Tricks for Packing Light: 2006
Share your creative tricks to fit your world into a small bag for a European trip.
Layering clothes
Hi--it's me again (you'll see my long post "Just a carry-on backpack!" below). To go into more detail for Shannon, here is a description of the tops/shirts I packed for my recent trip (early December, 14 days in northern Germany, SE Denmark, and Holland). My 6 "tops" consisted of: 1 medium-weight black cotton short-sleeved t-shirt (my "favorite" t-shirt--it just makes me happy when I wear it), 1 grey/black striped rayon/poly/spandex knit long-sleeved t-shirt ($12 LL Bean clearance item purchased a few years ago--it is awesome for layering as it really breathes, plus it packs quite small!), 1 medium-weight long-sleeve heather-rose cotton/spandex knit crewneck shirt ($20 at Lands' End--it is raglan-sleeve like a sweatshirt, but a bit more stylish), 1 lightweight long-sleeve poly/cotton woven taupe-rose-blue-burgundy plaid shirt, 1 heavier-midweight cotton woven light blue-rose-white-grey plaid flannel shirt, 1 charcoal poly/spandex knit fleece cardigan (a bit bulky but very light in weight--I always wear it on the plane). I was ready for nearly any sort of weather--I could wear one to three layers under my medium-weight leather mid-thigh-length coat and be prepared for several hours at a time in temps down to at least 0'F. I prefer to pack garments of cotton, rayon and leather because they breathe well in damp or humid conditions.
I forgot to mention what I pack for pajamas in my previous post! When traveling in the winter months I pack a knee-lenght flannel nightshirt and some lightweight wool/cotton/spandex leggings....the leggings double as "long underwear" under my jeans or khakis if it is a bitter-cold day, plus the nightshirt is long enough to wear without the leggings if my room is warm at night.
Allison <email>
Northfield, MN USA Thu 12/28/2006
Veloce bag and iPod and Thanks
Carry-on: We're planning an Ireland/Scotland trip next year and I plan to pack light. I purchased Rick's Veloce bag a few months ago and have used it daily since then. Most importantly it's comfortable; I use it as a shoulder bag as well as a backpack. I am confident it will serve its purpose as a carry-on/daily use travel bag when we vacation in the isles in September. Worth the buy. And I swear this is a real-life testimony! :)
iPods: I am planning on taking my iPod...just as someone else stated it has music, photos (in my case video as well)...plus, I have the clocks set to California, Dublin, New York and Honolulu time, so I always know what time it is all over the globe.
Thanks: And finally, thanks to all the regulars that answer posts, and email tips when asked. This site is so valuable in the international travel community is wonderful!! Thank you all.
Kristen
Santa Ana, CA USA Thu 12/28/2006
Spring clothing in the UK
Expect chilly weather and rain--you might get lucky and have some pleasant weather but I wouldn't count on it! But it's unlikely to be particularly cold. I'd suggest getting some silk long undies--they're comfortable, warm, and weigh practically nothing. I'd bring a camisole styled piece and a long sleeved one to wear under your other clothes. Wintersilks has a lot of nice ones in light, medium and heavy weight silks. Check them out online...
JER
USA Sat 12/23/2006
What clothing to pack
I leave in mid-April for a four week trip to Britain, Ireland, and Paris. I want to pack light, but I'm quite clueless when it comes to layering. I'm also not sure what to expect weather-wise.
How can I best layer my clothes in these countries in April/May? How many long-sleeved shirts, T-shirts, sweaters, jackets, etc... Are their any good thermal layers to wear that are thin?
Thanks for any help!
Shannon <email>
Elmira, NY USA Fri 12/22/2006
Just a carry-on backpack!!
I'm a female in my early 40s and have done several 2-week trips to various parts of Northern Europe in the winter months, always managing with just my large (2400 cu in) LL Bean backpack. Including what I wear on the plane (the bulkiest and/or heaviest items of the bunch), I pack: 1 pair jeans, 1 pair khaki chinos; 6 assorted shirts that can be layered (including a fleece cardigan); two pairs of shoes (including a pair of Crocs--ugly, but the best walk-your-legs-off shoes!); underwear and socks for 8 days (do one sink-full of laundry halfway through); trial sizes of shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, hand lotion, liquid laundry detergent & body wash; a small lightweight washcloth and lightweight old bath towel (I tend to stay at a lot of hostels); a half-dozen quart-size zip-top freezer bags (use to hold ticket stubs, postcards, small trinkets; keep rolls of film together; waterproof see-through cover for your city map on rainy days); a small travel umbrella; a Sharpie marker; travel alarm clock; a small lightweight rain-proof daypack to hold my walk-around-all-day essentials (again from LL Bean; can also be used to transport home any "extra" souveniers/purchases that won't fit in the big backpack); just the essential pages of travel guidebooks & any maps. I have a medium-weight leather coat (mid-hip length) that I wear--it's weatherproof, and allows me to blend in with the locals. Oh, and in the pocket of the coat I have a small spherical compass (1" diam) tied on a shoestring pinned into the pocket--EXTREMELY useful when you pop out of an underground station on a cloudy day! As I said before, I wear the heaviest/bulkiest items on the plane. The fully-packed backpack weighs about 18 pounds---light enough to strap on through airports and trainstations, or to trek 5 or 10 blocks to the hotel or hostel.
Allison <email>
Northfield, MN USA Fri 12/22/2006
Travel Umbrella
I found a very compact, light umbrella that takes up next to no room at Eddie Bauer. Perfect for travels, and a good alternative if I don't want to take a rain poncho.
Denna Sue
Montana, USA Wed 12/20/2006
Also check out LLBeans - Casco Bay winbbreaker @ $30. Has three zippered outer pockets and two large inner pockets. Weighs nothing. Can't leave home without mine. We love them. They're hooded and available in mens or womens.
http://www.llbean.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?storeId=1&catalogId=1&langId=-1&categoryId=39671&sc1=Search&feat=sr
USA Wed 12/20/2006
Good for you!
Capeka- that's the kind of thriftiness we appreciate here on the Packing Light Tips part of the Graffiti Wall! (Pumas rock.) Soon someone will write in with a very lightweight and powdered solution to your stinky problem...
USA Tue 12/19/2006
Pewey Pumas
I have a pair of Puma gym shoes from high school that I have benn wearing daily to work as well as the gym. I do travel in them as well, but I did come upon a problem while taking them off in a charter flight to Tonga. Apparently, the complaint was of a foul odor coming from an overhead compartment. Needless to say, they were my Pumas and I was asked to put them back on. How bold! I couldn't smell a thing and I still think it was someone's Dorito bag. Either way, I refuse to buy a new pair of shoes since mine fit just fine from 1972.
Capeka
Croatia Tue 12/19/2006
We use the rule of thirds. Wear a 1/3 of our cloths. pack a 1/3 and buy a 1/3. Buiying some things is fun and keeps the weight down. On our next trip we're planning on taking only ONE RS bag and two Civita daypacks. We're learning that taking next to nothing is actually more fun. We're confortable and we always look good.
USA Mon 12/18/2006
Shoes
I believe the discussion on shoes was on the weight and bulk & whether to carry "spares" or not, not the type of walking shoe to use! (We know there's another Topic in the Wall about walking shoes).
Shoes are part of the "packing light" way of life - as are jackets, jeans, toiletries, extras such as cameras, etc, etc, etc - they are not always light in weight or bulk, so they have to be taken into consideration when planning a trip and what to pack.
USA Mon 12/18/2006
Back on track!!
Thank you for getting back on target talking about Packing Light and not on shoes!!!
Jill
Vancouver, Canada Fri 12/15/2006
Update on the
I posted last week about the Patagonia "MLC"- using e-bags and all sorts of their holiday discounts and free shipping, the price was nearly half the usual way-too-expensive $150. I would never travel without the Civita bag I purchased several years ago from the RS store, but my trip next summer is going to be a lot of train and bus travel and some walking around to get to hotels- traveling solo some of it. MY RS bag is just too big for me at 50+ to carry on my back for long distances- and I don't feel secure pulling it behind me down city streets. So the challenge was to find something "mature" looking! That's solved- it basically looks like you took the RS bag and sliced it in half horizontally! You can do the shouldre strap, the handle, or pull out the backpack straps. It can easily hold two packing cubes and a small toiletries bag on the inside. So this will be my ultimate test of packing light! I think that going in the summer is easier though- I can get three tank tops in the space a winter shirt might take up.
Karen
USA Thu 12/14/2006
Shoes and Innersoles
We only take one pair of high quality, walking shoe BUT the key is to take a extra innersole and change daily. That allows the shoe to dry over night and innersole dries during the day. Prevents smelly shoes and other foot problems
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Tue 12/12/2006
Back ups!
I agree- wear the heavy shoes of your choice for every day on the plane- for me it's my Keen sandals in summer and heavier enclosed waterproof shoe in winter. But I always add a pair of flip flops either season (for hotel/shower/quick trips to lobby)and also another lighter- weight back up pair. There was a freak flash flood in Venice last summer and my Keens were so saturated after wading for an hour through it they still weren't dry by morning...the extra pair saved me!
USA Tue 12/12/2006
I love my four year old Clarks. They're WORN but very confortable. We take only one pr - the pr we wear. I like traveling super lite. But, if I took another pr of my size 12's - I'd be overweight for sure. The cloths we wear count as one. We attempt to wear all we can :) saves packing a lot of estra cloths.
USA Tue 12/12/2006
Shoes for packing light
Great ideas, but whatever you do - take an extra pair of shoes! I know Rick advises just one pair - and one pair for a weeklong trip may be OK, but if the shoes get wet, muddy or, heaven forbid, get a hole, or you need another pair for an unexpected event, you will be scrambling to buy a new pair. That's fine if you have "normal" feet, but if you need very narrow or very wide shoes, you may out of luck.
USA Tue 12/12/2006
Rick also has suggestions and recommendations about packing and using one carryon bag. I don't think you'll find better down to earth advice.
USA Mon 12/11/2006
Bag Evaluation
For a critical review of bags from an expert, go to onebag.com. Doug Dyment examines the pros and coms in his "What to Carry it In" section.
Jack
USA Mon 12/11/2006
Better bags...better prices!
We all are entitled to our opinions on this board, and it's not up to anyone to critize other posters.
If the poster below likes the bags he/she mentioned, then that person likes the bag and wants to share their experience with the other readers of this board so those readers can then make up their mind by comparing what is out there.
I took the time to check out the reviews on the bags that the poster wrote about, and it seems that they got rave reviews, with only a few that didn't like the bags.
It is a favor to the readers of this board to be able to take in all the information and make up their own minds what is best for them.
if the "Transport" bag the reader liked worked well for them, they wanted to share that with us...
Let them!
USA Mon 12/11/2006
good bag for light packers
First want to say.. follow the wise words of Rick..pack light, pack light, pack light. Packing light saved me a few times while making tight train connections in small eastern europe towns.
During a six week trip around Eastern Europe I saw a few RS bags. They look well designed. They seem like a great bag.
That being said I do also have to give two thumbs up to the Mountain Equipment Co-op "Shuttle" travel pack. a rock solid pack, held everything I needed for six weeks of travel. Can be worn as a back pack or convered into a soft sided suitcase with shoulder strap. Best of all - only $43 Canadian. www.mec.ca
Bruce <email>
canada Mon 12/11/2006
Carry-ons
I agree with the poster with the 1 3/4 lb convertible bag from Campmor - it's probably the same bag we use: The Outdoor Products Essential Carryon, Item #60793.
See it at: http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=49527&memberId=12500226.
It's $30 and very lightweight, yet we have used it on many trips for the last 3 years and it's still in great shape. My only complaint is that it is a little too big at 13 in x 21 in x 9 in (2825 cu in)! I'd love one that measures more like 12" x 20" x 7" - that's plenty of room for me and would work great for smaller/shorter people.
