Packing a great carry-on

Usually everything I am bringing for my trip.

Anything I can't live without for a few days (in case of luggage misadventure) - plus such indulgences of a few hundred of my favorite books, dozens of travel guides and maps, several score [heh, heh] of the orchestral works of Bach and Beethoven, GPS, WiFi internet terminal, cell phone, and free internet phone. That all weighs in at just under five ounces.

my entire wardrobe and toiletries for the trip . . . . .

If you are flying international, a blow up neck pillow and travel slippers for comfort on the long plane ride.

Things that are too big for the pockets of my outdoors coat

Anything I think is going to break in a suitcase; several books (enough to last the journey, waiting time, and transfer at the other end); anything I think might push my checked case over the weight limit. I also used to have anything I thought would spill in my suitcase, but no longer. I don't bother with spare clothes.

I usually travel with just carry on so everything I'm bringing for the whole trip. But most of it goes in the 20" rolling bag, which goes in the overhead and I do not access it during the flight. Since most of the time you can also bring a "personal item" - in my case that's a large purse or small tote bag. That's what I keep right with me and contains what I need on the flight itself - book, journal, guidebook stuff, eyeshade/earphones for sleeping, ipod, bag of trailmix, extra sweater or pashmina to put over me while sleeping, and a pillow case (I stuff the airplane pillow as well as my jacket,etc into it to make a more comfortable pillow).

Oh, and I do usually have a snack of some kind in case I don't like the airline meal. And I used to bring a drink, which I really regret not being able to do now, because the airline supplies such tiny ones and I can never get a refill.

See the first part of Robespierre's advice: "anything [you] can't live without in case of a luggage misadventure."

If you are checking the majority of your stuff, pack your carry-on as if you might not have "the majority of your stuff" for a day or two or three or maybe never.

I don't check a bag any more but when I did, I would be sure to have the following: change of clothes, toiletries, prescriptions, valuable stuff, chargers and cords for electronic things. And, of course, scores of books and CDs on my iPod.

In 10 years of foreign travel, I've only had checked bags misplaced twice. Once was with a student trip that started in Paris. Some of my students spent a cool, rainy day in Paris without jackets or long pants because they didn't take my advice. I guess travel is live and learn, too.

The whole carry-on issue may ignite a debate here, as it did several weeks ago. Some who check bags see carry-on only people as annoyances at best. But maybe this thread won't go down that road again.

1. Necessary travel docs - passport, flight booking e-mail, insurance details, E111 card.

2. Minimal clothes & toiletries for 24 hours.

3. Full trip's medications.

4. Enough reading material for 24 hours.

5. Small handbag with usual contents like purse, cards, specs, mobile phone, etc.

What caroline said, plus electronics - just a camera and adapter in my case - trip info for my first stop, jewelry if you take it, emergency rations. For a long flight, neck pillow, eye shades and wear-on-the-plane socks. I carry whatever outerwear I'm taking for the trip.

for me as little as possible. i like to travel light! if i need something i forgot to pack, i enjoy buying it in the foreign country i'm visiting.

I do carry on only so everything I need goes into my 22 rolling suitcase and a tote or backpack.

These posts that suggets "everything I can't do without" are wonderful and very helpful...except that any trip that connects through UK limits that carry on to one bag (including purse, computer, camera, briefcase, etc.). Often the weight is restricted.
Now if photography is your thing, that camera and lenses MUST go into carry on. The laptop MUST.
There is no more room for all those other necessary things.

Never put your passport, cash, credit cards or any valuables in any bag. Keep them on your person.

Carry the camera, coat, and a couple of books. Fill the 22" carry-on and leave everything else at home.

I check a 24" suitcase, so my carry-on has:

1) things I want for the plane ride like a magazine, paperback, snack, pen and notepad, minimal cosmetics.

2) all my paperwork for the trip; passport, money, credit cards, hotel confirmations, etc.

3) precription glasses, sunglasses, and medications.

4) a partial change of clothes in case the suitcase is delayed.

I don't travel with electronics, camera, laptop, ipod, so that makes it more simple.

I also only fly carry-on, but when we have to check luggage, I follow Robespierre's advice. A couple of other suggestions:

1. Phone number and address for your first hotel - if your luggage gets lost, you will need to give some sort of contact info at the place you are staying.

2. Clothes and toiletries I need for at least two days (my dad has had his checked luggage lost for two days)

3. Laptop and all other electronic equipment

4. Anything that is breakable (usually that's not much, but if I am bringing back gifts that are fragile, I put them into my carry-on)

<<< Fill the 22" carry-on >>>

After checking that 22" means 22" including anything that sticks out like handles, wheels, straps...

