My husband and I spend 3 months at a time living abroad with only carry-ons. I'm surprised by how little I really need.
My husband and I spend months at a time living abroad in Europe and only pack carry-on suitcases. It's changed my perspective on stuff and clothes.
Mar Yvette, a travel enthusiast, shares her experience of living abroad for three months at a time, only carrying necessary belongings in her carry-on luggage. She reveals that this minimalist lifestyle has transformed her perspective on what is truly essential. Mar Yvette admits that while she enjoys shopping and acquiring new items, her extended stays have made her realize that she only needs a few simple pieces to feel content.
Living in Paris, a global fashion capital, has surprisingly resulted in her having the smallest wardrobe. By packing versatile and interchangeable clothing items, Mar Yvette manages to mix and match her outfits, reusing the same few pairs of pants, and doing laundry weekly. Even during winter trips, she opts for bulkier clothes, revealing that she can live comfortably with much less than she initially thought.
Mar Yvette's minimalist approach extends to accessories, jewelry, hats, and sunglasses. She maintains multiple options based on her mood but finds joy in rotating through just a few pieces. Whenever she returns from a trip, she edits her closet, donating items she no longer wears. Mar Yvette explains that while it's nice to have a wide range of clothes and accessories, it becomes easier to part with them over time.
She acknowledges that having endless options doesn't necessarily make life better. Mar Yvette has noticed that she often reaches for the same bags and garments repeatedly. She finds contentment in a few cozy turtlenecks, Quince cashmere fisherman turtlenecks, and a limited selection of accessories. Mar Yvette has become more thoughtful about her purchases, asking herself if the item is genuinely necessary or just an impulse buy. As a result, she purchases only what she will genuinely use or need in the future.
Mar Yvette enjoys shopping and exploring new places, but she keeps her spending under control, ensuring her home feels comfortable and clutter-free. With a strong appreciation for the belongings she already has, Mar Yvette feels less attached to most of them. The minimalist lifestyle has allowed her to focus on the essentials, simplifying her daily life and making the most of her travel experiences.
Written by urgent.news from Business Insider's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
