Packing Creative Extras: 2005
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
Scary Carry-On
I am not sure where my recent experiences will fit in. In my toiletry bag I had a small pair of scissors , blunt on one blade suitable for cutting bandages which is what it was designed for, about a half inch in length and really not sharp enough to even cut bandages. I also had a 100 ml bottle of rubbing alcohol (half full) and a small spray can of lock de-icer (25ml). This was all in my carry on which did not command attention in Ottawa or Winnipeg security but all three were confiscated in little old Regina, Saskatchewan. I was able to save my first aid scissors by begging to baggage check them but that was all. Beware, even the most innocent items can be taken! Most perfumes and aerosols can be considered lethal products/weapons. Be careful with what you take on your carry on!
Arlene
Ottawa, Ontario Canada Fri 12/30/2005
Dreamsack
Dreamsacks not only pack down very small, they are feather-light and if you wash them (probably in a bathtub) they will dry very quickly. My daughter used one for a nine-week trip through Europe, sleeping in hostels, and loved it. Her companions were green with envy.
Meg Rosenfeld <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Fri 12/30/2005
Sleep sack
You could also look for silk sleep sacks (sold at travel stores and by a company called, I think, Dreamsack) - they tend to pack down smaller than those made of other materials.
USA Wed 12/28/2005
sleep sacks and hostels
Hello- the hostels I stayed in provided sheets; some with the price, some for rent (you might be able to find out if the hostel has a Web site). Towels were always only available for rent (often 1 euro), so I think getting a couple of those very light very quick drying travel ones might be a thought- at least, the hand- or washcloth sized ones. I bought the muslin sleep sack on the RS travel link and took it- squashed tightly it fits in its sack to about the size of three or four thick pairs of socks...a solid "tube". I liked using it over the provided sheets since I'm kind of a germ-a-phobe! Another option is to make your own- just sew a couple of single bed flat sheets together. I never used all the strings for the tie- down loops at the corners, anyway.
USA Tue 12/27/2005
Sleep Sack
I'm planning my trip to Europe for this summer. I wanted to stay in hostels and decided on investing in a sleep sack. Is this something I should buy when I get there, or buy it before I leave? I dont want to pack too much, and I'm afraid that the sleep sack will take up too much room. Does anyone have any thoughts on this?
JoAnna <email>
Chicago, IL USA Mon 12/26/2005
Dress up on ETBD tours?
I've been on 3 ETBD tours and dressing up was at the "best casual" level in cruise speak. I think having accessories really helps to give your standard travel suit some changes in looks. I am partial to scarves and costume jewelry.
Glenda J <email>
Renton, WA USA Mon 12/19/2005
Laundry tips
For those doing a bit of light laundry along the way, a set of inflatable hangers is indispensible. Not only are they light and easy to carry (they are made of light plastic and collapse to a small, pratically weightless item that can fit anywhere), but they are ideal for drip-drying shirts and blouses because they don't leave hanger marks in the shoulders while minimizing wrinkles. Use with a bit of cold-water soap such as Woolite, and you will have good results. (In fact, I use them as part of my home laundry, and find that my shirts last much longer and resist fading.)
A small spray bottle can be a useful substitute for a travel iron, just mist some water onto a shirt and let your body heat will do the rest. This won't work on severely wrinkled clothes, but will work well enough on casual wear that need not be impeccable.
For those taking longer trips, you'll save some cash and hassle by buying your own detergent. No need to carry a large box or bottle, as supermarkets will sell small packs of detergent "discs" that take up very little space and weigh very little. Those on a 2-3 week trip won't find these necessary, but long-haulers and backpackers will make good use of them.
RW
CA USA Sun 12/18/2005
Backpacks and More
I bought a Franklin backpack 2 years ago and have used it on 2 Eurotrips since (one of 42 and a second of 110 days). It is lightweight and capacious. I averaged between 25 and 30 lbs in it. My wife had a smaller pack, in which she carried everything she needed for the trips, that weighed about 15-18 lbs.
The trick is to buy one that is light but sturdy and well-sewn.Rolling your clothes together and rubber-banding them works as well, I think, as would packing cubes or bags that you squeeeze air out of.And remember -- if you need clothes or nearly ANY item-- you can BUY IT THERE!!
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport , MA USA Wed 12/07/2005
Handy-Dandy Compass
For my recent 3 week trip through Germany & Benelux, I purchased an inexpensive compass on a keychain. (Boy, did it come in handy!) I had originally attached it to an outside zipper pull on my day pack, but found that it was a lot of trouble to take off my day pack to consult my compass every time I wanted to use it. So, I had the brilliant idea to attach the compass to the zipper pull on my right hand jacket pocket. That way, I could whip it out whenever I needed to consult it, and could just tuck it back into my pocket when finished. It also looked less obtrusive to just glance down at my pocket at the compass rather than standing there with it out in front of me, oh-so-clearly marking me as a lost tourist! LOL!
Teresa <email>
columbus, GA USA Tue 12/06/2005
Jewelry packing
I've found that an empty Tucks container (originally held hemorrhoidal medicated pads) is great for a travel jewelry case. The screw-on lid is secure and the whole thing is virtually crush-proof. I separate delicate items with clean tissues. Of course, I leave my really valuable stuff at home!
Amy <email>
Bartow, FL USA Tue 12/06/2005
Knitting needles
I flew last summer within the US and Europe (Germany and Bulgaria) on 6 separate flights, and carried on a circular knitting needle made of nylon. When inside my pack, it was never questioned. When visible to the inspectors (I had been knitting and stuffed it into the top of my open bag), they asked what I was knitting, but did not question my right to carry the needle onto the plane.
Nylon circular needles are not my favorite, but they are light weight, nearly indistructible, less likely to pierce you if you sit on one, and don't seem to bother airline security. For clarity's sake, the entire needle is a continuous piece of nylon, not just the cables joining tips made of other material.
I've owned my for years, so it may take some searching to find a source of nylon knitting needles, but if you knit while flying, they are worth finding.
J
FL USA Mon 12/05/2005
Dryer Sheets
Be careful with dryer sheets...they could leave a mark on clothing. It looks like a thin film of grease/oil. This happened to me once.
auntgrapes
USA Sat 12/03/2005
Dryer sheets
I pack 3 or 4 dryer sheets (ie Bounce) in between layers of my clothes. Keeps them fresh for multiple wearings, plus when I did laundry during my trip I used them in the dryer for static-free (and fresh again!) clothes.
Kim
Chico, CA USA Mon 11/28/2005
Look down at the Ceiling
aloha from the Big Island of Hawaii!! I take 20+ high school students to Europe for a 3-week 6 country whirl-wind escapade. I always bring a small make-up mirror for our Sistine Chapel visit. I pass it around the student circle and then make sure that the last kid holding before we exit passes it on to the nearest 'Aunty' or 'Tutu' lady. When it comes to looking up at the ceiling- Look down!
Hartman
Kealakekua, Hawaii USA Wed 11/23/2005
Pocket-sized eagle eyes
I used to pack binoculars for our European trips--the better to view the intricate architecture/carvings in high-dome churches. Now I bring a monocular--smaller and lighter, it is easier to use and to share.
Lori
Palo Alto, Ca USA Mon 11/21/2005
Scrapbooking
I'm making scrapbooks from my Best of Britain tour. I wish that I had picked up more brochures from the sites we visited as I am cutting up some of them for page headers and embellishments (maps, historical significance of the site, etc). If you are into scrapbooking, save stubs, brochures, coins, paper money, and postcards. Pick up duplicate brochures.
Audrey <email>
Keizer, OR USA Mon 11/21/2005
Goretex pants
When I travel in fall - spring I always take a pair of goretex pants. They weigh about 10 oz, and pack really small. On my last trip it was raining heavily one day, but I was still able to walk around and enjoy the sights and be warm and dry. When I got on the city tour bus it was packed downstairs, but the (open) top was empty. When I went upstairs I told the guide I was from Seattle, so being wet was like being home. The whole bus enjoyed that little line. Goretex socks can help too. I got my pants at REI for about $80 but they're available in lots of stores.
George Harvey <email>
Seattle, Wa USA Tue 11/15/2005
Ann--what style/model # is that REI shoulder bag you mentioned? I went to their website but didn't find anything like that...thanks...
Margaret
USA Tue 11/15/2005
Re: Tide Pen
The Tide Pen is awesome!! My husband spilled coffee on himself during some turbulence on the flight over to Italy and I used the Tide Pen to remove the stain. You couldn't even tell that it had been stained!!
Waiting to Travel
Norfolk, VA USA Fri 11/11/2005
Tide Pen
Even better than the Shout Wipes is the Tide Pen, my aunt picked one up for .99C at the grocery store, I found it worked better than the wipes on pasta sauce and other drips in Italy.
USA Thu 11/10/2005
Shout Wipes
Shout wipes- what a marvelous invention. Took out pasta sauce and ketchup stains without requiring the item to be water laundered.
Ann
San Francisco , CA USA Wed 11/09/2005
REI Shoulder Bag
The REI shoulder bag was the best purchase I made for my three week trip to Europe this year. It is half the size of a messenger bag and accommodates a lot of stuff: my container for my braces, hand sanitizer, a pack of kleenex, a small water bottle, my digital camera battery charger, my digital camera, shout wipes, lotion, chapstick, pen, my two digital card memory sticks, and assorted hair accessories ( I have very long hair ) The bag is to be worn across your chest diagonally and the affords you to be able to loop your jacket or sweater between the bag and your hips when you need to take it off. The bag was about $30 and worth every penny.
Ann
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 11/09/2005
clothing line
bungycord clothing line: this was a lifesaver on many occasions. I backpacked Europe and found this to be of great use- no need for pegs the bungycord will cling into place whatever it is you neeed to hang up- as well tie down anything you may need to. Its light and fits just about anywhere.
Karli <email>
Victoria, BC CAN Tue 11/08/2005
zippered pouches
Zippered nylon and mesh pencil pouches (for 3-ring binders), available in the stationery aisle of most drugstores, are great for adding extra compartments to day-packs or purses. I use ribbons or key-rings to fasten them to the inside of my bags-- keeps things more organized for me, and less accessible to pickpockets. Much cheaper than the clip-on zip bags sold in travel stores.
Fiona
NYC, Wed 11/02/2005
Pat
We forgot these on our last Fall trip to Tuscany and missed them terribly - simple slippers or slipper socks! They take almost no room but are such a wonderful thing to have in the Fall-Winter-Spring, as if you stay in an agriturismo, you'll likely want to leave your shoes at the door, the tile or wood floors (most agriturismos don't have wall-to-wall carpet) are cold, and they're hard on socks (and also slippery for the kids).
Temp in Greece Tue 11/01/2005
Making your own packs and accessories
If you want to make your own packs and travel accessories this site is a good source for materials, patterns and kits.
http://www.questoutfitters.com/
I made the G4 pack which weighs about 16 ounce. Although designed for ultralight backpacking, it could be adapted for traveling light as well.
Linda
MD USA Sun 10/30/2005
re: Borrowing from Relatives & Friends
Savannah, where does she buy the mesh?
Fiona <email>
NYC, Fri 10/28/2005
Borrowing from Relatives & Friends daily life...