When weight matters as much as the overall size, try this bag! (No, I don't work for Campmor or Outdoor Products).
I also use a small red backpack with wheels that weighs in around 2.5 - 3 lbs, yet holds lots of stuff. The handle is long and the wheels work great, plus it cost me only $15 on sale at Walgreens, of all places.
Tallahassee, FL USA Mon 12/11/2006
Bags
Last year, my daughter and I (65 yrs) spent 8 weeks visiting Wester Europe and Czech Republic. Each had the Rick Steves 21 inch Roll-Aboard (expandable) and a medium size day pack. We carried them on-board. Wheels worked very well on the cobble stones. We would never attempt a trip without these bags. PACK LIGHT.
JB
CA USA Sun 12/10/2006
Carry-ons
I have made five trips to Europe with my Rick Steves ETBD convertible bag. It has worked fine for me, but at 2-1/2#, it is a little heavy. It is 1000 denier nylon, very high quality, it will last forever, but I decided that I no longer want to carry so much "quality" around with me. My latest bag is a 1-3/4# Campmor bag. I just took it to the post office, packed as if I were going to Europe for 2 weeks. It weighed 11# 6.6 oz. Hey, I don't need wheels to carry that, particularly when wheels add atleast another 5# to what I would have to carry, and believe me, there are many times when you have to carry your bag, wheels or no.
USA Sun 12/10/2006
Better bags...better prices!
Where are you coming from? You are apparently more interested in selling these bags than you are in the interest of the ETBD travelers. Most of the bags shown on the website are way too large to meet most airline carry-on restrictions. Others are much to heavy to be practical.
USA Sun 12/10/2006
The RS bag is a tried and proven bag - my best friend. I can't say enough about mine. I love mine - no regrets!
USA Sat 12/09/2006
Better bags...better prices!
I own a High Sierra Railpass. Used it last year for 2 trips over the pond. There is nothing like being able to carry your bag like a suitcase...or on your back.
http://www.ebags.com/high_sierra/travel_packs/category_search/index.cfm?N=2008154
The size on 2 of them are carry on...2 of them are larger. The prices are wonderful too!
I'm not into Patagucci (i.e. Patagonia, Swiss Army, etc) bags....I don't see the purpose in paying more for a bag like that.
I always look for a bag that gives me a bit more for my money, and these bags have done just that.
Like the Rick Steves bags...lightweight. More features...less money = more use.
I read through all the features of these bags before I made my choice...it's really important to choose a bag for the way you pack! some of us are really good at getting 2 weeks worth of clothes into a daypack size bag...others of us need more space for more stuff we need.
Do your homework, read the reviews on the packs!
It is a really good idea to purchase your bag right now for next year if you can...things are on sale on the internet...you don't usually have to pay tax, and in a lot of cases, shipping is free!
Sue
Rochester, NY USA Sat 12/09/2006
New bag, big packing light test!
I saw a bag called the "MLC" from Patagonia, for "Maximum Legal Carry-on" at 22 X 9.5 X 13. It has hidden straps and a shoulder strap just like the RS bag, but looks less boxy and suitcase-y. E-bags is having a sale right now and I was able to get it with free shipping for just under 100$ rather than the list price. I am planning my trip for next summer and this will be the ultimate challenge! I have depended on my beloved rolling carry-on, but the wheels add so much weight. I finally decided there was really no such thing as a bag that can be both wheeled and not- I've tried them and it's like the worst of both worlds. Unless- does someone have a model that truly works both ways? Anyway, here is the link:http://www.patagonia.com/web/us/search/esearch.jsp?OPTION=ESEARCH&N=0&special=both&Ntt=mlc+bag I really appreciate all the tips here, and always look forward to the terrific humor of the brilliantly sarcastic poster!
Karen
USA Fri 12/08/2006
Beauty Basic For Travels
I take all-in-one soap. It has lotion and makes bubbles! I can leave the big bottles of lotions at home. Saves me lots of space in my beauty bag.
Laurelynn
Salt Lake City, UT USA Thu 12/07/2006
Beauty stick
I have no idea what a beauty stick is.
J
FL USA Thu 12/07/2006
OBOY Obi
I am not a fan of the obi. I tried using it as a tie in an upscale restaurant in ... lets just say someplace where they serve sushi, and I was told to tie it around my eyes as a blind fold and walk backwards to wherever I came from. Perhaps it caused a tremendous offense since mine had a pattern of "Dogs playing Poker". Maybe it was the felt?
Randolph
Scottsdale, Az USA Tue 12/05/2006
More ideas
I always bring 1.DARK straight cut jeans because they're sophisticated and can be dressed down/up, 2.locking carabiner for attaching my pack on the overhead of trains, 3. beauty stick because it works from head to toe, 4. loose powder and bronzer poured in separate envelope then sealed and folded, 5. an obi (japanese sash)as belt, head scarf, 6. old white cotton sock worn by guys as wash cloth (rough side) then discard when you're ready to go home 7. perfume samples in vials
The obi, a little bronzer, gloss from beauty stick and my Jackie-O sunglasses sure make me look pulled together. Girls, leave at home the foundation and cream for the eyes, and moisturizer, and night cream, and day cream and wrinkle cream and hair cream...aaaaahhhh! Please stop the madness.
Lee
SanFrancisco, CA USA Mon 12/04/2006
Rolling Backpacks
Rolling backpacks from various manufacturers and at various prices can be found at REI (www.rei.com).
Swan
USA Mon 12/04/2006
backpack
I am going backpacking For a couple months next summer and was going to buy an innerframe backpack that I saw in the travel store a while back(came with a waistband, cost about $100 and it had a wheeled version if memory serves). I had read a bunch of posts where people were saying it was the perfect backpack to take on such a trip and how much they liked it. I went back to the travel store today and I don't see any of those backpacks any more. Does anyone know if/why they stopped selling them, or where another good place to look might be?
Justin
Colorado Springs, CO USA Sun 12/03/2006
ipod - multi purpose item! Yes Indeed!!
You are correct. I've condensed all my electronics down to my iPod & charger w/adapter(s) and my digital camera with an extra battery. I added a "iTalk" to my iPod and I have a digital voice recorder. I love keeping a travel journal but am always too busy (or tired) to write every day. The iTalk is great. I also use it to record photo notes. I just used this combo in Scotland and was very pleased with how it worked. I still carry a paper journal and the three together - iPod/iTalk, digital camera and journal - stacked on top of each other and fit in one hand as I stroll museums and other sites. Very compact and very useful! My iPod is too old to down loadpictures to, but when I upgrade I'll use it to also backup my photos. And I have a verbal journal that saves me from having to try to read my own writing!!
Debbie <email>
NY USA Sun 12/03/2006
For Mr Wooly Shake...
Zip Lock has nice 2-GAL size bags now... should fit even a woolymammoth sweater! :) (or get the bed-spread sized compression bag... but zips are cheaper!)
USA Fri 12/01/2006
Wooly Shweater With Peanut Butter
Zip lock pants sandwich...hmmmm. How would you fit an X-Large Irish Aran wool sweater in one of those?
Shamrock Shake
USA Fri 12/01/2006
ipod - multi purpose item!
I used my ipod to download my digital photos...tell time, find addresses and as an alarm clock!
Why pack a bunch of electronic devises when your ipod can do it all?
Just remember to bring an adaptor for the European outlets and you are ready to listen to music, watch TV programs, look at photos (share photos with new friends) and wake up in time to catch the flight back home!
USA Wed 11/29/2006
The Zip Lock Tip
My wife and I just returned from a 14 day Italy trip with carryon only. Need to repeat this tip which has worked for us on each of our foreign trips. All of our cloths are packed in a number of zip lock bags. Sit on them to get all of the air out, then seal. This not only reduces the volume, but also keeps everything in a orderly manner as you unpack/use your cloths at each stop.
Jim Punches
Aptos, CA USA Wed 11/29/2006
Lufthansa Carryon's
We just got back from Italy. Flew Lufthansa from SFO via Frankfurt. In Frankfurt we had to check our carryon because of size, we had the weight down to 8K. Plane is small with limited carryon space. This was not a problem since there were no more transfers to get to Venice.
Jim Punches <email>
Aptos, CA USA Wed 11/29/2006
Carryon limits
In regard to the Lufthansa carry on limit - I was able to find the info on the website before my trip this summer. They do allow an additional personal item such as a small-day-bag/purse/laptop/camera/backpack in addition the the normal carryon bag (8kg)... My heavier camera and adapter and books were in my day-pack and probably weighed as much - but again it was considered a small personal item bag. Laptops or women's purses usually weigh a lot, but can be put under the seat vs overhead if needed.
Either way - its always a good idea to check your airlines limits and weight limits. Lufthansa/Swiss/SAS all had similar 8kg carryon limits. Just check the web sites under carry-on or luggage sections. Then plan/pack accordingly. Also for those who have roll-on-RS bags, they weigh quite a few extra pounds more than the non-rolling so make sure you take that into your 8kg consideration!
TOM
Newport Beach, CA USA Tue 11/28/2006
Carry-on alert & weight limitations
You do have to check with your airline, before you go, to see what their restrictions are. It doesn't hurt to carry a small tote bag folded up so you can shift items to it instead of just checking a slightly overweight bag and risk losing everything! You can use the tote as a personal item (which may or may not have a weight restriction) to avoid checking the carry-on. Again - ccall your airline!!
USA Tue 11/28/2006
Lufthansa carry-on alert!
My husband and I just spent 12 days in Italy and in order to avoid checking our luggage, we carefully packed only a regulation size carry on bag each (after a great deal of planning and good tips from this site). Imagine my frustration when our Lufthansa representative required us to check our bags because they have an 8 kilo weight restriction for carry-ons. This is NOT a TSA requirement, only Lufthansa. Our bags weighed over 10 kilos each, so we had no choice. If you fly Lufthansa, make sure your carry-on is light weight to start with...ours were not. I'm glad we didn't have any problems with lost luggage this time. I haven't seen this mentioned on this board, so I hope I'm not repeating anything.
Sandy
Columbia, MD USA Tue 11/28/2006
Once bag and Civita backpack
We're considering only taking one RS bag and one Civita backback. Our packing list has shrunk - 2 pants, 3 shirts, sweater, lite weight black jacket (LL Bean Cosco Bay $30), lite weight T-shirt/shorts (trips to the hall bath), 2 pr socks, we wear our shoes, 2 undies. This includes what we wear. So we pack even less. On our last trip - about 40% of the stuff we packed...we never used
USA Sun 11/26/2006
Packing Refinements
Refined the Packing Cubes Approach
I was a big fan of packing cubes when I learned about them. Much more organized luggage and quick to repack when leaving room.
However the cubes were taking up space and I found the Packmate bags were much more compact. Now use them more, as well as stuff bags which are very light, although not as handy for finding things
in.
I really scrurinize what I bring now and am packing the lightest ever. It pays off as I run off the train while I see people struggling with heavy bags. They look at me running with a look of surprise. Packing light gives you much more freedom and lowers the stress.
Rick is right....pack light.
Bill
Canada Sat 11/25/2006
H20 Bottle on a Carabiner
Be sure to take an "H20 Water Bottle Holder" on a carabiner. It' s pretty neat. CB goes thru your belt loop...H20 bottle hangs there. Easy....weighs nothing and is cheap...about $2.00.
They also have sunblock that is sold with a CB. Worth considering!
USA Thu 11/23/2006
Tour books
Instead of carrying several Rick Steves guidebooks, I cut out the sections I needed and had the sections bound at an office supply store. Including section dividers, plastic front cover, and hard back- about $3.00.
Nick D.
Anaheim, CA USA Wed 11/22/2006
Tide pens
The Tide pens are great, but remember you can't take in carry-on -- they have bleach. TSA took mine out of my nice, 1 quart zippie. At least I didn't hold up the line ...
