I remember the nightmare of struggling up the transfer stairs at Shinjuku Station, which had no escalators, with two 24-inch suitcases. My boyfriend's face was already drenched in summer humidity and annoyance. The excitement of the trip vanished instantly, replaced by the thought, 'Why did I even come here?' We vowed, "Next time, please... please let's reduce our luggage."
On our next trip to Osaka, we miraculously managed 3 nights and 4 days with just one 20-inch carry-on suitcase and a backpack. Instead of dragging heavy luggage around looking for a hotel, we could simply put our suitcase in a station coin locker and head straight for lunch. Arguments decreased, walking time increased, and the joy of discovering small cafes in unplanned alleys doubled.
The quality of a couple's trip might not be determined by fancy hotels or expensive restaurants, but rather by the mobility that comes with light luggage. Especially for Japan travel, where inter-city movement is frequent and you're likely to rely heavily on subways and walking, a 24-inch suitcase becomes a huge burden when you encounter exits without elevators, narrow alleys, or small restaurants with only stairs. There's also the practical problem that it's hard to find large coin lockers that fit big suitcases if you want to fill the awkward time between checkout and your flight with sightseeing.
For couples like us who get exhausted before the trip even begins because of luggage, I'm sharing hard-earned, practical tips for reducing your load. The key is the courage to boldly discard items you pack 'just in case'. Packing should start with subtraction, not addition. So, let's open that suitcase and see what to take out first, shall we?
First, Please Take These Out!
The first rule of packing is 'subtraction', not 'addition'. If you don't want to relive the Shinjuku Station nightmare I mentioned in the previous chapter, you need to let go of any lingering thoughts of 'what if I need it?'. Japan, especially, is a paradise for travelers, where most things can be found locally, often better or cheaper. The items you crammed in 'just in case' might be gnawing at your shoulders and your partner's patience. Try to start with the mindset of filling your suitcase only halfway when departing from your home country. You'll need space to fill it with souvenirs on the way back!
The first things to boldly remove are hair dryers and curling irons. The idea that 'hotel hair dryers are weak' is outdated. Most business hotels (like APA, Toyoko Inn, etc.) provide high-performance products like Panasonic. Seriously! In fact, bringing an adapter to Japan (100V) from a country like Korea (220V) can not only reduce performance but also lead to the worst-case scenario of your beloved appliance breaking. Of course, Airbnbs can be a hit or miss, so it's smart to check reviews or amenity lists in advance. If you're really worried, compromise by bringing just one travel-sized mini curling iron.
The same goes for toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Unless your skin is exceptionally sensitive and you must stick to your usual products, trust the hotel amenities. Many places provide good brand products like Shiseido or Pola. It's actually more advantageous to buy a Japanese brand cleansing oil or sunscreen you wanted to try at a local drugstore, use it throughout your trip, and bring any leftovers home. Browsing Don Quijote or Matsumoto Kiyoshi is also fun. Less luggage, more shopping – a win-win, right?
Thick pajamas or extra towels are also top priorities for removal. Japanese hotels are well-heated, so thick pajamas will only be extra luggage; thin short-sleeved shirts and shorts are sufficient. Towels are, of course, replenished daily. The weight of a thick book you packed, thinking 'I'll read this on the plane,' is not to be underestimated. Wouldn't it be much more profitable to fill that space with pretty magazines or books bought at your destination?
Luggage Reduction Strategy Possible Because You're a Couple
There are very efficient methods possible because you're two, not one. You need a shift in mindset, thinking of it as packing 'our' luggage, not individual luggage.
The most basic is dividing shared items. Only one person needs to pack things like cleansing foam, toothpaste, chargers, power banks, and first-aid kits. If you decide in advance, "You pack the charger, I'll pack the multi-adapter," you can prevent the unfortunate situation of packing two of the same item. We even designate a small pouch as a 'shared pouch' for all electronics-related items like charging cables, adapters, power banks, and a small speaker, and it's incredibly convenient.
When packing clothes, a bit of strategy is also needed. Try to match each other's clothing colors to neutral tones like black, white, beige, and navy. This makes it easy to create 'couple's similar looks' with any combination of clothes, and it's also convenient to share items like cardigans or scarves in case of unexpected situations. Best of all, your photos will turn out beautifully. And please, abandon the 'one outfit per day' rule. Especially for pants and outerwear, one or two items are sufficient for the entire trip. Instead, pack several inner layers or T-shirts to vary your look; it's much more efficient. Remember that Japan has excellent coin laundries (コインランドリー), so you can get all your laundry done in just an hour on the evening of day 3 or 4.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Finally, here are a few practical tips that will significantly enhance the quality of your trip. They might seem minor, but you'll definitely feel the difference when you use them.
First, a folding bag (foldable bag)is not an option, but a necessity. On the way there, it's a small bag that fits in your pocket, tucked into your suitcase. On the way back, you use it as an auxiliary bag for shopping or increased luggage. If you're planning to shop at Don Quijote or drugstores, definitely bring one. It's much more convenient and looks better than carrying multiple plastic bags dangling.
Second, try using compression packing cubes. They dramatically reduce the volume of clothes and make it easy to organize items by type. Distinguish between 'top pouch', 'bottoms/underwear pouch', and most importantly, 'worn clothes pouch'to prevent the terrible situation of clean and dirty clothes getting mixed up. This is especially helpful in small hotel rooms, where you won't have to fumble around with an open suitcase looking for things.
Third, double-check the weather forecast right before you leave. Many people pack based on a forecast from a week ago and end up in trouble. The Japan Meteorological Agency provides relatively accurate information, so be sure to consult it. You can check the weather for your destination at the link below.
Japan Meteorological Agency official website
Fourth, wear your bulkiest and heaviest clothes and shoes. Coats, boots, and thick sweaters are the main culprits for taking up suitcase space. It's a smart choice to wear them on the plane, even if it's a little uncomfortable until you reach the airport.
Conclusion: Light Luggage, the Start of a Joyful Journey
Ultimately, reducing luggage goes beyond simply lessening the weight of your suitcase. It's closer to a commitment to shed unnecessary worries and lingering attachments, and to focus on the essence of travel. Right before departure, before closing your suitcase, ask each other one last question: "Do we both really need this item? Can't we get something cheaper and better at Don Quijote or a convenience store in Japan?" Trust in the charm of Japan, where most toiletries, basic medicines, and even urgently needed clothing can be sourced locally.
It's good to remember that your 'just in case' items can become the weight your partner has to carry, and the sighs they let out at the stairs. A lighter suitcase gives you the courage to pass through complex Shinjuku Station transfer sections with ease, reduces the time spent searching for coin lockers, and grants you the freedom to confidently enter small but delicious local restaurants. The bonus is the extra time you'll have to hold each other's hands.
The true purpose of travel isn't about perfectly 'bringing everything', but about 'experiencing things together', even if a little is lacking. On your next trip to Japan, I hope you use the tips shared in this article to halve the weight of your suitcase and double your shared memories and joy.