Amenities To Look For In Accommodations As A Minimalist Traveler
Traveling as a minimalist means you only bring the bare necessities with you. For some, this means two or three outfits and one pair of shoes. For others, it means just the clothes on their backs and maybe a dress to wear while they do laundry. Minimalist travel can be very enjoyable, freeing, and affordable, but you do need to take your limited possessions into account when looking for accommodations. Here are four amenities you will want your accommodations to have as a minimalist traveler.
A Washer and Dryer
When you travel with so few clothes, you generally plan on washing them several times during your travels. Yes, you could go to a laundromat and do this, but that would take up a lot of time that you'd probably rather spend going to restaurants and seeing attractions. Lodgings that include a washer and a dryer will simplify your stay. You can wash your clothes while you plan your day or eat a meal.
Towels
Unless you have a compact travel towel, you probably did not bring one along. Check to ensure your accommodations provide towels. In the United States, it is often assumed that towels will be provided, but this is not always the case in other countries. If you are traveling with others, make sure there will be enough towels for everyone in the apartment or suite.
Shampoo, Soap, Dish Detergent, and Similar Products
Maybe you do have small bottles of these essentials in your pack, but it is really nice not to have to use them all up. Therefore, accommodations that offer these products are a better choice. You will be able to shower and clean yourself up every night without running out to the store and buying large bottles of shampoo that you end up having to leave behind.
Cooking Gear
Part of traveling as a minimalist is also minimizing how much money you spend. That's a lot easier if you have the means to cook at your lodgings, rather than spending a lot on dining out for each meal. You don't need a fancy kitchen, but a space with a basic stove and refrigerator, along with pots and pans, is definitely preferable to one without.
As a minimalist, it is important to check the amenities carefully when booking accommodations. The less you bring with you, the more you need to rely on your lodgings to provide.