1. Along with the usual back or leg or belt secure wallet thingy (I haven't decided which I want yet...) I'm having a local seamstress make me a small purse- 6x8 inches or so...just enough to put my daily notes and some ready $ in that is made out of a nice fake leather (she sews for my cousin the horse shower) with a nylon lining with textilene mesh between the two (cousin has her horses clothing made with it, nearly uncuttable) and also forming the core of the shoulder strap, which is just long enough to loop it over my shoulder and secure under my arm. She was able to make it out of bolt remnants and is only charging me labor as she is going to make on for herself now, too.
2. My best friends husband is a long haul trucker who uses a laminated atlas and marks his routes with a Sharpie, and then goes over it with a dry erase marker when he's ready to do another run and it wipes right off. Had some heavy cardstock laminated and bound into 10 page ring notebooks to make daily notes and directions on. Also have one in own car now. Works great.
Savannah Grant
OH USA Thu 10/27/2005
Portable seating for the weary!
While on a recent trip to the Caribbean, we noticed several people with "Sports Seats." These are light, folding (under 1 lb), aluminum tripod seats that provide a quick "sit down" for the weary traveler. In Italy, we stood for hours without sitting (museums, etc.)and would have "died" for one of these neat, portable seats to rest our aching legs. Rick, why don't you offer a customized version of this seat for your readers? The site is: http://www.sportseat.com. (No, I have no connection with the company.)
Mike Loveridge <email>
Salt Lake City, Utah USA Mon 10/24/2005
Glasses Repair Kit
I just had to make a minor repair to my glasses and was happy that I had my tiny classes repair kit with screwdriver and set of replacement screws.
USA Sun 10/16/2005
Suggested items to pack
I was glad I had brought anti-baterial wipes and hand sanitizer. I was in Europe for a month and both of these items came in handy when restrooms had no soap or paper towels. It also helped when I was eating on the run to clean up quick and use the wipes as napkins. Also, I brought a bar of soap that I kept in a travel soap container and used instead of the hotel soaps which are small.
Lisa Simonsen <email>
Napa, CA USA Fri 10/14/2005
Recycled bottles and old clothes
I save my prescription bottles for months before I travel. They are terrific for salt, pepper, spices, etc. as well as band-aids, nose-strips--for snorers, and many other items that are small and can be packed together in these little bottles. I lable them before I leave--and toss them before I return home.
I have an absolute committment to taking older clothing, especially socks, undies, tee shirts and the like and neatly leave them behind when I leave. I know that some hotels do not appreciate having tourists use their establishments as "Good Will" sites--therefore, I ensure that the items I leave fit in the trashbins or I dispose of them in public trash cans outside of the hotels.
Pepper
Denver, CO USA Tue 10/11/2005
Safe Drinking Water / Bottle
You can get those same type filter bottles at sierratradingpost.com for $10. Target also sells them at more than $10, but less than $23.
USA Mon 10/03/2005
Safe Drinking Water
Someone may have already suggested this, but I just bought a Nalgene water bottle with a built-in filtration system in preparation for an upcoming trip. I've never had water problems travelling in Europe, but one never knows. This one fits into my day-pack and claims to be effective against all kinds of microbes and heavy metals. I got mine at a health food store for $23, but they are probably available at hardware and outdoor supply stores. The replaceable filter is good for 125 to 500 refills (depending upon the type and amount of contamination it has to filter).
Marilynn <email>
Willits, CA USA Mon 10/03/2005
Taking a PDA Saves Weight
I agree with Kimberly about taking a PDA to Europe. I took my iPAQ 4150 and it was fantastic. Not only did I have books (London: A Biography & The DaVinci Code) and lots of music. But I also had all my schedules. Even more important, I downloaded custom train schedules from Deutche Bahn, so that whenever we wanted to change our train travel plans, I had the schedule at my fingertips instantly. I didn't have to go to the station or go online. I took maps as well. And finally, my PDA has an integrated WiFi card. So as we traveled I kept a blog by using MS Word. Then, as we settled in a city, I found a hotspot in a nearby restaurant or cafe and I uploaded my blog, so family knew exactly where we were and what was happening. We in in London during the first bombing, so the blog was handy for letting my family know we were ok. Most PDA's run on both 110 and 220, so power isn't a problem. Overall, I think I saved weight since I did not take books, papers, or an MP3 device. My pda only weighs 6 ounces.
John Carroll <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sat 10/01/2005
Packing
2 words: Space bags. We traveled by backpack, and Space bags were great.
Amanda Korth <email>
Aurora, CO USA Fri 09/30/2005
Binoculars
Binoculars are necessary for some of the details in the massive churches in Rome.
Marie
Verona, NJ, NJ USA Wed 09/28/2005
Packing Extras
The clip on reading lights are great and a tiny stapler..when we travel business is usually involved so I have more paperwork - maps, contact names,etc as well as all confirmations for arrangements. I toss as I go except for confirmed hotel info - I staple receipts and keep them until cc charges are cleared. We had several incorrect billings from our last trip.
I have to sleep with the bed raised at the head and have yet to figure out a way to do this easily without adding bulk to my suitcase. "Bed Blocks" are plastic and fairly light but I haven't tried packing them yet. I wonder how the hotel employees would react when they saw the bed raised on one end.
Also - a belated comment to Thomas regarding his health problem when traveling. Lomotil was prescribed for my mother and she takes this as a preventative when traveling if she's unsure how close b.r. facilities are - Immodium works pretty well, too. This isn't just a problem with foreign travel. I've been told by a doctor that it's usually a hygiene or dishwashing problem with people handling utensils, glasses, etc. He also said that once you've had "food" poisoning, your gut is far more suceptible to bacteria.
Susan Clark <email>
GLEN ELLYN, il USA Wed 09/28/2005
Rick Steves Backpack
I have one of the original Rick Steve's backpack luggage bag - bought about, 15+ years ago. I love it still, but am being tempted by the new features on the new bag.
Lisa <email>
Yachats, Oregon USA Mon 09/26/2005
Which Rick Steve's bag to buy?
Thanks for pointing out the weight differential on the wheeled vs. carry.
I'm buying this bag for overseas travel so I think I'll stick with the non-wheeled one.
dan <email>
USA Sun 09/25/2005
Bag choices
I bought my husband the wheeled RS bag and he opted to check it because he refuses to subscribe to the carry- on theory...it was a success just to get him to use a smaller bag! It is the exact same size as the unwheeled one, but weighs twice as much, unpacked, if you look at the specs on this site. Will you be flying mostly within Europe where they might be a lot stricter and insist on a weight limit for carry- on? Or the standard across the ocean there and back? You can check each airlines rules online. Also, other companies make bags with the same dimensions and conversion capabilities, depending on the condition your back is in! I loved my little wheeled carry- on, but it was heavy whenever it came time to haul it up and down stairs in train stations or up the steps onto the train. The back option would've been nice at those times...I've seen recommendations for other carry- ons all over this graffiti wall and in the archives.
USA Sat 09/24/2005
A real space saver
I use my PDA to "carry" books, magazines, photos, and video with me everywhere I go. I have a Palm Tungsten E, but there are dozens of models compatible with the various book reading programs available. You can download many of these for free, and thousands of books available for download.
You can also take Word Documents and basic text files, store them on the PDA or a memory card. Great for that list of medicines you are taking, copies of articles and reviews found on the web, and even your trip journal. I have a separate address book category in mine that has all of the people I have promised post cards to, as well as one labeled "Next of Kin" in case of an emergency.
I use a separate digital camera, but it uses the same digital storage media so that I can use the PDA screen to show off my photos, and to email them. -Some current PDAs have a camera and voice recorder built in. I also carry an extra memory card, a special "backup card", game cards, and even a couple of foreign language dictionaries.
This can be a serious weight saver when you think about it. The USB cable and power cord take up little space, and most PDAs today are roughly 3"x5" square and weigh mere ounces.
Ok, I know not everyone is technologically minded, but if you can get on the internet and check your email you should be able to use a PDA. Personally I find the Palm family easiest to learn, but some do prefer the Windows CE machines.
Kimberly <email>
Birmingham, AL USA Fri 09/23/2005
also love packing cubes
I, too, used the cubes (albeit a different brand) for the first time. You do wonder how your stuff can fit in such a small space, but it does with some creative rolling. Strong zip-lock bags in the large freezer size also were a cheaper alternative for all kinds of stuff. I used one for all the first aid things, and kept just a few bandaids and disinfectant wipes in my day bag. Whether its in cube thingees or the baggies, the strategy of not having anything ever rolling around loose DOES make a huge difference in staying organized when on the move!
USA Thu 09/22/2005
Knitting Needles
Individual airlines set the rules for what they will allow on board their aircraft. The regulatory agency of the country the airline is registered in usually provides guidelines, but the airlines get to make the last call. It is always a good idea to check with the airlines directly to check their policies on anything you have questions about.
Megan
Vancouver, Canada Thu 09/22/2005
Packing Cubes and Knitting Needles
The Rick Steves packing cubes have changed my packing lifestyle! I spent 2 weeks in Italy and never lost control of the clothes in my suitcase. Also, I second the Shout Wipes and Handy Wipes. It seems like I was always spilling my drink onto my pants and the wipes saved me every time. Also, if you are a knitter like me, use a pen or a pencil instead of bringing knitting needles...you can travel via plane with them in the US, but not in Europe (why is that??).
Jen
Snohomish, WA USA Tue 09/20/2005
Laundry
I roll each item in a hotel towel to get most of the moisture out. Then hang them up like you would if they were dry clothes. They have always been dry in the morning. The only clothespin I take on the trip is one to keep the curtains closed.
Marie
USA Mon 09/19/2005
Question for Marie
Marie: How do you keep the laundry from dripping on the floor of the closet?
USA Mon 09/19/2005
Laundry
On my three trips to Europe, I do my laundry in the sink the first night in the hotel and hang the items on hangers in the closet. They dry overnight and there's no need for any clothes pins, etc. When put in the closet, the hotel staff doesn't notice and it keeps the room neat.
Marie
USA Mon 09/19/2005
bread closure plastic
These break too easily. I break them just putting them back on the bread sack. the miniature clothespins sound like a much better idea - if you really really need to take a clothespin to europe. I just hang my wash over chair backs and the curtin rod in the shower....works fine. Less to pack and worry about too.
USA Sat 09/17/2005
Clothespin Substitute
If you need a light clothespin for keeping clothes on the clothesline what works very well is the little plasic tab with a hole that some bread companies use close the bread sack. Some stores also use them to close the veggie plastic bags in the produce department. They can hold the clothing onto the clostesline like regular clothespins do but a sanack-sized ziplock will hole more than enough and weight even less that the same number of regular clothespins.
Sharon R. Johnson
Lincoln, Nebraska USA Sat 09/17/2005
Clothespins
Yes, spring-type clothespins are great for travel, but the miniature ones are even better (taking up even less space) and can be found in the doll/crafts section of WalMart.
TX USA Sat 09/17/2005
USEFUL LITTLE EXTRA
I pack several wooden clothespins to keep things closed (drapes, shower curtains, potato chips), pin up curtains for ventilation, and lots of other uses.
Sharon
Plymouth Meeting, PA USA Fri 09/16/2005
Good Ideas...
