travel light definition english

Travel Light

Meaning of idiom ‘travel light’.

To  travel light  means to take as little baggage as possible when traveling. Also, to try to avoid responsibilities, problems, or serious thought.  1 Ammer, Christine.  American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms . Boston: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2013. , 2 Heacock, Paul.  Cambridge Dictionary of American Idioms . Cambridge: Cambridge UP, 2010.

Examples Of Use

“It won’t take me long to pack. I travel light.”

“Why don’t you settle down and buy a house?” asked Karen. “I’d prefer to keep renting. I like the travel light,” said Trent.

“The way the airlines are always losing baggage, I learned to travel light. Just one carry on bag for me!”

The literal use dates from at least the late 1800’s. The figurative use from the early 1900’s.

More Idioms Starting with T

• Two Can Play at that Game
• Thankful for Small Mercies, be
• Turkey Shoot
• Thick As Pea Soup, as

More Light Idioms

• Light On Your Feet
• Trip the Light Fantastic
• Green Light

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Travel Light Definition

To travel with a light load , or with little baggage / luggage .

Related Articles

Travel Light Is Also Mentioned In

• travelling light
• travelled light
• travels light

Find Similar Words

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Words Starting With

Words ending with, unscrambles, words starting with t and ending with t, word length, words near travel light in the dictionary.

• travel-light
• traveller's palm
• traveller's tale
• traveller-s-cheque
• traveller-s-joy
• travelling carriage
• travelling dress
• travelling-community

travel light

• 1.1.1 Translations
• 1.2 See also
• 1.3 References

English [ edit ]

Verb [ edit ].

travel light ( third-person singular simple present travels light , present participle travelling light or ( US ) traveling light , simple past and past participle travelled light or ( US ) traveled light )

• To travel with a light load , or with little baggage / luggage .

Translations [ edit ]

See also [ edit ].

• excess baggage

References [ edit ]

• “ travel light ”, in Lexico , Dictionary.com ; Oxford University Press , 2019–2022 .

• English lemmas
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Adjective (2).

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Definition of light

 (Entry 1 of 6)

Definition of light  (Entry 2 of 6)

Definition of light  (Entry 3 of 6)

intransitive verb

transitive verb

Definition of light  (Entry 4 of 6)

Definition of light  (Entry 5 of 6)

Definition of light  (Entry 6 of 6)

• fluorescence
• illumination
• incandescence
• luminescence

Adjective (1)

• illuminated
• lighted
• enflame

Adjective (2)

• featherlight
• lightweight
• underweight

easy , facile , simple , light , effortless , smooth mean not demanding effort or involving difficulty.

easy is applicable either to persons or things imposing tasks or to activity required by such tasks.

facile often adds to easy the connotation of undue haste or shallowness.

simple stresses ease in understanding or dealing with because complication is absent.

light stresses freedom from what is burdensome.

effortless stresses the appearance of ease and usually implies the prior attainment of artistry or expertness.

smooth stresses the absence or removal of all difficulties, hardships, or obstacles.

Examples of light in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'light.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English liht, light, going back to Old English lēoht, Anglian lēht, going back to Germanic *leuh-t-, neuter noun (whence also Old Frisian liācht "light," Old Saxon lioht, Middle Dutch licht, lich, Old High German lioht ), probably syncopated from an earlier consonantal stem *leuhađa-, as in Gothic liuhaþ "light," derivative of an Indo-European base *leu̯k- "become bright," whence Sanskrit rócate "(it) shines, is bright," Avestan raociṇt- "brightening," Hittite lukta "it becomes light, dawns"

Note: Gothic liuhaþ has been compared directly with Hittite lukkatt- "dawn, next morning."

