Packing Creative Extras
While we're fanatic about packing light, we all slip a goofy little extra in. Which soothing, handy, or fun packing extravagances can you justify?
Read the Distillation: Best of Packing Creative Extras, 2005
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Germany & washcloths
@Patricia, I can most certainly assure you that Germans do use washcloths. They simply consider them too personal an item to share, so travel with their own. Any German department store sells washcloths, and every German home I've visited has had them, as has every German guest that has visited mine.
Machtnichts
Austin, TX USA 02/02/2012
keeping track of travel info
One trick I have for keeping track of my passport, itinerary, money, emergency contact papers and other important information is putting it all in a very bright green cloth pencil bag with plastic window. It's got a zipper so secure, it's flat, fits in my bag and the window allows me to see stuff without having to open it. I add a couple empty bank envelopes for receipts or ticket/museum stubs The nice thing is that it's got a hole in the corner of the bag so you can clip it inside your bag-for extra security. My friends laugh but I know where everything is when I travel.
tammy
tri-cities, wa USA 01/17/2012
Must for ladies
Ladies - one of the best things I've ever packed for travel is from www.thePakstore.com. They have these very small (about the size of your palm) little bags that hold 30 essentials in a very organized/small way. Small scissors, emery board, floss, toothpaste, lotion, hand wipes, tissue....list goes on and on. Seriously, it's a must!
Sarah
San Francisco, CA USA 01/16/2012
Important extras
1. Soft, disposable washcloths - by Johnson and Johnson.
2. Clothepins - to hang lingerie after washing, or to keep curtains closed tighter, & many other uses.
3. Coins and bill in the currency of the country you are traveling to.
4. Small compass that has velcro closure and is worn around the wrist.
5. Scarf for sudden showers or to cover shoulders in a church
Linda
Broomfield, CO USA 01/07/2012
Tips
Save tiny containers to repackage and reduce the size of cosmetic and drug packing. Spray athletic shoes and luggage with waterproofing spray. Make a luggage "raincoat" for small wheeled bag using a stretch kitchen garbage bag. Take tiny metal clamps to use as clothespins and a couple of wire coathangers. Use the bathroom wastebasket placed in the shower to launder a few things at night and hang them in the shower to drip dry.
LEE
BRADENTON, FL USA 01/06/2012
Make up
For the ladies who cant live without some make up, try using double duty items. Tinted moisterizers with an SPF work really well, bronzer adds color to the face and can double duty on the eyes, small multi color eye make up trays can be used for eyes, brows and eye liner. Check out the multi product compacts that are available. Alot of perfume brands will come in a "roller ball" wand with is no bigger than a mascara tube, or you could get a sample from the counter!
Shelly
Calgary, AB Canada 12/30/2011
Starched Clothes
Before going on any long trip, we have our blue jeans (and khaki pants) laundered and heavily starched at our local dry cleaners. You can wear them for as many days as you can stand it--and they still look great.
David V.
Florence, AL USA 12/21/2011
Winter Dry Skin
To prevent skin dryness, chapped lips, scaly legs, fissured hands and skin tightness due to exposure to cold temperature (and sometimes due to heated rooms), apply a humectant - skin lotion used to reduce the loss of moisture - then sealing it with a another product that will keep the moisture in.
Reduce intake of alcohol and caffeine and as much as possible avoid smoking for these will enhance dryness. If smoking and drinking can't be avoided, drink at least 2 liters of water a day. Avoid long hot baths for this can cause skin dehydration.
Petroleum jelly such as Vaseline is a MUST for travelers during winter.
Jojo Layon
Catarman, Northern Samar, Philippines 12/08/2011
Electrical cube tap adapter
Carrying an iPad, iPhone, iPod, iThis, iThat? Finding a sufficient number of outlets in a hotel room is rare. Take along one of those little electrical cubes called a cube tap. You'll have three outlets instead of one. You can take one European-to-U.S. adapter to plug the device in and then you'll have three U.S.-type for your U.S. devices. Also think about the presence or absence of a grounding prong.
Gene McCullough
Denver, CO USA 11/30/2011
Mailing tubes
It is often recommended to pack a mailing tube to safely transport posters, lithographs etc. This I did on a recent trip to Italy. Unfortunately, the poster I purchased was larger than the 20" tube I had packed but the art store sold me a very sturdy 29" tube for 1.5 euros. I later used the smaller tube to protect a tall cylinder of lemoncello -- both items made it back to the USA in perfect condition!
Pat Lebanik
Middletown, DE USA 11/19/2011
Packing creative extras
On our several trips to England, I have taken a piece or two of bubblewrap and a small tape dispenser for wrapping breakable souvenirs.
Sherry
Harpswell, ME USA 10/21/2011
Wine drinkers everywhere!
When travelling I always bring a reusable cork- a wine bottle cork with a plastic end so it can be [INVALID]ed and removed easily. At restaurants we can order a whole bottle of wine (usually better than buying wine by the glass), never have to finish a bottle "just because we've paid for it" and have some wine for the next day. Try it!
www.slow-days.com
simon
Florence, --None Italy 10/14/2011
Solid Perfume
I pack very light with limited wardrobe and cosmetics, but I enjoy smelling good. I've never actually traveled with perfume but I just found tiny tins of solid perfume at Wegmans grocery store, mostly floral fragrances. I'm always trolling for travel equipment so I was thrilled. They sell them on their website, too: www.pacificaperfume.com.
Arlene
Altoona, PA USA 09/22/2011
A little security
Instead of using TSA locks on my luggage zippers, instead I use the black twisty ties that come packaged with electronics cables (similar to bread bag ties). They are discreet since they are black and allow me to secure the zippers from being opened or self-opening during my trip. It serves as a deterrent to curious hands and gives me a little peace of mind when I place my luggage or knapsack in a storage bin.
Alex Simms
Southington, CT USA 09/13/2011
Extra pillows
We sleep with lots of pillows and always take at least one with us when we travel. On our last trip, we also took extra pillow cases and put soft clothes like sweatpants in them to serve as extra pillows.
Nancy
Fairfield, IA USA 09/07/2011
Packing Light
Ladies pack wrinkle skirts/dresses; roll them up and when unrolled still look great. Scarves for around neck/around waist as belt/around head for protection from sun or as custom in host country/around hat to pull down or just to fancy the hat up. Tie very nice kerchief around wrist to use when needed to wipe brow-looks good. Pair of ballet flats that have good soles- roll up- and look good and comfortable during dressy times or just an extra pair of shoes. When in host country and need to keep clean buy baby wipes to use when in transit. Battery operated hand size hand-held fans for hot transit or invest in collapsable hand fan also collapsable see through umbrella that packs small.
hartletop
somewhere, MT USA 09/01/2011
CUrrency conversion "cheat sheet" cards
Before leaving for a foreign country, I type out business-card sized "currency conversion cheat sheets" - using a two column format.
For example, in one column I type the euro amount (1,5,10,20,40,50,75,100, and so on) and in the next column, the corresponding dollar equivalent.
Then I laminate (or use heavy clear package tape to "laminate") and carry in pocket, purse, etc.
If I'll be using multiple foreign currencies, I'll use the front side of the card for one currency and the back side for another.
I've even used this type of cheat sheet for temperature (celsius to fahrenheit) conversion.
The cards are a great quick reference - making it much easier to estimate the "dollar" cost of items, especially when you're on a budget.
Terry
Austin, TX USA 08/31/2011
Brooches
Like many others I always travel with safety pins in case of wardrobe malfunctions. However, i also carry a nice, classic brooch that fits all my outfits. I can use it to dress something up, wear a scarf in a new way or close my cardigan (that doesn't have buttons). There are so many different styles out there, that no matter your personal style, you'll find one that suits it.
Dani
08/27/2011
Free Shampoo, Fleece, etc.
