Every time I travel, I try to simplify my packing and return to the essence of the journey. When navigating through a city, carrying less weight allows for lighter steps, conserving energy while increasing my focus on the scenery and my sensitivity to the city’s rhythm. Rotterdam, a city with a brisk pace and a strong sense of design, is best experienced with the right backpack and smart accessories. Whether I’m strolling, taking photos, checking out markets, or hopping on the tram, the right gear has made all the difference.
Drawing from personal experience, I’ll share in detail the gear I used for a lightweight urban trip—from the main backpack to storage accessories, photography tools, and everyday items. These are the essentials I tested as I wandered through the streets and alleys of Rotterdam.
1. The Main Backpack: The Heart of Urban Travel
1.1 Ideal Size: 20–25L Is Just Right
During my days in Rotterdam, I used a 22L urban daypack—medium-sized and perfectly suited for city outings. It carried everything I needed for the day: a lightweight jacket, camera, water bottle, compact tripod, power bank, passport wallet, notebook, and a folding umbrella. The size struck the ideal balance—not too cramped, not overly bulky like a hiking pack.
Rotterdam’s attractions are fairly close to each other. Most places are within walking distance or a short metro ride, so there’s no need for overnight gear. Going light helps maintain flexibility. City highlights like the Markthal, Cube Houses, Central Station, Erasmus Bridge, and Boijmans Museum are clustered in the center, making the backpack your core daily companion.
1.2 Minimalist Appearance, Functional Layout
My backpack was made of waterproof canvas in a muted forest green, with an urban-industrial vibe that matched Rotterdam’s design aesthetic. While understated in appearance, its internal structure was thoughtfully designed: anti-theft pockets, side water bottle holders, a laptop compartment, and a soft sunglasses sleeve.
This multi-pocket structure is incredibly useful for city travel. When borrowing books at the central library, I could grab my passport quickly. At metro stations, I didn’t have to dig around for my transit card. Convenience and order are key criteria for my urban backpack.
1.3 Comfortable Carrying System
Even city travel calls for comfort. In a walkable city like Rotterdam, your shoulders still feel it after a full day. My backpack had padded back panels and breathable straps. The base was reinforced and sturdy.
I especially appreciated the chest strap—it kept the bag steady as I walked from Euromast Tower to the port area, without the bag swaying from side to side.
2. Storage Accessories: Organized and Efficient
2.1 Multi-Compartment Organizer
For my electronic accessories, I used a tech organizer pouch that became an absolute lifesaver. It held my power bank, Type-C and Lightning cables, earphones, plug adapter, and even a small portable Wi-Fi router. Each item had its own designated slot, preventing the usual chaos of tangled cords and misplaced chargers. In Rotterdam’s bustling café scene, where I’d often stop for a break or to catch up on work, this neat organization made my life easier. I could simply grab what I needed without having to dig through a messy bag, and everything was always in its place, ready for use whenever I needed it.
2.2 Foldable Waterproof Tote
One of my essential items for light travel was a compact foldable waterproof tote, which I always kept tucked inside my main bag. It came in handy multiple times during my trip, especially for impromptu shopping sprees. Whether I was picking up vintage books at Blaak, cheese at Markthal, or souvenirs at the local flea market, this little tote allowed me to store items without worrying about them getting wet or damaged. When not in use, it folded neatly into a small, flat shape, barely taking up any space, but it provided just the right amount of extra room when I needed it. It’s lightweight, portable, and incredibly versatile for last-minute buys.
2.3 Passport Wallet + Notebook
My passport wallet served multiple functions beyond simply storing my passport and credit cards. It was designed with several compartments for additional travel essentials like my health card, boarding passes, and tickets. I also kept a pen and a small, pocket-sized notebook inside. As I explored Rotterdam, I enjoyed jotting down thoughts, local phrases, or tips I received from friendly locals. Whether it was directions to a hidden café or the name of a street artist, my notebook was a creative space where I could capture memories and ideas. Despite the digital age, I’ve always found writing on paper to be more personal and reflective, and it often sparks inspiration in ways that typing never does.
3. Photography Gear: Light Yet Powerful
Rotterdam is filled with striking architecture—almost every street begs to be photographed. To balance portability and image quality, I opted for a mirrorless camera with a prime lens. The total weight stayed under 700g and fit snugly in my backpack’s dedicated compartment.