Evelyn
Portland, OR USA Mon 11/20/2006
Toiletries
I am the Queen of Samples!! I collect individual,sealed foil packets of shampoo, moisturizer, perfume, hand lotion, etc, etc. from store giveaways and mail order (Sephora is great). Then, when I travel, I sort through my sample bin, pack my Zip-Lock bag with what I need and I am ready to go. No muss, no fuss, no problem.
Julie
Princeton, NJ USA Mon 11/20/2006
Pack a "Tide-To-Go" pen to clean up your clothes. It really works! My husband tends to spill everything and this cleans up any spill easily. This way I know I don't have to pack exra clothes for him.
Kelly
Tacom, W USA Sun 11/19/2006
bar soap shampoo
Saw the mention of Burt's Bees shampoo soap bar. I'm not familiar with the product, but Kirk's castile bar soap, made from coconut oil, has been my shampoo for over 30 years. Also my body and face soap. Only thing I have found that doesn't leave at least a hint of soap scum residue on hair or skin. Great stuff. Haven't tried it for hand washing clothes, but wouldn't hesitate to. And I have no association with the Kirk's soap company.
John
Woodstock, IL USA Sun 11/19/2006
For The Impatiently Impaired
Being from Fargo, slip on shoes are not an option for winter airport trecking. May I suggest a sturdy moon boot instead. Not only are they laceless for easy donning, but if you buy them two sizes bigger, they are the ideal skid for storing that extra half of salami sandwich that you just couldn't quite finish at the airport cafeteria.
Genoa Capocolla
Italy Sat 11/18/2006
RS travel store has mesh bags that would be perfect. Worth taking a look.
USA Fri 11/17/2006
While the bag manufacturers are giving the airports free bags,
Please do NOT expect the TSA people to bag your stuff for you!
We do not want to be in line while you pull out your bottles and bag them. Wear slip on shoes, empty your pockets and take your laptops out before your turn comes to go through the screener.
Impatient at security line
USA Fri 11/17/2006
1-quart Baggies at Airports
Some of the baggie manufacturers are giving airports a supply of free 1-quart bags for holiday travelers to help with the new travel requirements. Will help make holiday travels lighter and easier!
Sue
Wyoming, USA Fri 11/17/2006
Paper Soap
Has anyone actually tried the paper soap, shampoo, or laundry detergent? How does it work? Is one sheet sufficient for washing your hair? It wouldn't be much of a savings if you have to use 4 or 5 each time.
Pat in Fort Worth
Fort Worth, TX USA Fri 11/17/2006
Good savings on Travel Stuff
I placed my order for some of the RS goodies. This is a good deal - 15% 0ff, no sales tax for me, and $4.95 s/h. This translates into about 33% savings for me. Better order now!
Chuck
LA, CA USA Fri 11/17/2006
Popular Paper Pants
I can't believe no-one has thought of a clever riposte to Papyrus Peebles, so I'll contribute a lame one by saying that I thought paper pants, the People's Pantaloons, could be purchased at Home Despot or maybe Office Marx.
Meg Rosenfeld <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Fri 11/17/2006
Paper Pants
They also make paper pants that work the very same way as the shampoo. Just put the paper pants in a tub and watch them grow over the period of 8 days. One size fits all. Just an FWI, the pants can only be worn once and they will start shrinking back to paper size after about 3 - 18 hours. They can be purchased at Home Depot an Office Max.
Papyrus Peebles
CA USA Mon 11/13/2006
Thanks for the paper soap link.
The items at the Container store. I'm going to see if I can buy them in a local Container Store.
Shirley
Fort Worth, TX USA Sun 11/12/2006
Bar shampoo
Burt's Bees line of natural products, besides coming in some small fit-in-your- baggie sizes, includes a shampoo soap bar. I like that it can't leak and avoids the new carry- on restrictions so it can be in the suitcase..freeing up space in the baggie! I'm also going to try it for sink laundry, since I used to use my shampoo for that.
Karen
USA Sat 11/11/2006
Paper Shampoo
This "paper" shampoo comes in a pack of 50 sheets (just add water) and weighs less than 1/2 ounce per pack.
http://www.containerstore.com/browse/Product.jhtml?CATID=62523&PRODID=71028
The store also sells "paper" soap and laundry detergent. They are a little pricey (about $6.00/pack) but could be really convenient when packing light.
Linda
USA Sat 11/11/2006
Weight is the point
I believe the problem is Weight more then size I have a larger bag then carry on size suitcase but carry it around europe half full . I am met at aiport by life time friends( lucky me )so start off at friend's winery with some gifts but then slim down quickly.
laundry mats are somtimes not cheap ,convenient, or available in the 70,000 pop. german town (Bad Kreuznach)
my friend knew of no laundry mats for sure in the 5 near by villages none---There probably are some in BK, but often not that convieent cheap or available
John Brangwin <email>
Bellevue, Wa USA Thu 11/09/2006
Carryons & Toiletries - Ideas
If your items are in containers larger than the allowable 3 oz (which is really quite a bit), then pour what you can into smaller containers available at Target, Wal-Mart, etc. I can fit the following in a quart-size Ziploc, everything travel or mini-size, or transferred to smaller containers. It's amazing what can fit into the Ziploc if you adjust and adapt:
1 - toothpaste
2 - lip balm
3 - lip gloss
4 - anti-perspirant
5 - hand cream
6 - hair balm (in contact case)
7 - favorite shampoo
8 - Oust air sanitizer
9 - Febreeze (in small spray bottle)
10 - vial of perfume
11 - contact lens cleaner
12 - contact lens soaking solution
13 - contact lens wetting solution
14 - saline nasal spray
15 - small mascara
16 - small toner
Phoebe
USA Wed 11/08/2006
Carryons & Toiletries - Ideas
I'm just curious to see how others are dealing with the new restrictions on liquids, gels & aerosols in carry-on luggage. Prior to my last two trips, I had ascribed to the Rick Steves' "no check in luggage!" philosophy, and it was working out great for me using the convertible soft-sided bag. But now, all your carry-on toiletries have to be in containers 3oz or smaller AND fit in a one-quart ziploc bag! I am not a glamour queen, but this proved beyond my reach (although my other problem is I really try never to buy soap, lotion, sunblock, deodorant etc abroad because I can't find the non-allergenic, sensitive-skin, unscented stuff, that I need).
Can anyone relate/offer tips? Because we had to check our bags last week and almost ended up missing a connecting flight because of it, and I was peeved, missing the easy days carrying on and boogieing off!
RJ
Oakland, CA USA Wed 11/08/2006
Noodle Packing
Bubble wrap should keep Gordie's noodles safe. Also, putting them in your carry-on will allow you to protect them more. The noodles shouldn't get hoisted and jabbed as much by inspectors as with checked luggage.
BJD
Sunny, Warm So. Cal. :), USA Wed 11/08/2006
weighing items
I also weigh items on my kitchen scale when deciding what to pack and then weigh the entire bag on a very good digital bathroom scale. Surprising how it all adds up so quickly.
Shirley
Fort Worth, TX USA Wed 11/08/2006
Luggage scale
Just returned from 4 weeks in England. We used our small luggage scale to make sure that our bags were under the weight limit going over. We took it with us since USAir would not accept any bag over 50 pounds when flying out of Manchester. The scale can be purchased at most of the travel-store websites for $10.
JE
USA Tue 11/07/2006
Gobble Gobble
I have just purchased 9.75 pounds of noodles from an outdoor market in Juba. Does anyone know of a good way to place them safely in a suitcase without cracking their popsicle shape? I am responsible for frying them on Thanksgiving and can't afford to loose even three of them. I sure would hate to see how the turkey would cook without them.
Gordie
Wish Bone, IN USA Tue 11/07/2006
Braun Shaver
If you travel often....I'd suggest that you weight each item once...write it down....start a standard travel list (standard operating procedure list). The military does this. They weigh once and pack twice.
Chuck Reisinger
LA, CA USA Tue 11/07/2006
Light Travels Rock
If my bag is to heavy, I just take some stuff out and leave it behind. I've never gone to the post office to weigh my luggage...fish scales sound great. Easy and light travels for me. Bon Voyage!
Fawn
Sioux City, SD USA Tue 11/07/2006
Scales
I used a kitchen scale too- worked great - amazing what little stuff adds up to 1-2-3 lbs fast! I weighed my clothes, books, etc - then later took the whole bag to the post office to weigh it offically (needed to be less than 16 lbs!) I think for future I will buy one of those small luggage scales (like fish scale) to weigh at home easier! Bathroom scale was ok too. I agree weaing or putting heavier items in your small personal item bag/pack.
TMB
Newport Beach, CA USA Mon 11/06/2006
Diane--Another Tip
No kidding, I weigh my things on a kitchen scale to decide what to take. It's not hard to eliminate a pound or two simply by choosing the lighter of two articles. Another trick is to wear the heavier clothes when traveling. Somehow, the weight feels like less when it's on my back. Even plastic bags have weight--consider everything and leave at home the stuff that isn't essential.
Swan
USA Mon 11/06/2006
Two Tips
I have a sore shoulder and don't want travel buddies to carry my bag, so whittling down the packing list has become a hobby (I wonder if I should get a food scale to weigh t-shirts...). I have two tips to add the list below. First, the trick to drying cotton is to wring it out in a towel until it is almost dry before hanging it, I bring a diving towel (2oz) which works when there are no extras (as well as for a swim). The second is that one and two-gallon ziploc bags are GREAT for vacuum sealing clothes into flat little packets--one for my 3 tops, another for whichever two of the three bottoms (shorts, pants & skirt) I am not wearing, and one for undies and bathing suit. They don't change the weight but allow me to bring a tiny bag which is less clumsy to carry, and the clothes come out so CRISP looking!
Diane <email>
Brooklyn, NY USA Sun 11/05/2006
Braun shaver
The Braun travel shaver works well and it is very light. The batteries last about a month with once daily use. The bad parts are that it takes 2-3 times longer to shave and (at least for me) is totally useless if I skip a day as the hairs become too long for it. I always bring a disposable razor along to take care of the long hairs.
Jim <email>
Milpitas, CA USA Sat 11/04/2006
Go Jeans!
I love jeans for travel. They're very comfy, and can be dressed up or down for many occasions, especially a color like black. Another travel must have is a denium skirt. Happy travelers are comfy travelers! :)
Jeannie
Mt. Vernon, WA USA Fri 11/03/2006
Jeans...or not Jeans
Wear what you're most comfortable in, whether it's blue jeans, black jeans, khakis, dress pants, kilts, shorts, etc, etc. Politeness and an inquisitive nature will go alonger way than what you wear!
USA Fri 11/03/2006
Jeans
Just got back from various parts of Germany, Belgium & Austria. And I just want to say jeans were very popular, we didn't pack ours in order to look less like American Tourists, but we kind of regreted it after a while when we sort of stuck out by NOT having them haha
c.m. <email>
Los Angeles, ca USA Fri 11/03/2006
Clothing
I actually could have gotten by with just one or two pairs of pants in Europe (not undies, just regular pants!) I bought an outfit of sun protective clothing from Stingray (which I'd mentioned earlier), and it was very comfortable, and it dries extremely quickly. And it's nicer than a lot of other sun protective clothing than I've seen or worn.
Denise
Lake Mary, FL USA Wed 11/01/2006
Braun Shaver - part II
As the person who started the Braun shaver thread, I want to add several comments, First, it can be used for legs and Marcia does. Second, it has a hair trimmer that works surprising well for its small size. Third, it is slower than my regular razor becaues it only has one shaving head. Finally, I was alerted to this razor a few years ago when it won a national design award for a number of features especially the self contained case and the on/off feature that absolutely prevents accidential turn on in the luggage. I paid about $25, glad to see it is available for less. I have used it for a total of about six years with absolutely no problems.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Mon 10/30/2006
Shaver
Buy a used shaver at Goodwill and give it away before you leave Europe.
