Tricks for Packing Light
Share your creative tricks to fit your world into a small bag for a European trip.
- Please don't post questions here. Use our Travelers Helpline.
Best fabrics for travel wear
Nylon is great for warmer-weather wear, and as breathable windbreaker over a thin base layer. Some polyester will even wick moisture better and dry faster than nylon; but polyester also retains odors more.
The absolute best ultralight clothing I've used is thin merino wool. A half-zip or full zip merino long-sleeve is the most versatile piece I've ever worn: cool and breathable when it's hot out, warm when it's cold, wicks moisture, retains insulating properties when wet, and miraculously resists the buildup of body odor. By opening or closing the zip neck, I can quickly regulate my body temperature. Add a bandanna, light scarf, or under-armor type balaclava, any of which can be quickly adjusted around the head and neck area, and the range of conditions that can be comfortably negotiated is amazing.
One place I avoid wearing synthetics if I can help it: the airplane. In a fire, synthetics melt right into your skin. Cotton is safer, and wool is actually slightly protective in case of fire.
Mike
Toronto, ON Canada 11/04/2009
Good travel sleep
I snore like Mr. Ed. My travel roomie will be thankful I bring breath right strips along. I also bring sleep aid like Tylenol pm to help with jet leg.
Linda
USA 11/03/2009
Couldn't do without tthese!
When traveling with limited clothing, you need to wash frequently. For two people, carry at least 6 clothespins. I used with the hangers from the closet, hung them on door frames, etc for drying. Also, take a microfiber towel...works well after washing your hair, but it absorbs so well when wringing out your wash. Also...towel dries quickly!
Martha
Columbia, SC USA 11/03/2009
Pack just one pair of shoes
As a rule, I only wear one pair of shoes and pack one pair of shoes, each sturdy, lightweight walkers.
Because I only travel with a single carry-on suitcase, my standard travel-shoe plan, for any length trip, is to wear one pair of Rockport walking shoes (light tan suede, which needs no polishing!), and pack one slightly lighter, trimmer pair of Rockports with a mottled dark blue and grey finish, which usually just needs a buff with those free silicone pads many hotels give away free. I try to alternate the pairs each day to give them breathing time.
I used to wear thin socks because they took up less space and washed and dried quickly, but the lack of cushioning and support and wicking had me griping too soon. Now, I barely notice my feet at all, which is how it should be.
I always stuff my in-suitcase shoes with all the small, fragile, or non-critical-to-get-to items. Besides keeping things organized, protecting the small items, and saving space, it keeps the shoes from getting crushed. I then keep each shoe in a thin cloth bag and nest them on the top layer, at the low end of the carry-on rollaboard, followed upwards by the toiletries bags, electronics, and any other semi-bulky items (tiny umbrella, poncho, folding hats, vitamins, books, etc.).
Steve Krulick <email>
Ellenville, NY USA 11/01/2009
Traveling Light But with essentials
I snore and also put breath right strips in another pocket on my bag. Another essential.
Linda
Los Angeles, USA 10/29/2009
Leaving Clothes Behind
I agree with Rose about leaving clothes behind. When packing for our travels, I would often pack underwear that I didn't
like for either myself or my sons. It made things easier towards the end of the trips...no laundry and lighter suitcases.
Marie
San Diego, CA USA 10/26/2009
Packing Light
I no longer take a toiletries bag. I leave all my 3 ounce bottles in the quart plastic bag that I put into a gallon plastic bag to prevent leaks. My non-liquid toiletry items go in a small cosmetic bag. The two bags are smaller than the small toiletry bag that I used to carry.
Jamie
Jackson, MS USA 10/21/2009
Bags/luggage with straps
I recommend taking luggage/bags that have straps to carry on your back. Victorinox sells bags that look like luggage (with wheels) but also has hidden straps. So helpful on the train and in Venice with all the stairs.
Joline
Apopka, FL USA 10/18/2009
another yes to leaving clothes behind
I'm not talking about wearing past-it clothes. Last trip I brought 8 prs of underwear I didn't like - There was nothing wrong with them, but I didn't like them. So for the first 8 days of my trip (a tour with a roommate) I threw them in the trash basket in the bathroom. Others have said that they don't want others to have to handle their dirty underwear. Well, no one has to as all baskets are lined with plastic. I also brought an old t-shirt to sleep in & traveled in one That I no longer wanted. These also were tossed before I left. In addition, I packed toiletries in an eagle creek cube instead of a toiletry bag. The cube weighed very little & the last night of the trip, I threw away the remaining toiletries & had a cube to pack souveniers in. I also threw all travel books (I take partials) & left a novel behind I'd finished. For the first time, I came home with a lighter bag than when I left.
Rose
Indianapolis, IN USA 10/17/2009
Taking Medications
You can either ask your pharmacist to give you a label for your meds to put on the plastic bags, or take one off a bottle of your meds and tape it on the plastic bag. I have each of my meds in a separate snack size ziploc bag with a label on each one. They all fit into a larger ziploc bag, which I put in the bucket that you have to put all your personal items in to go through security at the airport. I have taken this on many flights and have never been questioned. I just put them out there for the security people to see and it has always worked for me (for several years now). Hope this helps.
Susan
USA 10/17/2009
Carrying meds
Put your vitamins & meds in those tiny plastic bags you can pick up at a craft store. They don't take up the space that the plastic containers do, and they don't spring open and spill everything.
Kathleen
Longmont, CO USA 10/16/2009
Yes! to leaving unwanted clothes
I totally agree with wearing items and then leaving them! I will also leave a cash tip when warranted; the clothes aren't in lieu of a tip. To wear new clothing in Europe is foolish. It sets you apart. As the stuff gets left behind, the suitcase gets more spacious! Best idea I've had for packing light!
Paula
Phoenix, AZ USA 10/16/2009
Re: Carrying Meds
Would that raise suspicion for airport security? I'm not on any medications or anything so I may just be ignorant but it seems like carrying meds in plastic bags would raise questions. I don't know I was just asking.