If you travel for more than a few days and pack light you will need to wash out clothing. I have found the free, hotel provided shampoo works perfectly fine for all my clothes washing. I never bring a clothes line. I just pack one plastic hanger, the type used for a women's suit - and hang that hanger over the shower head in the bathroom.
For Fall, Winter, Spring travel pack a lightweight fleece jacket. I use that instead of a bulky, space hungry, bathrobe and it is very comfortable.
We like to snack in our room so we pack a tiny, camping style salt/pepper shaker, a "prong" style cork remover, a spoon/fork combo utensil from REI, and one small plastic plate per person, all packed in a zip lock baggy. These items are light weight yet extremely handy and have never been rejected by the TSA.
NWTraveler
Seattle, WA USA 08/22/2011
Creative Extras
I always pack a small jar of peanut butter for an off time snack...pick up a bread earlier in day, also instant coffee or tea bags. Often, with time changes, my appetite hits at odd times. Sometimes, you just want something simple in the room. Also will not leave without, wipes, castor oil, microfiber towel and small flashlight.
Mary A
Ann Arbor, Mich USA 08/21/2011
Steri-pen and reusable aluminum bottle
An aluminum bottle and a steri-pen make my trip so much more enjoyable. Bottled water isn't always safe (especially in Mexico, where locals fill empty bottles with their home tap then sell them to tourists), and buying several bottles a day can really add up! I fill my aluminum bottle from the sink in my hotel, or public fountains, then use the steri-pen to make extra sure the water is safe for consumption.
Tiffany
Smyrna, GA USA 08/11/2011
Foot brush felt great
I took a foot brush with me on a three week trip to Germany in July. It was great to be able to scrub my feet (and the inside of my rubber bottomed sandals) clean every night before bed. The brush and the sandals were dry by morning so easy to take the next day
Sally B
Hillsboro, OR USA 08/10/2011
typed itinerary for lost luggage
I always pack a copy of our typed itinerary in each piece of luggage just in case our luggage is lost or delayed- I include the dates and the hotels with their address and phone number. If you arrive at an airport and are leaving immediately it can be difficult to retrieve your delayed luggage. This happened years ago in Italy, if not for a persistent operator at our hotel who spoke english we would not have gotten our luggage in Sirmione a good 3 hour train ride from Milan. Because I had the information typed out she could trace our luggage and we got it albeit 3 days later, before the next leg of our journey.
Diane
Newport Beach, CA USA 08/07/2011
Baby Wipes and Altoids
---Not used in combination of course! I always pack one of those travel size pouches of antibacterial baby wipes. These are a lifesaver on a long flight or in questionable restrooms. And the Altoids are fabulous for that "red-eye flight" breath or to soothe an upset stomach.
Kim
Tulsa, OK USA 08/05/2011
Foot wipes and foot lotion
After walking for hours around Venice, we would return to our room int he afternnons, take off our shoes and treat each other to soothing foo tmassages with refreshing foot wipes and peppermint foot lotion. Kept us going for man,y many more miles. that day. I will never leave home again without these essentials.
Jeanne
Sugar Land, TX USA 08/05/2011
Dry-fit shirts
Dry-fit polo shirts are worth their weight in gold! We wished we had brought more. It's impossible to sweat through them and they don't wrinkle. Only downsides are cost and you always look like a golfer.
Sherry
Palo Alto, CA USA 07/30/2011
Long Skirts For Churches/Monasteries/Convents
If you will be visiting churches, monasteries, or convents, I highly recommend looking at the long skirts sold by Athleta.com. I bought 2 below-the-knee skirts that were anything but dowdy. Plus they were made of technical fabrics that were sweat wicking, fast drying, and wrinkle-free.
Sherry
Palo Alto, CA USA 07/30/2011
Avoiding plane germs; Peeing standing up
We travel alot and bathrooms are not always available or advisable. Go-Girl (www.go-girl.com)--helps solve the problem; or the toilet has no seat. We have used this in bathrooms, whilst hiking or on long-distance walks. Packs small, reusable and discreet. It lets you pee standing up. An option guys always have available.
When flying, we use hand sanitizer before we enter the plane and coat the inside of our nose with bacitracin--it's an ointment you can pick up in the drug store for $2-3. Helps defeat the germs.
JMA
Lakewood, OH USA 07/19/2011
microfiber towel for drying wash
pack a microfiber towel. A good quality one for rolling up washed clothing and it will squeeze most of the moisture so when you hang dry, the clothes have a headstart drying. It also doubles as regular towel if you wash your face when traveling.Pack it in a zip bag. This will dry in no time on your line or hanger.
Lisa
Warren, nj USA 07/19/2011
Ice Bags
One of the wonderful things about traveling in Germany and France is the cheapness of decent wine or beer when purchased at a non-touristy market. But they're usually sold non-refrigerated. A great solution is an "ice bag" that they use at restaurants in Europe and sell all over the place. A few ice cubes and some water and your wine/beer/soft drink will be chilled in a few minutes. Packs flat, is super light. Great for the beach, picnics, hotel rooms, etc.
Sarah
Stuttgart, Germany 07/11/2011
Packing Creative Extras
For jet lag, I bring Melatonin. You can buy it over the counter, and it makes you sleepy in minutes. And for the hotel bathroom, I bring a small spray bottle with room deodorizer in it - saves embarrassment! Small scissors are very useful too.
Heidi
Gilbert, AZ USA 07/11/2011
Earplugs
The most satisfactory earplugs I have found, and I have used them for years, at home and when travelling are "Ohropax" Classic, wax ear plugs, sold in many drug stores. They are made in Germany and are easily shaped to fit your ear. I buy the box of 12 and each pair is good for weeks of use. They also come in a box of 2 plugs. I have tried every other type and found these were best. They stay put.
YEL
Toronto, Ont Canada 07/08/2011
Instant Coffee
During several trips abroad , the one thing that made me homesick was not being able to have coffee right when I woke up. The lack of caffeine coupled with jet lag made for some seriously cranky mornings even though I was lucky to be in these amazing places. I just came back from my second trip to Paris and this time I packed Starbucks VIA Mocha flavored coffee and Moo-Moo's creamer packets (no refrigeration needed). It definitely did the trick! Although I still had my second cup of coffee at a cafe, of course, I was incredibly pleased with how much better the mornings started! I'll be packing both the VIA and creamer for all my trips both domestically and internationally for here on out in case of coffee emergencies!
Jenny
Littleton, MA USA 07/01/2011
Dry toiletries
I bought some cute little packages with dry shampoo sheets, conditioner sheets and body wash sheets. They don't need to go into my Qt liquid bag on the plane.
Now if I can just figure out how to remove the sheets with dry hands when I am "wash, rinse, repeat" -ing.
Denise
Kirkland, WA USA 06/23/2011
clothesline
Small, rolled up length of nylon line to use as a clothesline; we didn't mind wearing pants / shirts 2-3 times, but were able to wash out undies and socks, and hang them in the hotel room to dry (if you don't have a problem w/ the maid spying your delicate items!)
Richard
Raton, NM USA 06/18/2011
flat rubber sink stopper
Don't forget one of those old-fashioned white, rubber, floppy-disk-type sink stoppers. They cost about a dollar, take up no room and come in very handy in those hotel bathrooms with no stopper (most of 'em!). It beats stuffing a sock in the drain to keep the water from draining. I'll add my 2 cents to the "leaving clothes" debate. I'm all for it and always do it. And no, I don't leave "crap"! I leave very nice things that I no longer wear here at home. I don't understand why some people, who object, get so upset over the issue. If you don't want to leave things, then don't! But don't bereate those of us who do!
trudy
San Antonio, Texas USA 06/18/2011
zip lock bags
Zip lock bags!!! :) Put dirty or clean items in them, sit on it, then seal it. It greatly reduces space. For dirty cloths it keeps the others fresher.
