Growing up, traveling experience used to be very different from what we have today. Back then, a lot of us had no choice but to pack even what's unnecessary since it's on our parents list of things you are going to travel with. The moment you step out of your house, everyone knows you are traveling because every member of the family is carrying bag packs.
From your house to the destination is always stressful, especially when you are hopping from one bus to another. Whenever you refuse to go with all the bags, it becomes something else. Nigerian moms don't even take it lightly back then, it's a must or you get on their bad side.
Over a decade ago, when I got into the higher institution, I went with so many items and misplaced the bag containing my footwear. I almost fell into depression because majority of the footwear were new.
I went back home for the holiday, and when mom started buying food items for me, I insisted on going with the cash, but she didn't see things from my angle.
She bought different food stuffs, and the moment I lifted the bag, I said I wasn't going with them because it was too heavy. I left home with just my school bag, and for days, mom wouldn't talk to me or pick up my calls. She was so angry and even reported me to an uncle. It was a normal thing for a lot of Nigerians, but that experience pushed me to rethink how I travel.
Over time, many of us mastered the habit of traveling light for the convenience it brings. We don't have issues moving from one bus to another, and honestly, it was good. I became fond of traveling with my small bag, and you can't even tell if I was traveling or just going out briefly.
Some years ago, when I traveled to Osun state for an event, even my neighbors thought I just went out briefly until someone called and I disclosed my location. This showed me how seamless traveling light could be.
Now, when I travel, I pack my backpack based on my destination, which would determine the types of clothes and items I need to go with. In a normal climate, I will have a jean and pant trouser for outdoor use, two knickers for indoors, evening strolls, and workout, they give room for air to touch me properly.
Two shirts and armless top, a palm sandal and crocs, my toothbrush, paste, deodorants, and other few things for body care. My headphone and water bottle, I really need them always so it's important. As long as I am not going outside space for a whole year, I can get whatever I need that's not in my backpack when I arrive.
Reflecting on my journey from carrying heavy bags, like the ones my mom insisted on, to packing light, I now appreciate the ease and freedom it brings. By carefully selecting a few things from my wardrobe, I travel with intention, blending into any setting, like that event in Osun State. I am ready to embrace new experiences without the weight of unnecessary baggage.
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