Lindsay Mickles is a mid-range traveler, fulfilling her never-ending wanderlust through photographic, cultural, and culinary exploration. She focuses on simple, straightforward shots and keeps her post-processing minimal. She wants her readers to be able to see places as they truly exist.
She just returned to the USA after a 2.5-year stint in South Korea, where she was an English teacher. Through the Fulbright Program, she's off to teach English in Bulgaria this autumn and start a 10-month adventure exploring the Balkans!
What's usually in your carry-on?
I always have a few essential items in my Cabin Zero carry-on bag - a tablet, noise cancelling headphones, comfortable shoes, an eye mask, a small toiletry kit, and a power bank. Depending on the flight, I might also pack compression stockings, a travel pillow, and a spare change of clothing.
Tell us about the usual type of clothes you bring when traveling
I primarily like to focus on comfort without compromising too much on style. I pick pieces that are easy to mix-and-match and that will wash/dry easily if need be. I find it best to stick with one color palette and am a big fan of layering.
What's the best packing tip anyone has given you? Who gave it?
My parents gave me great advice about packing several years ago. They told me that when all else fails, as long as I have my passport and a credit card, I can always buy anything I might have forgotten. I remind myself of this every time I pack and it really keeps the stress to a minimum.
What is the best thing about packing light?
I haven't quite mastered the art of packing light quite yet, primarily because I have a lot of camera gear to carry around. One of the benefits of giving in to being a ‘heavy packer’ is that I have a wide variety of camera equipment available everywhere I go. I can use a couple different cameras and lenses to make sure I get the perfect shot.
How does your packing for a travel routine look like?
I am a meticulous packer, often starting at least a week ahead of time for larger trips. I have lived in 5 different countries total and have become accustomed to packing up my life into boxes and luggage. Packing for shorter trips can be easily done within a couple of hours, but I prefer to be a bit more organized for longer trips.
How do you deal with "excess baggage" situations?
For my most recent move, to Bulgaria, I made it my goal to remain within the luggage allowance. I made a ‘must take’ pile and an ‘optional’ pile. After that, I began the packing, weighing, and re-packing cycle to maximize my luggage allowance.
What's your best-kept packing secret?
I like to pack breakables inside my shoes so that they have an extra-level of protection.
Quick Q's
- Favourite region? Europe
- Favourite country? Scotland
- Favourite city? Osaka
- Favourite beach? Ft. Walton Beach, Florida
- Favourite food? Mexican
- Favourite mode of transpo? Air
- Favourite book? His Dark Materials Trilogy
- Window or aisle seat? Aisle
- Carry-on or check-in? Both
- Hostel or hotel? Hotel
- What's your favourite design from the Cabin Zero collection? 44L Classic
Follow Lindsay's adventures on Instagram. @theneverendingwanderlust.
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