Intro: Pack Light & Never Check a Bag: A Filmmaker’s Guide
I stood at the baggage carousel in Prague at 2 AM, watching everyone else’s luggage circle past while mine was… somewhere. Probably Vienna. The airline had no idea.
That was the last time I ever checked a bag.
Since then, I’ve shot films in 15 countries, lived out of a carry-on for months at a time, and learned that traveling light isn’t about deprivation—it’s about freedom. When I filmed “Going Home” across three European countries in two weeks, everything I needed fit in one bag. Camera gear, clothes, everything.
Here’s what I learned.
TL;DR
Don’t Have Time? Here’s the System:
- Use the 5-4-3-2-1 rule: 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 shoes, 2 specialty items, 1 accessory set
- Stick to one color palette (black, grey, navy—boring but effective)
- Packing cubes aren’t optional—they compress and organize
- Test everything before you leave—if it’s uncomfortable at home, it’ll be worse on the road
- Leave 20% of your bag empty for souvenirs and gear you pick up
That’s it. Now here’s why it works and how to actually do it.
The Real Problem With Overpacking
Most packing advice tells you what to bring. Nobody tells you why you pack too much in the first place.
It’s fear.
Fear you won’t have the right outfit. Fear you’ll need that “just in case” jacket. Fear you’ll look unprepared or unprofessional on camera.
I get it. When I was shooting “Married & Isolated”, I packed three different lenses “just in case.” Used one. The whole time.
The truth? You’re not packing for the trip you’re taking. You’re packing for some imaginary version of the trip where everything goes wrong.
Stop doing that.
Why This Happens (And How to Fix It)
Overpacking is a trust issue. You don’t trust that you’ll figure it out. You don’t trust that stores exist at your destination. You don’t trust yourself to make do.
But here’s what actually happens when you pack light: you become more resourceful. More present. More mobile.
When I shot “The Camping Discovery” in British Columbia, we had one backpack each. No van full of gear. No backup plans. Just us, the essentials, and the landscape. That limitation forced us to be creative—and the film turned out better for it.
The Solution: Pack Like You’re Solving a Puzzle
Packing light isn’t about bringing less stuff. It’s about bringing the right stuff.
Every item needs to earn its spot. If something can’t do double duty or fit into multiple outfits/scenarios, it stays home.
Here’s my system:
1. The 5-4-3-2-1 Packing Rule
This formula changed everything for me. Originally created by blogger Geneva Vanderzeil, it’s simple:
- 5 tops (mix of t-shirts, button-downs, or layers)
- 4 bottoms (jeans, shorts, pants—things that work together)
- 3 pairs of shoes (walking, formal-ish, and backup)
- 2 dresses or specialty items (or swap for jackets/hoodies)
- 1 hat, bag, or accessory set
Stick to one color palette—black, grey, navy—and everything works with everything else. I can create 20+ outfit combinations from these 15 items.
For filmmakers/creators: I modify this to 5-3-3-1-1. Five tops, three bottoms, three shoes, one jacket, one gear bag. That’s it.
2. The 3-3-3 Method (When You Want to Go Even Lighter)
The 333 packing method is perfect for short trips or when you just want to travel stupid-light:
- 3 tops
- 3 bottoms
- 3 pairs of shoes
That’s nine items that mix and match into 27+ different looks. I used this exact method for a week in Barcelona while shooting “Elsa”. Nobody noticed I was repeating outfits—not even me.
3. Answer the “What If” Question Honestly
What if it rains? Buy a cheap umbrella there.
What if I need a nicer shirt? Wear your best one on the plane.
What if I get cold? Layer your existing clothes.
Most “what if” scenarios never happen. And when they do? You handle it. That’s part of travel.
The Three-Jacket Disaster
First trip to Norway to scout locations, I packed three jackets. A rain shell, a puffy, and a “just in case” windbreaker.
Used one. The entire two weeks.
Those two extra jackets took up 40% of my bag and got pulled out exactly zero times. Now I bring one good jacket and layer with the shirts I’m already wearing. Problem solved, bag weight cut in half.
How to Actually Implement This
Here’s my exact process before every trip:
Step 1: Lay Everything Out
Put everything you think you need on your bed. Now remove half. Seriously. If you hesitate on an item for more than 3 seconds, it doesn’t come.