3.1 Mirrorless Camera + Compact Tripod
Rotterdam’s iconic modern architecture makes it a photographer’s paradise, and I wanted to capture the essence of the city without carrying around bulky equipment. To achieve this, I opted for a mirrorless camera with a prime lens. The entire setup weighed under 700 grams, so it was light enough to carry around all day without causing fatigue, yet it still delivered impressive photo quality. The camera fit snugly in a designated compartment of my backpack, and the lens was small and easy to access when I wanted to quickly capture a striking moment. To accompany this, I carried a compact carbon-fiber tripod, only 30 cm tall when folded, making it a breeze to store in my bag’s side pocket.
3.2 Smartphone Gimbal
For anyone into vlogging or capturing smooth video, a folding smartphone gimbal is a game-changer. I used mine to record short clips of street art, sunset views from the harbor, and spontaneous interactions at local markets. The beauty of the gimbal is its ease of use – I could set it up in seconds, and its automatic stabilization system made sure that my footage was smooth and professional-looking, even when walking or moving around quickly. The combination of the gimbal’s stability and the phone’s high-quality camera allowed me to capture moments with a cinematic touch.
4. Smart Accessories: Small Tools, Big Impact
4.1 Personal Water Filter Bottle
Although Rotterdam’s tap water is safe to drink, it can sometimes taste a bit hard due to minerals in the water. To make sure I always have access to fresh, clean-tasting water, I brought along a personal water filter bottle. It’s convenient because I can refill it anywhere—whether at a public fountain, a park, or even at restaurants that offer water refills. The built-in filter helps improve the taste and ensures the water is free from any undesirable impurities. I particularly appreciate the eco-friendly aspect of using this bottle, as it reduces my reliance on single-use plastic bottles. Whether I’m relaxing at a park or in a museum, having this bottle on hand keeps me refreshed and hydrated without compromising on sustainability.
4.2 Foldable Raincoat or Lightweight Windbreaker
Rotterdam’s weather can be highly unpredictable, especially during the spring and fall seasons, when it often shifts from sunny to rainy in the blink of an eye. Having a foldable raincoat or lightweight windbreaker is a game-changer for unpredictable weather conditions. These compact garments can be easily tucked into my bag when not in use, making them incredibly convenient for spontaneous weather changes. A bright-colored raincoat or jacket not only keeps me dry but also serves as a stylish and eye-catching accessory, especially in photos. It’s a simple yet effective way to stay prepared for sudden downpours or chilly winds without overpacking.
4.3 Utility Carabiner Clips
Utility carabiner clips are one of the most versatile accessories for a city traveler like me. These small but incredibly practical tools allow me to attach items such as a water bottle, camera, or a small pouch to the exterior of my backpack, helping to maximize space inside. I found them particularly useful when cycling around Rotterdam’s harbor area. I attached my camera to the front of my backpack using the carabiner, so I could quickly grab it when needed. The clips are sturdy and secure, making them ideal for holding smaller items that I need to access quickly.
4.4 Transit Card Holder
Navigating Rotterdam’s efficient public transportation system is incredibly easy, with metro, trams, and bike-sharing services readily available. To streamline the process of tapping in and out of transportation stations, I always carry a transit card holder. For those with a Rotterdam Welcome Card or an OV-chipkaart, a transparent card holder or sleeve is a great solution. This keeps my card easily accessible and secure, whether I’m walking, cycling, or navigating through crowded areas.
5. The Mental Benefit of Traveling Light: More Freedom, More Presence
This trip to Rotterdam reaffirmed a belief: the less I carry, the more I see. Traveling light isn’t just about weight—it’s a mindset.
Whether standing on the Erasmus Bridge, sipping coffee on Witte de Withstraat, or taking in the rooftop view from Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, I wasn’t fumbling with gear or burdened by heavy bags. I simply moved forward with ease. This gave me a fresh perspective: the fewer things you hold on to, the richer your experience.
6. Light Packing Is a Way of Entering a City
Traveling light doesn’t mean sacrificing essentials. It means finding a rhythm through carefully chosen gear. In a modern, welcoming city like Rotterdam, a well-equipped backpack paired with smart storage and versatile tools makes travel smoother and more joyful.
