Imagine this: you leave home for a holiday, a business trip, or the return from an Erasmus stay… without having to carry suitcases. No dragging them through stations, no playing Tetris in the car boot, no asking for help to lift them onto the train. Just you, a light backpack, and the peace of mind of knowing that your luggage is already waiting for you at your destination.
More and more people are discovering the advantages of travelling without luggage by sending it ahead with a reliable logistics service like GLS. This way, you can move around freely and avoid the physical (and mental) burden of carrying everything with you.
Here’s how to do it, step by step.
1. Send Your Suitcases to Your Destination
The key to travelling without luggage is planning your shipment in advance. Instead of carrying your bags throughout the journey, you can send them directly to where you’ll be staying. With GLS, it’s very simple: collection from your home and delivery to the destination of your choice—whether that’s a hotel, a holiday apartment, a family member’s home, or even a GLS Parcel Shop.
Many accommodations are already prepared to receive packages without any issues. And if not, you can always choose to collect your luggage from one of the thousands of GLS delivery points across Europe.
Advantages of Sending Your Suitcases with GLS
If you decide to travel without luggage, having a reliable shipping service makes all the difference. Sending your baggage in advance lets you move more comfortably and avoid setbacks along the way. Choosing a provider like GLS means:
- Easy booking: You can arrange the service via the website , the My GLS app, or at any GLS network point.
- Flexible delivery: Choose the day and place of delivery that suits you best.
- Real-time tracking: Track your shipment with up-to-date information.
- On-time delivery: Travel with peace of mind and receive your suitcase at your destination. Domestic shipments in just 1 day; international deliveries in 1 to 3 days.
GLS Tip: Place a label with your name, address, and phone number both on the outside and inside of your suitcase.
2. Carry Only the Essentials with You
GLS Tip: Keep only the essentials in your hand luggage—never in the suitcase you send. Your carry-on should include what you need for the journey and the first few hours at your destination:
- Documents and tickets
- Electronic devices and chargers
- Medication or basic personal care items
- A light change of clothes (remember, your suitcase will be waiting for you)
- A snack, a reusable water bottle, and some entertainment for the trip
This way, you’ll be covered in case of any unexpected issues while still enjoying the pleasure of travelling unburdened.
Benefits of Travelling Without Luggage
Still wondering why so many travellers are embracing this trend? Here are some clear advantages:
- Freedom of movement: No more dragging suitcases through stations, narrow corridors, or staircases.
- More comfort in car or train: Free up space in the boot when driving; avoid lifting heavy bags or dealing with size limits on trains.
- Time savings: Skip check-in and waiting at the baggage carousel.
- Less stress: Avoid physical strain and logistical worries.
- Ideal for long trips or journeys with connections: Where carrying luggage can be a nightmare.
- Perfect for relocations or long stays: Such as Erasmus programmes or temporary moves.
Other Tips for Travelling Without Luggage
Travelling without suitcases is easier than it seems, but a few extra tricks can help you avoid surprises:
- Check your accommodation’s conditions to make sure they can receive packages. If not, choose a GLS Parcel Shop as your delivery point.
- Track your package using GLS tools so you always know where your suitcase is.
- Make it a habit. If you like it, why not repeat it? Whether you travel for leisure or work, learning how to travel without luggage can change the way you move forever.
Travelling without luggage isn’t just a trend—it’s a new mindset. Lighter, freer, and smarter. And with GLS as your logistics partner , taking the step has never been easier.
So, are you ready to leave the trolley at home and start enjoying the journey from the very first minute?