USA Mon 10/30/2006
Braun Shaver
Ann....you're on to something. Someone in our family has her eyes on it. I used it today x 2 mins....what a smoth comfortable shave...she's going to try it....I'll post a follow up report.
Sidenote: We're trying to get down to one RSBD bag and a Civita day-pack. This may push the cost of travel cloths up a bit....but we think it's well worth it. I'll post a report once our research is completed.
Chuck
USA Mon 10/30/2006
Shaver
Maybe that Braun shaver would work for legs, too. Less to pack!
Ann
S.D., Cali USA Mon 10/30/2006
Braun Shaver
I bought my Braun Shaver at Walgreens for $17.95. The other box strores do not stock them. Pretty nifty shaver....powered with two AA's. I like mine and would recommend getting one.
Chuck
USA Mon 10/30/2006
Jackie
It was one pair of PANTS, not undies.
I had a pair of capri pants also, but did not have to wear them.
I've NEVER, knock on wood, had my luggage mishandled by United or Lufthansa airlines.
My flights are always at least 10 hours in length, and I've been to Europe over 10x in the last few years, so I consider myself an experienced traveler.
USA Mon 10/30/2006
Drying clothing in a hotel room
Ellen -:
I can only applaud you for travelling with ONE pair of undies:)
You obviously have NEVER travelled on an INTERCONTINAL flight of 12 + hours where MAYBE (especially flying any Anerican airline) your luggage does NOT arrive at your first destination-- let alone your SECOND destination !!!
BUT surely to be completely safe a second pair would have fitted in ANY other pack you were carrying? and probably would NOT have saved any space?
BTW This is from a seasoned traveller who has gone on trips in many places!!
IF you travel take a change of clothes in your carry on JUST IN CASE (for whatever reason) that your check on luggage does NOT arrive at YOUR destination
Jackie
Perth Australia, Australia Mon 10/30/2006
Mini-fying Medications
When ordering prescriptions for short-haul trips, I ask the Pharmacist to divide my pills into two or three smaller originally labeled containers and take only what I will need plus an extra week's supply. Plus I always bring an extra copy of my prescriptions with their generic names. Always remember, although it may be tempting to combine pills or hand label medications, keep in mind that all medications must be kept in their originally labeled containers. Mixing medications could cost you your life!
Stewardess Stephanie
Toronto , ON Canada Sun 10/29/2006
Drying clothing in a hotel room
One thing that has worked for me --- if there is a hair dryer in the hotel room, I have used it to quick dry items before packing/wearing.
I too only pack synthetic materials, so they do dry quickly with a hair dryer.
My hiking trip to Switzerland a few weeks ago included several days of rain. On one day, we got soaked to the bone. My pants (Prana) were literaly washed on my body - and competely wet when we returned to the hotel. I hung them up to dry at about 5PM, and in the morning, only the waist band was still a bit wet, so I used the hair dryer and Voila! - dry enough to wear again
NOTE: I took only one pair of pants for a 7 day hiking trip, wore them everyday, washed them in the sink at night (they got muddy!) and was very happy- ultimate in packing light!
Ellen
CO USA Sun 10/29/2006
Braun Razor
Jeff -- it is call -- Learning Curve. Braun makes an excellent folding travel razor that runs on two AAs for well over a month --- 5 oz and the size of an IPod. Synthetic and synthetic blends are a must if hand washing at night. Cotton just retains too much water. Without a lot of ventilation, it will not dry overnight.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Sat 10/28/2006
My thoughts on travelling light
We just got back from Europe (2 week trip) and I have some thoughts. Bring only One travel book per country (My wife packed 4 of them). I like people's ideas about packing synthetics. We packed with the intention of doing laundry. We did so once in an actual laundrymat and a couple times in the room. When washing in the room we had trouble getting stuff to dry by the time we needed to leave the hotel room in the morning. I know from my skiing days synthetics dry 10 times faster. For my next trip, I am going to get a digital camera that also does video. Consumer Reports said a couple new models are now as good as camcorders. We brought both along with chargers and tapes and yada yada yada. I also brought an electric shaver. Next time I am going with the disposable. My wife bought a portable high chair. That was a total waste. My son only used it once. She also brought her own shampoos and stuff because apparently her hair is too good for hotel shampoo (waste of space/weight).
Jeff
VA USA Sat 10/28/2006
Shipping clothing
I recently mailed air mail parcel post an 8 1/2 lb box from the east coast to Belfast and it cost $52. However, it takes 4-10 days.
Wally
Washington, DC USA Fri 10/27/2006
Cost of Shipping
Cindy:
We shipped them using USAIR Freight and the cost for 2 50 bags was 227.00. Good Luck!
Mike
USA Fri 10/27/2006
Shipping Bags Ahead
Mike: Every source I've checked re shipping bags ahead was quite expensive -- $300 - $400 range for two bags. Would like to know your actual costs, if you don't mind.
Cindy
SF, CA USA Thu 10/26/2006
Ship your bags ahead
This is a little expensive, but well worth the time and hassell of carrying a bag. On our last trip to Paris, we sent our two bags via UPS directly to the hotel. Upon checking in our bags were waiting on us. We saved time by not waiting for baggage. We did carry our bags back home due to the wine we stuffed in our bags. Happy Travels
Mike
New York, NY USA Thu 10/26/2006
Packing
I save my underwear that's about to die and pack it for trips. I throw it away (I bring sandwich baggies and put them in before I toss them) each day. This opens my luggage up for things I buy, I don't feel guilty about throwing things away, and I've found it easier than either washing every night or carting home dirty underwear. I've also purchased clothes at thrift stores and thrown those away daily - - it just depends on the trip; the length; and who I'm traveling with. I lead student tours to Europe so I travel frequently.
Vickii
Angleton, TX USA Wed 10/25/2006
Great Idea!
Now that's a great idea! You can get inexpensive underclothes at Wal-Mart to take for a trip, then wash them before you leave for home and give to those in need overseas. Doing laundry isn't very expensive. A gesture of goodwill for peace between countries! There'll be plenty of room in my suitcase for the love of my life, CHEESE! Happy travels!
Christy
Montana, USA Tue 10/24/2006
Interesting Packing Concept...
Interesting concept! You could also pack nice underclothes for the trip, and if you don't want to bring them home, do laundry before your departure then give your nice stuff away to those in need abroad. Give you lots of room in your suitcase to bring back cheese or wine :).
Jeanette
Seattle, WA USA Tue 10/24/2006
Robert throwing away his trash in Europe
This has been discused ad naseum on this board.
Quite a few readers don't approve of throwing our trash away in Europe.
Isn't it a better thing to offer your disposable items to Goodwill or some other agency here in the US that can clean it and offer it to people in need?
Please people. Be mindful of the waste we produce as a world. Please recycle when you can - don't throw things in the trash that can be reused in some manner!
Thanks.
World citizen
CO USA Tue 10/24/2006
Disposable Underwear
Here is a trick to make packing for home easier. I save all of my "old t-shirts, socks, and underwear" The ones we all have. I wear them and when I leave the hotel, simply drop them into the trash. There is no dirty laundry to pack. We have expanded the disposable underwear to clothing as well. Go to the local thrift store, buy a couple of last years outfits for cheap, wear them and toss them. This makes for hassel free packing and there is little or no laundry to do when you get back home... Last tip ladies just cut the legs off your old pantyhose and use the panty.
robert <email>
winston salem, nc USA Tue 10/24/2006
You know those heavy, clear plastic, zippered cubes that bed sheets come in? Perfect cubes for me!
Steve
Richmond, Virgin USA Tue 10/24/2006
The small little tiny rolls of t.p. (usually in the diaper section of the grocery store)are great. Combined with some hand gel, you are ready for any bathroom situation. Magellens sells a fancier and pricier version. I scattered six around the packing cubes in my carry on and, keeping one set in a small ziplock in my day bag lasted for six weeks all over Europe.
Karen
USA Mon 10/23/2006
Whole Home Sweater Bags
I bought these packing bags, they are Perfect for carry on. Exactly the same size. And each packages comes with two bags. I bought them at Sears and for just $2.99 ( yes two dollars. 99 )
JL
Miami Beach, FL USA Mon 10/23/2006
Packing Cubes
Rick sells a great set of Packing Cubes. They're sized to fit the OB Bag. Take a look in the travel store.
Chuck
USA Mon 10/23/2006
Organizers for clothes
I am currently using several mesh bags (the kind for delicate items in the washing machine) in place of pack cubes and they work better than ziplocks (not slippery!), but not quite as good as the cubes (don't unzip to open fully. However, they are great to use since they are fairly see-through. And since I got mine at the Dollar Tree they were very cheap.
Phoebe
USA Mon 10/23/2006
Packing Cubes and Ziplocs
I agree about the price of packing cubes. It depends on how much you pay for them. I bought two sets of them (one for each of us) about six years ago for both my husband and I on ebags.com on clearance. We have used them since then on innumerable trips (both domestic and international) and they have been indispensible. They have made our trips so much easier. My husband was a bit skeptical at first, but even uses them now on our weekend trips in his backpack. I would suggest giving them a try - and watching to see when they are on clearance. Oh, and we also use Ziplocs a lot!
USA Mon 10/23/2006
Roy Boy
Hard to believe that someone doesn't know what a packing cube is...but to remedy that---take a moment to use this link to see one for future reference!
http://www.ebags.com/eagle_creek/pack_it_reg_cube/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=5361
USA Sun 10/22/2006
My comments on Zip lock bags
Packing cubes cannot be beat for long lasting travel. Zip lock bags are meant for temporary use.
How many times have I discovered that my Zip Lock bag has ripped up the seam on my return trip...even went being as careful in handling as possible.
Zip locks cannot be beat for liquids...I use 2 Eagle Creek leak proof bags for my cosmetics, and they have been fantastic for smaller items. But when I take my body lotion, it's generally a larger bottle and I use a Zip Lock bag. It always seem to have a tear in the seam after a few uses...so I keep replacing.
So...packing cubes are indespecible for packing clothing for easy use in packing and un packing, and Zip Locks are fantastic for larger liquid bottles to keep the spills from your other items in your luggage.
I highly recommend using both when traveling.
SueBee
USA Sun 10/22/2006
Packing Cubes
I beg to differ on packing cubes. They work better than ziplocks for clothes because they are square and open wide from the long side to easily place clothes into. I leave my cubes "packed" when I travel and it is easier to pull out a single item from the cube than from a packed ziplock. Because the cubes are cubes - I find they pack more efficiently in a rectangular suit case. Also if security opens my bags they don't slide out on the floor (ziplocks are slippery devils when you have several of them packed together).
I am a big fan of ziplocks. I always have extras with me and use them to store electronics with cords, liquids that I don't want to leak into my suitcause (something a packing cube doesn't do) and various other small items. But for clothes I prefer packing cubes. The cost issue depends how often and how you travel. I bought my packing cubes over 10 years ago and am still using them after more than 200 trips. I have spent way more on ziplock bags for packing over that time period than for the cubes. The ziplocks tend to get beat up after about 3-4 trips and need replacing.
Ellen
NY USA Sat 10/21/2006
Packing Cubes
Cube is a poor choice of word but that is what they are commonly called. Actually small nylon, rectangular shape bags about 2" deep with a mash zipper top -- generally. I find that one and two gallon zip lock plastic bags function just as well and are much cheaper.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Sat 10/21/2006
Packing cubes
Love the packing cubes! I used one small for all lingerie and pj's. One large for tops and shawls. The other small, I used for all misc items. (chargers, gum, extra handi-wipes, sd cards, pens, and any other small item) It worked perfectly. They were not lost or falling out of my RS convertible.
Mitzi
USA Fri 10/20/2006
Laundry
At a Taget store, I found the Tide liquid pacs for sink washing. And also, the shout wipes for spots. Picked them up just incase.
Well, I am glad I did. They came in very handy.
