Rick Steves Backdoor Travel Prep

Organise documents, build a minimalist carry-on wardrobe, and pare down gear using the Rick Steves travel prep routine.

5 time blocks, 60 minutes in total.

Time blocks

Document and Financial Backup: 15 min
Scan your passport and cards, saving digital copies offline
Money Belt and Financial Setup: 10 min
Pack two debit cards and organize local currency securely
Carry-On Wardrobe Selection: 15 min
Lay out versatile clothes that layer well and dry quickly
Toiletries and Gear Audit: 10 min
Keep liquids small and restrict electronics to essentials
The Trim and Weigh In: 10 min
Remove non-essential items until the bag weighs under 20 pounds

About this routine

Travel authority Rick Steves built his entire philosophy around travelling light and avoiding unnecessary hassle. Following the Rick Steves travel prep routine means treating your luggage as a mobile tool rather than a mobile wardrobe. By packing carry-on only, you maintain flexibility, save time at transit hubs, and eliminate the risk of lost luggage.

The process begins with administrative safety nets. Steves emphasizes making physical and digital copies of your passport, driver license, and emergency contacts. Money management requires two debit cards stored in separate places, plus a slim money belt for under-clothing security during active travel.

When loading your bag, the core rule is relentless editing. Choose quick-drying garments that layer cleanly, pack travel-size toiletries, and weigh the filled bag. If your total weight exceeds twenty pounds, take items out until you can comfortably carry the bag up several flights of stairs.

Why this routine works

Prevents lost luggage by keeping everything in one carry-on bag
Reduces physical effort while moving through transit centers
Creates digital and physical backups for critical documents
Protects money and cards through organized dual storage

FAQ

What is Rick Steves packing advice?

Rick Steves recommends travelling with a single carry-on bag under twenty pounds, regardless of trip length. Pack quick-drying clothes and trim excess gear.

How does Rick Steves organize travel documents?

Rick Steves keeps paper photocopies of passports and cards stored separately from originals, while saving digital copies offline on a phone.

Why does Rick Steves use a money belt?

A money belt worn under clothing protects cash, deep-storage cards, and passports from pickpockets in busy tourist areas.

How long does Rick Steves travel prep take?

Setting up administrative backups, organizing cards, and trimming a carry-on bag takes about 60 minutes using this structured sequence.