Jordan
FL USA 10/16/2009
Charity Shops and a Scarf
Two tips for packing light, hit up some charity shops (British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research, Oxfam etc.). If I knew the sorts of stuff they had in some of the charity shops I probably would have bought some mroe stuff over there and brought a bit less with me. I got two shirts for a couple different charity shops in Glasgow that would have costed me much more than the £4.50 that they were in the charity shops.
Bring a scarf, I'm a guy and brought my scarf with me and I'm glad I did. I could wear a fairly simply long sleeved shirt (long sleeve t-shirt style) and wear the scarf and it looked like I put effort in to what I was wearing even if it was a simple shirt, and some jeans. My scarf is from H&M really cheap and neutrally colored (browns, greens, greys) allowing it to fit with virtually everything I brought with me.
For me this is all about comfort, if I wear sweatpants or whatever I'm not comfortable, what makes me comfortable is blending in to the culture around me the best I can. Maybe its my insecurity or whatever but I genuinely feel more comfortable walking around in clothes that fit than in clothes that point me out as a tourist.
Jordan
FL USA 10/13/2009
Packing light: black and white
I spent five weeks in Europe this past June and July, from northern Berlin to sunny Rome. I tried to follow the Rick Steves' guidelines, but did add a bit more. What helped was that everything I took was either black or white, with a few splashes of color, such as a scarf. It enabled me to mix and match. Layering shirts were particularly good, so that on a colder day in Berlin I wore three at once, along with a (black) light weight summer jacket. I did just fine, washing clothes as needed, mostly in my room. The few colors made packing easier, and I didn't have to worry about colors--oh, yes, along with walking shoes I took two pairs of Ballerina flats with comfy soles for dress-up. I figured they'd be good for cobblestone streets and I was right. My wardrobe even worked for a Polish wedding which was the primary incentive for the trip!
Maureen
Tucson, AZ USA 10/11/2009
Loves my compression bags & packing cubes
Clothes in compression bags and then stuffing them into packing cubes! It got our slightly over-sized backpacks on a plane with out us being busted for going beyond the carry-on parameters. I did not want to risk the baggage handlers wrecking my backpack frame, so I had to carry it on.
Kelly Canada <email>
Gulfport, Florida USA 10/10/2009
Leaving Behind Old Clothes
What we leave behind for hard working maids is CASH. We leave tips, not clothing we no longer want.
Sorry, but I don't think wearing a pair of new knit slacks or jeans and a new tee shirt makes me look like a rich tourist. I've never felt that I was dressed any better or any worse than the people living in the country I was visiting.
bettyk
Missouri City, Tx USA 10/10/2009
Packing light
Iagree - polyester/nylon are great. They don't breathe well though, so at my mid-womanly age, I prefer to spend a bit more and buy a couple of light wool tops - great brands are Icebreaker and Ibex. They also dry really fast but keep you warm or cool depending on the need at the time. And both are specially treated to resist odor.
J Roeber
Carbondale, CO USA 10/09/2009
Space Bags
I highly recommend using Space Bags to pack your clothes. I just traveled on a Rick Steves tour for 19 days in Italy with one day pack and one piece of carry-on luggage with no problem. I did do laundry in the sink, but those Space Bags really help you fit more in.
Joan Montegary <email>
Kent, WA USA 10/04/2009
I bring clothing items that are headed for the Goodwill bag. Wear them one more time and leave it in the room. I don't have to do laundry, and it makes room in the bag for shopping.
Mel
Kirkland, WA USA 09/30/2009
Another fabric to try
You can also look for rayon shirts. They dry fast and have the advantage of being a natural fiber. They breathe but don't pill like some of those specially-made travel fabrics. Just hand-smooth them after you hang them up, and make sure you button all the buttons.
Caol
USA 09/28/2009
packing
My fiancee' and I just finished a 16 day tour of 7 European countries. My brother bought me a Rick Steves travel bag, which was all I needed. This was my first European trip ever and we both packed way too much! When we go again, I'm going to pack 3 pairs of dark 100% nylon everything (I use Royal Robbins, North Face, Magellan), 3 dark nylon T-shirts, 3 short sleeved nylon shirts, and only polyester/nylon underwear and socks--NOTHING cotton! Don't want to waste time blow-drying wet clothes. But we will take some kind of rope and clothes pins, for sure. Packing lighter means not having to fight to jam your bag into overhead compartment in planes, or too much to lug around the London Tube or Paris Metro.
Pete Violand <email>
Austin, Tx USA 09/27/2009
Packing Lite
I agree with the nylon/polyester clothing as they fast drying.
REI and Campmor has a wide variety of these clothing for women and men.
Through experience we have learned that after washing, squeeze lightly and shake then hang. We each carry 4 plastic clothes hangers, clothes pins and a tiny plastic bottle of wool lite.
We use 2 Rick Steves' travel clothes lines and tie them together.
JB
CA USA 09/27/2009
Airline Baggage Fees on transatlantic flights
Here's another reason for packing light. Airline baggage fees.
Luggage fees hit overseas flightsfrom L.A. Times - Travel That second bag may cost you as airlines tack on stiff charges. Solution? Pack light or carry on more.
Planning to check two bags on your next flight to London, Rome or Paris? Pay up. In a little-publicized trend, airlines are cracking down on transatlantic luggage, dinging coach fliers $50 or more each way for a second checked bag -- about twice the going rate of domestic flights.
Steve Didckey <email>
Pacific Palisades, CA USA 09/27/2009
Packing light more challenging due to disappearing laundromats
I try to pack light taking as few items of clothing as possible. However, I do like to be able to use a laundromat to clean all my clothes at one time once a week to supplement hand washing. During our recent trip to the Czech Republic, Poland and Hungary, we found it very difficult to find anyplace like that. We passed on Rick's recommended establishment in Budapest and regretted it later. Local people told us that laundromats are a thing of the past except in the largest cities. Proprietors of pensions and B&B's we stayed at also would not provide clothes washing services like they have on our past trips. I am not sure if this is a trend only in Central Europe, or if this is happening elsewhere, too. We will definitely take this into consideration in planning future trips and how much to pack.