Jim
Williams Bay, Wi USA 06/15/2011
Making room for souvenirs...
I'm a little perplexed by this idea: "Don't throw your old crappy clothing away in other countries! Donate it!" Hmm...is it really better to attempt to DONATE ratty clothing than to just toss it? Not to mention that I'm pretty sure people in other countries throw away old, falling-apart clothes too...
That being said, I do agree with the idea of bringing old underwear and tossing it as you go along. If it's due to be thrown out anyway, why not put it to use one last time? This rule is especially good for old socks, which take up more room than underwear usually does. Plus, you'll always have room for little things you'll find in the shops abroad.
Another thing I like to bring is a little container full of baking soda. Sprinkle a little in your shoes each day, or a little in each sock before packing them, and your feet will never, ever smell.
Lea
Belle Plaine, MN USA 06/12/2011
Keeping cool
My favorite extra is a small fold up fan, the kind you buy in Asian gift stores. That and a small spray bottle of water will get even a menopausal-hot-flash sufferer like me through a hot day.
Dee
Lake Elsinore, CA USA 06/11/2011
Notes about photos
To remember details about my pictures without carrying a notebook and pen, I just run the video record option occasionally and say where and when. Most digital cameras have the option to record a few moments of audio/video, and this way my notes are right there with my photos. These files can be deleted when you get home.
Sherry Moore
Paradise Valley, AZ USA 05/28/2011
power strip comes in handy
With all the items needed to be charged during a trip, we bring a small power strip. Plug it in (with converter, if necessary) and everyone can plug their phone, mp3 player, camera battery. It's great to keep everything in the same area so you don't plug things all over the room and possibly forget something.
sarabeth
woodland hills, ca. USA 05/12/2011
Paperwork
I have a small packet of important papers that I throw in a bag for every trip. It includes photocopies of passports, medical insurance cards, our powers of attorney, medical powers of attorney and living wills. I've seen too many people on cruises become ill and even die in another country and I want to be prepared with all the paperwork.
Marilyn
Hot Springs, AR USA 05/06/2011
Extra Empty Bag
I pack an empty zip up tote bag in my suitcase. It folds flat and is made out of lightweight nylon. At the end of the trip I stuff it with our dirty clothes and use my suitcase for all the lovely new clothes and home items I have bought on the trip.
Kat
Boston, MA USA 05/02/2011
My iPhone
What would I do without my iPhone? Before leaving home, I sync it with my Kindle so I have my Rick guidebooks on it. Rick has various audiotours available for download, as well as his new Audio Europe radio broadcasts. With just my iPhone, I can read from the guidebook, take pictures, make travel notes, look up maps, etc...right in the palm of my hand. Oh yeah, it's also a telephone and iPod. Fabulous for the light packing traveler.
Beth
Alsace, USA 05/01/2011
and the kitchen sink....
The wife and I backpacked 12 european countries over two months and found these items critical: downy wrinkle reducer- works not only to reduce wrinkles, but also to remove odors (can also use watered down fabric softener in spray bottle), small headlight, compact binoculars (great for studying facades of cathedrals), pepto pills, tide stick, leatherman, 5-10 feet of duct tape rolled around pencil (makes compact), ipod touch with micro speakers and loaded with translator and city/metro maps. the only item that I really desired was gold bond cream.
kent
delta, alaska USA 04/25/2011
oh yeah...
forgot to add a small aa charger for the ipod
kent
delta, alaska USA 04/25/2011
Wearable flashlight for your head
My favourite extra is a headlamp. Literally, one of those dark caving flashlights you strap on to your head. They are small, light, and infinitely useful, especially when you want your hands free while you are stumbling around trying to find your gear in a darkened hostel room or wandering the halls looking for the bathroom in the dead of night. Well worth the investment.
Lauren
Edmongon, AB Canada 04/11/2011
Portable Door Lock
Of all the creative extras I travel with, my favorite is a portable door lock that functions like these: (http://tinyurl.com/bdv3ph) (http://tinyurl.com/44srcsr) (http://tinyurl.com/3fkjlz2) Do check out the links if you are looking for something smaller, though by no means cheaper, than a door wedge.
I have yet to be in a situation where I really needed to additionally lock my door, but for the size {fits in my palm} and weight {as heavy as two soda bottle caps} of my lock, it seems to always find a place in my pack.
Jane Ko
Garner, NC USA 04/07/2011
Discarding underwear = STUPID
How much room does one even save by tossing their underwear.
My Mom taught me to have good clean underwear in case of accident and having to go to a hospital. Think about it - do you really want to be seen with your ratty underwear?
I think the whole idea of leaving your ratty underwear all over Europe or any where else is terrible!
Lydia
Havertown, PA USA 04/02/2011
Aaron and his underwear
I am SO tired of people thinking it's a unique idea to take their crappy underwear or shitty clothing to travel to another country and dump it there in their trash. Do you think you were the first person to come up with that idea? Do you really think it's a great idea? Do you go to a nice city in the US and take your old clothes and just leave them in the hotel for the maid to handle? Listen travelers. Set a good example for the world. Travel LIGHT, what you pack in, you should pack out. If you have old stuff, donate it to Goodwill here in the US. Take less with you on your travels, be a good neighbor to the world by showing respect to other countries.
Of all things ---OLD UNDERWEAR? At least leave a decent t-shirt that someone might be able to use after you, but don't leave it in the trash! Donate.
Sick of people leaving their trash in other countries
A person who cares about our enviornment, USA 03/31/2011
Underwear!
Sounds crazy but I pack all my worst underwear...the ones that are in really bad shape. I bring enough so I just wear them once then throw them away. Forget bringing back a suitcase full of dirty shorts. It makes room for a few more trinkets too.
Aaron
Missoula, Mt USA 03/15/2011
Toilet Seat Liners
Toilet Seat Covers-I have used the little packs of paper seat covers for travel and in the car, however, some years ago, I realized that the plastic bags from most stores are about the same size as the paper seat covers. I found I can cut two seat liners from each plastic bag. I've been using these plastic seat liners for several years now and find them very easy to make and pack in small bags for use during travel and to keep in my every day bag. The best part is that they are plastic so no direct contact with whatever may be on the seat. Of course, these covers must not be flushed but rather placed in trash cans. The covers can also be made from many types of plastic film materials we receive and cannot recycle-dry cleaner bags, packaging material, etc.
DCA
CA USA 03/13/2011
Things I add
I buy a pr of cheap socks to wear on outbound flt., thru security, etc & then kick my shoes off for for the whole transatlantic flt. I pitch them as I get off plane since I've worn them to the yucky wc etc. Also have ziplock bag that lives in my lingere drawer labeled "WAPS" for wear and pitch. When underwear begins to get ratty I tuck it in the bag & wear my waps @ beginning of trip. (At night when I undress -- wap -- I throw the panties in the trash can.) Have found bringing a few tea towels very handy. I carry 1 on flts. & to put in my lap when I eat or drink like a giant napkin. Much easier to rinse out than my travel suit. Also handy for picnic cloth etc. Once I even put the dishcloth over my face on a long flt. when seat mate turned out to have HORRIBLE breath; told her I had migraine & needed to block out light. I carry on my pashmina too & use it like blanket or to cover my head so I can sleep... shake it out & wear it to concert or opera. My daughter's luggage has gotten drenched on several trips & all contents wet. She now puts big garbage bag inside suitcase & tucks garments inside the bag.
lucie
st francisville, la USA 03/08/2011
Alternative to money belt
I'm a HUGE Rick fan (just attended one of his seminars in MPLS today) but for anyone who hates adding bulk around their waist (money belt/pouch) I found the clear deal at Magellan's. It's an ankle wallet that secures with velcro & is large enough to hold 2 passports & your larger cash reserve. It is hidden under your pant leg, very comfortable to wear & convenient to retrieve money, etc. when you need it.