I took my third trip to Europe this summer and spent 4 weeks in London, Paris, Prague, and Rome. There were a couple of things I was really glad I brought. First, the individually packaged Shout wipes. Saved me a couple times when my gelatto spilled. Along those same lines I took individually packaged hand wipes (like the ones little kids get). I put a couple in my day pack every morning and used them to clean up before/during/after picnic lunches.
One cool thing I always do when I travel is buy a new bottle of lotion to take (I like the Bath & Body Works ones that you can get for $5 on sale). I pick a new scent that I haven't used before (this summer I took white tea & ginger). I use it on the trip, and then when I get home every time I use the lotion it reminds me of the trip. Seeing as how scent is the strongest sense tied to memory, this works surprisingly well so any time I miss Paris I just put on some lotion and I am back there all over again!
USA Fri 09/09/2005
How I do it
I wear my heaviest clothes and rain shell to the airport. In my bag I carry 4-5 pounds of clothing--a rain hat, 1-2 pairs of pants, 1-2 t-shirts, 1-2 tank tops, 1 pr cotton knit pants for sleeping, 1 long-sleeve mock turtle-neck tee, 1 fleece sweater, 2 pr sox and undies. Outerwear is mostly black or navy. I take at least one colorful t-shirt to relieve the monotony. I carry a scarf for added warmth and to add a little color. I carry several pounds of books, so if I wanted to carry more clothing I could leave a book at home. I would rather leave the clothes at home. With this and my other stuff (toiletries, first aid kit, vitamins, disposable camera, misc printed material) and carry-on bag it all weighs about 18 pounds. That is the max wt I can comfortably handle as a carry-on. I am a healthy 69 y.o. woman.
USA Fri 09/09/2005
Mini Wallet
J.Crew has these miniature "wallets" that hold paper money (Euros, dollars, etc.). If you fold the money in half and stick it in the wallet and then flip the wallet inside out the money is automatically strapped in. It sounds complicated, but its so easy, and they are so small they fit in any pocket. I'm not sure about the clip, that sounds handy, but I have loved this J.Crew find! It's called the Vachetta Inside Out wallet and it comes in many different colors. Check it out: http://jcrew.com/catalog/product.jhtml?id=prod25411691&catId=cat74884
Jamie
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 09/07/2005
those door wedge things
One thing that I brought with me to Europe that really helped me feel more safe were those little door wedge things that you use to prop doors open.
I was travelling alone, and some of the hostels I stayed in were a little iffy. I put one wedge at the base of the door to keep it closed, and another above the door knob. I felt much more secure, even when a bunch of drunken teenagers were rattling doorknobs at 2 am. I am sure I would have been safe anyway, but it helped me sleep better.
(I read about the wedge thing somewhere, but can't remember where.)
JM
Charlotte, NC USA Tue 09/06/2005
Take your travel guides, cut the weight
Before a recent trip to Europe, I spent 1 hour removing the binding from my guidebooks, sectioning them by region, and punching holes in the book (Rick, it would help if all your guides were set up like Mona Winks, with each section easily separated). Until my trip, I kept the books on large metal binder rings, then for the trip, I put the sections I needed for each country on rings. I packed a small set of binder rings and kept just a single city/region with me during the day. Great for days we crossed a border..no need to carry two huge guides, or chapters on places we'd been.
Also, a few of the super-absorbent towels are great. I take a bath size and hand towel size. In addition, I bought two cheap chammy-style car towels (2 for $2), used them to help dry laundry, then threw them away at the end of the trip.
Ashley <email>
TN USA Fri 09/02/2005
Great deals on bags
My Husband and I found our carry on size bags on REI's outlet section of their website for an amazing price. We purchased a total of 4 packs and two just were not right after we saw them in person. They refunded us no questions asked.
The ones we chose were Timberland with book style opening, wheeled with an ergo handpull, and convertable to a comfortable backpack. They also have a matching detachable day pack that is counting as our personal item. This snaps on in place with ease. We were able to get these for only $65 each!53% off the original price.
They had a ton to choose from and you can even have it sent to a store so that you don't pay shipping. What a find.
Sarah
Puyallup, WA USA Wed 08/31/2005
Agree with waistband wallet
The goinginstyle.com travel clip pouch is similar to the smart clip on wallet--discreet & clips on to your waistband for the day's spending money, plus a credit card & ID. It is a bit smaller, but I love it. The web site/store gives great service, too.
Iowa USA Mon 08/29/2005
Nifty cross-over product
I have horses and I have several "horse" products that I use day to day for non-horse uses (but not mane & tail...disgusting stuff). My favorite is the little 8 oz Nalgene travel bottle of Ez-All gen. purp cleaner. We use it on leg wraps, saddle pads, girths, blankets, it's super concentrated, USDA approved for food service and super concentrated. Makes a fabulous laundry and body wash, and for fresh veggies and fruits (rinse v.v.v. well, though). It runs $30/gallon, but is worth every penny. Works great as a auto wash, too.
Jingles
MI USA Mon 08/29/2005
Smart Clip On Wallet
I carry the bulk of my money in a money belt concealed and pinned under my clothing. For day-to-day spending money, I use a Smart Clip On Wallet. It's a small, handy little wallet that clips onto my waistband (I usually face it towards me) and I keep my day's paper money, coins and metro/tube/train tickets in there. Easy to access yet not easy to get pilfered. My husband and I both have one. It's great. Here's a link to their website:
http://www.aperfectwallet.com/ss-5003.html
Ana Maria
Largo, FL USA Mon 08/29/2005
Carrying money around
I agree with Hallie.... A wide-mouth type coin purse can be had from Old Navy for a few dollars, and it makes a huge difference when handing over money to a clerk or ticket agent. Being able to clearly see the foreign currency and grab the right amount makes you look less like a tourist and saves the people on queue behind you from rolling eyes and sighing deeply! I bought a "clutch" from Old Navy which is essentially a large size coin purseytttttttttttt
Katherine
USA Thu 08/25/2005
Carrying money around
A good coin purse is a nice thing to have. With the Euro, you can carry quite a bit of money around in change form. Many wallets have just a small coin pouch meant to hold a few pennies and dimes, not big enough for a handful of Euros. A decent-sized coin purse can either substitute or augment a wallet.
Hallie
USA Wed 08/24/2005
Money Belt Alternative
I like to have options and so purchased 2 different money belts, a neck pouch, one of those flip wallets with the brown/black loops and a leg pouch. On a March trip to France I found the leg pouch to be my preference although my wife likes a regular money belt.
The leg pouch has 2 straps with velcro closures that can be adjusted for tension and 2 zip pockets. With 1 strap above calf it will not slip down but can be readily accessed by pulling up pants leg.
For a creative extra pack a few current magazines, especially ones with lots of pictures. You can read them during down time and, depending on who you meet, "Hot Rod", "Southern Living", decorating, gardening, etc. mags show segments of everyday life while giving the recipient some easy captions to translate.
Bob
TN USA Tue 08/23/2005
money clips
I just returned from Europe and found myself thinking that a money clip would be very practical in keeping small denomination euro bills organized in my secured zipper pants pocket.They seemed to get crumpled up in my pocket.I use my wallet in the states but a clip would be great when in travelling abroad. I'll use one next time !
Chris <email>
Ft. Collins, CO USA Mon 08/22/2005
plastic bags
I found a great item at the checkout counter- either Walmart or Target. Hefty makes a small package with 10 bags enclosed. They are about the size of a plastic grocery bag. I keep them in my car, but they would be great to take in a backpack or suitcase.
Chicago, IL USA Thu 08/18/2005
Ticket holder
A handy thing to use while at the airport to hold a airplane ticket & passport is the plastic sporting event ticket holder that hang around the neck. No digging in carryon luggage, purses, or deep zipped coat pockets with these. I just have all the docs hanging around my neck, safely under my clothes until needed. No worries about the docs falling out as they fit nice and snug inside the plastic holder.
CA USA Thu 08/18/2005
Money belt and security
In my opinon there is no need to have your money belt on in the US to go through security. the money belt is for travel within the cities of Europe. Keep your valuable in your carry on bag. right before you exit the plane to your first airport, put on the money belt, but have your passport out and ready for customs. After customs, put it back into your belt. Same on the return airplane trip to home. you should be safe in airports from pickpockets.
On our last trip to Italy, my husband decided to not wear the belt at any time, and we were fine. I actually ended up carrying the money belt in my Eagle Creek Guide bag on my shoulder. Sounds stupid, but I kept my hand on the bag while in the subway in Rome and while walking around. I was just very aware of who was close to me, didn't get distracted, and had no problems. I still advise taking them, and wearing them, not carrying them in a bag!
USA Thu 08/18/2005
Window wipes
Read a suggestion to pack a small spray bottle with window cleaner for taking better pictures out a dirty window and found individual wipes for cleaning eyeglasses and camera lens at Wal-mart in the cleaning chemicals aisle.
Erin
Temple, Texas USA Tue 08/16/2005
BettyK: Yes, the same thing happened to my husband. Now he keeps the loop wallet in his "purse" and puts it on after security. He also tried the large safety pin route and set off a security alarm!
Even if you don't use the loop wallet in the airport, it is still a great device for later in the trip.
I much prefer the neck wallet for my use.
And you're right - you can still loop the belt through it and also attach with a clip or pin. When you pull the belt out, the wallet will stay put.
Phoebe
USA Tue 08/16/2005
More than breath mint strips
Cold and flu medication now come in strips just like the breath mints strips you place on your tongue. Vitamins too. I found wash cloths that are freeze dryed small? just like sponges , that when you put them in water they expand to full size. Available at the Disney store.
Marie
Verona, NJ USA Mon 08/15/2005
Money Belt Problems
Phoebe, regarding the loop over money belt, unfortunately we found on our last trip that many airports now require you to remove your belt as well as shoes when going thru Security. After a long flight, my husband forgot about his money belt until it worked its way down his leg and came out the bottom of his pants. Thank goodness he noticed it before it was too late! I think next time we will go the safety pin route.
bettyk
Missouri City, TX USA Sat 08/13/2005
Staying healthy
If you are travelling in the fall or winter, a small tube of hand moisturizer for your purse (I am a big fan of Neutrogena's offerings) can be a lifesaver. All that walking around and exploring can leave your hands exposed to cold wind and air, drying them out. Also, to fight off colds, consider a bag of vitamin C drops. If you are going to Germany or Austria in particular, you might want to look in their drugstores, as they stock many kinds of vitamin-packed lozenges.
Hallie
USA Sat 08/13/2005
Don't Forget The Linament!
Hubby has a bad back and I have bad knees and feet, so traveling with 'Blue Stuff' is considered to be as essential as toothpaste. A small plastic container with a screw top holds enough product to keep us going for a number of days. (A little goes a long way). Putting it on in the morning helps the "ol' bod" get going with less morning stiffness. At night, after a long day of activity, it brings soothing relief.
Bekka
D/FW, TX USA Fri 08/12/2005
Journaling - another idea
Just adding to Trista's notes on journaling... I do take my journal as it's not a large book and I "miniaturize" all those tourist flyers and pamplets that accumulate. With travel scissors I trim and paste just the essentials from these every evening before bed (e.g. A picture of the site, a summary paragraph, an interesting graphic, etc.), leaving lots of space around the item so I can go back in and write down my own experiences When I'm able. I toss the bulk of the paper and thus avoiding having it pile up in my pack.
