Lightest wheeled carry-on + winter clothing
Jul 13th, 2011, 06:16 AM
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2011
Posts: 96
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Lightest wheeled carry-on + winter clothing
I'm going to Budapest, Prague, Vienna and Berlin in November for 2 weeks, and would love to take just one carry-on. I'm 63, so the weight of the carryon is an issue for me. That's why I think wheeled is the best choice for me. I've looked at a lot of lightweight carry-ons but it's so hard to determine which one is best in terms of weight and being able to pack for 2 weeks.
Also, does anyone have experience with the weather in those places in November? I'd rather not take a bulky winter coat, and am hoping that silk underwear, a shirt, sweater and jacket will be enough to keep me warm. We will be outside most of the days. Will I need a raincoat in addition?
I'd be grateful for any advice.
Also, does anyone have experience with the weather in those places in November? I'd rather not take a bulky winter coat, and am hoping that silk underwear, a shirt, sweater and jacket will be enough to keep me warm. We will be outside most of the days. Will I need a raincoat in addition?
I'd be grateful for any advice.
Jul 13th, 2011, 06:39 AM
#2
Join Date: Aug 2007
Posts: 26,778
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
The lightest roll-aboard will probably be a hardsided piece like the Samsonite Cosomolite or Rimowa Salsa Air, both of which are right around 5 lbs. Both are pretty free of pockets and adornment on the inside, so you have a lot of flexibility in your packing. I tend to use packing cubes to maximize my packing space.
As for not needing a winter coat... The average low temperature in Berlin during November is around 35F. Prague is a degree or two colder on average, and Vienna and Budapest are a degree or two warmer. All see rain on roughly half the days in the month. Depending upon how cold you get, and how heavy that sweater is, you might be able to get away with a waterproof shell.
As for not needing a winter coat... The average low temperature in Berlin during November is around 35F. Prague is a degree or two colder on average, and Vienna and Budapest are a degree or two warmer. All see rain on roughly half the days in the month. Depending upon how cold you get, and how heavy that sweater is, you might be able to get away with a waterproof shell.
Jul 13th, 2011, 06:52 AM
#3
Join Date: Jun 2010
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Looking at weatherunderground for Budapest dropped to -2C last year on 13 November. Prague in same period was -5 and a little rain.
The clothes you need also depends on how active you will be. Pulling a case, walking for hours tends to keep you warm, while sitting in a cafe may be chilly.
I like cashmere, it's light and not bulky, yet it layers well. Carry a large bag or day sac so you can pull layers off as you feel warmer, or the reverse, put more on. Mittens, woolly hat are down to personal preferences.
I think rain is the thing that needs most preparation. Will your accommodation provide a decent umbrella, as those are quite bulky; a rain mac isnt bulky, and also gives protection against wind. You need to be able to dry out your waterproof shoes, so carry a spare even though you will have to throw stuff out to manage this.
The clothes you need also depends on how active you will be. Pulling a case, walking for hours tends to keep you warm, while sitting in a cafe may be chilly.
I like cashmere, it's light and not bulky, yet it layers well. Carry a large bag or day sac so you can pull layers off as you feel warmer, or the reverse, put more on. Mittens, woolly hat are down to personal preferences.
I think rain is the thing that needs most preparation. Will your accommodation provide a decent umbrella, as those are quite bulky; a rain mac isnt bulky, and also gives protection against wind. You need to be able to dry out your waterproof shoes, so carry a spare even though you will have to throw stuff out to manage this.
Jul 13th, 2011, 07:30 AM
#4
Consider the Eagle Creek carry on size roller bag -- lightest I have seen yet.
There are some good packing threads in travel tips forum -- some recommend wearing boots and packing the alternate, also (of course) "wearing" the coat on vs. packing it, things like that. Travelsmith sells a small, light portable umbrella, though the "hotel" umbrellas as referenced above are bigger and better if they have them. The thin waterproof coverall, worn over sweaters, pashminas, etc. gives a lot of benefit for very little space/weight.
