Oana and Mike from Pack Your Essentials

In the bustling city of London a Romanian and an Irishman, met while working as personal trainers at the same gym – that’s how it all began.

Our mutual love for fitness quickly turned into a deep friendship and a shared passion for travel. We explored destinations from Ireland’s rugged cliffs to Romania’s medieval castles, discovering the world together. Our love blossomed, and we celebrated a beautiful, travel-themed wedding that blended Irish and Romanian traditions.

After the wedding, we decided to take a leap of faith and sell everything we owned. We gave up our apartment in London, fit all our belongings into two carry-on backpacks, and embarked on a two-year journey exploring the world as digital nomads. Determined to help others travel affordably, we started a blog and a YouTube channel called “Pack Your Essentials,” sharing our experiences and budget-friendly tips. Through our journey, we hope to inspire many to explore the world without breaking the bank, proving that passion and determination can turn dreams into reality.

Why Pack Your Essentials?

We chose the name “Pack Your Essentials” because it perfectly encapsulates our journey into minimalism and simplifying our lives. After a six-week trip around Southeast Asia in 2017, we realised we had packed way too many things, many of which we never even touched. This experience taught us the value of traveling light and focusing on what truly matters.

Embracing minimalism has not only made our travels more enjoyable but also allowed us to live more intentionally, carrying only what we need and cherishing every moment. “Pack Your Essentials” is our way of sharing this philosophy with others, encouraging them to travel with a purpose and discover the freedom that comes with simplicity.