Shannel
Denver, CO USA Fri 08/12/2005
Carry a Compass
People always say they get lost in European cities with their ancient street plans. I would never go to Europe without a compass! Go to an outdoor store and buy a $10 compass that can be tied to a back pack or a pants loop. I love windy lanes and alleys! You can never get lost if you carry a compass and you can save hours of walking time and commute just like the locals. Example: Paris. If you are walking in the Carnavalet Museum area the compass will tell you that the Seine river is south. If you are walking in the Left Bank area the river is north. The Paris map makes the city look huge but the old areas are a wonderful stroll. When you come out of a Metro station look for a landmark or a street sign to find your north-south bearings.
Anderson
Portland, OR USA Wed 08/10/2005
Pocket Tote
I took Rick's Pocket Tote on a recent trip to Denmark. You would not believe how handy it was! It would be a great stocking stuffer for any traveler.
Dorothy
San Dimas, CA USA Mon 08/08/2005
For your feet
I have been in europe now for four weeks, walking all over barcelona, vienna, prague, milan, rome, and the amalfi coast. And the two things that I had to buy here that I wished I brought were:
1. A loofah for my feet, especially if you wear sandals, they get really dry. even better to bring some hydrating foot lotion.
2. Flip-flops for the beaches in Italy because the sand (pebbles) are like walking over hot lava on your bare feet. Bring something that you don´t mind getting wet so you can wear it straight into the sea.
Stephanie <email>
Tulsa, OK USA Mon 08/08/2005
To Lois from Ontario
Sorry I really didn't mean to suggest your idea was not 'creative'--- and I admit that the idea you proposed is certainly terrific
However IF you ever come to Australia (and this applies to ANYONE else) be sure to DECLARE anything which could be classified as 'food' on the customs declaration you fill in on board the plane/ship
MOST of the things Lois talked about will probably be OK BUT there are financial penalties for NOT declaring anything which could be classified as "food" are severe :(
Jackie
Perth Australia , Australia Sat 08/06/2005
Wood posts
I loved the "bring wood" posts - Best laugh I have had for ages on the internet.
Canada Fri 08/05/2005
This Helped me.....
On a recent trip to Rome and Athens these things really cam in handy......
If you are planning a few picnics when traveling start stocking up on the mayo, mustard, salt, and paper and plastic forks, spoons and knives at fast food places or sandwich shops. You are ready for you picnic and can have a sandwich just like at home. Another good thing is the tuna fish in the packets without water or oil. You just open and squeeze in your mayo, add salt and paper and use a fork to mix it up. Get some bread or crakers and you have a nice little snack. I also really like the Crystal light on the go packs. You will probably be carrying around a water bottle for water anyway and adding in a packets to your water adds for a great refreshing drink with your lunch or snack. Little packs of rasins or ganola bars are good too.
When packing put everything in separate little zip lock baggies and then put them all in one large zip lock bag to keep together.
If you know your hotel room will have a frig with the little freezer you can also bring a small ice pack to keep everything cool in a lunch bag. Get one of those soft sided insulated lunch bags. They fold down to almost nothing and really come in handy.
It is great to be able to sit on the Spanish Steps and enjoy a snack or lunch. Plus you are saving money buy pre-planning a few on the go meals.
PS - If you get the water with gas adding the Crystal Light packets on the go will be more like a soda without the expense.
Newport Beach, CA USA Fri 08/05/2005
Alternative to Moneybelt
For our most recent trip, my mother (who’s a much better seamstress than I am) rigged up something for my husband and brothers, similar to the pocket described by the earlier poster. She sewed velcro to the inside waste bands of the pants they were planning on taking, and got fabric of the same weight as pants pockets, and made long pockets that hung behind the front pants pockets (soft part of the velcro on the pants, scratchy part on the pocket). The things they had in those pockets weren’t in uncomfortable places (like they might be in a money belt). They were exactly where they would have been if carried in front pants pockets – only completely inaccessible from the outside of the pants. Since the pocket was held in with velcro instead of sewn, it could move from one pair of pants to another.
Angela
Lexington, KY USA Fri 08/05/2005
Re: Helpful Items
To Jackie from Australia - thank you for your feed-back on my pill/vitamin tubes. I didn't have any troubles carrying these but it wasn't around London. My comment back would be the products WERE identified. If I were intent on bringing suspect substances, it wouldn't make a difference if I put them in a clear,labelled containers or in a regular brand-labelled jar, security folks are not stupid. The items would be detected and confiscated. If I was questioned,I would unscrew that section and gladly hand it over. I would rather risk 50 cents worth of cinnamon or whatever just so I can have some flavour in sometimes very unexciting hostel cooking/picnics in rooms etc. and not carry around multiple jars and tins, adding weight and clutter. The health supplies were extremely handy. This is supposed to be packing CREATIVE extras and I felt pretty creative. Thanks anyway for your concern.
Lois
Ontario Canada Thu 08/04/2005
Packing useful extras - tiny flashlight/cum reading light.
I always take a booklight with me - the kind that clips onto a book. Helpful for late night reading but even more importantly for getting downstairs to the loo at 2 a.m.
Marie
San Diego, CA USA Wed 08/03/2005
Attaching money belt directly to pants
I use two large safety pins to fasten my money belt to my pants. Pin from inside the money belt with the zipper side facing your, well, tummy. This way you can still access your money belt but it's almost impossible to steal. Additionally I use a small safety pin to attach the zippers on my money belt to the belt itself. Pickpockets give up. Remember however, your money belt is not for frequent use but to keep travel essentials safe. I keep daily cash, metro passes etc., in a side pocket which has been, by the tailor, sewn with velcro strips (o/a 4 inches). Sticky fingers are looking for the easy steal.
Marie
San Diego, CA USA Wed 08/03/2005
re: attaching moneybelt
I made a small pocket and attached it to my waistband with velcro. I think this idea would work fine with a moneybelt, but it's probably not a good idea if you wear your shirts tucked in, since the moneybelt would not be as secure if it were not under your shirt.
USA Wed 08/03/2005
Attaching money belt directly to pants?
Has anyone tried attaching the money belt directly to the inside waistband of a pair of pants? I was thinking that you could put a couple of button holes in the money belt, remove the belt parts, sew matching buttons on the inside of the waistband, and voila. Has anyone done something like this, and did it work?
USA Tue 08/02/2005
To follow up on the person who sewed zippered "pockets" in her clothing, a good alternative for people who don't sew is the loop wallet or "hidden pocket" for your belt. It is a small zippered pouch big enough to hold a passport, credit cards, cash, etc. It has 2 loops which are usually brown or black - you run your belt through one or both loops and the zippered pouch hangs on the inside of your pants or skirt. Even if the pants or skirt are tight, the pouch won't show unless it's stuffed to the gills!
My husband loves his Undercover TM Hidden Pocket by Eagle Creek (got it cheaper at a local travel store)that can be viewed at Http://www.eaglecreek.com/40024.html
Phoebe
FL USA Tue 08/02/2005
Money security
I have tried moneybelts and I don't like them. I may have come up with an alternative and great way (at least for me) to keep my money and cc's, atm cards, etc secure. I found neck pouches at a dollar store. I cut them in half and sewed half in the inside of the waistband of each pair of pants/shorts/skirts. Each half has a zippered pouch and one of the halfs has a fold over top that velcros down. It should be easy and not attention grabbing when I have to get in there. Each half is only about 2"x3". I will just keep a day's worth of money in the backpack/purse - or whatever I am using for the day, and keep the cards safe in the pouch. It's a cheap and (I think) more comfortable way to carry my valuables.
Sue
MI USA Tue 08/02/2005
To bring it or not to bring it?
There are so many handy little items or gadgets that might come in handy, but if you bring them all the weight really adds up. The thing I always ask myself is, "If I really needed it, how much of a pain would it be to get it there?" Obviously, the answer depends not only on the item in question but the place too. If you're in England, at least you speak the language and can ask people where you might find it. In large cosmopolitan cities, just about anything you might need can be obtained, though it might take a little digging to find out where it is sold. But off the beaten track--small villages, Eastern Europe, Turkey--it's a lot harder. So when my travels take me to those places, my backpack is fuller than when I'm headed to London or Paris.
USA Mon 08/01/2005
wood
oh i agree. i never leave home without my sawdust. sometimes i bring a few sticks to rub together too, so when someone asks for a light for their cigarette, i can help them out.
USA Mon 08/01/2005
Wood
This may come as a surpise, but I've found many uses for a large bag of sawdust. Hardly takes up any room and is more convenient than a piece of wood and sandpaper. If I could only take one thing, this would be it! Use for burning signal fires, smoke screen, or covering the smell of musty laundry. Cedar wood is my personal favorite, but be sure to give cherry and walnut a try as well.
USA Sat 07/30/2005
Lois -- I would be apprehensive travelling with unidentified substances in the system you describe (especially after all the problems in London after the bomb scares there)
I agree the idea you describe is wonderful but MAYBE will only work if you are not going through lots of airline security checks?
Jackie
Perth Australia , Sat 07/30/2005
Helpful items
I have recently picked up several plastic containers designed for vitamins/pills/etc. Seven round sections screw into each other forming a tube about 1 X 6". I found this excellent for 2 purposes on my last trip. The first one I filled with spices and condiments for my picnic/cooking bag. This included onion powder, dried garlic, chili powder, red pepper flakes, curry mix, Italian seasoning and cinnamon. The second one was filled with various products like vaseline, zinc creme, hydrocortisone, antibiotic ointment, tiger balm etc. Things you wouldn't need a lot of and don't want to buy whole jars when you just need a dab. I used clear labels printed from my computer to identify each container. Not much weight either. Travel on!
Lois
Ontario, Canada Fri 07/29/2005
A couple of three-generation car trips through Southern Europe were made better by taking a fold-up-flat plastic cooler in which we kept drinks, snacks, fruit and cheese bought roadside, thus eliminating expensive lunch stops with two young boys. Also good when I travelled abroad with a grandson was a small picnic kit for 2, I think from Magellan's: plates, utensils, glasses, cutting board, napkins and tablecloth. We shopped at the market near our hotel and had wonderful picnics in various parks around London.
Dianne
Tucson, AZ USA Sat 07/23/2005
I typed up a one-sheet list of our itinerary, hotel/flight/train/car rental contact info and confirmation#'s, email addresses, etc. and kept it with us, as well as a copy at home for our son.
I also emailed all of it to myself so I could access it from cyber cafes - and this came in VERY HANDY!
One other thing that was very well used - moleskin for preventing blisters!
nancy <email>
kirkland, wa USA Sat 07/23/2005
Robe / double-duty
I have used a man's lightwieght flannel shirt in Tall so that it comes to my knees (got it cheap at sierratradingpost.com). Works great! Have also used a very lightwieght (also long) windbreaker so that I can use it outdoors as well, if needed.
USA Tue 07/19/2005
Essential items!
I use colored paper clips for marking guidebook pages, clipping bus passes, tickets,notes, etc into my guidebook, and once for an emergency repair to my backpack strap, and other uses as well. I always take dental floss, as it is really strong and can be used to sew packs, clothes, shoes, etc. I once tied a broken night-train window shut with it in Morocco! Two sets of earplugs, for sure. LED keychain flashlight, like a Photon. "False" neck pouch with small amount of money to hand over to robbers, while the real deal is inside your pants.