Soaked and washed a few tops while in Italy. I used the bidet for my "washing", as they were obviously spotless. Luckily, our last hotel in Rome had a small veranda. Perfect to hang clothes out to dry.
Mitzi
USA Fri 10/20/2006
All-Purpose Natural Soap
This is the soap I use for body wash. It is all natural, and can actually be used for EVERYTHING - shampoo, face wash, body wash, laundry, spot remover, dishes...You name it! I think it's great to take when traveling to save space! It's even mild enough for babies, since there are no chemicals in it.
(Note - I have the castile soap with castor oil...If you get the one without it, it won't lather as much.)
P.S. Incidentally, I use their facial care prods as well! They're very cheap & of high quality!! :)
http://www.countryrosesoap.com/liquidcastilesoap.htm
Aquarius11 <email>
Yardley, PA USA Fri 10/20/2006
Carry On Full of Kid Stuff
A carry on bag full of kid stuff can easily weigh the max allowed in no time. I can only fit in my wallet and travel documents. I need to figure a way for more room to fit my whole purse!
Delores
Montana, USA Wed 10/18/2006
Carry ons
Just recently flew with Lufthansa and used the RS Convertable Bag as a carryon, PLUS a regular Northface Backpack as my "personal item" (I think it was heavier than the RS Bag with books and CAM Equip! But the previous poster who put their purse in the bag may only have needed to do that if their airline has real strict guidelines like UK flights recently had. I called well ahead to confirm a Briefcase/Smaller-Pack/Purse item counts as carry on or a "personal" item - PLUS a normal carryon. They just didnt want someone claiming the rollon was their "personal item" and then take a second larger bag as carryon...
TMB
CA USA Tue 10/17/2006
carry ons
I put my purse in my backpack for boarding and have had no problem. A purse and a back pack are two carryons!!
Dale
Eugene, OR USA Tue 10/17/2006
Smart Packing
Purchase clothes that can be hand washed and dry quickly -- like the new "wicking" fabrics.
Cross pack into each other's luggage in case one of the pieces gets lost while flying to your destination.
Emma
San Diego, CA USA Sun 10/15/2006
Packing cubes
The only way to go. A small investment keeps your luggage organized and neat.
Plan on purchasing several sizes. At least 2 large for folded t-shirts and or pants.
One medium for "undies" and a small for accessories like power cords, voltage adapter, etc.
USA Sat 10/14/2006
Louise's carry on question
Louise- I have not had a problem in the past with a book bag type pack as a second carry.
I am flying British Air in January. The have a new policy: One carry on, no purse or other bags allowed. The person I talked to at BA said they are strongly enforcing this new policy. You can put your second bag in your larger carry on as long as they don't exceed 40 lbs. Forty pounds is quite a bit. They used to have a 13lb limit. This is a big change in policy.
Tom <email>
Sacramento, Ca USA Fri 10/13/2006
Have any of you been told that your purse or computer bag is too big or unacceptable to count as the addition to your one carry on limit and forced to check the other bag? Just curious...have not noticed any size restrictions so far and I'm wondering how big of a "purse" I can get away with.
Louise
Melbourne, FL USA Fri 10/13/2006
Travel DRY & Fast
Even though the travel restrictions have been "relaxed" I am not taking any risks, so, I found some dry/solid subs for my essentials...
Solid Oil Stick by Lisa of New York -Amazon
Daily facials-just add water at destination
La Femme Dry Mascara- Amazon
Powdered Toothpaste-Cinnamon-Amazon
Neutrogena Solid SPF30 Sun block-Amazon
Lush Solid Shampoo & conditioner or Burt's Bees solids
and my Fav.. Instead of a water bottle a Platypus collapsible bottle, you fill it when empty it rolls up very compact
Cheers
Steph <email>
Tijuaana, BC MX Tue 10/10/2006
Ziplock Bags, A Travel Lifesaver
Ziplock bags are a travel lifesaver. I put animal cookies, cheerios, playdough and baby wash clothes in them. The baby wash clothes keep the kiddies laundered, fresh and clean :).
Jeanine
St. Johns, Nwfl Canada Fri 10/06/2006
Double Duty Packing Tips
I just got back from a 14 day tour of seven countries. By packing a soft folding bag in my suitcase, I had an extra bag for taking dirty clothes to a laundry and it came in handy as a second checked bag at the airport. (Souviners can put you over the 50 lb. limit) Second thing I found handy was Huggies Disposable Washcloths. They already have soap in them and can be tossed away. Aveeno also offers a baby shampoo and body wash that is great.
Brenda Chitwood <email>
Hurst, TX USA Fri 10/06/2006
Tips Learned Packing light for my Germany trip
Just got back from Germany for two weeks - using an RS Converitble Bag (non-roller) and a Northface day pack. Since Lufthansa had 8kg restriction for the carry on - it was tough to get it just right, but I learned how to pack lite and cary hiking/travel clothes that dry quick and keep you comfy. The packing cubes are great too. My backpack was heavier or as heavy - but it counts as a "personal item" like a purse or laptop or briefcase. I had a bunch of guide books and camera equip which was a bit heavy but managable. I quickly learned that traveling light is indeed an art and needs practice since after just a few days my packs seemed heavier! I send heavier souveniers home via POST (not cheap but easier than lugging around). My mobile phone worked great - almost better then here - but got a bit expensive... but it was good to have to make RSVP and call home. Plastic bags were great and I brought enough to share with Ex-Pats who missed them! (1g 2g and small). Im not sure what else I would leave out next time since i had followed ricks guide pretty well, and most all my clothes were designed to be light (expedition and hiking etc). Convertible pants and t-shirts and underwear from Exofficio and REI worked great. All my shirts has secret pockets (Royal Robbins and Exofficio) as did the pants (Northface and Columbia). Together with the money belt it seemed to work well. Cant wat to go again! I did check my RS Bag on the way home since it got a bit heavier and I had some wine which couldnt be taken in hand carry. (Bring a little bubble wrap too)! Thanks for all those who shared their advice and helped me learn! Travel on!
TMB
Newport Beach, CA USA Mon 10/02/2006
Handwashing stained clothes
Washing clothing by hand does require some knowledge that the average American rarely has. However, many families in Third World countries manage to get their clothing clean without the benefit of boiling hot water and/or expensive stain removers. Here's how.
Soak and swish your clothes in soapy water as you would for a fine hand-washable. If a stain needs more attention, put a little extra soap on the stain and using a brush (scrub brush, nail brush, old toothbrush, etc.) brush out the dirt. Do not have the stained part of the fabric submerged in water while doing this. You may need to hold the cloth flat against a hard surface (like the sink) and brush it from the stain out to the edge of the fabric. You will literally be brushing the dirt out the edge of the fabric rather like sweeping dirt out the door.
Rinsing is very important to have clean clothes. Two rinses would be the minimum, and four rinses are usually not overkill.
Would I carry a brush for a week-long trip? I'd take enough underwear for the week. For a month-long trip? Carrying a nail brush vs. 30 pairs of underwear is a no-brainer.
J
FL USA Mon 10/02/2006
Just do it!
However you do it, make sure you PACK LIGHT. On our first trip we were a bit suitcase heavy, and have learned that it is a bit of a challenge to hop onto trains quickly with too much stuff. Those trains move out very fast -- so pack accordingly! small, light, easy to maneuver. Lessons learned!
Julia C.
Denver, CO USA Sun 10/01/2006
Packing cubes
If you should happen to find yourself staying in a place with no shelves or drawers for your use, as my husband and I did recently in a very weird hotel only 80 miles from our home, having your clothes and small belongings in packing cubes keeps them neat and organized even if you have to stack the cubes on the floor! I would guess that Zip-loc bags are good too, but possibly won't stack up as neatly.
Meg Rosenfeld <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Fri 09/29/2006
Packing Cubes
Packing Cubes are the best! I purchased 4 cubes for my trip to Europe in April although I was sceptical they would be that helpful. Well, I couldn't stop praising them the whole trip. They really helped me to stay organized, and I seemed to have more space in my luggage because of them. I've since taken them camping, on personal trips, and on work trips. Love them!
Ismay
Fredericton, NB Canada Fri 09/29/2006
Compression bags
I almost always use compression bags. I had problems rolling them to get the air out, so I started putting them on a bed with the openings away from me then laying on them slowly from the bottom up - this gets the air out and doesn't cause wrinkles. The only problem I had with this method was at a hostel in Galway where I had the top bunk!
Kathie
Denver, CO USA Wed 09/27/2006
I've seen mixed comments on compression bags, but I'm a big fan of them. They wrinkle clothes so I use them for underwear and socks, but they really compress the heck out of them! I bring 2 with me; one for the fresh clothes, one for the dirty (I turn my socks inside out after wearing to tell them apart). And the compression sacks keep the odor from dirty clothes away from everything else.
I don't bring the 5 sets of underwear Rick lists, but 3 pairs of underwear & t-shirts made of a poly material that I wash right in the sink, and 6 pairs of socks. One of the travel clothes-lines made of 3 strands of rubber is great for hanging it all, and I do laundry every other nite.
mikemac
USA Tue 09/26/2006
Handwashing wool
Following are instructions for handwashing wool clothing that is IMO superior to drycleaning.
Fill a sink with tepid water and a squirt of shampoo or dishwashing detergent (Woolite is too harsh for me). When done, submerge the sweater and gently squeeze the suds into it. Leave soak for a couple of minutes. Lift the sweater out (may gently squeeze, but do not wring) and empty the water and refill with fresh water. Submerge the sweater and gently squeeze. Repeat the rinsing as many times as needed (at least 3 rinses.) You may put some hair conditioner in the final rinse if you like. To avoid shrinking the wool, you should avoid too much agitation or sudden temperature changes.
Roll the sweater in a towel to remove as much moisture as possible. Another technique to remove moisture without damaging the sweater is to put it in a pillow case, go out side and swing it around your head like you are wringing a chicken's neck. (Grasp the "neck" of the pillow case.) Centrifugal force will drive out the water (and give you a watering) while the pillow case will protect the wool.
Lay flat to dry. You should do some minor shaping to ensure that it comes out to the right dimensions (e.g. pull down on the sleeves, broaden the body, etc.)
J
FL USA Tue 09/26/2006
New TSA Rules
Earlier this morning, it was reported that you could carry on liquids - if purchased AFTER passing through security.
HOWEVER, the new TSA posting - if you would follow the link in the posting just down from this one - says that you CAN carry on most liquids and gels - IF they are less than 3 oz each (eye drops 4oz) AND if they are placed in a zip top clear bag, AND placed on the belt (or in the grey tubs) seperately from your other bags so they can be hand/eye inspected.
PLEASE follow the link the other poster so wonderfully posted for all of us to read- it is extremely important so we can all understand the new rules, and keep the security lines flowing smoothly.
Shoes must still be removed...
USA Mon 09/25/2006
It is not an accurate statement that liquids must be purchased after passing through security. Travel size liquids purchased at home may be packed and carried on as long as they meet the requirements in terms of size and their ability to fit in the quart sized plastic bag.
Seattle, WA USA Mon 09/25/2006
Liquids and TSA
Just remember that the liquids you can carry on have to be purchased after you've gone through security.
Portland, OR USA Mon 09/25/2006
TSA rules relaxed somewhat
The TSA today relaxed its restrictions on carry-on liquids and gels, so travelers can now carry their travel-sized toiletires in a clear quart-sized plastic bag that can be x-rayed separately. Hurray!
Go to: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/index.shtm
and click on the new security measures effective 9/26/06.
USA Mon 09/25/2006
Gilly and wool
If you are only traveling for a week or two, unless you have an issue with body odor, you should be fine. You do not have to clean a wool sweater each time you wear it.
I can suggest bringing a dryer sheet and placing this with your sweaters to "sweeten" the smell a bit.
I can also suggest that you layer with a synthetic shirt/t-shirt below the wool. This is the shirt that you can wash in a hotel sink and have it dry before the next day. This should absorb any "bad" odors and leave your wool sweater "fresher" for the next travel days.