Quite a few posters here are carry-on only so there's abundant advice.
There are some good packing threads in travel tips forum -- some recommend wearing boots and packing the alternate, also (of course) "wearing" the coat on vs. packing it, things like that. Travelsmith sells a small, light portable umbrella, though the "hotel" umbrellas as referenced above are bigger and better if they have them. The thin waterproof coverall, worn over sweaters, pashminas, etc. gives a lot of benefit for very little space/weight.
Quite a few posters here are carry-on only so there's abundant advice.
Jul 13th, 2011, 07:30 AM
#5
Join Date: Aug 2006
Posts: 3,214
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
1. Wash clothes you can wash by hand in the bathroom sink. Every piece you wear twice reduces weight.
2. A rainproof jacket/coat is an absolute must. The coat does not matter in your luggage calculations because you'll be wearing it. For outdoor activities it should have a hood and warm lining. For city visits, a folding umbrella is necessary, and don't count on your accommodation to provide it.
3. Pack clothes you can combine and layer. The lousiest, most uncomfortable weather conditions are temperatures slightly above zero, rain and strong wind, and these are typical for November weather.
4. A set of scarf, hat, gloves. Fleece dries quicker than wool, weighs less and doesn't itch sensitive skin.
5. Shoes that keep your feet dry in wet conditions.
6. Every year is different, the averages given in weather statistics or one year's experience are of no use. Prepare for the possible extremes, and these range between sunshine and +10°C, rain and strong wind around 0°C, and snowstorm and -10°C.
7. Forhet about fashion, think practical.
2. A rainproof jacket/coat is an absolute must. The coat does not matter in your luggage calculations because you'll be wearing it. For outdoor activities it should have a hood and warm lining. For city visits, a folding umbrella is necessary, and don't count on your accommodation to provide it.
3. Pack clothes you can combine and layer. The lousiest, most uncomfortable weather conditions are temperatures slightly above zero, rain and strong wind, and these are typical for November weather.
4. A set of scarf, hat, gloves. Fleece dries quicker than wool, weighs less and doesn't itch sensitive skin.
5. Shoes that keep your feet dry in wet conditions.
6. Every year is different, the averages given in weather statistics or one year's experience are of no use. Prepare for the possible extremes, and these range between sunshine and +10°C, rain and strong wind around 0°C, and snowstorm and -10°C.
7. Forhet about fashion, think practical.
Jul 13th, 2011, 07:48 AM
#7
Join Date: Jul 2004
Posts: 6,282
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I don't think it's feasible to pack for 2 weeks in the winter using just a carry-on size bag. I would need a medium size wheeled suitcase and I would have to pack extremely carefully to keep it down to 22kg (using what IME is the average checked-in bag maximum weight allowance).
You will need a winter coat, hat, scarf & gloves.
You will need a winter coat, hat, scarf & gloves.
Jul 13th, 2011, 10:06 AM
#8
Join Date: Oct 2008
Posts: 122
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I don't know how much this will help as I have never been to any of the aforementioned cities; however, last November and December, we spent eleven days in northern Switzerland and in Paris (don't remember the actual temps, but it snowed nearly every day and CDG was almost shut down several days -- unfortunately not on the day we flew home!) and again at the end of January.
I am extremely cold-natured but managed to take enough clothing with only carry-on luggage; I took an eBags Mother Lode Weekender Convertible backpack (recommended by someone on this Forum -- wonderful pack) it is not a roller, but it has a detachable and stowable shoulder strap, three handles for use as a suitcase, and backpack straps and waist straps. I am 55 and like to use it as a backpack.