Faye
Dassel, MN USA 03/06/2011
earplugs
Don't forget a few good earplugs for a better sleep.
Giuseppe Nero
london ontario, ont Canada 02/27/2011
Nebook Benefits
For both of our trips to Europe in the past year, we've taken the netbook we own with us and it's been great to have with us.
We've used it to back up camera memory cards onto a jump drive; to keep travel info (including address books) on a jump drive; to look up restaurants (or other finds) online while traveling and check menus and locations on GoogleMaps; to make reservations for sights.
The convenience of being able to access the internet at the beginning or end of the day (for weather, especially during a recent winter trip to Paris) was great (and easier than trying to find and work around internet cafe hours). If you're staying somewhere with WiFi, it's definitely worth making space for!
PlannerGrl
Washington, DC USA 02/27/2011
Extra hook
I've found it useful to pack 1-2 plastic over-the-door hooks. Helpful for hanging shower kit, for clothes etc when hangers are few, even works on hostel bunk-edge.
Mary
Vancouver, BC USA 02/15/2011
Bring a winter hat
I don't know if it should go here or in the packing light section but....
If you are going anywhere the least bit cool bring a good knit winter hat.
It is my experience that a winter hat plus a windbreaker and a fleece is considerable warmer than windbreaker plus 2 fleece and no hat. And almost as warm as three fleece and windbreaker. But the hat takes up a fraction of the space in the luggage as a second or third fleece.
Might not be worth bring a winter coat to Europe for one day in the alps, but find room for the winter hat.
Ed
albany, ny USA 02/14/2011
Magic Gloves
Unless you're traveling during the middle of summer, bring a pair of gloves. The little $1.99 stretchy gloves you can pick up at a drug store are perfect, nothing fancy, no big deal if you lose them. I figured I would never use them on my trip to Spain & Italy last year, but they ended up being total lifesavers when we got to Venice on a freezing cold, windy, rainy day. They made it possible for me not to be totally miserable walking around outside and kept me from having to spend my first day in Italy trying to keep warm indoors. I would never have thought I would have actually used them (it was mid-September), but I did, and was very glad I had them.
Krissi
Seattle, WA USA 02/13/2011
packing
i never,never travel without blister pads you can find them in band aid section
no matter how broken in those shoes are a overly humid day or long walk and youll be glad you have them in your first aid kit they will stay on for a couple day even though a shower
cathy murray
swanton,, ohio USA 02/13/2011
How a carryon packer deals with bag checkers in the family
I've traveled internationally all my life, and still do quite a lot for work, so I have been a convert to living out of one carryon-size bag for years, now. My wife still can't bring herself to do it. After her luggage was lost when she accompanied me on a business trip to Spain, I came up with a plan for subsequent travels. She packs a change of underwear and an extra outfit in my bag. That way, if her luggage is lost, she's still good to go for the day that it usually takes to get it back. When we travel with our kids, my wife shares her suitcase with our 3 year old daughter, so we put an extra outfit or two of hers in my suitcase as well. We've done it for my stepson in the past, but now that he's 13 I am going to really work on him to be a carryon guy. If their emergency clothes take up too much space in my bag, I just transfer some shirts and extra underwear into theirs.
Mark
Houston, TX USA 02/08/2011
Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps
I use Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps (http://www.drbronner.com/index.html) as a body soap and a hair shampoo and it works great! And since it's a bar, it doesn't take up room in your ziploc toiletry bag.
Andy Perry
Louisville, KY USA 01/12/2011
Having more clean clothes to wear
Everyone has clothes that they wash and think they will wear again, but never do. I bring what I need and then I don't have to do laundry. I throw them away each day. The maids love them. You then have room to bring your trinkets back. I make copies of my passport and itinery and back and front of Then I put one copy of the passport in my wallet along with my eticket and cash needed for that one day. In my travel waist wallet under my clothing goes my real passport, ccards & travel itinery. I never, never wear any jewlery as even cheap stuff often looks real enough to get you robbed or at least harmed. ALWAYS< ALWAYS, Imodine AD Advanced, Leno says why would you want less than advanced. Small tube o cortosone for bug bites, cuts and maybe 2 or three bandaids. Small flashlight, travelers alarm clock, Wash cloth but i you forget it buy a hand towel and cut it in squares. I throw in the hotel shampoo an bar soap. Some hotels use the kitchen dishsoap in a dispenser on the shower wall, YUK. Packets of hand wipes makes great tp. REI has a lightweight jacket that scrunches down to palm size and has it's own bag. Good luck, don't lose your tickets. I liked someones idea of you having a set o clothes in your friends luggage and on of theirs in yours in case your luggage gets lost.
Barb
Boise, id USA 01/07/2011
Packing essentials
Americans going to Germany need to note that Germans do not use wash cloths. At hotels, you have to request one.
Patricia Bedtelyon
Williamsburg, VA USA 01/05/2011
Silk long uunderwear
Pack a pair of silk long underwear. If the weather gets cold or damp you will apprecaite them. One can even sleep in them. I took a pair to Tanzania in June and used them during the rains.
pat
clayton, ga USA 12/30/2010
Day bags and whatnot...
I know that Rick and others say to not use fannypacks as they make you look like a tourist, they're stupid looking but don't worry about looking like a tourist, they will know but I have a much better option: I use a waistpack on my belt sort of like what you would see in the military (I use a money belt too) and someone will have to knock me cold to get it It's on solid and I can move it around to be in front of me in crowded areas and to the side when I sit down. In there I've got (very organized) hand sanitizer, a pen, a small pad, a poncho, a swiss army knife, a compass (I finally learned my lesson on that one getting lost so many times,) a half-pint of... whatever, and my camera. On the side I found I could hook on one of Rick's pocket packs and attached it even more securely with velcro so if I want to buy something I've the bag to do it (and I don't work for Rick so this is no ad!) As for looking like a tourist, like I said they know. I dress in neutral colors, that's about the only thing I do out of the ordinary.
Wade
Edmond, OK USA 12/08/2010
Hand Warmers
I travelled to England when the weather was still quite cold but, I found the disposable 8 hour hand warmers are great to keep me going and staying warm, especially after I lost a glove. I even transfer the hand warmers into my shoes if they got too cold. Easy to pack, disposable and inexpensive.
Canice
Bedford, Tx USA 12/05/2010
Thermacare Heat Wraps
I tend to get a very sore back when traveling. All the sitting on the plane, standing for long periods and walking take its toll.
I now pack Thermacare Heat Wraps in my luggage. Instead of buying the ones for the lower back I get those for the top of your shoulders. They fit me better and come 3 to a package instead of 2 which make them less expensive. Each one usually lasts for at least 8 hours or more and they don't take up hardly any room in my luggage.
Another bonus is when the weather is really cold, they help keep me warm!
bettyk
Missouri City, TX USA 12/05/2010
Plastic bag rolls
I always take a roll of my dog's 'toilet' bags. They are inexpensive, colourful, strong but biodegradable and come in convenient (and small) rolls of 50 bags. Useful for pretty much everything from packing food to carrying wet stuff and tying things up to using as a rainhat or footcover or (if neon yellow, green or orange) as an emergency flag. I've even used them as giftwrap. I rarely leave home without a roll in my bag
Mary
Vancouver, BC Canada 11/27/2010
Laundry helpers
On most recent 5-week trip (Oct/Nov 2010 to Paris, London, cruise ship and US visits) we took along an almost weightless, black, mesh laundry holder that starts flat and pops open to form a rectangle. Bought for $2 on sale at Walgreens, fits in top zip pocket or bottom of average suitcase, stows easily when opened up in even small closets. We dropped our dirty clothes in there and carried it by the handles at the end of each week to laundromats near our hotels. Used the excellent tip on this site to carry Purex sheets - they take up no room, work great at the laundromat, and can be cut into strips for handwashing in the sink. No worry about spilling bulkier liquids or powders in your luggage.
