There are many things my husband has taught us - packing light is one of them. We are about to embark on a 12 day trip to Europe and each of us will be bringing only one "carry on" piece of luggage. No checked baggage. I know for some, the thought of this would make them quiver but it truly makes for happy travelers. We use public transportation while abroad, (quite often involving stairs & lots of walking), so we've come to appreciate the mobility and freedom it allows us. It also eliminates the need to worry over lost or delayed luggage as we fly from city to city.

In Brugge, we climbed three flights of these stairs to reach our beautiful apartment.
~ thrilled we didn't have to lug heavy luggage with us ~
With three girls in the family, the most challenging aspect of limiting ourselves to one carry on is the air transportation rule for liquids. Moisturizers, shampoos, cleansers, etc. can quickly fill the small ziplock bag you're allowed. If necessary, we purchase additional items as we go and it's actually fun to visit local stores in search of what we need. As for make-up, I pack just one each of my favorites (blush, eye shadow lipstick, etc.).
S
Sweet pea always finds space in her bag for a pillow & blanket for the plane ride.
~ we're always jealous ~
Friends ask how we accomplish packing so light and the answer is simply to bring very little with you. We pack nice clothing that can be worn repeatedly and neutrals to mix and match. We also dress in layers for chilly weather avoiding having to pack bulky clothing. If needed, it's easy to handwash something in our hotel or to sometimes visit a local laundromat. (A fun experience when in a foreign country!)

Sweet girl loading laundry in Rome with her Dad.
~ see how much fun she's having?~
The best part of packing light is once your plane lands you're ready to begin your adventure. No waiting at the carousel for heavy pieces of luggage you'll regret later you brought along. It's a challenge I hope you'll try. (Trust me, I wasn't always a light packer. On our honeymoon to Europe, I brought one small suitcase just for my toiletries! My husband's legs literally shook as he carried all of my luggage from place to place. Good thing we were newlyweds.)