Packing Like a Dude

As a frequent traveler, I have noticed a disturbing trend emerging in the way men pack for trips. Rather than packing only what is necessary, they have adopted the feminine technique of packing based on "is there even the slightest chance that this item will be needed?" Then, regardless of the answer, the item is packed. Dudes however, develop the ability to predict which items are truly necessary, and exclude all else in their luggage. In an effort to provide a contextual framework in which to to comprehend this post, I have included a short summary of historic male packing.

(Note: Any She-dude readers should take particular note of the principles outlined in this post).

Historic Highlights of Male Packing

Throughout history, men have been known known for their minimalist packing strategies. Even in prehistoric times, they were known to embark upon hunting excursions wearing nothing more than a spear and a rock. Males who wore their mammoth-skin loincloths were scorned (after all, why would you wear a formal outfit on a hunting trip?). As time passed however, societal standards for dress were established, and men were forced to carry extra clothing when traveling. The commitment to minimalist packing however, remained resolute. Nearly all of the great explorers were known for their ability to pack lightly. On one occasion, Christopher Columbus remarked that "The ability to carry the entirety of ones belongings in a satchel is a mark of exceeding wisdom...and also of poverty." Legend has it that Louis and Clark adhered to a simple motto while packing for their excursion: "If it can't be et, drunk, or shot - it ain't comin'." Sadly however, many modern males have lost this commitment to minimalist packing.

4 Rules for Packing Like a Dude

Rather than lament the feminine packing tendencies of the modern male, I have opted to simply provide four general guidelines to educate and encourage dudes who have difficulty in this area.

1. Two Bag Maximum

Ideally, the amount of clothing and other items can be condensed into one medium to large sized bag or suitcase. Obviously the amount of items taken on a given trip depends upon the length and variety of activities involved. The principle remains however, that any guy should not pack more clothing than can fit into two bags. My personal packing technique is to pack all clothing in one medium bag, and pack all other items (laptop, iPod, book, phone charger, etc.) into a backpack.

2. Two Pair of Maximum

Pants and shoes consume ungodly amounts of valuable space in a suitcase. Thus, minimizing the number of these items is key to effective minimalist packing. Depending on the trip, I try to include one pair of semi-formal pants (either dress pants or dockers), and one pair of casual pants (dark jeans or khakis). Likewise, I wear one pair of nicer shoes, and pack my running shoes. The key is to choose pants and shoes that can serve several functions. Dockers can be worn with either a shirt and tie, or a casual sweater and dark jeans can be worn with a hoody, t-shirt, or dress shirt. The main thing to keep in mind though, is to minimize the number of pants and shoes. Taking with one pair of pants and shoes (and wearing those for travel) is deserving of an official nomination for the Dudes Etc. "Trude of the Year" award.

3. Wear the big stuff

If you must bring a large coat, hoody, boots, or other large items it is always best to wear them. This technique can save an extraordinary amount of room in a suitcase.

4. Pack the little stuff last.

Pack the large things first - pants, sweaters, shoes. Then pack in the socks and undergarments around these larger items. This maximizes suitcase space and is the most effective way for packing luggage.

Following these guidelines and strategies should enable even the most inclusive packer to move closer to our male heritage of minimalist packing. Although it is no longer possible to pack as light as our forefathers, it is important to make the effort to pack only what is truly necessary.

Dude out,

-C.R.