Chris
Cedar Point, NC USA 11/21/2010
Blanket for travels
The best creative extra I've ever brought on a trip was a snuggie blanket. Great for keeping warm on drafty flights and hotels. Rolled up it can double as a pillow. I even wear it as a bathrob. It fist nicely in a suitcase rolled up in, and put in the sock area.
Moochy Maxwell
Butte, MT USA 11/13/2010
A few things I've learned
I know that Rick recommends that ladies forgo wearing make-up on a vacation. But, if you pack it right it can be really nice - especially if you are going out for dinner in the evening. I also pack a few ornately printed scarves which can dress up even the most basic of outfits and can act as a light shawl. I tend to pack only practical clothing (a few t-shirts and 2 pairs pants, plus one pair sandals and my boots), so having a couple of girly things is really nice. I am also a huge fan of Ex Fficio underwear - easy to wash in the sink and one only needs 2 pairs!I have not found a solution to sweaty socks, but always enjoy an evening footbath after a long day of hiking to every castle and cathedral in a given area.Having clean feet is soooo refreshing! If I'm travelling somewhere hot - or plan to do a lot of hiking - I pack or buy baby powder (the anit-perspirant trick doesn't work for me, as I have super sensitive skin) and use it EVERYWHERE on my body. It was a real help in Mexico and Italy!
Erin
Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK 11/06/2010
Travel Comforts
I take my wooly slippers to wear on the plane, and for the hotels. Nothing like something warm and wooly to feel more at home. I find room in my suitcase for them. :)
Joe
Los Angeles, USA 11/01/2010
Staying clean and fresh
In Italy now and I am so glad I brought individually packaged "Wet Ones" for hygiene and for quick spot removal. Also heavy-duty tissues in small packets. Useful when the WC is out of paper. Finally, instead of liquid soap, we use the Purex sheets. I cut a few into small pieces to use in the sink, but also brought a few full-sized sheets for the laundromat.
Laurel
Portland, OR USA 10/16/2010
My creative sponge
I came up with the idea of using a new, simple kitchen sponge (yellow sponge on one side, green scrubby on the other) to clean my clothes off of everyday dirt and cat hair on this most recent trip I'm on now. I brought black, as one does to Europe, and am staying with people with cats. My slightly dampened sponge gets a lot of the cat hair off, and has been good for taking off any "road dirt" from pants, coat, shirts. Very helpful. A tiny bit of soap and water and the sponge does the rest of the work.
Alison
Auburn, WA USA 10/14/2010
Caffeine Addicts!
European hotels typically don't offer in-room coffee-you have to wait until the breakfast room opens or seek java elsewhere. As an early morning java junkie, I solved this problem by bringing a small immersible water heater, cup and packets of instant "joe". Worked perfectly!
Regina Valencia
Santa Fe, NM USA 10/10/2010
Dirty laundry
Instead of putting all your dirty laundry in one bag or sack (it gets too bulky) take along some small plastic bags, like ones the newspaper comes in. Each little bag will fit a pair of dirty socks or underwear or shirt. You can stuff these into spaces in your suitcase.
terry
portland, or USA 09/21/2010
Kay, the address labels are a must for sending poscards! I pack a travel size squirt bottle of woolite or other concentrated laundry soap for washing clothes in the sink. 13 gallon garbage bags for dirty clothes (to stay away from the clean ones), and they can be used for packing dirty shoes, too. All of the flight, hotel, car, etc. confirmations, addresses and phone numbers, directions, maps, etc. go in a plastic zip folder, placed in my carry on luggage, and in date order. When finished, they are shredded and thrown away. A deck of cards for flight delays or train rides doesn't take up much room. For those of you who hate to ask people to take your photo, a foot-long, expandable tripod works great. Before we leave, we always send our family our itinerary with hotel phone numbers, etc., in case of emergency, along with copies of our credit cards and passports.
Terri W
Eden Prairie, MN USA 09/17/2010
little extras
We just returned from 15 days in Central Europe, and we packed extremely light! However, some little comforts we found helpful & fun were: - travel journal & a sandwich sized tupperware box of supplies (glue stick, date stamp, double-sided tape, small scissors, etc) to glue in little bits & pieces as we went along (tram tickets, receipts, etc.) My journal is now done & I will eventually put details of this & photos on my blog at heididilley.blogspot.com - a few each of various sizes of ziplock bags, useful for an amazing amount of things!
Heidi
Riverside, CA USA 09/17/2010
After dinner coffee
We're just back from a great tour to Tallinn, Eastonia, Helsinki, St. Petersburg and Moscow, Russia. Other than ice, the only thing I missed from home was my after dinner Decafe coffee. Decafe is a must for me at night. Next trip I will take a supply of Starbucks decafe packets. Not as good as fresh brewed, but you can always get hot water and we didn't find any restaurants that seemed to have any idea what "no caffein" coffee was.
Jan Baker
Arlington, Tx USA 09/13/2010
I type out address labels on my computer before leaving for trip and that way no need to take an address book for postcards. Just slap it on the postcard, find post office and voila! those cards on on their way home - which I send the 1st or 2nd days on my trips.
Kay
Atlanta, Ga USA 09/11/2010
Ooops! Forgot one of the best things I always take with me - a very small rubber mat to use for taking showers. Too many bathtubs are extremely slippery and I surely don't want a fall from such. Mine came from K-Mart, is about half size of one of the regular sized ones. I fold it in half and slip it right inside of a 2 gallon plastic storage bag which fits flat on the bottom of my luggage. Also - after accidentally leaving one in bath in Germany, I take red fingernail polish and draw red "xs" all over it so I won't leave it again - quite noticeable there in the bottom of the tub. I also take a pair of my own pillow cases as I've found my face doesn't get chapped/red from sleeping on the hotel's cases which evidently are washed in extremely heavy duty laundry powder.
Kay
atlanta, ga USA 09/11/2010
small items that can be useful
1) Vitamins & a first-aid kit of whatever you usually need. Pack small amounts if you're going to large cities. They all have places to purchase larger amounts if you really need it. 2) Pack 2 toothbrushes & 2 small toothpastes for each person. 3) An extra chapstick. 4) Small hand lotion. 5) Small zip-lock bags for those bits & pieces that you accumulate and need to find easily. (Esp if you need to save receipts for business.) 6) Paper or plastic shopping bags with handles. Lots of grocery stores charge for shopping bags. (Altho they do make a unique souvenir) 7) Sharpies, yellow highlighter & a couple ballpoint pens. 8) Safety pins and/or a few clothes pins. 9) A small purse-size flashlight. 10) Extra batteries for anything that needs them. I like the battery-operated votive idea! Joan
Joan
Portland, OR USA 09/11/2010
Make a Honey-Do List
One great thing I've done for a trip is to make a list of 1) Must-See Sights and a 2) Don't-Give-a-Whit-About Sights Then we all compared our lists and concentrated on doing the Must-Sees on everyone's list. But knowing what we DIDN't want to do ahead of time saved a lot of time and energy while we were there. If you're really organized (not me) you can add the address and other details of the Must-Sees to your list. Also - take lots of memory cards for your digital camera. You'll take lots more photos than you think.
Joan
Portland, OR USA 09/11/2010
@Tuscany regarding mini passport: The U.S. government now issues credit card-sized passport cards. They are designed primarily for people who live near the Canadian/Mexican borders and who don't want to use a full passport. They are not accepted in air travel, but are accepted in ship ports and automobile entry points. But you CAN carry this in your travels overseas regardless of where you go, and this will be an actual legal form of ID! :-)
Lani Teshima
Dublin, CA USA 08/30/2010
Baby Wtipes or Bust
Having survived 7 yrs of traveling with over 300 people--on buses-- around the US as a bandparent, and one jaunt to London, I've learned to always travel with baby wipes. My favorites are the antibacterial unscented ones. I've used them to disinfect, freshen up, for first aide, and as napkins.
