The
First Rule of Packing is that you always end up packing more than you need. Be ruthless. Instead
of five or six seperate outfits, take three or four that you can mix and match. No one will care or probably even notice
if you repeat outfits. If you're headed for warm climes, you'll probably be buying souvenier t-shirts; those
and a pair of shorts and sandals will get you through most of the day. Some ships have self-service laundries,
if you must. The ship's laundering is fairly pricey. Everything you will need for up to two weeks should fit into
one large bag. An important caveat is to ensure your bag is under the weight limit
for your airline. The limit can differ between airlines and foriegn and domestic travel. It may be necessary to
break your load into two bags to avoid the overage penalty (some items may be shifted to your roll-aboard; see below). In
any case, you will be thankful during your many travel transitions that you kept your load light, especially when you
return with an added burden of liquor and souveniers.
The Second Rule of Packing is that
one large bag really isn't enough. It is a necessity that you have a small carry-on bag (roll-aboard recommended)
to contain the items you must keep with you--passports, important documents, jewelry and valuables, cameras, and reading
material for the flight. Also advisable are minimal hygiene articles and a comfortable change of clothes in case your
one large bag is delayed in delivery to your cabin (we won't dwell on the possibilities with the airline).
It is a good idea if the carry-on can be attached or otherwise placed on your one large bag (roll-aboard,
of course) for shuttling around easily. We have found it eminently practical and fun to connect roll-aboards like a
train for ground movement.
Take "Disposable" Clothing!
Save your holey socks and dingy underwear for your trip, and throw them away as you
go! You'll have less washing to do.* Same goes for old T-shirts, and even SHOES! If you are a regular jogger, save your older
running shoes (which are still good for walking). You can throw them away at the end your trip and not have to carry them
home (donate them at a local Goodwill or church if your conscience bothers you). Also, if you're going on a shopping trip
and you're planning on stocking up your wardrobe, take only those old clothes you plan to throw away. As you buy new clothing,
you can wear them and have less to pack. This concept supports charitable travel, because our used clothing may be useful
to someone in a less advantaged economy.
*(The dirty clothing you do want
to bring home can be used for padding around your souvenir purchases.)
More
Packing Tips!
-
Pack heavy
items, such as shoes and toiletry kits, before the more delicate ones. Place them along the suitcase's spine to balance
weight at the bottom.
-
Use tissue
paper or plastic bags between each layer of clothing and stuff it up jacket sleeves.
-
Line the
bottom of your suitcase with trousers, letting the legs hang over the outside edge. Then pack the rest of your travel
gear - lighter materials on top. Wrap trouser legs over the pile; they'll keep their crease.
-
Stuff socks
and rolled-up belts into shoes to save space.
-
Take along
plastic zip lock bags for laundry or wet swimsuits.
-
Hang clothing
in the bathroom while showering to steam out wrinkles.
-
Bring an
empty soft bag for souvenirs.
-
Liquor must
go in your checked bag; pad with dirty clothes
-
If you want
to use your suitcase's restraining belts or ties, use a nightdress or knit shirts to prevent crushing.
-
Keep a checklist
of items you regularly need on a trip.