John
Littleton, CO, CO USA 09/25/2009
Comfortable clothing in Italy
Rick mentioned in his guidebook that no one wears shorts in Italy except to the beach. Not true! It was quite warm while we were there (mid September, temps were in the 80s). I had only packed one pair, my husband none. We really wished he wern't lugging around pants we had no use for-would have worn shorts the whole time!!!It was hot!!!
Jamie Clark <email>
Albuquerque, NM USA 09/21/2009
New and improved suitcases!
I had to buy a new suitcase for my recent trip and found a carry-on with 360° wheels. They flip around with the movement of the suitcase and work on every surface you can think of. You can slide your suitcase along the floor without having to angle it. My mom is now looking for one as well after seeing how much more easily I got around London. If you're in the market for a suitcase, find one with these wheels!
Cathy Clark <email>
Sequim, WA USA 09/19/2009
Traveling light - pants & socks
Synthetic travel/hiking pants were light and dried quickly. Royal Robbins Global Travelers and Columbia's Titanium cargo pants. Sierra Trading Post on line had great discounts on them. The Royal Robbins looked like regular khakis.
Also, two pair of 100% nylon socks from Target worked great: comfortable, cheap and they dried quickly.
mbrowntn <email>
Knoxville, TN USA 09/16/2009
Avanti travel and tote bags.
On a recent week's trip in the USA I used Rick's Avanti travel bag and tote - perfect! It held a week's light clothes, a few books, my hanging toiletries bag and a small purse, so stowing my carry bags on the plane was a snap. The travel bag with wheels is perfect and goes in the overhead bin easily. The tote goes under the seat without any problem. They roll together through the airport with ease!
Jean
Staunton, VA USA 09/13/2009
Super Light Laundry in your Hotel
If you want to wash your clothing and have almost zero weight in soap, many outdoor and travel stores sell leaves of soap about 1mm thing that dissolve in water and are very light and practical.
Ben Hoffman <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA 09/09/2009
Appenzell pack
I am yet another convert to Rick's Appenzell pack as my main bag. I recently made a 5-day trip to the west coast and was able to pack everything I needed in the bag. And I think I overpacked - two skirts, two slacks, five shirts/blouses, five sets of underwear, a pair of sandals, toiletries and entertainment items (mp3 player, two paperbacks and a couple of magazines. With what I packed and what I wore on the plane, I probably had enough to last for another week or two by doing a little laundry. I put a poly day bag and a lightweight, hooded waterproof jacket (Lands End Trail Model) in the outer side-zip pocket. Of course I never used the jacket in SoCal but it came in handy upon my return home where it was both raining and chilly.
JC
Orange, NJ USA 09/05/2009
Hanging Toiletry Bag
On a recent trip to visit family I had to be admitted to a hospital far from home. Aside from being disgusted with the whole situation, I tried to balance my little toiletry items on a towel-covered, hospital bathroom bar, and it was a disaster. Ziploks don't do too well for that, either. From now on I will make sure my hanging toiletry kit is with me, even if I have to take it empty and fill it at my destination.
Rebecca
D/FW , TX USA 09/05/2009
appenzell pack
i’ve always packed light and enjoy trying to pack lighter and lighter…having used the appenzell as a personal bag before (overkill) i realized i could use it as my main carry-on overhead bin bag and revert back to my smaller under the seat personal bag…i usually use rick’s classic back door bag as my main bag and i really like it but i thought the appenzell would suffice on my latest trip and it did…i fit 9 folded shirts in rick’s large packing cube and that fits exactly in bottom of the main appenzell area…i slid two pants folded in the laptop sleeve area…a weeks worth of socks and underwear fit in a smaller packing cube…toiletries kit…mesh bag of odds and ends plus use of the other outer zipped compartments for other “stuff”…and then i have a nice smaller daypack i use as my personal bag for all the other things i need to have handy…i wear the only shoes i take…always versatile hiking shoes…this was the smoothest and lightest i have ever packed in the smallest bag i ever used as my main bag…i am going to use this similar approach when i go back again to europe…
matthew Harris <email>
cincinnati, ohio USA 08/19/2009
High Sierra
I'm packing my High Sierra Col 35 for my trip to Germany next week. I've used the bag for my week in Italy 2 years ago, and it was perfect.
I used packing cubes from Eagle Creek for my shirts, under garments, toiletries, etc.
The lid on the bag held my books and "extra" stuff. The bag is just the perfect size to fit in the overhead compartment, and I breezed through customs with my bag on my back.
I bought my bag on ebags.com - they offered a great sale price!
I also took a small PacSafe shoulder bag to hold my camera, water bottle and things I need for the day's sightseeing.
Mary Kay
Littleton, CO USA 08/19/2009
Oil of Olay dry cloths
I read this somewhere else, I'm not sue it it was here or not. Oil of Olay makes dry cloths that are activated with water. I used these on my last trip and they were great. They pack down to nothing. The bonus is that you can use a lot less moisturizer and they are thrown away after each use. I did pack 3 per day (1 for morning cleansing and 2 for evening shower).
Sheila
USA 08/17/2009
Men's 3 in 1 product saves space
Gentlmen: I found Nivea Active 3 is great for packing light. It combines shampoo, body wash & shaving lotion into one which means less to carry. I love it!
Alan
NC USA 08/16/2009
Accessorize
If you pack a few very basic, no frills, mix & match pieces in 1 or 2 complimentary colors, you can get a variety of outfits by accessorizing with colorful scarves, shawls, & jewelry. Just be sure that everything goes with everything else.