Kim
Tulsa, OK USA 08/08/2010
Stow unneeded luggage!
I live in Ohio and my soldier daughter was in Iraq for six months before she was given 2-weeks' leave. For months she planned her vacation to Italy with Rick Steve's help online, etc. We met in Milan and packed according to Steve's list and it was GREAT! We each had one case/backpack combo. The only problem was that she had to travel wearing her full uniform and we wound up lugging an extra large tote bag around with her uniform (including boots) in it! In retrospect we should have checked the bag in at the Milan train station for the two weeks and saved us some grief along the way to 4 more cities: Venice, Florence, Salerno, Rome and back to Milano. The suitcase/backpack combo bags were awesome! We felt like Steve was with us the whole trip, as we checked his guidebook every day. Thanks Steve, it was a trip of a lifetime. We stayed at hostels everywhere and although we were especially impressed with the hostel in Salerno, (which is more like a luxury hotel) at that location we missed "talking" to other guests. The hostel hosts were so friendly and only too willing to talk to us and teach us about their home city. It was sad to say good bye to my daughter knowing she'd be in harm's way, but two months later she was safely back home in the U.S.
MariaElena Bruner
Painesville, OH USA 08/05/2010
Packing Extras
We just returned from a 3 week trip to Germany and Italy with our 15 year old son and had several mishaps from which we learned. Three things that were used all the time were The Body Shop's Peppermint Foot Spray, a mini flashlight and washcloths. Our feet were tired and sweaty at the end of each day. The foot spray helped to make them feel better and was great in the morning to get going. None of the bed and breakfasts where we stayed had washcloths so we used them for our face. Also, the flashlight came in handy at night when I couldn't sleep and wanted to read, but everyone else was asleep. The other thing we bought before leaving was two shirts each that would dry overnight. We washed every night and had a fresh one in the morning--especially good since it was so hot. We wished we had taken shorts that were washable. The thing I took and did not need was a portable blow dryer--never used it. There was one even in the smallest B&B. Next time we will also buy two pair of quick dry underwear. Our luggage was lost for several days. Next time we will pack an extra set of clothes in our carry-on. Also, our son's luggage came two days after ours, so I will mix the clothes in the suitcases so there is some of each in the different pieces. We try to pack light, but will pack even less next time. Hope this helps someone.
Jan Burns
Franklin, TN USA 07/20/2010
Staying Organized
Before each trip I put all of our travel plans, airline flights, hotel confirmations, suggested places to eat, pre-purchased ticket vouchers for museums, etc. in a small three hole binder and carry it on in my carry on bag. It's organized and I know right where to find what I'm looking for when checking into hotels, flights, etc.. They make very thin ones that don't take up much room. Try Office Depot or Office Max.
Jim
Carmichael, CA USA 07/19/2010
Towel Alternative
While Douglas Adams may have thought a towel to be indispensable, I'd argue that a sarong/pareo can do everything that a towel can do, and double as clothing for a femme on the go. You don't actually need "fluffy" to dry you off. Do try it at home first, though, to get used to the new, odd sensation.
And to keep from packing a damp sarong on your last morning at a hostel, just use your sheet to dry yourself, and then leave it behind for housekeeping to launder.
Little J
Chapel Hill, NC USA 07/15/2010
Wine Opening Tricks
Instead of packing a wine opener, be creative and try this: http://www.wimp.com/wineshoe (I don't speak French and I understood the steps to make it work!)
Curtis
Miami, FL USA 07/13/2010
Games and More
Altoids tins are great for a few items. They can either be turned into a small first aid kit / survival kit or used as a small jewelry box. With a little creativity, they can be turned into travel games. For example you can paint a checker board and/or tic-tac-toe board on the inside and make small playing pieces with clay or shrink plastic attached to magnets. Instructables.com is a good place for tutorials using the Atloids tins.
Betty
East Meadow, NY USA 07/11/2010
Pill containers
Being older travelers, we have several pills to take each day. We purchased 2 inch by 3 inch zip lock bags from our local hobby store. These are sold as "jewelry" bags in the bead section. We filled each bag with the pills needed for each day, marked with the date of each day we would be traveling. A quart size zip lock bag held the pills for each week. These took up little space in our luggage and we could keep track of whether we had taken our pills each day or not (helpful when you have jet lag!).
Bonnie Johnson
Acworth, GA USA 07/11/2010
Underware and Socks
I agree with a prior comment. Get two pairs of Exofficio underware. They dry in 4 hours. You can also order the Magellon's socks at the same Megellon's site. They also dry in 4 hours. If you get the FoxRiver hiking socks, they take about 6 hours to dry. These are at the same site.
Paul
Houston, TX USA 07/08/2010
bamboo cutlery and self-catering
Personally, after a buffet breakfast at the hotel, I'm ready to self-cater (picnic) my own lunch from the local market or store. Since I was carrying my small suitcase on the plane, I could not take my S.A.pocket knife and fretted about cutting bread- but I did take a pocket set of bamboo cutlery with fork, knife, spoon and chopsticks from our local eco-store. Now I know that a pocket knife is not essential, since you can buy rolls which break apart easily or using the bamboo knife and the spoon would have been enough for salads and yoghurts. Bamboo has anti-bacterial qualities, is light and did the job.
Amy M.
Boulder, CO USA 07/07/2010
a little extra bag security
after having my local airline refuse to let me use the TSA approved locks on my checked bag, i have started tying my suitcase zippers together with dental floss-tape style. just a little extra security that is allowed-but beware, it is hard to remove when you want to! usually need a small knife to cut it-that's when i use the small multitool that looks like a key that stays on my keychain-it has never been refused by security (got it at home depot-key department)
Jeanne D
Memphis, TN USA 07/05/2010
Collapseable Vase
I like to bring one of those collapeable vases. They weigh nothing, and it's great to have fresh flowers in a hotel room, especially a budget one.
Carol
Toronto, On USA 07/04/2010
Loved the mini passport idea. I'll have to try it next time. I always make copies but never thought of laminating it.
As for losing luggage, try packing at least one outfit in your travel companion's luggage as well as your carry-on. That way you have 2 extra sets of clothes!
Renee
USA 07/03/2010
Battery operated candle
We bring little battery operated votive candles to use as night lights in the wc. No outlet required.
Diane
Houston, Texas USA 07/03/2010
Packing your carry-on
I have always heard horror stories about people losing their luggage when they travel, in particularly to other countries. So when I was heading out of the country in February, I decided to stick a clean outfit (including undergarments) in my carry-on. I also packed my toothbrush, a travel toothpaste, travel shampoo, hair brush, and a bar of soap in there too. Well, I happened to be the "lucky one" whose luggage was misplaced by the airlines when we arrived! However, it wasn't a big deal because I had the essentials with me.
K
Pittsburgh, PA USA 07/01/2010
What helped us.
Package of disinfecting wipes for plane and train rides. I wiped them down once seated. A small .5 fl oz of pure lavender oil. Used on achy feet, blisters, insect bites, and anytime I feel stressed. Using a small spray bottle, I would make my own room refreshener/ shoe deodorizer with a few drops of lavender oil and water. Viola! For doing laundry, I packed powdered oxi-clean and Purex Complete 3-in-1 cut in strips. Big safety pins helped secure our clothes as it dries(packed 12-14)hanging above the alleys and streets. 5 weeks in Italy and France all carry- on with no problem. Our 8 year old son carried the day pack.
Chris
Springfield, MO USA 07/01/2010
socks!
On a past trip to Germany I took too many pairs of cheap socks that slipped down in my shoes and were bsically worthless, causing me to waste time and money replacing them. Good socks, especially for hiking, are a good investment and will save alot of agravation.