Step 2: Test Your Outfits
Don’t just imagine wearing something—actually put it on. Walk around. Sit down. Bend over. If it’s uncomfortable in your living room, it’ll be torture in transit.
I learned this the hard way shooting “Blood Buddies” in worn-in boots I thought were “comfortable enough.” Two days in, my feet were destroyed.
Step 3: Pack in Stages
- Stage 1: Essentials (documents, chargers, medication, camera batteries)
- Stage 2: Clothing using the 5-4-3-2-1 method
- Stage 3: Toiletries (see below)
- Stage 4: One “nice to have” item (book, journal, etc.)
If your bag doesn’t close easily at Stage 3, something’s gotta go.
Step 4: Use Packing Cubes
Not optional. These things are magic. I use them to separate:
- Clean clothes
- Worn clothes
- Gear/cables
- Toiletries
Eagle Creek and Amazon Basics both make solid ones. The compression kind are worth it if you’re really tight on space.
The Filmmaker’s Angle: Packing Gear Light
This is where most travel packing guides fail creators. They don’t account for the fact that we’re also carrying cameras, lenses, mics, batteries, and about 47 different cables.
Here’s what actually works:
Camera Gear Minimalism
When I shot “Chicken Surprise”, I brought:
- One mirrorless camera body
- One versatile lens (24-70mm or equivalent)
- One portable mic
- Extra batteries and SD cards
- Phone as backup camera
That’s it. No “just in case” telephoto. No extra body. Just the essentials.
Clothing for Filmmakers
You need clothes that work on camera AND off camera. My go-to:
- Dark jeans (hide dirt, work everywhere)
- Plain t-shirts in black/grey/white
- One button-down shirt
- Light jacket with pockets (for storing batteries, SD cards, etc.)
- Comfortable shoes you can wear for 12-hour shoot days
Everything’s neutral. Everything’s packable. Everything works.
Tech & Cables
Get a small tech organizer pouch. Put ALL your cables, adapters, and chargers in there. Never dig through your bag looking for a micro-USB cable at 6 AM again.
I also recommend:
- One universal travel adapter
- One portable battery bank (Anker makes good ones)
- One USB hub if you’re charging multiple things
Toiletries: The Hidden Space Hog
TSA allows 3.4oz (100ml) containers. Use them.
My toiletry bag:
- Travel-size toothpaste (buy local if needed)
- Small deodorant
- Tiny shampoo bar or travel bottle
- Face wash in a Cadence capsule
- Sunscreen (always)
- Prescription meds in original bottles
Skip the full-size bottles. Skip the “luxury” travel set. Just bring the basics and refill as you go.
Pro tip: Most hotels provide shampoo and soap. Use theirs.
The Shampoo Incident
Flying into Berlin, I packed a full-size bottle of shampoo because “I like my specific brand.”
TSA threw it away. Obviously.
Cost me $18 and made me late for my flight. Now I either use hotel shampoo or bring a tiny travel bottle. My hair has survived. Turns out it’s not that special.
Common Packing Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
1. Packing for “What If” Scenarios
You don’t need three pairs of jeans. You don’t need that heavy coat “just in case.” Pack for the trip you’re actually taking, not the one you’re imagining.
2. Too Many Shoes
Shoes are heavy, bulky, and take up crazy space. Bring three max:
- Walking shoes (wear on the plane)
- Dressier option (flats or clean sneakers)
- Specialty (sandals, hiking boots, etc.)
That’s it. No more.
3. Not Testing Gear/Clothes Before You Leave
If you’ve never worn those shoes on a 10-mile day, don’t pack them. If you’ve never shot with that lens, leave it home. Test everything before you travel.
4. Ignoring the Weather & Culture
Check the actual forecast, not the seasonal average. And research dress codes—showing up in shorts to a temple is embarrassing for everyone.
5. Bringing Full-Size Toiletries
This one’s obvious but people still do it. Travel size or don’t bring it.
Bonus mistake: Not leaving room for souvenirs or gear you buy on location. I always keep 20% of my bag empty for the trip back.