Jacqueline
Fairmont, WV USA 08/10/2009
nothing wrong with leaving items
For those of you who think it's wrong to leave good, useable clothes around the world, let's not forget how priviledged we are as Americans. We forget how MUCH we have, compared to people in other countries. That said, I have been traveling to Europe for over 45 years, and have always left clothing items and toiletries at the end of my trips. Not only have people never been offended to receive them, but many have gone out of their way to thank me. I don't look like a slob. I simply take things that I no longer like for one picky reason or another. I look perfectly fine in my photos. To Bettyk who said to donate them to a shelter or church, why would I donate something to a charitable organization that I was too embarrassed to wear in Europe?! You do not have to look like a fashionista to enjoy your trip. In fact, wearing brand -new clothes only sets you apart as a rich tourist to the locals. Leave things for a hard-working maid and travel light at the same time!
trudy
San Antonio, Texas USA 08/08/2009
Packing/traveling light
My husband and I have taken several trips using Rick's books and packing light hints. Before our most recent trip to Ireland last fall, my husband discovered the ScotteVest. This mid-weight vest, which is wind and rain resistant, has over 20 pockets and really helps one keep carry-on luggage to a minimum. And now, he never missplaces his cell phone, keys or money. He started wearing it all the time around town at home, too. They also have one for ladies, which I got for Christmas. And now, they have a light-weight version for warmer climates, with detachable sleeves, in lighter colors. The vest is designed by Scott Jordan, of Sun Valley, ID, and we visited his store there last week on our summer vacation. Best travel vest and jacket we've ever seen!
Patricia Keech <email>
Shoreline, WA USA 07/22/2009
I have worked for years in mountianeering shops. Since the mid-70s. I have helped hundreds of friends and patrons prepare for travel. This is my piece of advice. Buy the smallest pack you can stand. If you buy a big pack you will fill it up. If you are going to europe in particular. Remember that you are not in the wilderness. Cash weighs much less than gear. Focus on remaining light and flexable. If you need another sweater buy it and have a souvnier and a story. This is what I have learned from my travels and the feedback from hundreds of people. People with big packs and lots of gear travel much less.
Randy Gregg <email>
Kansas USA 07/20/2009
classic bag
i have always used rick's travel light tips but was unaware of the travel store...i used to use an eagle creek backpack style carry-on...it's nice and rugged but not a great use of space...i always had trouble just packing and fitting in the basics...so on my recent trip to ireland i got the classic carry-on pack and the civita day pack...i still packed light but was able to fit many more items and did not have to "fight" to zip everything in...sturdy pack and just a more common sense use of space...the extra mesh bags were a nice bonus...they come in handy...plus you can't beat the price of the pack...
matthew harris <email>
cincinnati, oh USA 07/20/2009
Rick's Bags Don't Disappoint
After traveling with either too big or too small bags, I finally tried Rick's travel bags and I am not disappointed. I check my 21" Roll-Aboard, and use the Avanti Rolling Tote as a carry-on. It has a padded compartment for my laptop, which I travel with so I can load, label, and organize my digital photos, and now that wireless is so prevalent, I can send emails and do research on my own computer. I take a small purse on the plane as well, and I pack my Civita Day Pack and use it once I get to my destination. I also pack a Pocket Tote, which comes in handy for grocery shopping. This sounds like a paid endorsement, I know, but really, once I got these bags, packing has become a no-brainer!
Tina
Santa Ana, CA USA 07/18/2009
Airline carry=on restrictions
Most airline carry-on restrictions today seriously hamper the 'Back door' concept. If traveling economy class one is allowed only ONE carry on weighing less than 17.6 lbs. Several years ago my wife and I were able to travel to Italy for 10+ days with only a 'back door' suitcase, a shoulder bag and a small daypack among the 3 of us without checking luggage. We are about 70 years old now but are still able to travel that way. However, because of circumstances the last time we were able to book business class with points (significantly more difficult now, in fact a United employee said when refusing to let use points again, "Well, they're only points!" I failed to point out at the time that the airline has already been paid for any points & has the money for them) so were allowed 2 carry-ons. In economy that is not possible. So despite the fact our total traveling weight (not counting ourselves) will be less than 50 lbs. we shall have to check luggage. Unless you are young, I do not think it is realistic to expect to travel to Europe economy class with only carryon luggage. In my opinion an 8 kg (17.6 lbs) is totally unrealistic but a strictly enforce 20 lbs is. A second carry on with a lesser weight limit and size ;limit is fair. These problems arise because of failure to enforce weight and size limits in the past so that people board in the states with huge luggage. If in the future the airlines will accept our points and let us upgrade, the 'back door' option is still the best, even in our geezer years. it is still best for getting around on the ground but airlines? I am reaching a stage where the traveling to and from nearly negates the pleasure of being there. When flying becomes more aversive, I'm staying home. I have to say, however, Rick Steves has transformed our way of traveling and of appreciating it once there.
Byron McBride <email>
Long Beach, CA USA 07/14/2009
Lightweight, DRESSY pants
I just made a great find!
Since my Euro trip last summer, I have been wanting a pair of pants that are very lightweight, synthetic (and therefore easy to wash & dry), wrinkle-free or wrinkle-resistant, but which look dressy. Today I found some great Royal Robbins pants at REI. I think these are them:
http://www.travelsinparadise.com/gearreviews/travelclothing/pants/royalrobbinsglobaltravelerpant.html
They weigh practically nothing. A lot of these types of nylon pants look very casual, with cargo pockets or zip-off shorts, but these look like dressier flat-front khakis. They work great as either casual pants (because they are very comfortable) or dressy ones. When I tried them on, they even went great with the expensive Allen Edmonds dress shoes I wore to work today. They are nice enough to wear out to a nice restaurant.
Clint <email>
St. Louis, MO USA 07/13/2009
Rick's travel bags
My husband and I each have one of Rick's carry on backpack bags. His is the larger expandable one - mine the smaller non-expandable. I have to agree with Patrice from New York that at 5'2" mine can be a bit cumbersome, but I can put LOTS into it and all the pockets, etc. allow great organization. It also fits all airlines carryon size, especially if you adjust the side cinches. No waist strap on mine, so I think if I were hiking a lot with it, I'd want the larger one, or maybe a frame pack. Still, absolutely great for train,bus,ferry travel and I can usually hold it in my lap on a city bus, so it's safe. After lugging a rolling bag onto trains in Europe, this bag will go with me next time, maybe with just a little less STuff in it!