Middle English lyht, light, going back to Old English lēoht, Anglian lēht "filled with light, bright, clear," going back to Germanic *leuhta- (whence also Old Frisian liācht, licht "light, bright," Old Saxon lioht, Middle Dutch licht, lecht, Old High German lioht, liuhti ), going back to Indo-European *leu̯k-to-, probably verbal adjective from the base *leu̯k- "become bright" — more at light entry 1

Middle English lihten, lighten "to emit light, shine, dawn, shed light on, light (a fire, a candle), set fire to, illuminate," going back to Old English līohtan, līehtan, Anglian līhtan "to give light, become light, light (a candle)," going back to Germanic *leuhtije- (whence also Old Saxon liuhtan "to shine," Middle Dutch luchten, Old High German liuhten, Gothic liuhtjan "to give light"), weak verb derivative from *leuhta- "bright, light entry 2 "

Middle English, from Old English lēoht ; akin to Old High German līhti light, Latin levis , Greek elachys small

Middle English, from Old English līhtan ; akin to Old English lēoht light in weight

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

Phrases Containing light

• a light at the end of the tunnel
• a light bulb goes off / on (in someone's head)
• artificial light
• as light as a feather
• Bengal light
• black light
• bring to light
• cast / shed / throw light on
• come to light
• compact fluorescent light
• compact fluorescent light bulb
• eyes light up
• first light
• generated / produced more heat than light
• go light on
• green light
• half - light
• hide one's light under a bushel
• hit the light
• idiot light
• in a bad light
• in a different light
• in a good light
• in an unfavorable light
• incandescent light bulb
• in light of
• inner light
• in someone's light
• in the best light
• in the cold light of day
• in the light of
• jump the light
• kleig light
• klieg light
• leading light

light adaptation

• light a fire under (someone)
• light bread
• light breeze
• light chain
• light curve
• light dawns
• light - emitting diode
• light - fingered
• light - foot
• light - footed
• light guide
• light - handed
• light - headed
• light - headedly
• light - headedness
• light heart
• light heavyweight
• light housekeeping
• light industry
• light meter
• light - minded
• light - of - love
• light - o' - love
• light on one's feet
• light on / upon
• light opera
• light pollution
• light quantum
• light - rail
• light reaction
• light reading
• light roast
• light skinned
• light sleeper
• light speed
• light table
• light therapy
• light the way
• light up (something)
• light water
• light - year
• light - years ahead
• light - years away
• make light of
• make short / quick / light work of
• many hands make light work
• more heat than light
• natural light
• night - light
• out like a light
• parking light
• pilot light
• running light
• Saint Elmo's light
• see the light
• see the light of day
• set light to
• sound - and - light show
• speed of light
• St. Elmo's light
• strobe light
• sweetness and light
• the green light
• the light of someone's life
• traffic light
• travel light
• trick of the light
• trip the light fantastic
• vigil light
• zodiacal light

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Cite this entry.

“Light.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/light. Accessed 6 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of light.

Kids Definition of light  (Entry 2 of 6)

Kids Definition of light  (Entry 3 of 6)

Kids Definition of light  (Entry 4 of 6)

Kids Definition of light  (Entry 5 of 6)

Kids Definition of light  (Entry 6 of 6)

Old English lēoht "light, that which makes seeing possible"

Old English lēoht "not heavy"

Old English līhtan "to come down off something or out of the air"

Medical Definition

Medical definition of light.

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Medical Definition of light  (Entry 2 of 2)

More from Merriam-Webster on light

Nglish: Translation of light for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of light for Arabic Speakers

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Definition of light noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

from sun/lamps

• bright/dim light
• a room with good natural light
• White paint reflects the light .
• The light was beginning to fail (= it was beginning to get dark) .
• The knife gleamed as it caught the light (= as the light shone on it) .
• The substance causes the bacteria to emit light .
• Some light filters through the dense tree cover.
• by the light of something She could just see by the light of the candle.
• in the fading light of a summer’s evening
• into the light Bring it into the light so I can see it.
• towards the light The plants grow towards the light.
• travelling at the speed of light
• a beam/ray of light
• a light source/beam
• changes in light intensity
• Bring it into the light and we'll have a look at it.
• In winter here there are many more hours of darkness than light.
• The bleach may have lost its effectiveness due to exposure to light or heat.
• Yellow brings light and warmth into a room.
• Lamps threw small pools of light on the carpet.
• Light streamed in through the window.
• Objects reflect, transmit or absorb the light which falls upon them.
• In full light, you could see stains all over the coat.
• Light from a tall lamp fell in a pool on the desk.
• Nothing can travel faster than the speed of light.
• She held up the letter against the light.
• The lamp was the only source of light in the room.
• The place looked calm in the golden evening light.
• There was a flash of light followed by an explosion.
• They managed to see where the door was by the light of the moon.
• We could hardly see the ball in the failing light.
• We were momentarily blinded by the light of the sun.
• You could see the imperfections in the repair when the light caught it.
• film that is sensitive to ultraviolet light
• in the cold light of morning
• light emitted by a star
• the light from the kitchen window
• He squinted in the bright light.
• The light reflecting off the snow was dazzling.
• We could only just make out the path in the dim light.
• against the light
• by the light of
• into the light
• (the) light at the end of the tunnel
• the light of day
• (at) the speed of light