I can also recommend that you take 2-3 sweaters (if they are indeed lightweight) and switch them off...wear one each day for 2-3 days, then start over..allowing each one to "breathe" between wearings. This will help to keep the sweaters fresher.
USA Sun 09/24/2006
non-liquid substitute for mascara
Try "old-fashioned" solid mascara that comes with a brush in a small container that looks like eye shadow. Here is one type:
http://www.amazon.com/Femme-Cake-Mascara-Brush-Brown/dp/B0002T49OM
USA Sun 09/24/2006
Wool Sweaters
How does one care for wool sweaters that are normally dry cleaned at home? I would prefer to bring my wool sweaters vs my cotton ones, since wool is lighter, offers better odor control, and warmer, but I'm not sure how I can easily care for the garments when overseas.
Gilly
Los Angeles, CA USA Sun 09/24/2006
pants question
Corduroy, or anything that is 100% cotton, is never a good choice. Too hard to care for. Takes too long to dry. REI has an Adventure series (pants and shirts) that more reasonable priced than Robbins and ExOfficio and IMO a better product. My wife found a very stylish, wool blend pants at E Bauer. My favorite travel pants comes from Sam's Club under the brand Outer Rim. However, it may be a seasonal items as I have not seen it recently. This is our summer wear and for winter we just add long underwear. Much more convenient and lighter than wearing heavier winter pants.
Frank P.
Centennial, USA Sat 09/23/2006
pants question
If you are traveling the winter months, cotton is NOT a good idea. Very cold. Corduroy or jean pants are not the best for travel.
Look for a synthetic pant for travel. Dries fast. Check out Royal Robbins or Ex Officio . Banana Republic makes pants from a jersey knit that is excellent for travel too.
USA Sat 09/23/2006
Corduroy pants
Are corduroy pants good for travel purposes? Are they preferable to jeans? I'm looking for something easy to wash and presentable.
Nelly
San Diego, CA USA Fri 09/22/2006
winter
We go to Europe every year right after Christmas. I take stretch velvet separates in black because we sometimes have to dress up. They are warm and can be casual or dressy depending on how you accessorize. I mainly wear my faux uggs and a ski band over my ears.
carrie
pacific grove, ca USA Fri 09/22/2006
Winter Packing
I support Ellen's comments. We live in the same part of the county where we can have wide temp swings in the winter. I would add a couple of comments or some alternatives to her suggestions.
We find a fleece vest under a rain jacket to be better alternative to a fleece jacket. Second, Marcia likes a polypropylene turthneck as one of her base layers. I don't because it is too much fabric around my neck but it is warm. We add gloves, and a nice, dressy, wool scarf. I like a stocking cap and she prefers ear muffs but she has a lot more hair than I do and our rain jackets have hoods.
We use our normal summer pants but add a long underwear bottom. Other than the fleece vest, almost no additional weight or bulk is added. And I would emphasis --- NO COTTON -- everything should be synthetic or synthetic blend fabric.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Thu 09/21/2006
Packing for winter
As always, LAYER, LAYER, LAYER!
Take several light weight layers - since it's winter, silk or merino wool (not itchy!) base layers are a must - you could always sleep in these too.
Smartwool makes great lightweight baselayer Merino wool for both men and women.
Next layer is a light sweater. Something with wool or silk or a combo is perfect.
next layer is fleece..this will keep you warm, plus it's lightweight.
next layer is a waterproof jacket...again, lightweight, but with the layers below, you will be toasty. then when you go into a building, and it's warm, you simply remove one or two layers.
Bottoms...you can find fleece lined pants - Aventura makes some for women, and Sportif does for men. these are not dressy, but look good, have clean lines and will be toasty for all day touring outside! Find these online at www.Sportif.com
Jeans are cotton and will be cold. You can layer under, and they will be better, but you are better off with a pant like mentioned above, or find a nice wool pant with a liner. Plan on max of 2 pair for your entire trip...you can dry clean them when you get home!
Remember a hat..something to cover your ears. When your head is cold...your body is cold!
Socks...again, go with wool. Smartwool, or Wigwam make great socks.
Footwear. Waterproof! Just in case of cold rains, or snow. Goretex is OK, but any shoe that is advertised as waterproof will work - without the cost of Goretex. Several companies offer this type of footwear...Rockport, Timberland, and REI brands. make sure you purchase a pair with a good sole...something with grip for safety on wet, snowy streets!
Ellen <email>
USA Thu 09/21/2006
packing for winter
My husband and I are traveling to Italy in November-December. We want to dress nice, comfortable and keep WARM! How to pack light, look nice and stay warm enough?
sandi
Seattle, WA USA Thu 09/21/2006
mini carry-ons
I have travelled to Europe dozens of times and never cease to be amazed at the carry-on dilemmas people put themselves into. what does one need on board a plane anyway? a ticket, ID, cash, eye glasses or contacts, kleenex, a paperback book and toothbrush perhaps? my point? shed your fears! you can fit all your stuff into a 12"x14" nylon or plastic bag. don't be so darn helpless or concerned about who-knows-what! leave your SUV mentality at home. free yourself of the corporate ball and chain and your security blankets! i sure won't miss those bulky, swaying carry-ons that complicate what should be a simple trip.
liz
boulder, co USA Wed 09/20/2006
Making it with only Carry-On Luggage!
I just posted this on my missinghawaii website's blog and realized I should share these ideas with my favorite group of travelers too...
I have prided myself for years on only carrying one bag and never checking luggage. The recent security changes have made that feat rather trying. But, after some initial moaning and groaning, I have decided to look at this as a challenge and figure out how I can still travel with only a carry-on bag.
The best discovery I have made is powdered toothpaste. This is available in most health-food type stores like Whole Foods and Wild Oats. And, while it doesn't taste as great as the paste, it sure beats a 20 hour trip with bad breath!!! I also remember a product they used to make - Oral B Brush-Ups - they were little brushy things that went on the top of your finger - the stores here tell me they are no longer in production, but I'm holding out hope they will come back.
Burt's Bees makes just about every bathroom product in solid bar form; I'm guessing this was originally intended for serious campers, but it works great as carry-on luggage. A shampoo bar gets you through the first night at your destination till you find a shop! Dove makes little packets of face cleaning cloths that you just add water to.
The only thing I have not been able to figure out a non-liquid substitute for is mascara. Any ideas?
One note - things like powdered toothpaste are confusing to the screeners; if you don't want your entire carry-on taken apart piece-by-piece (yes, that is my underwear, thank you), it's best to put all this stuff in one toiletries bag and put it in the tub of stuff to be screened separately (that way they only need to empty the one little bag) - a tip I learned from a screener on my last trip.
For a full list of what you can and cannot bring onboard, visit the TSA's website and discover interesting things (such as on the allowed list: "Personal lubricants - Up to 4 oz."). The website is www.tsa.gov/travelers/index.shtm
Happy Travels!!!
hope <email>
Albuquerque, NM USA Wed 09/20/2006
no mascara
Hope, you can have your eyelashes dyed before going on holidays--it's good for a couple of weeks or so. Some salons even offer temporary dyed on makeup, but I don't know how it looks or lasts.
Canada Wed 09/20/2006
No mascara/eyelash dyes
Please be careful if you're considering dying your eyelashes -- FDA strongly warns against it.
http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/cos-821.html#dyes
Portland, OR USA Wed 09/20/2006
to dye or not to dye
Okay, in all honesty, I hardly ever wear make-up, but it's the one thing I couldn't think of a suitable replacement for, and I was trying to be inclusive of make-up wearers. Never heard of dying your eyelashes - interesting!
hope
Albuquerque, NM USA Wed 09/20/2006
Packing light (and legal) mascara alternative
Instead of tube mascara, try cake mascara. This is an old-fashioned product that predates tube mascara. Do a Google search and you will find it.
Yes, I agree this is a packing light forum. In today's environment where carry-ons are restricted, we are all trying to find alternatives to the banned items that still allow us to pack as lightly as possible. Cake mascara is an alternative that works. Amazon.com shows this cosmetic items ordered frequently right up there with tooth powder.
Seattle, USA Wed 09/20/2006
t-shirts and sweaters
Just a set of thoughts someone may be able to use... I travel to Europe in the off-season, partially because of the fares (I can travel more often) and because I don't like the crowds of summer. I get what I feel is a better experience, immersed the culture not the tourists. What I learned a long time ago is to pack t-shirts for the trip, and no more than two sweaters or sweatshirts. With the t-shirts I can change them and wear the same outer clothes for much longer, significantly reducing what I carry. As a 48 year old professional in my n'th mid-life crisis, this allows me to easily backpack my way around Europe with minimal bulk.
Dave <email>
Dallas, TX USA Mon 09/18/2006
Compression Bags
Compression bags are great if they are the kind that you roll out. I don't use them so much for the trip over but for the trip back. It makes more room in my bag for additional stuff I've bought if I can put my clothes in the bags and flatten them. They don't take up any room when not in use since they lie flat in the bottom of my bag. Rick's mesh bags are more for organization. I will be using them for the first time in November and am eager to see how they work.
Marhanal
Lexington, nc USA Mon 09/18/2006
compresion
compression bags are great for more bulky items....
I used them for my leather pants which I only wore at night clubs.
they are not a pain to use if you get the right ones that just roll the air out of
USA Sun 09/17/2006
Camera Batteries
When I was in Europe I took a AA battery recharger. I had two pairs of batteries and would change them out in my camera each morning before I left my hotel room. One pair was charging and one was in use each day so I always had fresh batteries in my camera. I have found since then that the rechargable batteries work faster in my camera. It seems to recycle faster and is ready to go after taking a pic.
Andy Perry <email>
Louisville, KY USA Sun 09/17/2006
travelling light
What I learned about travelling to London is that some things never get stocked up enough, like batteries! Also, pack an ipod or mp3 player, the music adds to the enjoyment and passion of travelling, it also helps during those long flight, train rides, or trips on the tube. In warm weather bring along wetnaps, or any wipes, they help too cool you down, also, EVIAN skin mist helps a great deal.
Dove cleansing cloths pack well, lather up great and are gentle on all skin types. Bandages come in handy for blisters too. Great shoes are the most important wardrobe item, after all, your feet carry you the furthest!
Snacks should be bought locally though, many of them get squashed and damaged anyway during travel. You can get away with one carry on suitcase for either men or woman providing you remember that most people don't care how well you dress when travelling,a s long as you look appropriate. Sleep in the nude or wear something light, like a t shirt bought during your trip!
Keep grooming simple, get a wash and wear haircut before you go, take travel size toiletries for short trips.
Aundrea <email>
CANADA Fri 09/15/2006
ETBD Packing Cubes & PackMates
Packing cubes are wonderful for organized packing and finding things in a hurry. Also great for going through security. I never bothered with PackMates (compression bags) until I borrowed one from a travel partner. Thank goodness she had one for my skirt from Aix! Without the compression bag the skirt wouldn't have fit in my backpack if it was the only item in there! Now I'll always take at least one PackMate for just in case.
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Fri 09/15/2006
Compression bags
I agree with Frank. compression bags are a pain to use. I find packing cubes much more user friendly.
I pack according to use: t-shirts in one, undies in another. I use a small one for all my AC adaptor cords when traveling...ipod, camera, cell phone, etc.
They are great for going through security at the airport, and nice to keep that bag from "exploding" during the trip when you get hurried to pack to return home.
Packing cubes just keep the inside of the suitcase much more manageable.
Suzie
WI USA Thu 09/14/2006
Packing Envelopes
I don't find the compression bags to be very practical. Often than a light weight sweater, I am not packing anything that needs compression. The sweater compresses nicely in a gal size Zip Lock bag, But I do find the packing envelope to be very useful. The medium size is a perfect fit inside the typical carryon bag, The clothes pack tightly, no wrinkles and the underwear and socks fit tightly around the edges.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Thu 09/14/2006
compression bags
It's nearly impossible to compress jeans. Compression bags worked the best on soft items like sweaters, socks and underwear.
