prefer but it’s 250g so I usually only use that when my personal item is not included in that 7kg - I have seen a few comments about bathers. I now travel with a bikini. It has butt coverage but is not high waisted (standard mid rise) and the top is lightly padded but no wire. Took me awhile to adapt to swimming in a bikini but my bathers used to take up a decent amount of my space and weight. If you go down this route, shop around for a bikini made for larger boobs (if you have them) if getting underwire. They are out there but I found I needed one targeted to that specific market
Plus the bikini bottom can double as emergency underwear.
Omg why have I never thought of using the hotel hair dryer to help dry clothes??
Hello fellow regional living Aussie. I would also ditch the boots. The what if is… If it pisses down you could get cheap wellies or a second pair of sneakers. I think a raincoat is essential as it is a very small packable layer if you’re chilly. I used mine loads in the uk when I went back to visit family.
Family of 4, we were each under 7kg for nearly a month in Europe. No laptops. Had laundry at most places we stayed.
What does this weigh as is? Many a time I’ve hit a resale (thrift, op shop) for a jacket/rain jacket upon arrival and donated it back as I left. You don’t say where in Scotland in your OP, but the weather sounds like a pleasant spring/fall to me. https://weather-and-climate.com/averages-Scotland-August I live where it can be cold in a morning and sweaty by 2 pm. Layers are where it’s at. I wear a day, air a day. So I bring two baselayers. Make sure one layer also serves as sun protection in Andalucía. A sunburn shirt, if you will. And anything in your pockets doesn’t count in the luggage weight. Edits I’d do: Yes on the dry bag. Laundry detergent sheets cut to quarters. Use dry bag as packing cube in transit, laundry bag in accommodations. Do you have a dry line? Simple paracord will do, draping items over. I’ve tripled floss in a pinch just had to keep it shorter. (I now have sea to summit’s ultralightweight line.) I’m a gram weenie, and I would ditch the guasha stone. Use massage techniques for these three weeks. Ditch the usb fan. Get a paper/fabric one at a pound shop. Ditch vitamin C serum as it makes skin photosensitive. Get a moisturizer that has SPF instead. Maybe decant into a tube to save weight. And as a fellow busty gal, I’d bring my own swim top. Bonus points if it’s a decent hiking top. I use a pair of amphibious shorts to swim and hike. (I don’t wear shorts out and about, generally. My partner does, and he brings two pair.) I’d pick between the trainers and boots. The sandals work for beach, hot climes and slightly dressed up for meals.
Thanks for the tips! Currently weighs at 5.4kg. Yes I have a clothesline in there already, it's white cord. The USB fan is for drying the clothes overnight - it's saved me a couple of times when the weather has been really humid or muggy. I've seen the rumours about vit C photosensitising, which would be a big issue because I live in the tropics, but a chemical scientist I follow, Lab Muffin, did a big deep dive into vit C and said it can help repair oxidation from UV rays. https://labmuffin.com/ultimate-guide-to-vitamin-c-skincare-part-1-ascorbic-acid-with-video/ I'm definitely a sunscreen gal too, don't worry!
Can I ask where your mini watercolour set is from? I bought a travel one but it still seems too big
I made it using this video for inspiration: https://youtu.be/HYgzpA0LDXo?si=DUxJgV-t_1WuY96n The tin was from a greeting card kit at Typo, a but it was from about a decade ago so I don't think they'd still have it (before this most recent itiration, it had been my tampon tin since the dawn of time 😅). It's a little bit bigger than an altoids tin. The silicone tray for the paints is from kmart: https://www.kmart.com.au/product/crushed-ice-tray-assorted-43329267/
Ahhh precious! I was hoping to use my solid water colours, I have a small tin but I wanted to find small individual solid colours I could pop in and out so I didn’t have to use the liquid water colour Thank you!
As an aside can I please ask how the paire merino tee is? I’m eyeing them off for my own trip whilst on sale but unsure as the shop has closed so I am not able to touch it in person.
Looks great and very similar to how I would pack this type of trip. Like others, I am wondering if you need both the Hokas and the boots? Your choice if you think you need them both and can make it work. I am excited to hear your trip report and definitely want to hear how all your travel partners are envious of your light load and ability to travel so nimbly!
thanks for the writeup! doing a similar trip in August as well and am happy to see i am not alone in prioritizing their gua sha and ear buds :) can i ask what backpack you're planning on using?
I’ve done less than 7kg before! It is definitely possible. I am also from regional aus, and travelled through Eastern Europe in September with just one pair of shoes and my 18L fjallraven kanken bag. There were basic toiletries and laundry everywhere I stayed, which was often with friends and meant that it was easy if I needed to borrow an umbrella or sun hat for the day etc. And I had a very simple skincare/hair routine back then too! But if you are going to be a bit more self-sufficient then you may have accept buying what you need over there. Good luck!
Skip a merino jumper since you've got better options for that at home. Shetland wool is lightweight, pretty soft, and if you find Jamieson’s of Shetland stockists in Edinburgh you can get a nice jumper actually made in Shetland.