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• A cold, grey light crept under the curtains.
• It glowed and gave off a white light.
• The fluorescent tubes emit a harsh light.
• The scene is bathed in an artificial yellow light.
• A pale light streamed through the window.
• They are only 18 watt but give a light equal to old-style 100 watt bulbs.
• The lamps give a cold bluish light.
• The digital clock produces a sickly green light.
• The tubes emit different-coloured lights.
• to turn/switch the lights on/off
• to turn out the light(s)
• to turn down/dim the lights
• the lights fade/flicker
• The lights dimmed and the film began.
• Suddenly all the lights went out .
• It was an hour before the lights came on again.
• A light flashed in the distance.
• A bright light shone in his eyes.
• ceiling/wall lights
• The city twinkled with Christmas lights .
• A police car went by with flashing lights .
• Keep going—the lights (= traffic lights) are green.
• Check your car before you drive to make sure that your lights are working.
• He was cycling at night without lights.
• She felt along the wall and found the light switch .
• A light was still burning in the bedroom.
• The company installed fluorescent lights to cut energy costs.
• They strung the room with party lights.
• I could see a flashing light.
• I need a bedside light for reading.
• I'll put on the outside lights for when you arrive.
• We leave the landing light on at night.
• You've left the porch light on.
• They had wrought iron light fixtures made for the yard.
• The dining room features sleek Art Deco light fittings.
• A warning light goes on when the battery is running low.
• He flashed his lights to warn the oncoming cars.
• Some cars already had their lights on.
• Someone shone a light in my face.
• The blue light was flashing.
• The pilot could just make out the runway landing lights.
• The warning light came on.
• a dark country lane with no lights
• It was getting dark and the street lights had come on.
• The lights dimmed and the curtain rose.
• Turn on the lights!
• The light flickered a couple of times then went out.
• The car was stopped at the side of the road with its hazard lights flashing.

expression in eyes

• There was a soft light in her eyes as she looked at him.
• Examine the artist's use of light and shade.
• contrasting areas of light and dark

for cigarette

• (British English) Have you got a light?
• (North American English, British English) Do you have a light?
• Could you give me a light?
• leaded lights
• the lighting system
• the movie’s interesting lighting effects
• The lighting at the disco was fantastic.
• The police were left to do the job according to their lights.
• Could you move—you're in my light.
• She returned to bed and went out like a light.
• I can’t complain—he’s been all sweetness and light with me.
• People think she's all sweetness and light, but she actually has a temper.
• It’s not all sweetness and light being an actor.
• Although he grew up in the country, he's always had a taste for the bright lights.
• These facts have only just been brought to light.
• Recent research has thrown new light on the causes of the disease.
• New evidence has recently come to light.
• These things always look different in the cold light of day.
• You must not view what happened in a negative light.
• They want to present their policies in the best possible light.
• He rewrote the book in the light of further research.
• (informal) to fail to stop at a red traffic light Topics Crime and punishment c2 , Transport by car or lorry c2
• For the first time since the start of his treatment, we can now see light at the end of the tunnel.
• I puzzled over the problem for ages before the light suddenly dawned.
• the person somebody loves more than any other
• (saying, humorous) used to describe somebody who is stupid, not thinking clearly or not paying attention
• He thinks she’s wonderful but he’ll soon see the light! (= realize that she’s not)
• He's written a lot of good material that has never seen the light of day.
• Some of his paintings never even saw the light of day.
• A spark from the fire had set light to a rug.

Other results

• light on something
• light upon something
• light up | light something up
• travel light
• a light touch
• be light on something
• make light of something
• in the cold light of day
• many hands make light work
• (the) light dawned (on somebody)
• the light of somebody’s life
• make light work of something
• hide your light under a bushel
• cast/shed/throw light on something
• light at the end of the tunnel

Nearby words

Travel idioms & expressions

Get off to a flying start with holiday vocabulary.