Shirley
Ft Worth, TX USA Thu 09/14/2006
when to wash towels
gilly
microfiber towels dry fast - so wash them whenever they smell or seem really dirty. If you rinse them out after use they should be okay for a while unless you are wearing makeup or get dusty and sweaty.
Debbie
Clinton, WA USA Wed 09/13/2006
Microfiber towels
How often should I wash my microfiber towel while on vacation? They're about 12x12. I'll be on vacation for 3 weeks.
gilly
los angeles, USA Wed 09/13/2006
Yoga Pants
Thanks for the tip on the yoga pants! I saw them in the Target flyer this week and was wondering how they would be. I was happy to hear that the back didn't sag. I'm having that problem with another pair that I tried from GAP. I'm going to go grab a pair from Target before I leave for Europe on Saturday!
Jenny <email>
St. Cloud, MN USA Tue 09/12/2006
packing light
Ladies!! I found a pair of yoga pants at Target that I will LIVE in during my two week trip to Europe! They are super comfortable, (I'll wear them on the plane) stylish, and best of all I've been wearing them for two days on a trial run and the butt hasn't bagged out! These look as great with a tank and blouse as they do with a t-shirt. They're in the excercise section and come in black and gray.
Jane <email>
St. Cloud, Mn USA Tue 09/12/2006
Luggage
I found this Eddie Bauer light weight duffle/backpack roller carry-on at Target that will be my one and only piece of luggage for a 16 day Italian trip. I've test packed it and it is ideal for my needs(Our plans include hiking in 5 terre as well as dining at Michelin starred restaurants). I also have a very compact duffle that folds up to a size of a thick slice of bread for the purchases. We depart from Rome where I plan on doing most of my shopping.
Alma
Portland, OR USA Mon 09/11/2006
Carry-on's To/From/Through the UK
Hello all,
I am leaving this Friday from Seattle, US with layovers in Canada and the UK enroute to Italy. With the new 'no liquids, lotions, gels or aerosols' policy for carry-on's, are damp "Wet Wipes/Moist Wipes" with moisturizers on them acceptable?
Much thanks!
Janná
Seattle, WA USA Mon 09/11/2006
RE: Time frame of packing list time
Remember that you probably want to leave some room to buy clothes when you travel. Even if you don't, it's really best to stick to the "wear one outfit, pack two" theory of packing light. You can always add a couple of lightweight tops if needed.
Of course, if you just can't live without more outfits and don't mind the extra weight and bulk, go ahead and carry more. You need to be comfortable when you travel!
Phoebe
USA Wed 09/06/2006
Packing list
Rick's lists are generous! My husband and I did an around-the-world trip to celebrate his 50th birthday. We took no more than we normally take for a 1 or 2 week trip and it all fit nicely in Rick's convertable bag. You might be surprized what you can do without! And you can wash as often (or as seldom) as you need to.
USA Tue 09/05/2006
Packing Lists.
USA-- the list is accurate. Packing light is packing light. One week, three weeks, or three months it is always the same. You are basicly wearing one and carrying two changes of clothes -- a few accessories will change the look but the basics remain the same. IMO the key to successful packing light is the packing list. We pack on paper for about a month before anything goes in the bag. If want our lists, ask.
Frank P, <email>
Centennial, CO USA Tue 09/05/2006
RE: Time frame of packing list time
Hi - Rick mentions on DVDs, Shows, and books that he uses the same packing methods for 3 weeks or 3 months... so unless its a quick weekend trip - the list should be fine! (adjust for cold weather too with heavier jacket/sweater!)
CA USA Tue 09/05/2006
Time frame of packing list
I've noticed that Rick has a packing list here on his site as well as a packing list for women. I was just wondering what length of time that packing list is for? I will be going to Europe for 3 weeks and was just thinking that the list didn't seem like enough. I'm all about packing light but ya gotta be reasonable to.
USA Tue 09/05/2006
If you are travelling to Britain but also connecting to another flight in Britain, you also have to pick up your checked luggage when you first arrive. Then you have to recheck it all again when you make your connection...so, you can travel into the UK with regular carry on allotment minus liquids/gels (check with your airline to be sure) but know that you will have to recheck everything and only carry on a briefcase size bag for the rest of your journey within Britain or wherever else you are going. Just remember FROM and WITHIN Britain you can only carry on one briefcase sized bag.
USA Sun 09/03/2006
When travelling OUT OF or WITHIN Britain you can only take a briefcase sized bag 45x35x16cm on board. You have to check the rest. This does not mean you can also take a purse. ONE BAG only. They are so strict about this that they have made up wooden bag sizers at every security check and people employed specifically to stand there and try out each person's bag.
If you are travelling on Air Canada OUT OF Britain you can only carry on what is their 'personal' size bag which is 43x33x16 cm (about 17x13x6 inches) This is a BRIEFCASE sized bag. Air Canada allows their regular carry on allotment when travelling anywhere else...like to the States or to Britain (2 pieces, 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 and 17 x 13 x 6 inches)....it's just travelling FROM/WITHIN Britain that you are restricted to the one briefcase sized bag. All airlines have had to adopt this new ONE BRIEFCASE sized bag rule when flying OUT OF or WITHIN Britain.
And we're talking a small briefcase, not the large expandable ones...those wooden bag sizers are VERY unforgiving!
USA Sun 09/03/2006
Carry-on Restrictions on British Airways
Does anyone know how strict British Airways is on their one "laptop" size carry-on bag? I have a normal size carry-on suitcase that I was counting on taking.
Tierney <email>
Fresno, CA USA Sat 09/02/2006
Solids and Powders
www.baa.co.uk
Click on 'Security Restrictions at all UK airports' to right. Then, scroll down to two files, one is pdf, the other is text format. These mention what you can and cannot take to and within Britain. Solids and powders are mentioned in the 'not permitted' list. I would check other country sites to make sure what you can take.
Canada Sat 09/02/2006
toiletries
I noticed the British security signs at Heathrow warn that they don't allow carrying of 'toiletries' including BAR SOAP. Talc powder was also mentioned. They do allow certain foods such as sandwiches, crisps, some fruit...not sure about what they think about gum. I bought band-aids with built in antibiotic ointment for first aid and also a wet washcloth in a ziplock will help you freshen up. Keep pills and such in original packaging.
Canada Fri 09/01/2006
Liquid Alternatives
If you truely want to carry-on now with the new restrictions, look for alternatives to liquid products. There are companies that make solid shampoo bars (Burt's Bees, Lush.com) which can also double as body soap. Try finding a dental powder instead of a paste. Use solid deoderant. Pack sugarfree gum for a quick mouth freshen up instead of mouthwash. No doubt there will still be things you'll need once you get to your destination, but at least you'll have some basics to freshen up with before having to find a drugstore.
Julie
LA, CA USA Fri 09/01/2006
Liquids
I hope that some entrepreneural types will open kiosk's at the exits of airports selling small bottles of nice shampoos etc. Wish I had the wherewithal to do it myself. Maybe Rick sould look into this as a sideline!
Canada Fri 09/01/2006
I really like the backpack I bought from this site - it really is just much quicker to move with it (instead of a regular suitcase). Also, I think it makes you look like less of a tourist than a suitcase.
Denise
lake mary, fl USA Thu 08/31/2006
Test out Backpack vs. Wheels First
This is a big decision, especially on the go as you will be- we are all so different. I would strongly suggest going to a sporting goods/luggage shop. Take some heavy books (or? but enough to add some real weight)...if you are going to truly pack light you should check the carrier's weight limits and attempt to create that amount in both bag. Then walk around the store and look at quick- dry pants, underwear, etc. After about 15- 20 minutes, with each, you should have some idea of what it would be like! For the record, once in Europe, I was on trains and ferries a lot and noticed that the European travelers had humungous bags- I repeatedly saw young girls with three or four bags, and they somehow managed to wrestle them all over the place!!!!
USA Thu 08/31/2006
TSA Safety?
Just made a round trip from Virginia to Dallas, TX. No one confiscated my tiny bottle of hand sanitizer in either direction. Either the quantity was too small to care about, or I don't look like a bomber.
However, on my way back, the TSA folks at Dallas hollered "bag check" over my carry-on. The nice fellow inspected my deodorant (solid) and a small film canister that I keep in my toiletries kit. It contains Rolaids.
He asked me if I had anything that could be construed as a weapon, and I said, "I have a rat-tail comb that was my mother's." He never asked to see it. It has a metal frame, and the rat-tail is spring loaded and pops out when you press a button. Conceivably, it would make a dandy weapon.
Not sure if these are incidents to worry about!
Carol
VA USA Thu 08/31/2006
I am going to Europe for 3 weeks and will be traveling from London to Rome and just about every place inbetween. I am debating between a backpack or a suitcase with wheels. Any thoughts on which would be best to take?
USA Thu 08/31/2006
just the maps
I have a book for Cheap eats for London handy but too heavy so I take colored copy of maps from book with few checks or notes on map I always know the deals or I may just find resaurant and be surprised
John Brangwin <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Wed 08/30/2006
Something to concider
Remember" big boys and girls"it is not easy to just go to Walmart and buy more so don't pack too light just in case one shirt or pants get ripped. A friend had 2 pants ruined in Africa and was told no clothes his size here --try next COUNTRY!!
John (Big Boy) Brangwin <email>
Bellevue, Wa USA Wed 08/30/2006
Packing Light
I do believe that Heathrow Experience was saying that she was overpacked (and planned to do better next time). That is what I read from it, anyway!
On my own packing (we leave for Europe in a week), I found a clearance yesterday on some Pro Spirit shirts (about $2.00) that should be easily hand-washable. Those were at Target. Good for working out, but nice enough to wear out for a day too.
Denise
Lake Mary, FL USA Wed 08/30/2006
Light Shopping
Something to consider is the weight and bulk of the items you buy to take home. That has tripped me up more than the initial packing.
Hyden Ettevroc
Rockwall, TX USA Tue 08/29/2006
HearthRow Experience
Fifteen shirts, and two large rolling duffels is NOT packing light or even close. A little carry on bag with five shirts is going light but ditch the rest. Get serious.
USA Tue 08/29/2006
Heathrow experience
I want to share my experiences from having to fly into Heathrow on August 12. I have struggled to pack less for years. Being forced to do it finally opened my eyes. I usually pack for myself and my husband a little carry on bag with 5 shirts, one pant, 5 socks, 5 undie and toiletries. Then, we also check two large rolling duffles with all the 'just in case' items. Lately I have noticed that many bundles of clothes I pack into these rolling duffles do not see the light of day on the entire trip. I wear my favourite t-shirts and usually have a laundry trip at least once. I take about 4 pants and usually wear 3. I take 15 shirts and wear maybe 8. I take a few little sleeveless tops I think I might need if it is hot...and never wear more than one.
We were bound for Heathrow August 12 and had to completely rethink and replan our packing strategy. Not knowing if Air Canada would take carry ons, not knowing what would happen in Heathrow when changing to a domestic flight. We were prepared with our clear plastic bags with wallet, passport and medications. And, I had my little carry ons packed accordingly. We could take the carry on minus liquids and gels and electronics on Air Canada out of Canada. Then, we had to pick up our luggage in Heathrow that was checked and then recheck the entire lot, carry ons included when we changed to our domestic flight. We kept only our clear plastic bags while flying within Britain. Through security again at Heathrow bound for our final destination, they took my favourite pen and some medications (pepto bismal and gravol from my little first aid kit) as these were medications that were not prescribed and therefore did not have personal names on them...(they did not take this same stuff from my husband's plastic bag... he got a different security agent) Other than that, the lesson learned was that we could fly with the minimal amount and be O.K.!!! It was hard to get used to hanging onto a clear plastic bag as I'm so used to a waistpack. And, the contents are on display for all to see!! However, the freedom was unimaginable! We eventually upgraded our clear plastic Ziplock bags to ones from a duty free shop with handles (just bunged the old Ziplocks in them) and felt quite comfortable. We made fewer unnecessary purchases as all we had were the plastic bags with no room for anything else.