Jenni <email>
Carbondale, CO USA 07/11/2009
lighten up your guidebooks
Lighten up your guidebook by taking it to +/- Kinko's and getting one of those comb-like bindings added to it, about $5. Then, leave at home or at your hotel, the pages you don't want to tote. Re-add them when you get home (admittedly, a bit tedious) and presto: a whole, sentimental, guidebook. Down with destroying the book by tearing its pages out!!!
Liz
San Jose, CA 95125, USA 07/08/2009
a different sleeping sack
Most sleeping sacks are like sleeping bags--you have to crawl intoand out of the end. Try this: get a piece of light yardage about 2/1-2 yards long (six feet for you, twice, plus a bit), and hem each end. Use big safety pins or tack shoe laces at each of the four corners to hold it down to the bed. You can crawl out full length and either side--much easier.
Liz
San Jose, CA 95125, USA 07/08/2009
Guidebooks
Since Rick sells guidebooks this advice is probably not going to be appreciated but, here goes. Check out guidebooks from your library and travel with them. Most libraries check them out for 30 days and if needed, you can extend over the internet or by SKYPE. You might copy just the pages you need but don't tear them out!!!
Mary Small <email>
Waikoloa, Hawaii USA 07/06/2009
1 dress/skirt 30 + looks
I like to pack light, but I also like to look good. This is one size fits 2-16, can be worn about 30 different ways and is supposed to be hand washed. It comes in all sorts of colors. dress it up, dress it down.. it looks great and it is easy. There are styles that you can wear a bra with. I have both the satin and jersey-- jersey is more versitle. It isn't cheap, but it is worth it. Butter by Nadia-- check it out! www.butterbynadia.com
Cara
Houston, tx USA 06/26/2009
Travel Hair Brush
On my last trip, the only hair brush I brought was a little folding comb/brush combo with far-apart brush bristles that have tiny 'balls' on the ends, and it worked great! In the past I've carried around a wide-toothed comb to detangle after shampooing, but this one little gizmo replaces that, too!
Grandma
Euless, TX USA 06/26/2009
Travel Deodorant
Years ago I started using a deodorant stone (a natural product that seems to last forever) at home, and now I take a small 'leftover-end-piece' that's still big enough to hold, in my travel bag. It's simple, cheap, and in a solid - easy to travel with - form.
RKG
TX USA 06/26/2009
Itty - Bitty Toiletry
The perfect concentrated hair conditioner is a leave-in product by Garnier - Fructis - Sleek & Shine. For my short (& sometimes fuzzy) hair, a one-time use is only dime-size - so for travel I just squirt out what I think I'll need for my trip plus just a little more - just in case I get stranded somewhere - and the amount is still tiny.
Bekka
D/FW, TX USA 06/24/2009
Travel Pants
Zip on zip off pants are easy to convert for those important events. They add ease to my travels. I got some at REI.
Joseph
Los Angeles, USA 06/22/2009
Pants for all occasions
When touring Italy I found convertible pants to be essential. In the morning we would tour cathedrals which require pants. In the afternoon the weather became warm so all I had to do was zip off the legs and I was in shorts. Almost all backpacking outlets offer these pants in synthetics that dry quickly.
Charles <email>
Las Vegas, NV USA 06/20/2009
Dad gear Jacket
I like to be spontaneous so have eurail will travel, hop on hop off when the mood strikes me attitude. However, with heavy luggage, you are limited in where you can go and who will let you in with a heavy pack or luggage or you wind up standing in line to check a pack and then pick it up when you could be out exploring. My secret is a dad gear fleece jacket. Target sells them as do lots of on line stores. Basically, it is a fleece jacket with lots of pockets for the "dad" who wants to wear the diaper bag not carry one. The pockets are huge and they hold everything without bulging out or looking like a travel vest. I use a packing folder with the plastic overlay cut down to fit the huge pocket on the back, also acts as a lumbar pillow for those long flights! It holds a pair of yoga pants which I can layer under my REI cargo pants if it is cold or wear alone,an extra shirt made of polyester like a very thin hoodie (mountain gear buttersft) and silk underwear.I wear cargo pants, tee, and overshirt with zip airline pocket. My e-reader,packable rain jacket, orakaso flat fold plate (great for picnics in the room, and wraps around my reader to protect it). I also have a buff wear headcover, it works great as a head band, neck warmer, hat and can be used a a towel in a pinch. My toiletries and misc things fit in the large inside pockets with ipod, etc in the upper chest pocket. A very small waist wallet with essentials and a kiva pocket tote for market trips makes up the rest of my items. I can go anywhere and don't have to check bags anywhere. I rinse every thing out at night and am ready to go the next day. I would encourage everyone to go light, it changes your whole perspective and lets you wander where ever you want!
Tina
Los Angeles, CA USA 06/20/2009
Great Travel Shirts
I found Kohl's Axcess (polyester/rayon)
pullover to be ideal for travel. Classy, lightweight, quickdrying and is wrinkle free.
Will
MN USA 06/15/2009
See everything Packing
I only travel with carry on, one of which is an oversized soft 18X11 black shoulder bag.I discovered that those heavy plastic zippered bags that sheet sets come in are a perfect packing tool. I put everything small that I can organize into separate zip lock baggies, cosmetics, my liquids, meds,jewelry, hair elastics,first aid stuff, phone chargers,adapters etc. and through them into the large plastic bag and also things that are a bit large like my hair brush. I put this in the centered zippered compartment. Books,Travel file, computer (sometimes) all fit in the side compartment.This goes under the seat in front. It is so easy even at 30,000 feet, in a cramped space, to pull out the big plastic bag turn it a few times and find just what I need. Also reduces searching if you stay in a different place every night like hubby prefers.