Karen
Chicago, IL USA 06/29/2010
duct tape
If you are doing any sort of adventure-y trip take along a small role (or the end of a role) of duct tape. On our most recent trip, we used it for a luggage repair.
carol
Redwood City, ca USA 06/25/2010
Facecloths
re: face/wash cloths- I have bought babywash cloths and pack them instead of bring regular ones. They are thin and when squeezed out, they dry very fast! I have even bought very cheap ones in dollar stores( although they are not as big)and put them in cooler bags. When my husband is parading with his pipes and drum band he can use them to cool his face down, If they are lost, no big deal.I always bring a Rick Steves drying towel to squeeze extra moisture from laundry,but I wouldn't cut it as it too valuable whole.
Lisa
Stewartsville, NJ USA 06/21/2010
RE: Cost of European Toiletries?
Everything in Europe is so heavily taxed it's always going to cost more than in the US, especially US brands.
That said, I take exception with the notion that it's some kind of interesting part of the adventure to purchase toiletries in Europe. Even seemingly identical products to those you use at home could have slightly different ingredients for the European market due to chemical regulations. It wouldn't be very pleasant to have a rash or worse allergic reaction on vacation in Europe.
Aileen
Waycross, GA USA 06/19/2010
Wipes
I'm not a big sanitizer person at home, but always carry a small ziplock of face wipes when travelling. Perfect for cleaning hands before grabbing a street food lunch or freshening up before a restaurant meal.
JanisV
St. Louis, MO USA 06/17/2010
Cost of European Toiletries?
I like the idea of buying my toiletries when I arrive in Europe, but I have one question: In comparison to US prices, how much do they cost? (Someone here mentioned that a small deodorant cost 7 Euros in Paris.)
The first time I went to London was in the days before digital cameras and the film my camera required cost me $5.95 at home and 5.95 pounds in London. So I've always figured that it would be more expensive for me to purchase a travel-sized tube of toothpaste there compared to what it would cost me to purchase it before I leave.
Also, I've read a lot of comments about the little packs of soap sheets. Apparently they are really popular with campers and REI has a whole selection of them. I think each one costs about $3.95 for 50 sheets. I took them with me on my last trip and they were great for a quick morning wash-up. If you don't have an REI near you try a local camping supply or outdoor store.
GC
Midwest, USA 06/17/2010
Facecloths in Europe
Since most European hotels don't supply facecloths, what I've taken to doing is bringing my rattiest facecloths with me and leaving them behind as I move to a new hotel.
Tess
NJ USA 06/13/2010
Face Cloths
I bought a small Rick Steves' travel towel and cut it to make several face cloths. They are quick to dry.
JB
CA USA 06/13/2010
no journal and no camera
One time while traveling, we met a couple who didn't keep a journal and didn't bring a fancy camera. They bought postcards from every sightseeing place they felt worth it, wrote something about what they had done/experienced on the back and sent it to their own home. The most beautiful pictures are (in my case anyway, i'm not that good with camera's) always on postcards, and with the stories on it you have a very original 'photoalbum' to show your friends.
Wisis
USA 06/09/2010
mini passport
I scan my passport at 67% on my copy machine.
It reduces to a CC or DL size. I
laminate it with clear packing tape & carry it in a vinyl wallet insert, along with some folded paper money and a few C.C. in the spaces. Then placed securely inside a zipped or buttoned pocket.
I Do not carry it in the same place as my actual passport. (In case I would to lose it, I have a backup copy for quick replacement.)
I have had shopkeepers use the small copy for VAT paperwork, when my passport was back in the hotel safe.
Tuscany
USA 06/04/2010
Google Documents
Before I leave on a trip, I scan all credit cards, passport/ID, insurance cards etc (front & back) into a pdf or jpeg and then upload the file on to google documents. That way, if I loose my passport, I can at least have copies of all my items. Also, it's safer than leaving a copy in your suitcase, which could get stolen/lost.
Jessica
Long Beach, CA USA 05/27/2010
Money Belts - dry documents
I use a quart size ziploc baggie to put my money, passport, airline ticket, hotel voucher etc. into, and then into my waist money belt. Now when it is very hot and humid, my papers stays nice and dry, and not damp with perspiration. Another option is using several sandwich bags to keep each item in a separate compartment. Now you have dry, readable, intack important items! May seem bulky to wear, but worth the dryness and safty.
Barb
HB, CA USA 05/24/2010
Protect purchases
I cut a 3" diameter postal mailing tube to the longest length of my luggage. I use the tube to protect items such as posters, etc, from damage. Small and fragile items can also be protected in the tube. I usually pack several empty Rubbermaid type boxes in my luggage when I leave home to help save room for and protect mementos.
Dennis Schmidt
Elyria, OH USA 05/23/2010
Business Cards
I print business cards for each day that has a significant "event", such as: flight number and departure and arrival time; hotel name, address, and phone number; train times; car rental address and phone; emerncy phone numbers like my bank and debit card company. I make three sets -my wife and I carry one and the other goes in the suitcase. As the days go by, I just throw that card away.
Steve
Richmond, VA USA 05/19/2010
Journal Writing
This is probably a no brainer, but when bringing a journal to record my trip, I was always too tired to write in it at night. I finally figured out to write in the morning with my coffee what I did the day before.
Beth Forencich
Portland, Oregon USA 05/18/2010
Packing light but with comfort
I'm about to take a 24-hr train trip and wanted to take my neck Bucky (keeps your head from falling onto your shoulders when you sleep), but the buckwheat hull filling was too heavy. I took it out and stuffed it with bubble wrap. I can flatten the bubble wrap sheets into my carry-on bag and the Bucky outer case weighs nearly nothing and takes up no room without the bubble wrap.
Margie
Bellingham, WA USA 05/17/2010
Great Idea
LOVE the idea of printing the name and address of the hotel on a business card for the cab driver (In Italian). How creative.
Ernest
USA 05/14/2010
Language Problem...
We print business size cards in the language of the countries we're touring with the name & address of our hotels to hand over to a cab driver. It ends confusion and they seem to appreciate it.
Dick & Ann
Simi Valley, CA USA 05/08/2010
Caution! Hard Beds in Europe!
I vacuum seal a twin size foam bed pad ($10 @ Walmart). It ends up about the size of a folded bath towel, and doesn't take up much suit case space. I sleep like a baby on those hard beds, and leave it at the hotel so I have room to pack my European purchases for the trip home.
Gabriella Wilson
Broken Arrow, Ok. USA 05/08/2010
Art Supplies
I pack a box of watercolor pencils and a sketch pad--my children and I slow down our travels to draw/paint and the activity is a wonderful ice breaker.
Melinda
CO USA 05/05/2010
Fresh faced
I've found that a tiny sample cologne spritzer filled with water is a great way to keep a fresh face on my travels. It's like splashing your face with water but you can do it anywhere and it won't mess up any makeup you may be wearing. You can get them free from perfume counters in the department stores or purchase empty ones from cosmetic stores like Sephora. If you tell them what they're for at the department store they'll usually give you several (I asked for one for my perfume and one extra for water and walked away with four little empty spritzers!)
Kristi
Seattle, WA USA 05/01/2010
Packing Cube Alternatives
I recently purchased valances and drapes from JCPenny. They came in these plastic bags that had zippers. Voila, I had free packing cubes. I just rolled up shirts and other items and it was easy to find since they were clear.
DVRDIVA
Chico, CA USA 04/20/2010
Pacsafe!
I bought my little Pacsafe bag on a whim last summer right before my trip to Paris. It was indeed a lifesaver! It fit my passport, camera, pocket-sized map, money, and countless extras to take along with me for the day. And, as an added bonus, it acted as a sling for my injured arm/shoulder after a bicycle mishap, LOL. They may seem a bit pricey, but they are definitely worth every penny.