On the plane, I wore a silk undershirt, a very thin tee-shirt-style cashmere sweater, a thin silk turtleneck sweater, first trip a long heavy cotton sweater and second trip a medium-weight cashmere sweater, a Scottevest jacket (with pockets fairly well loaded), heavy tights, lined wool slacks, and boots. I carried (first trip) a full-length cashmere coat, gloves in one pocket, scarf in the other pocket but did not put it on (because it was seventy degrees on Thanksgiving Day when we left Nashville) until we reached Zurich; second trip I carried/wore a hooded down coat I borrowed from my mother. Yes, I felt sort of like the Michelin man but most of the layers were thin.
In my backpack I carried two pairs of lined wool slacks, two silk undershirts, four thin silk turtleneck sweaters, four thin cashmere sweaters, a wool dress, a silk jacket, several colorful silk scarves, plus requisite undies and pajamas, makeup, jewelry. etc. We stayed in Switzerland in my cousin's home and in Paris at an apartment with a washer/dryer which, of course, decreased the amount of stuff I had to carry because we were able to wash a couple of times.
If you can wash the under layers, by hand or machine, four or five thin outer sweaters layered over different under sweaters with different scarves and jewelry can give you different looks for many days and are packable in a fairly small space.
I, personally, would not go off in winter without a heavy coat -- but my husband says my teeth start chattering whenever it goes below seventy-five degrees.
Mrs. Imaginaryjazz
I am extremely cold-natured but managed to take enough clothing with only carry-on luggage; I took an eBags Mother Lode Weekender Convertible backpack (recommended by someone on this Forum -- wonderful pack) it is not a roller, but it has a detachable and stowable shoulder strap, three handles for use as a suitcase, and backpack straps and waist straps. I am 55 and like to use it as a backpack.
On the plane, I wore a silk undershirt, a very thin tee-shirt-style cashmere sweater, a thin silk turtleneck sweater, first trip a long heavy cotton sweater and second trip a medium-weight cashmere sweater, a Scottevest jacket (with pockets fairly well loaded), heavy tights, lined wool slacks, and boots. I carried (first trip) a full-length cashmere coat, gloves in one pocket, scarf in the other pocket but did not put it on (because it was seventy degrees on Thanksgiving Day when we left Nashville) until we reached Zurich; second trip I carried/wore a hooded down coat I borrowed from my mother. Yes, I felt sort of like the Michelin man but most of the layers were thin.
In my backpack I carried two pairs of lined wool slacks, two silk undershirts, four thin silk turtleneck sweaters, four thin cashmere sweaters, a wool dress, a silk jacket, several colorful silk scarves, plus requisite undies and pajamas, makeup, jewelry. etc. We stayed in Switzerland in my cousin's home and in Paris at an apartment with a washer/dryer which, of course, decreased the amount of stuff I had to carry because we were able to wash a couple of times.
If you can wash the under layers, by hand or machine, four or five thin outer sweaters layered over different under sweaters with different scarves and jewelry can give you different looks for many days and are packable in a fairly small space.
I, personally, would not go off in winter without a heavy coat -- but my husband says my teeth start chattering whenever it goes below seventy-five degrees.
Mrs. Imaginaryjazz
Jul 13th, 2011, 10:20 AM
#9
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2011
Posts: 96
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Great advice from everyone! I've never tried doing just carry on so it's a little scarey, but it sounds so much easier. I'm still leaning toward the roller bag, even though the backpack type is lighter & carries more. But we used to back pack, and I struggled with a 30 pound pack....and that was 14 years ago!!
Jul 13th, 2011, 12:20 PM
#10
I'm always cold, but I've packed everything for two weeks at the end of October, early November, to Czech, Austria and Switzerland into a 22" roller bag and small tote. We've had snow a few times in Switzerland. My coat was a London Fog anorak with a removeable hood and zip-out thermal lining (which I only needed on the coldest days).
I agree with the suggestions of cashmere and wool trousers, but I find synthetic thermalware more effective than silk. I ski and take some of my ski thermals on trips when I think I'll need an extra layer. The sport thermals are more effective than silk at wicking moisture away from your skin, and it's the moisture than increases the cold sensation.