Adjust for Where You’re Actually Going
The 5-4-3-2-1 rule works everywhere, but you need to adapt it. Here’s how:
Cold Weather Trips (Europe in Winter, Canada, Iceland)
Wear your bulkiest items on the plane. Seriously—boots, heavy jacket, thick sweater. You’ll look ridiculous boarding in LA for a flight to Oslo, but you’ll save half your bag space.
Pack merino wool layers instead of cotton. Warmer, thinner, and you can wear them multiple days without them smelling like a gym locker.
Bring gloves and a hat that compress flat. Roll them into your shoes.
Skip the extra coat. One good jacket + layering is all you need.
Beach/Tropical Destinations (Southeast Asia, Caribbean, Central America)
Your swimsuit counts as one of your “bottoms.” Don’t pack it separately.
Skip the beach towel. Hostels provide them, or buy a cheap one there for $5. Seriously, don’t waste bag space on a towel.
Bring extra sunscreen. Good brands are expensive or hard to find abroad. I learned this in Thailand the hard way.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics only. That cotton shirt will make you miserable.
City Hopping (Tokyo, Paris, New York, Barcelona)
Prioritize comfortable walking shoes. You’ll be doing 10+ miles a day. If your feet hurt, the whole trip suffers.
Bring one dressier option. Some restaurants and venues have dress codes. Clean sneakers or simple flats work fine.
Pack a small crossbody bag or daypack for daily exploring. You don’t want to carry your full backpack around the city.
Outdoor/Adventure Travel (Hiking, Camping, National Parks)
Technical fabrics only—quick-dry, moisture-wicking stuff. Cotton is useless here.
One pair of hiking shoes or boots. Wear them on the plane to save space.
Packable rain gear is non-negotiable. A lightweight shell folds down to nothing and saves your life when weather turns.
Bring fewer clothes overall. You’re going to smell bad anyway. Nobody cares.
Multi-Climate Trips (My Reality Most of the Time)
This is the hardest. When I shot across three countries with different weather, I packed for the coldest destination and dealt with being slightly overdressed in the warm places.
Layers are your friend. T-shirt + long sleeve + light jacket can handle 40-80°F range.
Check actual forecasts, not seasonal averages. “Spring in Europe” means nothing—could be 45° or 70°.
Accept that you can’t optimize for everything. Pick your priority climate and adapt.
I once packed “comfortable” boots for a shoot in Montreal. They were comfortable—in my apartment, walking to my car, sitting at my desk.
Two days into the trip, walking 8 miles a day through the city, my feet were destroyed. Blisters on blisters. Had to buy new shoes there, which meant the boots came home in my bag taking up space and mocking me.
Now I break in shoes for at least a week before any trip. Walk around your neighborhood. Actually test them.
The 5 Biggest Packing Mistakes to Avoid
Since people keep asking this, here are the absolute worst packing mistakes I see (and have made):
- Overpacking “just in case” items – You won’t need them. You never do.
- Not using packing cubes – These save space AND keep you organized. Use them.
- Too many shoes – Three pairs max. Period.
- Packing clothes that don’t work together – Stick to one color palette.
- Waiting until the last minute – Pack a few days early so you can edit your choices.
Fix these five things and you’re 80% of the way there.
My Actual Packing List (Real World Example)
Here’s what I packed for a 2-week trip to Japan while filming “Closing Walls”:
Clothes:
- 3 black t-shirts
- 2 long-sleeve shirts
- 1 hoodie
- 2 pairs of jeans
- 1 pair of shorts
- 1 light rain jacket
- 7 pairs of underwear/socks
Shoes:
- Walking shoes (worn on plane)
- Lightweight sneakers
- Sandals for the hostel
Gear:
- Sony A7III
- 24-70mm lens
- Rode VideoMic
- 4 batteries
- 6 SD cards
- Portable charger
- Cables/adapters in one pouch
Toiletries:
- Travel toothpaste
- Small deodorant
- Face wash
- Sunscreen
- Meds
Everything fit in one carry-on backpack (Osprey Farpoint 40) and one personal item bag for my camera.