Gary <email>
Cayman Islands, cayman Islands Mon 07/18/2005
Robe
I like to take along a robe to wear after a shower, while washing clothes in the hotel room, for sleeping, relaxing after a long day, and walking down the hall to the bathroom in some places. However, terry cloth robes are difficult to compress into a suitcase, so I've come up with an alternative. At fabric stores I've found light-weight material that has very thin flannel on one side and a smooth, satin-like polyester on the other. I sewed a robe for myself and it can fold or roll-up much smaller than terry-cloth, yet it's still warm and comfortable. I don't know if this type of material is available in stores, but for any sewers out there (or travelers with sewing friends), it is a very simple project and a nice, compact little luxury to have.
Rosie
Marion, IN USA Sun 07/17/2005
something extra
A small hand held battery operated fan and a small flashlight are always handy.
shirley
IN USA Sun 07/17/2005
souviners and diaper pins
When we traveled I take along two gym bags--one inside the other. Usually they are inside my main suitcase to start. If I find something to bring home I can place it into the bag and not fill the carry on. Plus it is a way for me to segregate things as we go.
I also put anything that could leak into the rest of the luggage into zip-lock bags. If there was a leak it was contained and we also have the bags should we need them there.
I also take three or four diaper pins along.I pin them across my front pocket where I keep my wallet. Hope that I would feel someone unpinning my pocket!!
Plus they are wonderful emergency repair tools.
Last of all I find film canisters great for bringing back sand from the beaches. Believe it or not some people think a wee bit of sand from the Normandy Beachhead (etc)is cool.
neil haglund
marion, indiana USA Fri 07/15/2005
bottle openers
Keep a bottle opener on you at all times, perhaps in super-portable keychain form. In most European countries, having a beer in a park or in other public places like a train, is perfectly legal, and you'll never know when you might want to open a bottle of suds. And if you see someone struggling with a bottle, offering them use of your opener can lead to a near instant friendship.
Hallie
USA Tue 07/12/2005
Electronic translator
Franklin electronics makes a 12 language translator that weighs only a few ounces. It's more fun to use than a phrase book and a great ice-breaker with locals and other tourists--they all want to see it and try it. And it's so amazing to be able to help out a non-English speaking fellow tourist who speaks Turkish, Czech, Hungarian, etc! Don't forget to bring an extra battery though if you're traveling for an extended trip.
Janet Reed
Seattle, WA USA Sun 07/10/2005
Journaling
My musts:
1. I don't keep a journal at home, but I like to bring a small spiral journal and a glue stick when I travel anywhere. That way, I can glue all the ticket stubs, postcards, etc... that I want to save into my journal and write in that. I find it better than doing a scrapbook when I get back, because my memory is fresher, and personally, I'm a procrastinator. I still have a scrapbook from a trip I took three years ago (before I started bringing a glue stick and journal) that I haven't finished! Also, a journal is a good place to keep addresses of people back home, hotel and flight info, etc...
2. I like to backpack in flipflops (I think they're comfy and light) so I bring a small pumice scrub for my dry, cracked feet. A lifesaver!
Trista
Minneapolis, MN USA Fri 07/08/2005
I agree Lisa - I have just done what you suggested ( we go on 7 week round the world trip in Oct) and I too have laminated LOTS of slightly larger cards with all sorts of different useful things(including photocpoies of our passports to carry around -- leaving or REA passports in a safety deposit box at hotels etc) HAVE a TERRIFIC trip
Jackie
Perth , Australia Fri 07/08/2005
Little Extras
My husband and I are getting ready to go on our 2-week honeymoon through Italy in August--so thanks to all of you who have written such great ideas for packing! I borrowed ideas from many of you! :-)
One tip I wanted to add is for picnics (which we plan to have a lot of!)--those rectangular plastic toothbrush tubes you can get at Target/groccery stores are just the right size for a plastic fork, knife and small spoon. Throw it in your daypack, with no worries of breaking the plastic silverware in pieces or getting "gunk" all over them before/after they're washed.
I've also typed up 3x5-card-size "cheat sheets" for each city we'll be visiting...hotel info/confirmation numbers, directions, train information (tickets, reservations, stops for certain sights), recommended sights and restaurants (from Rick's books and, for all you foodies out there, from the recent special edition Bon Appetit magazine which featured Rome, Florence and Venice!), emergency #'s, and a list of key Italian phrases. I'm printing the info on cardstock, laminating them and then putting them on a metal ring so we can attach it inside our daypack/suitcases. My husband and I will each keep a set, in case one gets lost. It's been a lot of work, but I'll be happy to not have to carry around heavy guide books!
Lisa F.
Portland, OR USA Thu 07/07/2005
Some creative things to bring along..
Pack at least two sizes of ziplock bags! I used every single one. Also, free water bladders came with our backpacks, and that worked great for not always having to have a water bottle in your hand. Instead, we could just grab a drink from the straw hanging over our shoulder.
I also found handy the premoistened face cleaning wipes (cheap brand at target or dollar general) and the ones that you have to wet yourself to use. I took a pack of each and found they both had effective uses. And, they get smaller as the trip progresses.
Last but not least, I went to Target and found a cheap $1 one side felt, the other side vinyl table cloth. Super small and lightweight, it provided for many picnics and perfect naps in countless parks along the way. Then when it got strawberry juice all over it on the last day, I just threw it away! More room for souvenirs!
Oh wait, one more thing...bring a 8x11 plastic envelope that either snaps closed or velcros. It's the handiest thing for all those ticket stubs, receipts, or other documents you want to save!
Nicole
Chicago, IL USA Thu 07/07/2005
duct tape
Anthony, I totally agree about the many uses of duct tape--love it!! Just be sure to take some from home--we found duct tape in Germany, and although it looked similar, it didn't work as well. I'd leave out something else and make room for the whole roll of good American duct tape!
M
USA Tue 07/05/2005
Duct Tape
I wrapped 3 feet of duct tape around a pencil and kept it in my pack. As you all know, duct tape has endless uses. Thankfully I had it when I needed to fix a broken umbrella.
Anthony
Denville, NJ USA Tue 07/05/2005
Useful Extras
Here are a couple of things I find helpful to bring
*Mole Skin and Alo lotion. Not just for me but for anyone else who may need it.
*Pictures of my city and family. Other travelers seem to always be interested in where you are from.
*Gifts for people you meet who you want to thank. For instance, a very helpful hotel clerk. I tend to bring photo post cards. They are light weight and people like to see them (again, from the US)
* A fun travel journal. One year, it was made out of old computer motherboards. Another year it had neat pictures and quotes on its pages. People see this and come up to you and start talking to you.
John
San Francisco, CA USA Sat 07/02/2005
Packing extras
I'm an ex-Girl Scout and current Stage Manager, I always have little extras! I always bring a few safty pins (in several sizes), zip lock bags (in small and large), a couple of small kitchen-type clips (work great for closing a bag of snacks as well as hanging laundry in the bathroom), a Sharpie pen (great for labeling boxes you want to ship home, and getting celebrity autographs if you happen upon them!). The sample sizes of moisturizers or makeups that you get as a "gift with purchase" are also great for traveling, you don't need the entire bottle of lotion for a 2 week trip, and the sample bottles are more likely to stay closed than cheap-o ones from the drug store.
Also for the address labels, I do that too, but I go one step further - I print the addresses on both sides of the sheet, so after I've sent all my postcards, I can remember who I sent one too (because once the label is gone, I usually have a moment of "Did I remember to put Aunt Judy's name on the list?", this way, I turn the page over and see her address there, and know that I've already sent her a card!).
I love to bring a small flip page notebook for taking notes, and especially writing directions. After about a day of driving through Ireland on my own a few years ago, I realized trying to drive AND read the map at the same time was not so easy. So I'd map out my route before I left and write myself notes like: Route 82 to N3 past Kilkenny to M3 (or whatever), much easier to glance at a quick list of instructions verses pulling out the huge map while dodging cows and sheep in the road. (the notebook also came in handy when traveling with my neices - 6 & 1 1/2 years old - so they could color or play tic-tac-toe while waiting for dinner).
One last thing, I love the packing cubes by Eagle Creek, they are great for taking all these little extra's and staying organized in your suitcase. (I use one for socks/undies, and one for the extras, I fold my clothes into a Pack-Mate folder thing that velcro's closed, and then shoes and my small sized makeup bag get shoved in the cracks in between).
Erika <email>
Edmonds, WA USA Fri 07/01/2005
Business Card use
Another use of computer-printed business cards. On our last trip to London, Paris, Salzburg, Munich, I printed a card for each day that listed the date, flight number, departure time, and name, address, phone # of the hotel. I even was able to fit the directions to the hotel.
I made two sets - one I carried in my shirt pocket, the other in my wife's purse in case the other got lost. As the days ended, I threw that card away.
Worked great!
Steve <email>
Richmond, VA USA Tue 06/28/2005
labels for Ellen
Ellen - Postcard labels are quite easy. Almost any word processing software will have templates that work with commercial labels (such as Avery). In Word, look under tools - letters and mailings - envelopes and labels. The template will walk you through how to enter the info. This is especially easy if you need a whole page of return address labels.
Kathy
Seattle, WA USA Mon 06/27/2005
photo cards
My daughter is going to play in some European soccer tournaments this summer, so I made her a kid-version of a business card for trading with other kids she meets. I used Microsoft Picture It Express to create a card that has her photo, team names, position played, email and home addresses. Got it printed as a digital photo for 17 cents per copy, and it looks great! This would work equally well with a photo of your family with contact info. If you want to skip the digital editing, just get a photo duplicated, and put a stick-on address label on it.
Kathy
Seattle, WA USA Mon 06/27/2005
business cards
yes I love the business card idea...how many times have you meat someone and ppl are hunting to find a pen and paper....this is great...anotehr thing I did is we designed our own and included a small picture of us on the card as well. People really loved this.
USA Mon 06/27/2005
postcard labels
If you can't get your computer to do the work for you, take a few minutes before you leave the US for vacation and write address labels for all your friends you plan to send postcards to. you can find labels at any office supply store, Target, etc. They have self adhesive backs, so you can simply peel and stick after you write your note. Personally, I have the DYMO label writer for this purpose. But, save yourself $150 and buy a pack of address labels for a computer and hand write....or, if you have a friend that knows how to do this, take some time at their house and have them show you how to do it on their machine! PS, seem to be a lot of Ellens on this board right now!!
Ellen from Colorado
USA Mon 06/27/2005
postcard labels
kt,
you mentioned making postcard labels. How do I do that? I'm not very computer "smart" on that sort of thing, if that's how you do it.
Ellen <email>
Bainbridge Island, wa USA Sun 06/26/2005
Fast Drying Clothes
After buying several items from travel companies, I discovered a cheaper route.
1. Socks; rather than pay $12 a pair for fast drying ones, check out Target. The Auro brand (division of gold toe) has 100% micro fiber nylon black or blue socks that dry over night. Only $6.50 for 2 pair.
