As a backpacker, the norm of packing is to pack light. But even backpackers can over pack like if they were rewarded by the pound. And even when you pack light, as your trip progresses, it is sometimes difficult to manage keeping that load as light as possible. So, here are some of the benefits on keeping that light load.
1. You'll have better control of what you have (inventory) when you move from place to place or are constantly on the move.
2. It's easier to carry for longer distances and lets you maintain an agile pace without draining your energy.
3. It is less likely you will hit someone with your backpack as you turn around on crowded spaces or run like crazy to catch that train or flight.
4. It's so much easier to pack your stuff back or find something in your backpack on a dark hostel room or sleeper train compartment at 4am, without waking up everyone.
5. You can take it as a carry-on on your flights. This takes away the worries about lost luggage or waste of time at baggage claim.
6. It is easier (and cheaper) to store on train station lockers.
7. You will have extra space for souvenirs.
8. You pack only the essentials. When you over pack, you usually take stuff that you will never use. So, why carry all that dead load?
9. You'll get compliment from other backpackers (who carry a lot of dead load) on how light you are traveling.