1. Always pack a towel, as you never know when you may need one whether at the beach, on a picnic, or to dry off. While many hostels offer towels, it's better to carry your own small towel. 2. Buy a small backpack around 35-40 liters to force yourself to pack light and avoid overpacking. People tend to fill available space, so a small bag prevents taking more than needed. 3. When packing, take half the clothes you think you'll need, as you likely won't need as much. Make a list of essentials, cut it in half, and only pack that amount to stay light.