I agree with the suggestions of cashmere and wool trousers, but I find synthetic thermalware more effective than silk. I ski and take some of my ski thermals on trips when I think I'll need an extra layer. The sport thermals are more effective than silk at wicking moisture away from your skin, and it's the moisture than increases the cold sensation.
Jul 13th, 2011, 03:47 PM
#11
Join Date: Oct 2003
Posts: 17,106
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
You lose about 90% of body heat through your exposed head, so take a hat AND have a hood on your jacket - just in case you leave the hat back at the hotel.
Look into what Mrs imaginaryjazz mentioned: the Scottevest
http://www.scottevest.com/
It's pretty warm - get one size larger, so you can tuck a lot of things into its numerous pockets.
There's a vest version as well as a jacket version. The jacket version is quite warm and has a hood and is very lightweight (when it's not loaded up).
Get the umbrella over there. There are all sort of cheap umbrellas, especially in and around train stations. I usually buy one and just leave it over there at the end of the trip.
Get a four-wheel roller bag - you'll love it! Also get a really light backpack for your day use - big enough to carry an additional sweater plus your camera, etc.
Have a great trip!
Look into what Mrs imaginaryjazz mentioned: the Scottevest
http://www.scottevest.com/
It's pretty warm - get one size larger, so you can tuck a lot of things into its numerous pockets.
There's a vest version as well as a jacket version. The jacket version is quite warm and has a hood and is very lightweight (when it's not loaded up).
Get the umbrella over there. There are all sort of cheap umbrellas, especially in and around train stations. I usually buy one and just leave it over there at the end of the trip.
Get a four-wheel roller bag - you'll love it! Also get a really light backpack for your day use - big enough to carry an additional sweater plus your camera, etc.
Have a great trip!
Jul 13th, 2011, 05:01 PM
#12
Join Date: Oct 2003
Posts: 57,890
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
The places you are headed for are on the Central European plain and get true winters. November can be chilly or it can be quite cold Some rain and possibly snow are likely.
I don't think you will be able to pack what you need - sweaters and heavier wieght pants like cords, shirts and then something nicer to do dinner or a visit to the opera or etc. I wold check a mid size bag and just take a small carry -on with toiletries and one change of clothes in case of luggage delay.
I don't think you will be able to pack what you need - sweaters and heavier wieght pants like cords, shirts and then something nicer to do dinner or a visit to the opera or etc. I wold check a mid size bag and just take a small carry -on with toiletries and one change of clothes in case of luggage delay.
Jul 13th, 2011, 05:37 PM
#13
Jul 14th, 2011, 02:59 AM
#14
Join Date: Dec 2005
Posts: 10,169
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I agree with nytraveler. The amount of time you spend waiting for checked luggage will be trivial on a two week trip: less than 1/2 of 1% would be exceptionally bad. If it is delayed a day or two, you will have a change of clothes in your lightweight carryon. Better to have what you need.
Jul 14th, 2011, 04:00 AM
#15
Join Date: Aug 2007
Posts: 26,778
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
<i>I agree with nytraveler. The amount of time you spend waiting for checked luggage will be trivial on a two week trip: less than 1/2 of 1% would be exceptionally bad. If it is delayed a day or two, you will have a change of clothes in your lightweight carryon. Better to have what you need.</i>
+1. I find the arguments against checked luggage for a longer trip to be entirely unconvincing, especially when weighed against the compromises inherent in 'packing light'. I tend to check bags for trips of any significant length.
+1. I find the arguments against checked luggage for a longer trip to be entirely unconvincing, especially when weighed against the compromises inherent in 'packing light'. I tend to check bags for trips of any significant length.
Jul 14th, 2011, 04:24 AM
#16
Join Date: Jul 2004
Posts: 6,282
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Carolyn, re "I've never tried doing just carry on so it's a little scarey, but it sounds so much easier". Personally I think it's much easier to check your bag in rather than having to lug it through the airport, hoist it into an overhead locker etc - compared with all that, a wait of 20 minutes or so at the carousel seems much easier to me.
