Less weight, more freedom

Along the way, I’ve learned that you don’t need to buy everything brand new. Sometimes you can find great bargains in the second-hand gear market, or discover interesting local brands. What really matters to me is that the gear is good quality, ethically made, and versatile. I also try not to rush into getting everything at once — this way I can truly understand what works and what doesn’t.

In the past few years, I’ve started my own journey toward technical gear that’s more functional, compact, and versatile. The goal? Reduce the weight of my backpack or suitcase, cut down unnecessary decisions, and free up space (both physical and mental) to fully enjoy the journey, whether I’m traveling, camping, trekking, or taking photos.

Travel Gear

A light but well-organized backpack. I use the Cotopaxi Allpa 28L, which is slightly larger than the official European low-cost carry-on size, but I usually manage to avoid extra fees. If I know I’ll be carrying my backpack for long stretches and the size restrictions allow it, I reach for my Gregory Jade 33.
Also, if you’re celiac, you may be entitled to an additional free carry-on with EasyJet (though I haven’t tested this yet). It seems that you just need to contact customer service, provide your booking number, and they will add the extra baggage to both your outbound and return flights. You’ll also need to bring a medical certificate stating that you’re celiac.
I like to use compressible packing bags as organizers to separate underwear, shirts, pants, and jackets.
I try to go for technical but multipurpose clothing (one pair of pants = trekking + city). I own several plain t-shirts with no logo that work perfectly for many situations, plus some dresses that dry super quickly, don’t need ironing, and are easy to wash. In situations where I won’t have access to a washing machine and need to stay super minimal, I lean toward merino tops (they stay odor-free much longer).
Recently I bought the Sea to Summit clothesline (I haven’t tested it yet, but I hope it will make hotel laundry + drying much easier).
When it comes to bags, my go-to is Lo & Sons. The Aoyama model fits pretty much any occasion (and they often run great discounts, so keep an eye out!). I also love the round mini shoulder bag from Uniqlo. For hiking, I usually alternate between a small backpack and a semi-waterproof hip pack, which is perfect for just my camera and phone.
I’m still searching for the perfect all-around shoes, but in winter I love my Blundstone 1609 (fair warning: they can hurt your ankles at first!), and in summer I’ve become a big fan of Earth Runners sandals (so comfy and stylish!).
Minimal beauty kit with eyeshadow sticks and travel-size creams. If I need to pack light: Smoothing Cleanser (travel size), Day Shield, and either the Overnight Smoother, Retinol, or the Biome Barrier (depending on the climate). For example, in Nepal I’ll only bring the Day Shield and Biome Barrier, and I’ll swap the cleanser for simple makeup remover wipes from Coop.
Essential electronics: power bank (always!), universal adapter, and 3-in-1 cables (super practical! I can charge several things at once).
Lately, I always carry a couple of carabiners to hang flip-flops or other extras on my backpack.
Merino Buff neck warmer (I literally use it everywhere: on planes, trains, while sleeping in a tent…).

I’m trying to move closer to a true one-bag approach (I recommend the subreddits r/onebag and r/HerOneBag). I’m still far from it, but trip after trip, I’m improving.

Camping & Trekking Gear

Ultralight tent with quick setup. I found a used Big Agnes for 120 CHF, one of my proudest second-hand wins! A cheaper but still very good alternative could be a Naturehike tent.
Inflatable insulated mat (a friend recommended the Sea to Summit Ultralight) + sleeping bag (still searching for a good one).
A good, lightweight inflatable pillow that you can also use at a friend’s place. I like the Exped Mega Pillow, and a great alternative is the Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow.
Rope + tarp (multi-use: rain shelter, drying laundry, extra tent cover).
Ultralight trekking poles (game changer!).
Topo Athletic shoes (super comfy - I often use the Terraventure 4 for trekking). For the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek, I’ll be bringing my Salomon Quest 4 GTX.

When it comes to camping gear, I’ve learned that every gram matters, so I prioritize ultralight, multi-use equipment whenever possible.

Photography Gear

Ricoh GR IIIx (I’m in love with that camera! Super compact and extremely good quality). While more expensive than a point-and-shoot, it’s still cheaper (and lighter) than most mirrorless setups with a good lens.
Waterproof pouch to protect it.
SD-to-iPhone/type C adapter.

My search for the “perfect” gear never really ends… it’s all about finding the right balance between comfort, lightness, functionality, and, for me, aesthetics.

I’ll keep this article updated as I try out new gear and discover better solutions.