First of all, a disclaimer... I'm a minimalist, and I go to extremes to minimize my dive kit for travel.
Much of what I've said in these forums in the past has come in for well-meaning criticism, and that's ok.
My reasoning behind my choices is to minimize weight and maximize compactness, but still have a fully-functional, self-contained, and safe set of travel gear.
I'm always experimenting with ways to achieve this.
I have a specific backplate for travel. The webbing is as straight forward and simple as possible.
No padding or unneeded pouches or hardware.
I buy rolls of double-sided velcro from a hardware store and cut it into strips of various lengths.
Use this to cinch-up up all the webbing so the backplate and webbing is a tight compact unit.
I use the cam bands as compression straps on wetsuits and clothing bags.
Don't take what you really don't need.
This includes tools and redundant gizzmos.
Everything must get wet.
If you're on a liveaboard or at a resort, there's always someone who's brought an over-the-top save-a-dive kit and tool box.
Praise them for their foresightedness, and they'll be happy to give you anything you want.
Be sure to buy them a drink later too.
Because I dive recreational when traveling, and don't plan to sling extra cylinders or carry heavy accessories,
I've switched most of my sliders and D-rings to plastic.
This is mostly for weight saving.
Certain heresy in some circles.
Sorry for the partially off-topic long answer, but this is my obsession.
K.