But i also pack a change of top & underwaer, plus overnight mini toiletries, in my carry-in bag, just in case my main bag is delayed - but so far it has always worked and my bag has arrived !
Also, don't forget the 100ml bottles / 1 ltr plastic bag restrictions on liquids - I can't take enough toiletries for more than 3 days under those rules.
But i also pack a change of top & underwaer, plus overnight mini toiletries, in my carry-in bag, just in case my main bag is delayed - but so far it has always worked and my bag has arrived !
Also, don't forget the 100ml bottles / 1 ltr plastic bag restrictions on liquids - I can't take enough toiletries for more than 3 days under those rules.
Jul 14th, 2011, 05:29 AM
#17
Join Date: Aug 2003
Posts: 2,893
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
<i>"I'm 63, so the weight of the carryon is an issue for me."</i>
If you are not physically fit (as in stretch, lift weights, and exercise regularly) you can do more harm trying to lift a carry-on up and over your head than the savings of time is worth. IMO, the most comfortable travel is freeing yourself of all bags while traipsing through airports. Going through security is a NIGHTMARE. Remaining empty handed is such a joy. I've learned my lessons the hard way.
Lost luggage numbers are down. I suspect this may have something to do with fewer people traveling and better ticketing. I travel for work a lot and always check my luggage. I need 4 bags for a work trip and I rarely wash items in my bathroom sink. I use socks and undies to fill other things, like shoes. I can't remember the last time an airline misplaced one of my bags but I do remember it was delivered to my hotel the following day and nothing was missing. The bag was unlocked.
Like Jean, I get cold easily. In summer, if the AC is too strong, I have to move. Dressing warmly on the streets of big cities is very important to my health. I'd rather pay a bellman to handle an extra bag for me (I deserve the treat) than shortchange my clothing options on a lengthy trip. In November, I wouldn't take a "bulky winter coat" but I do own a fabulous 3/4 length jacket that has a zip-out cashmere lining. I love this jacket because it makes a wonderful fashion statement and works really well in a wide range of temperatures, up to almost freezing.
I never travel with a raincoat but I do travel with a very good (golfer's) umbrella, made for high winds. I never leave the umbrella purchase to chance. I have photography equipment to protect.
Jean is correct, silk is not good for wicking moisture. I love silk but I stopped traveling with it. Cashmere in the winter is the only fabric for me. (I love Thorlo socks.)
There are a few choices these days for lightweight luggage on good wheels. Antler, Eagle Creek, and REI are quite sturdy and can take the travel punch. Other brands to look at are Sub-O, Delsey, Red Ox, and Heys. Any bag over 7 lbs empty would probably lose consideration.
If you are not physically fit (as in stretch, lift weights, and exercise regularly) you can do more harm trying to lift a carry-on up and over your head than the savings of time is worth. IMO, the most comfortable travel is freeing yourself of all bags while traipsing through airports. Going through security is a NIGHTMARE. Remaining empty handed is such a joy. I've learned my lessons the hard way.
Lost luggage numbers are down. I suspect this may have something to do with fewer people traveling and better ticketing. I travel for work a lot and always check my luggage. I need 4 bags for a work trip and I rarely wash items in my bathroom sink. I use socks and undies to fill other things, like shoes. I can't remember the last time an airline misplaced one of my bags but I do remember it was delivered to my hotel the following day and nothing was missing. The bag was unlocked.
Like Jean, I get cold easily. In summer, if the AC is too strong, I have to move. Dressing warmly on the streets of big cities is very important to my health. I'd rather pay a bellman to handle an extra bag for me (I deserve the treat) than shortchange my clothing options on a lengthy trip. In November, I wouldn't take a "bulky winter coat" but I do own a fabulous 3/4 length jacket that has a zip-out cashmere lining. I love this jacket because it makes a wonderful fashion statement and works really well in a wide range of temperatures, up to almost freezing.