The Gear I Actually Use (Not Sponsored)
People always ask what bag I use, what packing cubes, what tech kit. Here’s the real answer:
Osprey Farpoint 40 Backpack
I’ve used the same one for four years. It’s beat to hell and still works perfectly. Fits in any overhead bin, opens like a suitcase (not annoying top-loading), comfortable enough to carry for 12-hour travel days. The 40-liter size is the sweet spot—smaller feels cramped, bigger doesn’t fit overhead.
Cost: ~$160. Worth every penny.
Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Cubes
Ultralight, compress your clothes, and haven’t ripped yet despite being stuffed aggressively hundreds of times. I use three: one for tops, one for bottoms, one for underwear/socks. The medium size perfectly fits 5 t-shirts.
Game-changer for staying organized.
Bellroy Tech Kit
Before this, I spent half my life digging through my bag looking for the right cable. Now everything has a spot: phone charger here, camera batteries there, SD cards in this pocket, adapters in that one.
It’s expensive for a pouch ($70-ish) but I use it every single trip. Zero regrets.
Anker PowerCore Portable Charger
The 20,000mAh version charges my phone 4-5 times and my camera batteries twice. Fits in my jacket pocket. Haven’t had a dead phone in years.
Get the one with multiple ports so you can charge your phone and camera simultaneously.
Peak Design Camera Cube
If you’re traveling with camera gear, this is non-negotiable. It’s a padded insert that goes inside your main backpack. Protects your camera, keeps it accessible, and you don’t have to carry a separate camera bag like a tourist.
I use the medium size—fits one camera body and two lenses perfectly.
Uniqlo Airism Underwear
Weird thing to recommend, but these dry overnight after hand-washing. That means you can pack 4-5 pairs instead of 7+. Lightweight, breathable, cheap. Buy them.
Not affiliated with any of these brands. Just answering the question I get asked constantly: “What’s actually in your bag?”
FAQs
It’s a formula: 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 pairs of shoes, 2 specialty items (jackets, dresses, whatever), and 1 set of accessories. The key is sticking to one color palette so everything works together. Five shirts and four pants give you 20 outfit combinations. Add layers and you’re set for weeks.
Stop packing for imaginary emergencies. Use the 5-4-3-2-1 method, invest in packing cubes, wear your bulkiest items on the plane, and only bring travel-size toiletries. Test-pack three days before you leave so you can edit ruthlessly. If it doesn’t fit easily, something’s gotta go.
It’s the minimalist version: 3 tops, 3 bottoms, 3 pairs of shoes. That’s 9 items total that create 27+ outfit combinations. I use this for trips under a week or when I know I’ll have laundry access. Used it in Barcelona—worked perfectly.
First, packing “just in case” items you’ll never touch. Second, not using packing cubes (you’re just making life harder). Third, bringing too many shoes—three pairs max, period. Fourth, packing random clothes that don’t coordinate with anything else. Fifth, waiting until the night before to pack, then panic-throwing everything in your bag.
One camera body, one versatile lens (24-70mm or equivalent), portable audio, spare batteries, and memory cards. That’s it. Use a padded camera insert inside your main bag—don’t carry a separate camera bag. Your phone is your backup camera. I’ve shot entire projects with just this setup.
Yes. I’ve done it multiple times. The trick is doing laundry every 5-7 days. Most hostels have machines, Airbnbs have sinks, hotels offer service. Hand-wash in a pinch. Once you accept that laundry is part of the routine, carry-on-only travel becomes easy.
Copy This: My Actual Packing Checklist
Use this every time. Adjust for your trip, but start here:
Clothing (5-4-3-2-1 Method):
- 5 tops (mix of short/long sleeve, all neutral colors)
- 4 bottoms (2 jeans, 1 shorts, 1 backup pants)
- 3 pairs of shoes (walking shoes, dress-ish sneakers, sandals/specialty)
- 2 layers (light jacket + hoodie, or jacket + vest)
- 1 accessory set (hat, belt, watch—whatever you actually wear)
- 7 pairs underwear/socks (one per day + extras)
Toiletries (Travel Size Only—3.4oz max):
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Deodorant (small stick)
- Shampoo/body wash (or skip it and use hotel’s)
- Face wash/moisturizer
- Sunscreen (always bring this)
- Prescription meds in original bottles
- Small first aid kit (bandaids, pain reliever, stomach meds)
Tech & Gear (Filmmakers add camera stuff here):
- Phone + charging cable
- Camera + batteries (bring 2-3 extras)
- Memory cards (more than you think you need)
- Portable battery bank
- Universal travel adapter
- Cable organizer pouch (one pouch for everything)
- Laptop/tablet if you’re editing on the road
Documents & Essentials:
- Passport/ID
- Travel insurance info (screenshot or print)
- Hotel/Airbnb confirmations
- Emergency contact list
- Credit cards + small amount of cash
- Pen (for customs forms)
Last Checks Before You Zip Up:
- Does everything fit in your carry-on without forcing it?