2. Why buy expensive nylon underwear when your basic cotton boxers dry overnight?
3. I have several Micro fiber shirts from a travel company. They are great but rather than pay $50-60 a shirt, check the labels of some of the "no iron" shirts at Target or local department stores. If they have at least 60% polyester they will dry fast and be wrinkle free (most times). If they have wrinkles, hang them in the bathroom during a steamy shower. Before my last trip, I found a great button down shirt that dried overnight and only cost $25 at Dillards Department store. It dried faster than my micro fiber shirts.
T. Magee <email>
Lexington, Ky USA Sun 06/26/2005
Packing creative extras
Regarding the RS liquid wash, I had no leakage problems at all. I kept it in the little bag with the microfiber cloth which is totally not absorbent. A fellow traveler had one of those airy spongies and it worked great. Dries fast. I would use it next time. I kept everything in a LL Bean ditty bag (medium size) which would great.
I did buy a cute little LL Bean red alarm clock. I never heard the alarm go off. Need to find a loud travel alarm clock.
Regarding the neck pouch vs. the waist pouch, I agree the waist pouch is safer. I rarely had to get into my waist pouch but when I did, I found it to be very awkward. I had a backpack which I love but needed a smaller bag to slip over my neck that could hold daily $$ and a credit card and my camera since I didn't have a lanyard on the trip.
Audrey <email>
Keizer, OR USA Sat 06/25/2005
puff
I like the puff thing too. Plus, when you put it into a zip bag and really squish out the air, it hardly takes up any room at all.
M
USA Sat 06/25/2005
Washcloth or puff?
To the person who just replied to Audrey--would you please sign your name, or any name, so when someone replies, you, and everyone, knows to whom the comments are directed.
I carry a microfiber washcloth for when I need a bib or wipe rag but I don't use it in the bath. I prefer the nylon net puff because a small amount of soap creates instant suds. Although you wouldn't think so, it does retain plenty of moisture along with the suds. One good squirt of liquid soap will wash the whole body. The virtually instant drying is the second big advantage. One of these things will never go sour.
Jane Reed
Los Angeles, CA USA Sat 06/25/2005
Audrey -- a couple of questions. I have used the Woolite packets because I don't have to worry about them leaking. Did you have any trouble with the RS soap leaking? After having shampoo leak during my last trip, I've become extra cautious! Also, I bought the RS towel and washcloth and it actually doesn't seem absorbent at all. Somebody did once recommend those nylon mesh scrubby kinds of things, you know, that are round? Use them, shake them out and they're almost dry already, and then stuff into a baggie. As for the waistbelt -- I prefer it. I would never pull it out in public, nor would I pull the neck one out in public. They are for keeping my valuables, passport, larger amounts of money. I carry a small waller zipped into an inner pocket or small shoulderbag (worn across my chest) with small amounts of money. If I need more, I find a bathroom and privacy. You make yourself very vulnerable if you're pulling out your neck- or waistbelt in public, letting people see what's in it. You make yourself a bigger target because you're focussed on it, and also because someone may follow you and mug you later. Just a thought.
USA Sat 06/25/2005
Postcards/Calling Cards
Labels for postcards works great! You don't have to pack an address book. I also made up some business/calling cards with my name, address, and email address. They came in very handy for people you meet.
Audrey Ellis <email>
Keizer, OR USA Fri 06/24/2005
Tips for Travel
Here's what I'll do next time: obtain a neck pouch (not waist pouch). The waist pouch is too difficult to get to & sometimes embarrasing when you have to lift a shirt reach it. A landyard for my digital camera. Leaves your hands free and no worries about it dropping out of your pocket or setting it down somewhere. A road atlas for wherever we are going. I like to know more about what I'm seeing, where I am. Sorry, Rick, your map just doesn't do it for me. I need more details! Take Rick's little bottle of liquid wash soap. It is great. I don't like the microfiber washcloth. It feels funny. Take a small sponge with you. Baggies work great for so many things.
Audrey Ellis <email>
Keizer, OR USA Fri 06/24/2005
Address labels for postcards
Before I go on a trip I make address labels for everyone I want to send a postcard to. It may seem a bit clinical, but there are great benefits: a) a sheet of labels is easy to carry and pack; and b) you'll always know who you have and have not sent postcards to.
kt
San Francisco, CA USA Fri 06/24/2005
Walkie-Talkies in Europe
You can read about international use of walkie-talkies from Cobra and find store locations at: http://www.cobra.com/index.php?page=corporate/faqdetail&id=1&faq_id=64
Our FRS or GMRS radios are OK in the US, Mexico and Canada, but not OUR frequencies in the rest of the world.
Phoebe
FL USA Fri 06/24/2005
I just reread JeffB's post and may have misinterpreted it when I responded last night. For the record, walkie-talkies are not illegal in the UK and Europe. However, they have allocated their frequencies differently from the US. The frequency that the US uses is illegal to use in the UK because it is used for emergency traffic in the UK, and American tourists could end up disrupting important communications just so they can discuss where to meet for lunch. It's perfectly legal to use walkie-talkies in the UK and Europe, but we must buy them over there to be sure they're legal and safe.
USA Fri 06/24/2005
Walkie Talkies
We bring our Motorola walkie talkie to Europe. I have never seen a sign saying they are banned. They are great when driving two cars and are wonderful when the women are shopping and the men are in the bar. The range is pretty good. We used them in London to find our wives on Portabello Road.
Jeff B <email>
Houston, TX USA Thu 06/23/2005
travel towel
Target carries a large microfiber towel for 6.99 in the automotive section for drying cars but it works great on people too. It's much cheaper than the more expensive ones sold in the travel stores & is the exact same thing
Kathy <email>
Anaheim, Ca USA Wed 06/22/2005
Packing tips
Liking to travel light (1 carry-on bag)when traveling in Europe, I always pack a small bottle of Woolite, and I pack clothing that hand washes and dries easily. This has been one of the greatest tips I received from a fellow traveler. I have gone from traveling with too much luggage down to the small carry-on, whether I am traveling for 1 week to four weeks. Packing lightly is an art, and Woolite is a huge piece of it.
Kellie Vander Veur <email>
Holladay , Utah USA Wed 06/22/2005
Not used to walking
If you are not used to walking everywhere I would suggest bringing some Epsom salt. You can find it in your local drug store or Wal-Mart, Target, etc. It is great for relaxing in a bath after a long day of walking on those wonderful cobble stone streets. You use it to soak. There are some other uses but soaking and relaxing are the best. It allows you to get a good nights sleep in a strange bed and place and you don't wake up feeling like you have been in a car accident. Even if you walk for exercise or to get around in your local city chances are your streets are not made of cobble stone. It comes in a half gallon carton but you can get plastic ziploc bags to put it in. It looks like salt (the larger unprocessed kind or bath salt)so no worries about customs thinking your a drug dealer or something.
Parker <email>
Newport Beach, CA USA Fri 06/17/2005
Don't forget Cottenelle
Okay,last thing I promise. Cottenelle wipes. I heard a lot of women suggest fem-wipes for embarassing situations. Great idea, but I prefer to use cottenelle wipes. They close tightly (to keep them moist), can be used in the bathroom or just a handi-wipe situation, are uni-sex, and best of all, completely flushable. I don't think I would like to pull fem-wipes out of my bag to wipe mustard off my shirt or to hand to my embarassed male friends when they need toilet paper.
erin4a <email>
CA USA Thu 06/16/2005
Ladies, listen up! Also, jet laggers
I lived in Japan for two years, and as a native Californian, I had an extremely hard time adjusting to the humidity. Constant chaffing with the moisture, especially when wearing skirts (a lot of ladies can identify; there is nothing worse then a red friction rash between bare thighs, forcing you to walk like a duck, when chances are that you will be walking everywhere). My life saver in Japan,(and in Australia and Canada and the States)is Honey Dust powder, by the Kama Sutra company. Okay, okay, it is sold as an "erotic edible powder" but ignore that. It's made with crushed honeysuckle, dehydrated honey and cornstarch. It totally reduces the friction that causes chaffing, and absorbs moisture, AND acts as a deoderizer for any part of the body. More functional then talcum powder. In fact, when you perspire, it releases the honey scent, so no worries about "I smell like the local cheese. Did I put on my deoderant today?". But word of warning; keep it in it's original packaging when traveling...I don't think you really want to explain what that white powder in a baggy is to the customs offical.
Forgive the length of this post, but also pure essential lavender oil is the all-purpose travel companion. Pure lavender oil can be used to help relax you on a long flight, help you sleep in an uncomfortable hotel, deoderize your clothes and be used as instant perfume. And not well-known, can be used to disinfect cuts and dab on pimples. Works as well as Tea tree oil. They come in one ounce bottles, so packing is no problem, and a drop or two is all that is needed for any job. If you are going the all-natural route, take citronella oil for bugs (just a stratigic drop or two works) and grapefruit oil to keep you awake after a flight to avoid jet lag (inhale scent)until you have to sleep (then inhale the lavender or put a drop on your pillow for a good rest). These have worked for me in other countries, and I plan to use them again when I work in Switzerland this summer.
Erin4a <email>
Tracy, CA USA Thu 06/16/2005
Tenny bottle
I thought it meant "tiny" also, but if you read the posting it doesn't make sense:
"Forget Frebreeze! I brought a small tenny bottle to Europe and then brought it back home!"
USA Thu 06/16/2005
Bottle Size
Maybe it was a TINY bottle!
USA Wed 06/15/2005
Tenny Bottle
I think it was mis-spelled. I believe they meant "tinny" bottle...as in small. Not a brand name.
USA Wed 06/15/2005
Tenny Bottle
A posting from 5/27/05, anonymous, states they brought "a small tenny bottle". I would like to know what exactly this is.
USA Tue 06/14/2005
Things I was glad I had
Here are some items and tips that helpe some are original and some were great suggestions by others. One of those plastic bags that suck the out air of your clothes for dirty laundry or heavy sweaters. Dryer sheets.
Buy used books you don't mind leaving behind when your finished.
Bring old underwear and throw away as you go. My college-age son really liked this idea until he threw away all but three pairs!
Padded envelope to send things home or store in suitcase. Extra bubble wrap for treasures. Plastic baggies- snack size for pills, small tubes, gallon size for sorting items, wet clothes. Cut styrofoam and use as a divider for suitcase. Keeps clothes from being as smashed and helps you stay more organized. Also clear bags that you can keep your clothes sorted in. I am messy so this helos me stay more organized.
Cd with web sites, addresses, emails, important info. Xtra to download photos. Copies of passports, railpass and prescriptions(generic names) including eyeglass and contacts.
Spring loaded clips for keeping curtains closed and hanging wet items.
Instant coffee packets. Duct tape wrapped around a pencilpfor suitcase repairs or whatever. Convertors for hairdryers, recharging etc. Dr Schools peppermint foot lotion.
Vicki
Louisville, ky USA Mon 06/13/2005
Noise Machine
Radio Shack sells a small, battery operated noise machine. It produces "white noise" that drowns out noise from hallways and streets. It came in real handy when trying to sleep across the street from the Oktoberfest!!
Steve
Hudsonville, MI USA Sun 06/12/2005
Pashima
Ladies, think about bringing your pashima with you. It takes up very little space and it can add so much to your outfit when going out for dinner. I find that Europeans dress for dinner, so I've started to bring my pashima. You can wear it like a shawl, or a scarf. Great for the plane ride too if you get cold. I bring my black one - goes with everything.