• English vocabulary

Get holiday inspiration with travel idioms

Welcome to our blog exploring the fascinating world of travel idioms and expressions . 

As avid travellers ourselves, we understand the excitement of embarking on new adventures. English is often the universal language that unites travellers worldwide, and we focus on holiday and travel vocabulary that is commonly used by native speakers.

Start your next holiday plans with these unique idioms and expressions.

Meaning a strong desire to travel and explore new places.

Example After their trip through Europe, Sarah and Tom caught the travel bug and began planning their next adventure.

hit the road

Meaning to begin a journey or trip.

Example We need to hit the road early tomorrow morning if we want to reach our destination by noon.

off the beaten path

Meaning going to a less travelled or unconventional destination.

Example Instead of visiting the main tourist spots, we decided to venture off the beaten path and explore smaller villages in the countryside.

take the scenic route

Meaning to choose a longer route for the enjoyment of the view or experience.

Example Rather than driving along the motorway, we decided to take the scenic route through the mountains. It added a few extra hours to our journey, but the views were amazing.

off the grid

Meaning to be disconnected from technology or society, often experienced during remote or adventurous travel.

Example During our camping trip in the wilderness, we were completely off the grid with no phone or internet access. It was a great experience, but next time, I’ll stay in a hotel!

living out of a suitcase

Meaning to be constantly travelling or moving from one place to another.

Example I went travelling with friends after graduating university. After living out of a suitcase for a few months, it was refreshing to be back at home.

get off to a flying start

Meaning to begin something with great energy and enthusiasm, like a trip or adventure.

Example Our holiday got off to a flying start with perfect weather and exciting activities planned for the week.

travel light

Meaning to pack minimally and carry only essential items while travelling.

Example We’re only going for the weekend, so remember to travel light and bring just what you need.

a change of scenery

Meaning a different environment or setting.

Example After weeks of working indoors, Anne decided to take a few days off and enjoy a change of scenery  in the mountains.

at the crack of dawn

Meaning very early in the morning.

Example We had to get up at the crack of dawn to catch the first train to the airport.

get away from it all

Meaning to escape from the pressures and routine of daily life by going on a vacation or retreat.

Example We booked a secluded cabin in the mountains to get away from it all and relax for the weekend.

a home from home

Meaning a place where you feel comfortable and at ease, similar to your own home.

Example We love staying at my aunt’s house in the holidays. It feels like a home from home , with its cosy atmosphere and familiar surroundings.

soak up the sun

Meaning to enjoy the warmth and light of the sun while relaxing outdoors.

Example While on holiday in Spain, we spent our days lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun and swimming in the sea.

in the middle of nowhere

Meaning in a remote or isolated location.

Example On the way to our hotel, we took a wrong turn and ended up in the middle of nowhere with no phone signal. Thankfully, a local farmer spoke a little English and gave us directions.

travel on a shoestring

Meaning to travel with a very limited budget.

Example As college students, we travelled on a shoestring in Asia, staying in hostels and cooking our own meals to save money.

travel far and wide

Meaning to travel to many different places, often covering long distances.

Example Over the years, Andrew has travelled far and wide , exploring every continent except Antarctica.

make a pit stop

Meaning to briefly stop during a journey for a break or to refuel.

Example On our road trip to California, we made a pit stop at a roadside diner to grab a quick bite to eat.

packed like sardines

Meaning to be in a crowded or cramped space, often used to describe public transportation.

Example We were packed like sardines on the train, with barely enough room to move.

have itchy feet

Meaning to have a strong desire to travel or move from place to place.

Example Ever since he returned from his backpacking trip, David has had itchy feet and is already planning his next adventure.

travel in style

Meaning to travel with comfort and luxury.

Example To celebrate their retirement, our grandparents decided to travel in style on a luxury cruise around the world.

Have a great travel experience!

We have flown through 20 travel idioms and expressions that are frequently used by native English speakers. Let these idioms and expressions inspire your next adventure and serve as a reminder of the wonderful memories created along the way.

Tip: We recommend learning new vocabulary by topic, and to create examples that help you to remember new words and expressions. For English idioms about other topics, please visit our free vocabulary lessons .

Enjoy your travels and journey learning English too!

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Significado de travel light en inglés

Travel light, travel light | diccionario de inglés americano, traducciones de travel light.

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