Check out this from the OBOW forums: an essentially no-bag strategy. Now I feel like a wuss for taking that extra pair of paints. This approach is proof that anyone can carry less, though hardly anyone will want to go this light:
After years of traveling, I have perfected the art of less then one bag travel. It isn’t for everyone, but if you want to be free of a pack, here is the way to go. I figured instead of bringing different outfits and changing every day, I would wear the same cloths and change location every day, washing items at night as needed…Add a pair of cargo pants (rei), an ultra dry nylon t shirt, overshirt (ex officio) with hidden pocket for passport (I hate those undercover wallets and waist packs) and I am set. With all the pockets, I can cary extra socks, underwear abd go light jacket. Toiletries, mp3 player and sony e book go in the simple bag. I never have to check a bag, never have to stand in line to leave a bag - entire post here