I will probably try to pack this way again...but maybe with ONE change of clothes in a carry on and the rest in hopefully one day ONE checked rolling duffle. One can only try and try again! I felt quite scared that we might lose our luggage on the way there with all the increases in checked luggage and changes of planes. Plus, we had an instance of maybe having to spend a night to wait for a plane...with only our plastic bags!!
As for security, there was not one instance where we could predict what they would do. They did not confiscate anything on the way back (I put pepto bismal and gravol in our plasctic bags on the way back and they were not confiscated)
I can only suggest that one be prepared with a small bag with the very basics and check everything else.
Canada Sun 08/27/2006
Another bit of advice for Kim/heavy packers
Next time you come home from a trip, write down everything you packed but didn't wear/use. Revise your packing list for your next trip accordingly.
USA Sat 08/26/2006
packing light
I travel with one backpack (for my size and age..66!) and one very small duffle bag. I pack an extra nylon, with drawstring closure, gym-style back-bag to use when I am in the city or taking short hikes/walks. It's large enough for a rolled up rain jacket, scarf, tiny gloves, binoculars, money and IDs...I also have a very small, flat nylon purse with long adjustable strap that measures just big enough to carry passport, credit card, cash, tiny pen and tiny address book for airline take-on or my in-city "window licking" (window shopping). So most of the time I am a hands-free traveller. I am frequently asked, "Is this all you have?".....yep! I was Rick Steves before he was!
liz
boulder , CO USA Sat 08/26/2006
Best advise for packing lighter
Take a smaller bag.
USA Sat 08/26/2006
I can't imagine wearing anything 4 days in a row! I am bringing one outfit that is sun protective and VERY light, easy to clean and dries quickly. Plus a couple of other outfits - but I expect I'll be wearing the sun protective outfit every other day.
I like my big cotton socks, so I do pack more socks. I have some underwear that can be washed and cleaned by hand, so I will bring that.
Denise
USA Fri 08/25/2006
Kim - heavy packer
Hmmm, I find it interesting that you know you are a heavy packer. You might need some specific advise.
To pack light, the maximum amount of underwear, socks, and tops are "1 on you, 1 clean, 1 dirty, and 1 drying". That is a total of 3 in your luggage. You must do laundry (preferably in your hotel sink) at least every 3 nights, though more often is safer. You should have half as many bottoms as tops, so that is 1 on and 1 packed. Same with shoes: 1 on and 1 packed; 1 walking shoe and 1 slightly dressier sandal. Thin flipflops are a potential extra for showering down the hall and going to the beach. A bathing suit is small and usually worth throwing in unless you are certain you won't need one. Jewelry should be a watch and the bare minimum of anything else. I prefer to take only the earrings, ring, and/or necklace that I wear on the plane, but if you feel the need for variety, having a change or 2 of jewelry (no more) is one of the lighter ways of getting variety. Include a light rainjacket and sweater.
Add a tiny first aid/repair kit and tiny toiletry kit; neither should be bigger than a sandwich bag. Complete it with a camera (small digital are wonderful), guidebook(s), and security belt for passport and other essentials. YOu may possibly need an alarm clock, small microfiber towel, and hostel sheet, but only if needed for your travel style. Oh, and don't forget a small envelope of home photos to show your new friends and a journal for recording your thoughts and memories.
Finally, 1 (ONE ONLY) splurge item. For me it is binoculars, for others it is a novel, for others it is knitting needles or a small musical instrument or extra camera equipment. Just be sure that it is something you will really use and appreciate having, and it is only ONE thing or ONE SMALL bag of tiny things.
That's it. Don't even consider anything else. If there is anything that you really need/want and didn't pack, consider it a handy excuse for some fun shopping there. And all the empty space bellowing the sides of your luggage is storage for the shopping.
J
FL USA Fri 08/25/2006
Another packing light tip!
One of the biggest adaptations I've made is to break the habit of thinking I am not clean if I don't have a totally new change of clothes each day. If you shower, and hand wash your undies/bras (you'll only need two that way, besides what you wear on the plane)you can easily wear the same pair of shorts/pants/skirt at least three, maybe four days in a row. If you can't hand wash your shirts, turn them inside-out overnight and spritz with anti- wrinkle spray. Take SHOUT wipes or a bleach pen or your small stain remover of choice and keep in your day bag for any drips. If your trip is only a week or two long, you can see how three bottoms/tops plus your plane outfit is basically enough. If your trip is longer, you can do laundry and buy a new top! Take a chance this trip and pack what seems like not enough, and see how you do! I have found that I really enjoy not having to think about getting dressed or what to wear, since I have to dress well for work. As long as you look neat, as the other poster pointed out, who besides you (and your similarly garbed travel companion)knows those are the same pants from three days ago?
USA Fri 08/25/2006
specialty travel towels
I'm a convert to microfiber towels. On a recent trip, I took a 16 inch x 16 inch microfiber towel bought in the automotive section of Wal-mart for $1, and it did an excellent job of drying me and my hair each evening. It dried overnight.
I recently bought a pack of 25 towels from Sam's Club for about $13, and have cut a couple into 4 - 4 in x 4 in pieces, hemmed the raw sides, and am looking forward to using them as washcloths.
Yes, you can buy full sized microfiber towels, but why carry the unneeded weight and bulk, and why pay the big price for them?
J
FL USA Fri 08/25/2006
Kim - heavy packer
Kim, here's what you do...lay out everything you THINK you'll need on your bed (floor, couch, wherever there is room!) and then take out HALF! I'm not kidding, you always think you'll need more than you do, but you forget things like you can do laundry while your on your trip (some places will even do it for you so you don't have to spend precious sight-seeing time in a laundry-mat) and nobody but you will know if you wear the same shirt three times on one vacation. Also, think about taking smaller things, you don't need the WHOLE bottle of shampoo, just enough for your trip, so portion some out into a smaller container. Things like that. Also, you gotta start with a smaller bag, no matter what size the bag is, you'll feel like you need to fill it, so if you have a smaller bag, and you fill it, it's still not as much stuff as you would pack in the larger bag. I hope this helps!
Erika
USA Fri 08/25/2006
Help Me..I am a heavy packer
Hi-I always have a tendency to pack waaaay to much on my trips to Europe. Last year my boyfriend and I went to Germany. We used the LL Bean Extra Large rolling duffle. We put all of our stuff in there. However, I had a lot more than my bf. Anywhere I go I always pack more than I should. I try to justify why I need this or that. Wind up not even using half the stuff. Anyone have any suggestions for me to cut back? Thanks-Kim
Kim
New York, NY USA Fri 08/25/2006
Ear Plugs
I just returned from Europe and my ear plugs were the best investment (if staying in hostels) also a micronet towel...though expensive was worth it! Its compact, dries fast and you dont have to wash it all the time!
USA Thu 08/24/2006
for Ingrid
Take some silk thermals for under your clothes. I traveled in West. Europe over Nov - Dec and Venice was colder than the Swiss alps. The silk packs really small, keeps you warm and you can use them as pj's in places if the heat doesn't work. I was really happy I had mine in Venice!
D
Vancouver, BC Canada Thu 08/24/2006
Packing Light at K-Mart?!?
Don't everybody laugh at once, but I was at my local K-Mart today, and they had inexpensive non-wrinkle slinky separates for women that are very similar to the pricey travel knits at Chico's (Jaclyn Smith Collection). I also saw PackMate compression bags, money belts, and mesh bags (travel/camping dept). If you're not near a specialty travel store or are on a tight budget, you might be surprised at what you can find at a discount department store.
Heather
MA USA Thu 08/24/2006
Mesh Bags
I also got nice mesh bags at a Dollar Store last year. I bought one pack for $1 that had three small bags in it, but they are big enough for a pair of shoes or more. The other pack had two larger ones. I think they even had some bigger ones that were one to a pack for $1. They even have zippers in them instead of drawstrings. I also found large mesh bags (with the drawstring) at a store like Home Depot or Menards. Hope this helps.
USA Wed 08/23/2006
Don't forget ziplocks!
The big, huge size are great for keeping items of the same type together- say, all your t-shirts. You can see the contents easily and no smells can get in (or out! once you are nearing the end of your trip you can use them for laundry). I also kept a separate ziplock for each mini guidebook I assembled for each part of the trip...another for first aid, etc. Especially now with all the increased security the bags also make it easy for agents to inspect your stuff while keeping it clean and intact.
Karen
USA Wed 08/23/2006
Mesh Bags - at camping/sporting goods
Mesh bags are usually available at local sporting goods stores that specialize in Camping/Mountaineering gear. RS has them on his store here too I belive.
USA Wed 08/23/2006
eyeglass cases
Just want to add a note to the airline restrictions. I just flew back from the U.K. to Atlanta via Gatwick on the 15th. They are not allowing any hard cases (i.e. eyeglass cases) to be carried on to the plane. I had to leave behind an expessive case at the security checkpoint, and by the looks of it so did several others on my flight. I did not see any warnings about this, and by the time I was told my luggage had already been checked.
JF
Columbus, GA USA Fri 08/18/2006
Cutting down on tee shirts
Here's a tip from a hiker (we NEED to travel light).
Don't use cotton tee-shirts. Go to a hiking store and buy a couple of tee-shirts that hikers use as their lowest layer. They are made of what is often called "wicking material", so-called because if you perspire, the moisture is "Wick"-ed away from the inner surface to keep you dry and comfortable. They are great for travelling, because if you wash it in your room, wring it out, then squeeze it in a dry towel, it will dry on a radiator in less than half an hour (in fact, because of its wicking property, it's even possible to put it on straight away.
With just two or three of these, you will need to pack no other tee shirts.
They seem a little expensive at first, but they are very durable, I bought my first one five years ago, and still use it. They are very comfortable to wear, they HAVE to be for use when hiking.
Chris Jones <email>
Sheffield, Yorks England Fri 08/18/2006
Toothpowder by Eco-Dent
Eco-Dent makes a toothpowder that is both easy to use and great tasting. The 2 oz. bottle comes in about 5-6 different flavors and lasts for months. They also have a travel pack which contains 15 1-day packs which are very light and easy to carry, and are safe as carry on luggage as there is no liquid. most health food stores have it or check out their website at www.eco-dent.com They even claim that Oprah Winfrey has it in her medicine cabinet at home!!!
fred
racine, wi USA Thu 08/17/2006
Powder Shmowder
I have tried toothpaste powder on a trip to Slovakia and found that one tube only lasted me for one night. I used root beer instead of water to dilute the powder (due to the lack of H2o) and the paste turned into clay-like substance that clogged the sink in my hostel. I ended being charged three extra nights for the clog! I don't know if the cause was the root beer, the powder, or the hostel plumbing, but next time I'll make sure to use chewing gum to clean my teeth instead.
Joey Pinini
Reno, NV USA Thu 08/17/2006
packing
When i went to Europe with my family for a month we put all our stuff in one big suitcase. we where charged extra at the airport because the suitcase weighed too much. if we had put our things in two seperate suitcases we wouldn't have been charged extra
USA Wed 08/16/2006
toothpaste powder
Toothpaste powder only weighs 1-2 ounces in it's original container. I travel with it often. It comes in mint or cinnamon and can be found at co-ops/health food stores/sporting goods stores etc. A container will last for approx 6 months.
Bobbi
Minneapolis, USA Wed 08/16/2006
Roll on
Bev, in most cases the difference between a roll-on and a carry-on bag is not stairs, it's having to check your bag to So. America vs taking very little. With a 2# carry-on (empty) bag I am limited by the airlines to 15# of clothing and such. With a roll-on