EB <email>
CO USA Fri 06/10/2005
Hot weather bandanna
Those cooling bandannas are great, but beware that if used in a very hot and humid climare, the "beads" do not ever get really dry and may actually start to smell moldy - that's what happened to the one I used in Borneo. I had to throw it away because of the smell (and rgw possibility of mold staying in the beads and causing allergic reactions). They also don't work well here in Florida in the summer!
FL USA Fri 06/10/2005
cooling bandanna
I think at least one of these "magic" bandannas is called the "Coolie" but I'm not sure of the spelling. Kuli, Coolee, Kooly--?
Meg Rosenfeld <email>
Santa Rosa, CA USA Thu 06/09/2005
Hot Weather Cooler
I don't know the official name for it, but there is a bandana-type gizmo that has little beads wrapped inside it. When soaked in water the beads swell up to ten times their original size. The thing is worn around the neck and stays wet and cooling for a long time. It is easily re-wetted. I've used one at home and it really does help to keep your neck cool.
USA Thu 06/09/2005
Tips for European travel
I read your chat board b/f I left and these are the items that really came in handy for us (in order of importance):Steve Ricks Daypack (perfect with a lg & 2 small pockets, place for water bottles, & FEATHER light)Small compass (purchased at Walmart..it was shaped like a ball and we pinned it on our day pack. Getting lost (even with a map) is inevitable and the compass was invaluable!)Shout It Out wipes (use one as soon as you spill on your clothes then come behind with a hand wipe and when it dries you can't even see a spot).Coins for pay toilets.Tissues for toilets w/o.Things we wished we had taken:Small travel alarm clock (our Paris hotel failed to give us a wake-up call).Small amount of laundry detergent. (Shampoo did not take the body odor out of my husband's t-shirts.)Bonus tip: Brief yourself on the place where you will have a lay over. We had a bonus day in Paris (due to a strike in Florence) and really didn't know what to see. Also expect air and train strikes... and trust that they usually only last one day.
Shanna
Atlanta, GA USA Thu 06/09/2005
Athletic Tape
Carry a roll of athletic tape, typically in 1.5"x12' black, white and blue rolls. Non-residue friction tape that is just as effective as duct tape with out the "stigma" of security concerns. Remarkably strong and lightweight! Good binding up a sore ankle to ripped luggage.
N Joe
CA USA Wed 06/08/2005
bowls that store flat
Tupperware makes some collapsable bowls with lids. You can stretch them to whatever size you need and they fold flat when you are finished. I got mine as a gift, so I am not sure how much they cost. I'm putting them in my bag for our two week trip to Italy. We plan to eat "in" a lot.
Sue <email>
Royersford, PA USA Wed 06/08/2005
Plastic bowls & lexan kife
Although we packed some lexan cutlery & a thin plastic cutting board, what we could have used was plastic bowls for many picnics & snacks. These would have been handy for rinsing out fruit that we bought at markets, cutting open juicy melons, etc. For cutlery, the cheap plastic throw-away stuff we bought when we arrived in Europe was handier than cleaning the stuff we took, but I was glad I had a strong lexan knive for cutting through melons & crusty bread.
Brian <email>
Silverdale, WA USA Wed 06/08/2005
Lexan Wine Glasses
These were great for those bottles of wine you pick up here and there. We just returned from our do-it-yourself Steve's "Provence & Riviera" 2 week trip, and found these were our best additions to pack for Europe. We drank many bottles of wine on the hotel grounds, room balcony, or a stoll through a village with them. Also worked great for drinking bottled water in the hotel room rather than using the tiny plastic hotel glasses. The stem unscrews and nests inside the cup for easier packing. We got the clear style at REI (I'm suprised Steve's doesn't sell them yet). Two years ago we trained 3 weeks through Italy & Austria, etc. & drank our wine in some lame camp style cups. Boy, if we would of had these instead......
Brian <email>
Silverdale, WA USA Wed 06/08/2005
Bandanas
I threw in a couple of bandanas for a recent trip, and they were wonderful as washclothes, neck coolers, and hot compresses (for sore eyes). They dry very fast too.
Diane
Seattle, WA USA Tue 06/07/2005
Crystal Light on the go off brand
I just returned from Europe and I took the Wal_Mart version of the Crystal Light on the go packets. It came in about 4 different flavors and if you drink it with using water with gas it is like a soda minus the sugar. It was nice not to have to buy an expensive soda on the street when you got tried of drinking water.
Newport Beach, Ca USA Mon 06/06/2005
Crystal Light on the Go!
We took "Crystal Light on the Go" Packets with us. Each packet is mixed with 0.5L of water. So during the day we would buy some pop or water to drink & save our bottles. When we got back to the romm we just made up some lemonade or raspberry ice with tap water. Cool, refreshing, cheap!!!
Susan <email>
Port Orchard, WA USA Mon 06/06/2005
Day packs for too many
Just returned from two weeks in Italy with my husband and grown daughter. (a wonderful time by the way--the museum reservation system WORKS!) The only big annoyance I had was that I was the only one carrying a pack each day and ended up with everything they didn't want to stuff into their pockets. My advice? Let everyone carry their own day pack.
Mary
Mo USA Mon 06/06/2005
Make microfiber washcloths
Just returned from three weeks in France and Italy. The very best thing we packed were microfiber towels (a must for laundry, etc.) and washcloths made from a microfiber towel. There were three of us and we each carried a different color towel (pink, green, lavendar) and I bought a very dark blue towel that I cut up into six pieces. A friend serged the edges of each and color coded them with thread to go with the towels. We never left one behind, never got confused about which was which, and they were wonderful to have. My other suggestion is do not forget to bring lots of baggies in various sizes. As we packed to leave I had one last gallon size ziploc and debated on leaving it. I threw it in my tote at the last minute as it didn't take up weight or space. At CDG my water bottle leaked all over my denim jacket inside my tote. After I wrung out the jacket, it folded perfectly into the baggie and saved me from having a real mess to deal with all the way across the Atlantic.
Christe <email>
DeLand, FL USA Sun 06/05/2005
Pedometer
Have five minutes left at the internet cafe and thought I'd share this two things. I read her that a pedometer was a fun extra, and brought one. What a blast! We are here in Venice and logging in about 7.5 miles a day. Makes me feel better about the frequent Gelato stops! Thanks to who ever suggested it.
Carol,
Charlotte, nc USA Sat 06/04/2005
Health Uppers
Three things got us through our first trip to Asia: FloraSmart, a probiotic (yogurt-type) in pill form packed in foil, which does not require refrigeration; Pepto-Bismol tablets, for when you know you just ate something that could have germs; and colustrum (from New Zealand, and only for those who can eat animal products), an immune system stimulant. I am also a big fan of E-mer-Gen-C, from the health food store, or even Walmart, for warding off colds and flu due to exhaustion.
JAUD <email>
USA Tue 05/31/2005
strap Storage/Back Door Bags
Apologies! I posted in the wrong forum and have now reposted in "Packing Light." Sorry for the confustion.
Patricia Burroughs
Dallas, TX USA Tue 05/31/2005
Strap Storage/Back Door Bags
Sorry to post so much in the past couple of days -- once more and I'll shut up! But someone who went to the link I posted to see how I'd packed for two weeks in the UK asked for pics on how the backstraps, etc. fit into the back of the Back Door Bag. I just uploaded a couple of pictures. Will somebody who has the current Back Door Bag check and see if it has changed significantly? If so, I'll make that clear in my text. Thanks! Oh, the URL for that particular page is: http://homepage.mac.com/patriciaburroughs/Personal15.htmlMaybe somebody else will post pictures of their "systems." I had fun doing it, and would love to see how others handle it!
Patricia Burroughs
Dallas, TX USA Tue 05/31/2005
Smelly but clean clothes?
If your clothes are a bit ripe, but clean (as can often happen if you pop into a bar for a beer and are surrounded by smokers) just take a hairdryer to the offending garmet for a couple minutes- instant freshness. If your room has a balcony or window that can be opened, you can also drape the item over a hanger and let air outside for the night. Viola!
hallie
USA Tue 05/31/2005
Febreeze and the likes....
Instead of packing Febreeze, I pack a small empty spray bottle and a small bottle of cologne (4711 works good). You can fill the spray bottle with water at your destination, add a few drops of scent, and with the help of your hand you can get those wrinkles out. Many nice scents (NOT oils though) can also be found at Body Works.
Catherine <email>
Seattle, WA USA Tue 05/31/2005
Fresh smelling clothes
One little tidbit I've learned in my travels is I never leave home without a small bottle of febreeze. If you need to wear a shirt or pants more than once and are in between washes then you can spray your clothes with febreeze and in the morning they smell fresh. It really works. I leave for Italy in two days and that's the first thing packed in my bag.
James <email>
Dallas, TX USA Sun 05/29/2005
Mesh bags for packing
I purchased mesh laundry bags at Family Dollar store, and they are great for packing underwear, socks, and other lingerie. You can see through the mesh, and that means you could have one for each person. Mine came in very handy. For dirty laundry, I used a pillow case.
Gail <email>
Houston, TX USA Sat 05/28/2005
Fabric sheets and Zip lock bags.
Forget Frebreeze! I brought a small tenny bottle to Europe and then brought it back home! I also used 10 cheap fabric sheets (the one with the bear.. snuggles?). I layered the sheets inside Rick's travel cubes (what a godsend!) and it kept my duffelbag and clothes smelling fresh for the trip... even took away some of the smoke smell.Zip lock bags were wonderful to have. I went to Target and got the 2 gallon size... and used that as a dirty laundry bag. I compressed the air out and not only did it keep the smell out of my bag, it took up little room as well. As I used my clothes, I was able to put the dirty clothes in one of the cubes, separating them until I had time to do laundry.
USA Fri 05/27/2005
Cell Phones
Our past three trips we've rented our cars from Auto Europe and gotten free cell phone usage with it. We have to pay postage -- they ship the phone to us in the states, but we don't activate it until we get to the UK. I believe incoming calls are free, but outgoing are expensive -- 60 cents a minute. However, we use calling cards for calls we make and just have the cell phones for emergencies. It has ended up being a good compromise for us.
Patricia Burroughs <email>
Dallas, TX USA Thu 05/26/2005
Walkie-Talkies / FRS radios abroad
Check out the FAQ's on Cobra's website about international use of FRS radios: http://www.cobra.com/index.php?page=corporate/faqlist&faq_category=Intl
FL USA Thu 05/26/2005
Walkie Talkies
It is my understanding, Walkie Talkies sold and used in the US are forbidden to be used in Europe. You can do a Google search and find detail explanation. Here is a link for Europe Walkie Talkies: http://www.londoncomms.com/main_page.htmNot sure if there are newer models.
JB
CA USA Thu 05/26/2005
cell phone
Check out www.mobal.com - you can buy a phone for $49 that will work for you while you're in Europe. That's a heck of a lot cheaper than any of the international cell phone rentals I found. The per-minute charges aren't that cheap (although cheaper than some of the rental places I saw), but it seems like a good solution for an emergency phone. It won't work within the US, but will work to call to and from the US while you're away. (They also have a $99 model that will work within the US.)