I never travel with a raincoat but I do travel with a very good (golfer's) umbrella, made for high winds. I never leave the umbrella purchase to chance. I have photography equipment to protect.
Jean is correct, silk is not good for wicking moisture. I love silk but I stopped traveling with it. Cashmere in the winter is the only fabric for me. (I love Thorlo socks.)
There are a few choices these days for lightweight luggage on good wheels. Antler, Eagle Creek, and REI are quite sturdy and can take the travel punch. Other brands to look at are Sub-O, Delsey, Red Ox, and Heys. Any bag over 7 lbs empty would probably lose consideration.
Jul 14th, 2011, 07:35 AM
#18
Join Date: Feb 2004
Posts: 6,134
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I just skimmed most of the posts, but I don't think you mentioned if you will be traveling Budapest, Prague, Vienna and Berlin by plane or train. I usually check my bag on flights if it's non-stop and trains have luggage racks so you really don't have to lift it over your head. Yet, packing light has more positives than just coping with your luggage. It simply makes the trip easier and more enjoyable IME.
I carry a small tote umbrella for city sightseeing but still believe a rain coat is essential. Negotiating city sidewalks with a large umbrella requires a good deal of finesse.
Years of traveling and I'm finally learning that making a fashion statement is fine, but it's only for yourself. No one else really pays any attention to what you're wearing as long as you're dressed in an appropriate manner. I find the dress code for most tourist places is below my norms. You can, if it's important to you, be well-dressed and do so with minimal luggage.
Toiletries (soap,bath/shower gel,shampoo/conditioner) are
usually found in all hotel rooms. Keep in mind that you are not traveling to the hinterlands. You will be able to purchase any and all items yu might need on arrival or replace items during your trip. Since I check my bag on flights, I put such items in checked bag, but you can easily take what you need in carry on and replace when necessary.
I carry a small tote umbrella for city sightseeing but still believe a rain coat is essential. Negotiating city sidewalks with a large umbrella requires a good deal of finesse.
Years of traveling and I'm finally learning that making a fashion statement is fine, but it's only for yourself. No one else really pays any attention to what you're wearing as long as you're dressed in an appropriate manner. I find the dress code for most tourist places is below my norms. You can, if it's important to you, be well-dressed and do so with minimal luggage.
Toiletries (soap,bath/shower gel,shampoo/conditioner) are
usually found in all hotel rooms. Keep in mind that you are not traveling to the hinterlands. You will be able to purchase any and all items yu might need on arrival or replace items during your trip. Since I check my bag on flights, I put such items in checked bag, but you can easily take what you need in carry on and replace when necessary.
Jul 15th, 2011, 12:40 AM
#19
Join Date: Jul 2004
Posts: 6,282
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
historytraveler, re "Toiletries (soap,bath/shower gel,shampoo/conditioner) are
usually found in all hotel rooms.... etc" Are you a man ? There's also eye make up remover, cleanser, toner, eye creams/gels, moisturiser, body lotion, hairspray, mascara....
usually found in all hotel rooms.... etc" Are you a man ?
There's also eye make up remover, cleanser, toner, eye creams/gels, moisturiser, body lotion, hairspray, mascara....
Jul 15th, 2011, 01:24 AM
#20
Join Date: Aug 2006
Posts: 3,214
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
>There's also eye make up remover, cleanser, toner, eye creams/gels, moisturiser, body lotion, hairspray, mascara....
All these are available in European drugstores, supermarkets and department stores, so unless you are focused on one particular product due to, for example, sensitive skin, you can buy all this upon arrival instead of carrying it with you on the plane.
All these are available in European drugstores, supermarkets and department stores, so unless you are focused on one particular product due to, for example, sensitive skin, you can buy all this upon arrival instead of carrying it with you on the plane.