Helen
Vieques, PR USA 06/14/2009
No faded clothes for me
Sorry, but I don't want to wear faded clothes on the plane or anywhere else on my vacation. You can always pack several nice looking tees that can be handwashed and will look great with your black outfit.
bettyk
Missouri City, TX USA 06/11/2009
Tricks for packing light
I have two biggies with packing...
#1---Take almost wornout t shirts to travel in, sleep in, work out in, layer under outfits...and then pitch. A stack of these means that you will have plenty to wear..and then room for new stuff to bring home. (I do the same with underwear.)
#2---MUST HAVE--all Black outfit for women. A couple of nice looking colored shawls do not take any room...give you a shot of color and style...and these will carry you into ANY restaurant...or evening Opera, Symphony, Theatre. The on-air shopping shows sell ones that will roll up into nothing. A simple pair of black flats to finish the look.
And--one final tip---I wear lots of Black knit sports outfits at home so will wear one of those on the plane for the long flight over that is faded and about gone...and that is the first thing that I pitch when I arrive.
Joan
Indianapolis, in USA 06/07/2009
Torn apart guide books
Most of us tear apart our guidebooks to only contain the needed pages. Take those pages and the front and back cover to your copy center/office supply store and for $5-7 and 10 min. they can serial bind it for you. It will lie flat and hold together for the whole trip. Also laminate the cheat sheet for each language.
Diane <email>
Tucson, az USA 06/05/2009
Buy a kindle
Buy a Kindle! You can have many of Rick's guidebooks, his louvre tour & all your other books on a 10oz kindle! It's the best
Ambrosia Harwood <email>
Mar Vista, CA USA 06/04/2009
Packing light
If you want to pack light than just buy a small bag. If you don't have the space you can't pack to many things.
Emma
Star, Idaho USA 06/03/2009
Shower-cap those wet umbrellas
Use your shower cap as a cover for your wet umbrella. While traveling around Ireland my umbrella was dripping wet so I grab my shower cap so I could put the wet umbrella in my bag. My traveling buddies liked the idea and they all were shower-capping their umbrellas by the next day.
Jane <email>
Portland, Or USA 06/01/2009
Great travel slacks and shirts)
I highly recommend Dockers iron free cotton khaki's as travel slacks. They are light weight, dry fast and are iron free. Additionaly, I found some very nice long sleeve collared dress shirts ("GEORGE", 60%cotton/40% polyester) at Walmart that are also wringle free. Last September I enjoyed a month traveling (Backpacking) in Germany and Central Europe and the DOCKERS were great.
Will
MN USA 05/28/2009
Light Jackets for Colder Weather
I love my REI Mistral Soft-Shell Jacket, it has a fleece inside and the outer shell allows light rain to just bead right off. I travel in October every year and I have found this paired with my Eddie Bauer RipPac Packable Jacket are the perfect way to stay warm and dry. I also pack a pair of silk or poly-pro long johns just in case. The REI Soft-Shell jacket in black is sleek-looking and can be paired with a scarf to dress it up a bit. Add a smart looking hat and a pair of gloves and you can be comfortable just about anywhere.
Kristy
Tacom, WA USA 05/08/2009
Best carry-on ever!
My Kelty Hub convertible is my new best friend. It holds everything for a month's travel and that's without expanding it. I'm planning to buy another to put away for the future. My Pacsafe SlingPac 100 is my day bag. I travel very light.
coco
DC Metro, USA 05/03/2009
Convertible Bags
I absolutely love my Osprey Porter 46. It is carry-on size, light weight, has comfortable zip-a-way backpack straps and waist belt, compression straps on the outside to make your bag smaller when it is not full, and I think it looks a little more stylish than most of its competitors. However, there is no one, perfect bag for everyone. www.onebagger.squarespace.com is a good website for convertible bag reviews.
Heather <email>
Mukilteo, WA USA 05/01/2009
Essentials for Packing Light
My husband & I go to Europe for five or six weeks at a time, usually combining two Rick Steves tours with independent travel, and using only carry on luggage. My travel essentials include Rick's Roll-Aboard, Civita Day Pack, Silk Moneybelt (an expectation on Rick's tours), a Micronet travel towel (perfect for wicking moisture from hand washed clothing), a Kiva Pocket Tote (now available in the Rick Steves collection & great as a market bag in place of your day pack) & a hooded raincoat from Travelsmith. I pack using large plastic bags & packing cubes. My favorite travel clothing, lightweight & appropriate for washing in a hotel room sink, includes ExOfficio & Columbia sportswear & Tilley's socks. Previously committed to Tumi wheeled luggage, I purchased Rick's Convertible Carry-On Bag for my first European trip. At 5'1", I found it somewhat cumbersome (although several petite women seem to do fine with it). Now I use a Rick Steves Roll-Aboard for all of my airline travel. With each trip, we pack lighter than the time before!
Patrice
Pittsford, New York USA 04/22/2009
best luggage
If you are looking for ultra light-weight luggage try Tutto.com. It is sturdy, stackable without falling over, and best of all, collapsible so it will fit under a bed. Great for extended stays in a small hotel room or on a cruise ship. See video on website.
Mary
Holliston, MA USA 04/20/2009
Classic Convertible - as Checked Luggage!
I need to take more stuff along with me on an upcoming trip than will fit in the Appenzell Day Pack I use for my carry-on "one bag" with my "must have" travel essentials (couple of days of clothes, bathroom stuff, comfort items).
So what do I turn to, for a "checked" bag?
A Rick Steves Classic convertible, of course!
Why?
After all, the Classic is "only" carry-on size.
Well, because the same features that make if great for carry-on also mean it's great for checking in as well.
To start with, it only weighs 2.9 pounds.
And tt's got an ideal rectangular shape for packing efficienty (no rounded corners or trapezoidal tops).
The compression straps on the outside means I can check it in underfilled (I'm not a packing glutton, after all) and leave space for souvenirs on the return - without stuff otherwise rattling around in a partially filled traditional bag.
It has tie downs in the main compartment. Which is great if I don't use packing cubes.