Megan
Columbus, OH USA 04/18/2010
Creative packing Extras
Three things I always pack with me are: 1-dental floss---makes a great temporary shoelace or works as thread if you rip something or lose a button, 2- a needle with a larger hole for the floss and 3- a disposable zippered plastic pillow cover, goes over the pillow and under the pillowcase and cost under $2.00. I also like to pack the plastic lid off a can of coffee to use as a plate.
Pat. R.
Campbell River, B.C., Canada 04/18/2010
flip flops
I always bring rubber flip flops to wear in the hotel to keep my feet clean. Even though I always stay in upscale hotels you still don't know what has been on the floor!
Emmi
Nashville, TN USA 04/18/2010
Underwear
I highly recommend Exofficio's line of travel underwear. I bought two pairs and brought them on my last trip. I would wear one, then wash it by hand and hang it up overnight while wearing the other. I went for two weeks and never needed more than two pairs of boxers. Great invention, and fantastic for packing light.
Nick B
Salt Lake City, UT USA 04/11/2010
GoToobs
Check out the GoToob silicone travel tubes for liquids. They are a bit pricey at $7-$9 (1.5-3 oz) but are strong, flexible, and have secure caps. A 1.5 oz Toob will hold a week's shampoo for me (male) and the 2 oz will hold a week's worth of shampoo for my wife. Available at REI, Bed, Bath & Beyond, and at Amazon. Highly recommended.
Mario
Richmond, VA USA 04/10/2010
Travel Paperwork
Use a half sheet three ring binder to organize all the paperwork that seems to accumulate during a trip. These binders are designed to hold half sheets of U.S. standard letter size paper (8 1/2 x 5 1/2) and come in various widths. I like the tiny 1/2" size which will easily slip into my day bag. Punch holes across the top of full sheets and fold them in half to store in the binder. You can put in dividers if you want to be fancy, but I just put pages of related information information together then fold them in half as a group which makes them into a "chapter" in your book. You can add pages from your guidebooks, sections cut out of maps, and much more. I punched holes in a small manila envelop and added it to the notebook to hold small bits of paper like stamps, receipts, and ticket stubs. You can add blank sheets of filler paper for travel notes and journalling. It's all in one releatively compact space and easy to find what you want.
Sharon
SFO, CA USA 04/08/2010
Protection for fragile items
I always throw at least one of those cardboard wine gift containers or tubs into my suitcase. Because it has sturdy sides I can fill it with small breakables and don't have to worry that they will get broken or crushed during my travels or by luggage handlers. I even use them to pack bottles of wine that I am bringing home. To save space, when packing for my trip, I fill them with items that I will not be bringing home.
Vi
Chicago, IL USA 04/04/2010
Keeping track
I brought a journal to keep track of details and expenses. To help me remember where I was and what I did everyday, I wrote the date and location in my journal every morning and took a picture of it. That way, I knew where and when my pictures were taken.
Stacey
Canada 04/03/2010
Jewellery tray
Avoid leaving your rings, watch, necklace etc. behind in your hotel room; pack the brightly coloured clean top of a peanut-butter jar, and use it as a tray for these things at night.
They are usually red or blue, so will catch your eye as you're packing to leave.
SJ
USA 03/21/2010
Web belt worked wonders
I started packing a 60 inch web strap with a plastic buckle, available at the local outdoor store. So far it has been: 1) a clothes line extender 2) a quick strap for securing bags to chairs or overhead train bins (won't prevent a serious thief but will buy an extra few seconds) 3) after a pickpocket attempt on my backpack in Sevilla, I used the strap around my pack with the clip fastened... one more step for a potential thief to get through 4) by buying a bright green strap, I attach it to my luggage so it is easy to spot.
Ray
Portland, OR USA 03/17/2010
Medicine containers
For those of us who take medications that come through the mail in huge containers, I have a solution for ditching the container but taking the prescription information. I peel off the label, carefully, and paste it on a snack size zip lock baggie. I take 5 meds and this is a life saver for space. My husband and I have never been questioned about this method even after inspection.
Mary
Bellingham, Wa USA 03/11/2010
Travelextras
Zip lock bags in quart and sandwhich sizes have come to our rescue for so many things- left over food, wet bathing suites and sea shells. They seperate bathroom supplies and dirty underwear, wet shoes and dry travel books. A MUST!
Cindy
Marion, Ohio USA 03/10/2010
travel extras
Other travel extras- tea bags and instant coffee along with two travel cups with airtight lids for my husband and I . We also brought a small heating coil that we used in the bathroom to heat up water and Crystal Light packets for our water bottles. All those drinks add up quickly and we are really on a shoe string budget for our trips! Useful also was the shammy towels that were small, packable and dried quickly for shower and beach
Cindy
Marion, Oh. USA 03/10/2010
Luggage Scale
A hand held digital luggage scale. We fly Ryan Air often and they are sticklers with weight requirements for your carry on and check baggage. Its small and light and keeps me from worrying about paying for heavy luggage.
Katie
Kaiserslautern, Germany 03/06/2010
Creative Packing
I always travel with a zip-loc bag containing basic first aid supplies--for colds, headache, etc. and especially callous protectors! Another essential item is my power monkey (NOT the solar variety, which is worthless). This handy little item can charge my cell phone, ipod, and kids handheld toys. Last, but not least, I always pack several cheap plastic shopping bags to put my dirty shoes in when packing to go home. I also carry my camera and guidebook and a bottle of water in one of these during the day so I don't look like quite a target--just a woman who's been to the store.
Laura
Sterling, VA USA 02/27/2010
5 light and useful add-ons
1. A convertible voltage immersion water heater, instant Starbucks coffee, dry creamer packs, and sugar packets are clutch for getting sluggish coffee-addict travelers out of bed. In Europe, the high voltage will heat a full cup in about 2 minutes.
2. Washcloth tablets are essential for American style bathing - even fine hotels usually don't have washcloths. Save used ones for cleaning up shoes and wiping splashes off trouser legs.
3. Laundry pack - clothesline, Woolite, and stopper. Bring quick-dry socks and underclothes and save valuable luggage space.
4. LED flashlight - for when European hotels lose power or to find something in a dark train compartment.
5. Lexan cutlery and disposible takeout containers for when you just want a quick hotel picnic or are too tired to eat out.
Bruce Lynch
Boston, MA USA 02/23/2010
Keeping Clean
as I posted on the Packing Light Wall, a small bib apron will protect your clothes from jolts of the plane or train.
Susan
Seattle, wa USA 02/21/2010
Minitowels
My daughter in law gave me a pack of Shamwow Towels for Christmas. They are SUPER absorbant. A towel the size of a bandana will dry me AND my (short) hair.
Susan
Seattle, WA USA 02/21/2010
Diaper Pins and Retractable KeyChain
I've been freaking out about pickpockets, from all the comments on this and other sites, but I like to have my wallet handy in my pocket with at least my daily spending money. So I've bought a retractable keychain. One end pinned into my travel vest pocket with a diaper pin. The other attached to the key chain feature of my wallet. I can pull out the wallet, but will certainly notice if anyone ELSE tries to.
Diaper pins in general are one of my favorite travel items. Useful for a zillion things and won't sprong open like regular safety pins. Does the button pop off your pants after too much Weiner Schnitzel? No problem.
Susan
Seattle, WA USA 02/21/2010
Many Uses for Anti-Perspirant
I read in one of Rick's books that a traveler brought an extra travel size anti-perspirant to use on his feet to treat sweating feet. Okay, this is gross but when in Italy my rear cheeks were chafing from the heat. I pulled out the extra roll-on and presto, instant comfort. I see no reason why this wouldn't work on any other body part that might chafe from the heat.
Wendy
Tornto, Ont canada 01/14/2010