Travel health: carrying too much can ruin your trip
Hello, it’s Lucien.
To protect your health while travelling, pack less and distribute the weight in a lightweight bag worn close to your body.
Overpacking can quickly lead to fatigue and muscle pain, especially when you have to walk, climb stairs or change platforms. A few simple choices can protect your mobility and make your trip more comfortable.
Things to do right away
- Weigh your bag before you leave and remove anything that isn’t essential.
- Place heavy items close to your back to distribute the load more evenly.
- Choose a wheeled suitcase if you can roll it without difficulty.
- Keep essentials within easy reach, so you don’t have to lift the whole bag.
- Take a break as soon as you feel tension or unusual discomfort.
To prepare for the physical effort involved in travelling, also read these tips on back pain on a tour and on the importance of breaks while travelling.
Overpacking: a burden on your health
The problem isn’t just the total weight. A bag that’s difficult to lift or pulls to one side forces your body to compensate, and your shoulders or back may tire more quickly.
Imagine Mireille, who has to reach her hotel by crossing a train station with two connections. By removing a pair of shoes and some clothes “just in case,” she lightens her bag and saves more energy for the journey.
Choosing the right luggage for your journey
A wheeled suitcase can reduce the need to carry your luggage on a smooth surface, but it’s less practical on stairs or cobblestones. A well-fitted backpack keeps your hands free, as long as it’s light enough to lift without excessive effort.
| Situation | Option to consider | What to watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Journey with few stairs | Wheeled suitcase | Lift it over curbs and on stairs |
| Several changes of transport | Small backpack | Adjust the straps and limit the weight |
| Walking with frequent breaks | Compact bag or luggage service | Keep water and travel essentials accessible |
The best bag is one you can move without putting yourself in difficulty, not one that contains every possible option.
Prevention and comfort: pack light without forgetting the essentials
Make a list suited to the length of your stay and the weather. Versatile clothing, travel-size toiletries and necessary medication take up less space than duplicates, while still making room for what really matters.
Also avoid carrying a bag on one side for a long time. If you experience persistent pain, numbness or unusual shortness of breath, stop and ask for help rather than pushing through.
A simple three-step method
- Sort: separate the essentials, useful items and things that can stay at home.
- Try it out: close your bag, lift it and walk around with it for a few minutes. If it feels difficult, lighten it or choose another way to carry it.
- Distribute the weight: place heavy items close to your back, keep essentials accessible and plan a break before you start to feel tired.
This preparation prevents every journey from becoming a struggle and leaves more room for the enjoyable moments of your trip.
Practical questions about luggage weight when travelling
How can I tell if my bag is too heavy?
If it is difficult to lift, makes you lean over or causes discomfort after a few minutes, lighten it or ask for a suitable transport solution.
Is a wheeled suitcase always preferable?
It makes it easier to move around on a smooth surface, but can be awkward on stairs, cobblestones or when making quick changes. Choose according to your itinerary and abilities.
What should I keep in my accessible small bag?
Keep your documents, phone, necessary medication, a bottle of water and anything you might need during the journey within easy reach.
What should I do if carrying my bag causes pain?
Put it down as soon as possible, avoid straining and ask for help. If the pain is severe or persists, seek medical advice.
I hope you’ve found these tips useful. See you soon! — Lucien