Seattle, USA Wed 05/25/2005
Plastic storage bags
One thing we always found handy when traveling is to carry little plastic Ziplock bags for all the ticket stubs, business cards and paper stuff we picked up along the way. Later they would go into our photo albums.
Daneal <email>
Tucson, AZ USA Sun 05/22/2005
Postcards as gifts
I took several postcards of my home city and gave them to people I met. I put an address label on the back, in case they wanted to correspond. It was so much fun to see how they enjoyed the little "gift". A couple of shop owners gave me a postcard in return. I wish I had brought many more. Try it and you'll make so many people smile. (including yourself)
Gail <email>
Houston, TX USA Sat 05/21/2005
A good travel journal is essential
for recording travel adventures, favorite places, interesting people, etc along the way. Forget about taking glue or tape, get a journal that has pockets for collecting stuff like ticket stubs and receipts. My favorite is www.destinationunknownjournals.com.
USA Sat 05/21/2005
Bathroom expenses and slippery elm
I agree with the acidophilus capsules, but also want to suggest Slippery Elm capsules. I take one or two a day, and did not have any problems. Also, make sure to take plenty of small coins in Euro's for the pay toilets. Be aware that there are very few toilets. It was very surprising to me.I used many tips from this website on my recent trip to France. They were so helpful. Thanks.
Gail <email>
Houston, TX USA Fri 05/20/2005
Consider clips not clothespins
Instead of packing clothespins, consider small or medium "binder clips", those cool clips with the "wings" that can be folded flat or left up. They also can serve to hold together tickets, travelcards, receipts, etc in addition to those gaping curtains. You will think of other ideas as well!
ml <email>
Raleigh, NC USA Thu 05/19/2005
Acidophilus capsules are not expensive and take up little space in your bag. Take one a day for happy intestinal flora, eat yogurt regularly (it can be kept at room temp for a few days) and go your merry way. I heard many years ago that yogurt combined with NO SUGAR in your diet will keep away travelers' diarhea.
USA Thu 05/19/2005
To Amy on Stomach Issues
Amy, I do the same thing in a different way. A few weeks before leaving on a trip I eat a serving of plain yogurt every day, the kind that has LIVE cultures in it. The theory is that it keeps your intestinal flora happy. While on my trip I continue do the same. The yogurt works or else I'm the luckiest person alive, because I haven't become sick on my last 4 trips overseas. Of course, I'm also careful about drinking bottled water, etc.
Jane Reed <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA Thu 05/19/2005
My Favorite Soap
I've been saving the small leftover pieces of my favorite bar soap for the purpose of traveling. There will not be any soap holders to carry around, as each small soap bar is just big enough for a couple of showers (for my husband & myself), and small enough to throw away or leave at the hotel.
Grandma's Girl
D/FW, TX USA Tue 05/17/2005
Stomach Issues
I find that the best defense is a good offense when it comes to icky travel stomach. While carrying Immodium can be a good idea, I find it can then cause unpleasant constipation. I prefer to stave off diarrhea with acidophilus tablets. Acidophilus is the helpful bacteria that exists naturally in our intestines and is the "good stuff" in yogurt. I have found that one acidophilus tablet with meals twice a day keeps stomach issues at bay (it can also help with yeast infections). When I lived in Mexico recently, a friend and I took acidophilus daily and drank tap water, ate ice, etc. and had no problems. Our other friend who didn't was really ill (and we ate the same things!). You can buy it in capsule form at your local pharmacy, no prescription required.
Amy <email>
Oak Park, IL USA Tue 05/17/2005
Storing Those Wee Travel Souvenirs
Also useful is a flat zippered "pencil case" found at the Dollar Tree with 3 separate colored zippered compartments. I have one for boarding passes and other stuff on the filghts wherever we go.
Tally, FL USA Tue 05/17/2005
notebook
I bought a hardcover journal at Ross that has a band on it to hold it closed. On the inside of each cover I glued a manilla envelope for tickets, postcards etc. You can also store a pen along the top, attached to the band which will hold it in place. The size is the same as the Rick Steves travel book, easy to carry around. I wrote all kinds of notes, address list, itinerary and it will serve as my journal while traveling.
Ann <email>
Nice, CA USA Fri 05/13/2005
To Thomas
Do you think stress could be the cause? My husband had your problem on an important business trip, but when we go on vacation trips, he is fine. We always take some Immodium just in case.
USA Thu 05/12/2005
to Thomas
Thomas, When I went to Mexico several years ago I took along a supply of Pepto-Bismol tablets to prevent just this problem. It worked, tho it does turn your stool black. You might be eating bigger meals when you travel, which can sometimes cause cramps and diarrhea. I agree about the Immodium, tho I try to only take it if I absolutely have to, otherwise I like to just let whatever get out of my system. Of course, that only works if you're hanging around the hotel! Good luck. PS In increase in sugary drinks etc may increase diarrhea. I agree with the other guy, drink bottled water, and I'd just stay away from stuff on the street and at markets. Not as cheap to go to restaurants but...
Elaine
USA Thu 05/12/2005
to Thomas
Thomas, When I went to Mexico several years ago I took along a supply of Pepto-Bismol tablets to prevent just this problem. It worked, tho it does turn your stool black. You might be eating bigger meals when you travel, which can sometimes cause cramps and diarrhea. I agree about the Immodium, tho I try to only take it if I absolutely have to, otherwise I like to just let whatever get out of my system. Of course, that only works if you're hanging around the hotel! Good luck. PS In increase in sugary drinks etc may increase diarrhea. I agree with the other guy, drink bottled water, and I'd just stay away from stuff on the street and at markets. Not as cheap to go to restaurants but...
Elaine
USA Thu 05/12/2005
Dear Thomas of Dallas,
If you are experiencing chronic diarrhea on your travels, but not at home, then it is likely the effects from consuming different foods and/or beverages. This ailment is commenly refered to as "Montezuma's Revenge" in Mexico when foreign travelers get diarrhea from drinking contaminated water. Next time you travel out of the country, drink plenty of bottled water -- NOT tap water -- throughout the days. This is what I did during my four weeks in Slovenia, Croatia, and Bosnia-and-Herzegovina, and I did not suffer any stomach ailments.
Another suggestion is to avoid foods with a high liquid content: soups, sauces, gravies, etc. Also, try sticking to foods that are cooked and served hot. Cold foods may be contaminated by bacteria passed on from various dirty hands. If you buy any fruits or vegetables from the outdoor markets, either wash the produce thoroughly or peel off the skin or rind. Try these suggestions on your next overseas holiday. Whatever the outcome, always keep some Immodium tablets in stock within your first aid kit or toiletries kit.
Jerry Scott Horn <email>
Fort Lauderdale, FL USA Thu 05/12/2005
Travelers Diarrhea
It seems that every place I travel to I get the travelers diarrhea. Any remedies for it? My Physician says theres not much he can do, other than having surgery to examine my intestines. I had the worst trip to Rome last summer, as we were entering St.Peters Basilica, I got a horrible case of the runs! I had to run to the bathroom, and barely made it before having an accident. I have thought about wearing diapers like the old people do, that way I wouldnt have to worry about accidents anymore. Other than that , I cannot think of any remedies :( Please Help! All my vacations are ruined by this horrible disease.
Thomas
Dallas, TX USA Wed 05/11/2005
packing
Another thing I do is I take file folders with me as often much of my own research and stuff is not from a guidebook but from the net so I make more own notes based from many sources, print them off and the take them along in a file folder.Another thing is some MP3 players such as Iriver and Ipods read text files.
bluedenim
USA Wed 05/11/2005
Storing Those Wee Travel Souvenirs
Do you love saving all those admission and transportation ticket stubs, city tourism discount cards, decorative telephone cards, receipts, postage stamps, and other little keepsakes from your travels? Take along a small accordion-style file: the type used for grocery coupons. These are perfect for storing those wee travel souvenirs to be used for scrapbooks and journals afterwards. However, find a file that closes securely to prevent anything from falling out.
Jerry Scott Horn <email>
Fort Lauderdale, FL USA Wed 05/11/2005
GPS
I just returned from Germany and Austria and our life saver was the GPS system on the car we rented. It took the worry out of trying to find nearly impossible street signs and we didn't have to rely on maps. We also took a PDA with us that had a GPS on it. Another helpful item is a compass. It came in handy several times in the city as we were walking around.
Chris <email>
San Jose, CA USA Wed 05/11/2005
Below Add-on
Its Karen from below again, I forgot to add that you can urinate while wearing the blood catcher. Trying to have a bowel movement may cause the catcher to fall out though, I wouldnt reccomend that. If you need to have a BM I would just reccomend taking the catcher out and rinsing out the collected blood. Hope this helps! These are a real lifesaver!
Karen
Detroit, USA Wed 05/11/2005
Advice For Women
For the women I have a great tip, they have these great little blood catchers (for menstruation) they are called keepers. Anyways, the blood catchers contain the menstruation and theres rarely ever leakage. One time I did have a little leakage and I was wearing white pants, but thats a whole nother story. So, this catcher is great, you no longer have to use blood plugs (tampons) or diapers (pads). I hope this information is useful, theres many brands of the catcher so I would just look around if I were you! Karen
Karen
Detroit, MI USA Wed 05/11/2005
Time and time again
I'm "dys-chron-ic" (can never remember what time it is back home), so I got an inexpensive digital watch with 24-hour stopwatch function. I start the stopwatch at midnight (00:00) local time before I leave, and adjust the regular watch to local time while on the road. If you want to see if it's a good time to call home, check the stopwatch, which will show "home" time, albeit in 24-hour format.
Chris Kerstetter <email>
Renton, WA USA Tue 05/10/2005
reading
Little book by Alain de Botton: The Art of Travel contains some delightful insights to why we go and historical, philosophical references that enrich your trip! take it along!
Ellen <email>
SLC, UT USA Tue 05/10/2005
Money Exchange
Martha is right. If your planning to bring US dollars be mindful to not take so many of the new bills. I've been to China twice and my second year I had a few probs with the new $20. If your bringing cash, ask your bank for the old bills if they have them. Another great thing instead of bringing your credit card or debit cards are Visa Travel Money cards or American Express Travel Cards. They work just like debit cards or credit cards with little hassle. Visa is more widely use in the world by shop and resturaunts. I think you can put up to $2000 on American Express and $1500 for the Visa Travel Money Card. Check on line to see which bank issues the American Express Travel card and you can get the Visa Trvel Money card from AAA. Each cost around $12 to $15 per card but if you get extra it is about $5 each.Happy Travels.
Parker <email>
Newport Beach, CA USA Mon 05/09/2005
Travel first aid kits
Adventure Medical Kits make great "GO" first aid kits for travel. They fold like a wallet, take very little space, and have all the necessary items for small injuries. Not expensive...of course you could make your own, but these can be refilled easily, and are very well thought out. You can find them at REI or ask your local travel/luggage store.
USA Sun 05/08/2005
Travel or Mini Sewing Kits
I bring a small travel sewing kit with me and take out all the weird colors that they put in. Add in a few bandaids and some asprin, rubberbands, motion sickness meds if you need them, a couple sizes of safty pins, ect. Do not take the entire bottle of pills. You can get little packs of different meds in the travel section of the grocery store or drug store. You can also find them at gas stations behind the counter. Saves space and comes in h