The Steves Packing Cubes - cheap, and the best on the market! - are designed to fit perfectly in the main compartment, if you prefer the organization provided by packing cubes. (The Steves versions are great because they are light, compress down so they don't waste space if they are only partially filled, and have "wire frames" to keep their shape.)
There's a front slash pocket that's perfectly sized for a jacket - whether to put on when you arrive, or to stow after a chilly departure city (and flight!).
A lot of people turn to "too much bag" when confronted with the "check-in" option. Their thinking is that if they are accepting the need to check a bag in, suddenly it doesn't matter what size, weight, and functionality that bag offers.
But that's not true. There's still a surprising amount of hauling to be done even with a checked-in bag - there aren't always porters or (free) luggage carts.
So it's important to keep raw bag weight down, as light as possible. That's where the Classic excels, it only weighs 2.9 pounds, compared to an average of 10 pounds for a wheelie, for example, and even compared to comparable soft-side bags, which are usually 4.0 pounds.
Also, the Classic is soft-sided unlike a rigid wheelie. There is no exo- or endo-skelton taking away clothing space, as with a wheelie. And it will cram into a small foreign taxi trunk, unlike a wheelie...and won't punish you, if you have to ride with it on your lap, unlike a wheelie.
Finally, you can pull out the backpack straps (they pull out and clip on quickly and easily) and wear the Classic if you have to walk a little further, carrying your carry-on bag on one shoulder or in your hand. The backpack straps are a LOT more efficient solution to the carrying problem than wheels, exo or endoskeleton, rigide sides, and 7 pounds extra weight - a wheelie isn't a good solution. And I'll take dual backpack straps, distributing the weight equally over both shoulders. over a painful single sided shoulder strap on a duffel or shoulder bag anyday.
So all in all, there are a lot of good reasons why one of the best "carry-on" bags ALSO makes a great "check-in" bag.
It's not even that crazy to carry-on one, and check one...if you are a bit of a packing glutton.
Michael W.
San Francisco, CA USA 04/14/2009
Keep ears warm
On a late March trip to Victoria, BC I **almost** took an ear band that I use to bike to work in the winter. I regreted the "almost". Vic was chilly, windy & damp. Next time, I'll pack the band.
Fred
Cleveland, OH USA 04/13/2009
Travel Bag recommendation
I highly recommend the luggage from High Sierra Sport Company. They are a small family run organization who talks to their customers. I will be using for our 6 week trip this year the Next Level-NL2148 wheeled carry-on and a Transport pack. In terms of price/weight/durability/functionality these are some of the best I have seen. We use public transportation and a lot of walking on our trips (2 Rick Steves tours this year). We need luggage that can take the European streets and not fall apart. The Transport pack even has a separate day pack which can secure on the front straps for security. The combination of a pack and a wheeled back gives me the flexibility to travel comfortably and securely.
Leigh V. <email>
Pittsford, NY USA 04/10/2009
Packing Light
I love Rick and agree almost 100% with his travel philosophy. I do have my own system for traveling light which is a slight departure from Rick's philosophy. I have a 22" Samsonite hardshell spinner which I can carry on the plane. On my trips to Europe I pack a medium size JanSport backpack inside my spinner with limited clothing and necessary items. I like to shop and buy so by the end of the trip, my backpack is being utilized for all my treasures and my 22" spinner is checked on the flight coming home. Carrying my backpack on my back and rolling my small suitcase through the train stations and airport coming home is not a big problem.
Jenny P <email>
San Diego, CA USA 04/05/2009
Packing REALLY light
Broke my foot in Hallstaat and sent my suitcase hOme. I kept ricks favorite day pack and my favorite sling bag.
His bag held( and I got by well on) 1 pair slacks, 4 jersys,1 lite wool v-neck sweator,1 rainjacket, 1 bra,3 panties,2 socks 1 sleep shirt ,1 pair of flats, my cosmetics,tour book pages,camera,monocular,1 spare book.
I wore 1 pair of slacks(poly to dry at night)1 jersey, and walking shoes,1 set underwear and a scarf. My sling had my water,sandwich,book,a pashima,emergency kit(purell,aspirin etc.). I was on crutches for a week and then a cane so needed my hands free to get on and off trains. I had more then enough as I washed slacks every other night. I was ready to throw my clothes away when I got home but less helped me thru an impossible situation and I had a GREAT time.
PS. Hallstaat was an ideal spot to break my foot. The people were so nice to me ...as they were in Melk,Vienna Prague and London... Next trip will be a bag only slightly larger then the day pack. a
V Rankins
Tracys Landing , MD USA 04/03/2009
travel bag recommendation
My Wife and I purchased Rick's convertible carry-on/backpacks. They are fantastic. I was amazed at what I could get stuffed in there and how easy it was to move thru the airports/train stations. Everything we needed for a three week Euro trip fit nicely in the two bags. We also have Rick's Civita day bag - perfect for holding guide book, camera, etc for the day.
Casey
Clermont, FL USA 04/02/2009
Pockets- cont.
When we first started to travel to Europe, my husband bought a photgrapher's vest. More pockets than you can imagine. It really made bringing stuff homme simple!
Toni
Charlotte, NC USA 03/31/2009
Lightweight silk clothing lightens load
I have discovered a great Canadian online company to buy my silk clothing that I take when I travel. It is www.kimallansilk.com - I have no financial interest in the company, but they have fantastic service and I love their items.
My husband and I both take the silk long underwear and underpants with us - folds next to nothing, washes easily and dries quickly when first rolled up in a thick towel to absorb excess water.
I wear one set of long underwear on the plane and pack the other set. I also wear the camisole to save washing my tops as often. I love silk because it is natural, lightweight, doesn't get sticky like manmade fibers and dries quicker than cotton.
Debbie
Southern Ontario, ON Canada 03/28/2009
adapter tips for portable electronics
gomadic.com has these adapter tips and retractable USB cables that helps to cut down on the number of chargers you need to pack. I have adapter tips for my kindle, ipod and phone.