- Are all liquids in 3.4oz containers in a clear quart bag?
- Did you leave 20% space for the return trip?
- Have you actually worn/tested all your shoes?
- Did you remove unnecessary packaging (leave boxes at home)?
Pro move: Take a photo of this packed bag. Next trip, you’ll know exactly what worked.
The Night Before: Don’t Forget This Stuff
You’re packed. You’re ready. But do this final check or you’ll regret it at 5 AM:
Final Bag Check:
- Weigh your bag (most airlines allow 22lbs for carry-on—don’t guess)
- Make sure zippers actually close easily (if you’re forcing it, remove something)
- Double-check that liquids are in the clear TSA-approved bag
- Pack a change of clothes in your personal item (in case bag gets gate-checked)
Digital Prep:
- Check weather forecast one more time (adjust layers if needed)
- Screenshot all hotel/flight confirmations (don’t rely on wifi at the airport)
- Download offline maps for your destination
- Set up international phone plan or get local SIM info
- Charge ALL batteries to 100%—camera, phone, portable charger, everything
Morning Of:
- Put out your “wear on plane” outfit the night before
- Eat breakfast at home (airport food is expensive and terrible)
- Do one final passport/wallet/phone check before you lock the door
- Set a timer to leave for the airport (you always think you have more time than you do)
The Last-Minute Panic Check:
Stand at your door. Pat your pockets. Do you have:
- Passport/ID
- Wallet
- Phone
- Keys (if you need to lock up)
If yes to all four, you’re good. Everything else can be replaced. These four can’t.
Now go.
Final Thoughts
Packing light isn’t a skill you learn once. It’s a mindset you build over time.
Every trip, I get a little better at it. Every trip, I bring a little less. And every trip, I realize I still packed too much.
The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is mobility, freedom, and showing up at your destination ready to work—not standing at a baggage carousel at 2 AM in Prague.
Start with the 5-4-3-2-1 rule. Build from there. Edit ruthlessly.
And remember: if you forget something, you’ll figure it out. You always do.
Now go make something.
Keep Reading:
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📷 Best Travel Cameras for Filmmakers 2025 – Which camera should you actually bring?
📱 How to Shoot Travel Videos on Your Phone – Don’t underestimate your smartphone
🎒 Complete Filmmaker’s Packing List – My full gear breakdown for travel shoots
💰 Budget Travel Tips for Creators – Make great content without going broke
🎬 Essential Gear for Documentary Filmmaking – What you really need (and what you don’t)
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About the Author:
Trent Peek is a filmmaker specializing in directing, producing, and acting. He works with high-end cinema cameras from RED and ARRI and also values the versatility of cameras like the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema.
His recent short film “Going Home” was selected for the 2024 Soho International Film Festival, highlighting his skill in crafting compelling narratives. Learn more about his work on [IMDB], [YouTube], [Vimeo], and [Stage 32].
In his downtime, he likes to travel (sometimes he even manages to pack the right shoes), curl up with a book (and usually fall asleep after two pages), and brainstorm film ideas (most of which will never see the light of day). It’s a good way to keep himself occupied, even if he’s a bit of a mess at it all.
P.S. It’s really weird to talk in the third person
Tune In: He recently appeared on the Pushin Podcast, sharing insights into the director’s role in independent productions.
For more behind-the-scenes content and project updates, visit his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@trentalor.
For business inquiries, please get in touch with him at trentalor@peekatthis.com. You can also find Trent on Instagram @trentalor and Facebook @peekatthis.