Wayne Phillips <email>
Norwalk, CT USA 03/27/2009
Chargepod
Chargepod by Callpod is similar to the Gomadic device except you can charge up to six items at the same time
www.callpod.com/products/chargepod
Franklin
USA 03/27/2009
It's all about pockets!
We just returned from three weeks travel through Britain, France, Germany and Italy...all made easier because of the pockets in my husband's clothes. Rather than carry a day bag or a purse, we put the stuff in the pockets of his pants, shirts and his coat. He favors the clothing line of ExOfficio, which has zippered closures on all of the pockets. His all-weather Eddie Bauer coat was lined with pockets. In addition to our ID and money, we carried a small umbrella and our Rick Steves guidebooks. We feel that not carrying a bag of any sort allowed us to travel without the constant worry of being pickpocketed.
Gail Neubert
Woodinville, WA USA 03/14/2009
Solid shampoos and other toiletries
Doug Dyment's One Bag site turned me on to Lush solid shampoos and EcoDent tooth powder about two years ago. I now lighten my load by using tap water in my room to suds up my solid shampoo and tooth powder instead of carrying around the water added by toiletry manufacturers. Because I have no liquids or gels in my carryon, going through security takes less time. And another benefit is that my two ounce solid shampoo lasts three months on the road, and the tooth powder about six, so I don't have to spend my vacation searching for toiletries. Lush is a Canadian company that makes its products by hand from very high quality essential oils and other fair traded ingredients. It has stores in major cities throughout the world, but the online store and those in the US and Canada have the best prices. Ecodent is a European company that now manufactures in the US. Their toothbrushes with replaceable heads are also handy if you happen to drop your brush or wear out the bristles on a long trip. Ecodent products are available in many drugstores.
Joelle Brink
Knoxville, TN USA 03/09/2009
Europe backpacks
Frank, I have heard very lauditory reviews of Osprey's Porter 46. I checked one out at REI last week and intend to get one for my next 3-week trip to Europe. I hiked two weeks in the Swiss alps a couple years ago carrying only a Millet Hiker II 38. Although not a travel pack, it worked very well for me. It has excellent pockets for organization. Above all I'd avoid a backpacking internal or external frame pack.
Dwayne Daehler <email>
West Lafayette, Indian USA 03/03/2009
Packing light for shoulder season travel
I also use Rick's latest Back Door Bag and my only problem is that I don't have enough stuff to fill it. Ever since I discovered cashmere sweaters (which I buy for around $5o in the US spring sales) packing light has been a no brainer. They are light, compact and very warm. The crew neck type is most versitile because it can function as underwear, a sport sweater, and, with a scarf, a chic outfit for dinner or a concert. I learned this as a student in France. Clothes are expensive in Europe so French women typically invest in quality dark-colored basics and dress them up as appropriate. (It's the home of the "little black dress".) They may also use the same sweater as underwear, sportswear and formal wear on different occasions. With this "dressing light" approach, packing light is a breze. For winter travel I pack a second cashmere sweater and silk long underwear so I can double-up if necessary and enjoy a new look on warmer days. With a lightweight packable rain jacket I'm good to go.
Joelle Brink
Knoxville, TN USA 02/19/2009
JanSport Euro Sak
I agree with Bill the JanSport Euro Sak is a great travelpack. I like that it is 10" deep because I have to carry a piece of medical equipment (CPAP). I use my daypack as a packing cube so if I need to slim it down to meet carry-on size, I pull it out and carry on 2 bags.
Larry <email>
Germantown, MD USA 02/14/2009
Travel Bag
We each used the eBags "Weekender Convertible" carry-on suitcase with hide-away shoulder straps. It worked great for a three week tour of Austria, Germany, France and England! We traveled in the Winter of 2007 and were able to carry a weeks worth of clothes, a few guide books and still have room to spare. The bag easily stows away in both a train and a airplane on-board cargo space as well as under the seat storage space. It is light weight (3.10 lbs)and easy to handle. We sometimes emptied it out and used it as a day pack for in town trips with ease. This is hands down our favorite piece of luggage!
Megan & Hailey
Marietta, GA USA 01/28/2009
Great Backpack
I spent a month (September 2008) backpacking in Germany and was extremly pleased with my JanSport Euro Sak (Backpack). It is carry on size and has many great features. Happy Travels!
Bill Budd <email>
La Crescent,, MN USA 01/26/2009
RE: What's the Best Backpack
Frank, I just returned from a winter trip to Europe and took only my Rick Steves Classic Back Door Bag. I think it is the best value you will find in a full size carry on backpack. Use the rest of your budget for a set of packing cubes and a few critical accessories like a proper clothes line. Spend some serious time at OneBag.com and keep in mind that the goal is to pack light, not to learn how to put more stuff in the space available! Have a great trip.
Bill B
Houston, TX USA 01/19/2009
What's the Best Backpack
I will be going on my first European backpacking trip this March. I want to travel light and try to stick to Rick's guidelines as best as possible. For those of you who have backpacked through Europe, can you recommend a quality backback? I want to use an internal frame that is small enough to carry on. Although I'm going for 4 weeks, I plan to only bring 1.5 week's worth of clothes and wash them as I go. What pack would work best for me and my $150 budget?
Frank
Tampa, FL USA 01/14/2009
bring neutrals but don't fear color!
If you're traveling to a colder climate, or traveling in the winter months, remember that dressing monochromatically may depress you after a few days. After a week of looking at gray and black (on your back and outside) you may be very irritated. I don't wear scarves, but I would definitely suggest bringing some brightly colored clothing as long as it coordinates. It will cheer you up when you wear it -- like a bright yellow umbrella on a rainy day. For me, my go-to fixes are a bright colored Marmot Precip rainjacket, painting my toenails a bright color, wearing cheerful pajamas, and when I go out a bright yellow t-shirt that I let a tiny bit peek out of a black or gray sweater. Don't overdo it but don't be afraid of something colorful!
USA 01/10/2009