Hey, you carryon bag only folks.

How much does your carryon bag weigh once fully packed, or have you never weighed it?

What is the max # of outfits you take - undies, socks, slacks, shirt/blouse? Any extra shoes?

What about heavy cold weather clothes - sweaters, sweatshirts, warm socks, gloves, hat, scarf. Can you still carry on only when you need that stuff?

Can you get by with just the carryon bag or do you require a "personal item". Just curious since some airlines & UK only allow 1 item.

Are there not any brand specific liquids/gels you must have? I don't know if my hair will accept just any shampoo, or my skin accept just any soap? Same with skin lotion.

Also, isn't buying those items in Europe very costly & finding them sometimes time intensive? In many areas, I would think finding travel size impossible. Regular size items would mean the unused (& expensive) potion must be left in Europe. Apartments don't give those nice little size bath toiletries.

Do you check bags on the way home since no hurry at destination & no worry if bag is lost.

What do you do with your souvenirs? Don't buy; ship home (some items are too small/inexpensive or shops don't offer shipping); check your carryon on the way home & use soft bag for carryon souvenirs?

I'm curious. The lowest checked bag weight we have ever accomplished was 32 lbs. - 7 clothing outfits plus toiletries, but included some cold weather items. Can't imagine going lighter, especially considering the empty bag weight is included.

Wish I could become one of your club members, but can't see it ever happening!

Julie

Julie--We do carryon only. This summer for our trip to France, the 3 of us (myself, my mother, and my 16 yr old daughter) each had a 21" bag and they each came in under Air Frances weight limit, which was 12kg (about 22 pounds). We kept toiletries to a bare minimum. Hotels have soap, but we brought hair products and makeup. Tiny sizes though. For clothes, everything mixed and matched. We have done this in the winter as well, and for that we took only 1 or 2 sweaters, and then very thin underlayers. As far as purchases, we shipped them home. We have done this in Edinburgh, London, Florence and Paris and things have always arrived just fine. This summer in France we used the post office several times. The boxes arrived in one week to our homes on the west coast, so pretty darn quick!

For me:

- camera/lenses
- personal media player (kind of a combination of an iPod and DVD player, but you download the movies to it)
- for all electronics packed: chargers, power cords, extra batteries etc.
- books
- toiletries
- medications
- change of clothing (2-3 days worth)
- all travel papers (tickets, itineraries contact info etc.)
- sometimes snacks
- slippers

Sadly the teddy bear doesn't fit...

julie_Hurst; My carry-on usually weighs between 18 and 25 lbs. two pair of shoes (plus the pair I wear on the flight) Travel sized toiletries (in a ziplock bag thru security). And and about 25-30 outfits.

How? well 3 pair of slacks and/or skirts plus 2 jackets/cardigans and 5-8 tops all mix and match work out to over 30 outfits. Plus the garments I wear on the plane add even more options. My coat is carried on board and stored in the overhead.

mms, thanks for your reply. How did you carryon hair products - at security = no gels or liquids? Even in our checked luggage we use travel size shampoos, hair spray, skin lotion. But can't take them thru security.

Did Air France actually weigh your carryon? Or could one cheat?

How many days were you gone & how many of each clothes item did you pack? (socks, undies, slacks, blouses)

Do you also carryon a personal item (except for UK, of course).

Do you check your bag going home?

Do you laundramat or wash in your bath sink?

Do you take travel-type clothing, such as, liteweight, dries quickly, etc. Or do you just take your regular clothes?

Hope I'm not being too nosey!

Julie

janisj, you must be tiny with tiny clothes! My SIL is about 5'3" & wears about size 1. I'm 5'8" & well...never mind! People say I'm not "fat", but I was born big! I'm sure her clothes would fit much better & weigh much less than mine - darn it!

Where do you find the security size shampoos, hair spray, & skin lotion? What is it - 3 oz?

Thanks, Julie

Julie--You are not too nosy For hair products, etc you can carry them on but they have to be less than 3 oz each, and all fit in a quart size ziploc bag. So that was easy. The only thing we didn't bring that was hard to find was shaving cream, lol! Air France did weigh our bags both times, so you can't really fudge. Coming home my bag was a couple ounces over, but DD's was under so they said if anyone weighed the bags again to just move an item from one bag to the other. They were very nice about it. We did each have a small purse with us. But not a tote size. As far as clothing...we took enough of everything that we didn't need to have laundry done. We have done that before on other trips, but this time were able to take enough of everything. But the items we had were all easy care fabrics...nonwrinkle, very lightweight, etc. DD not so much...but she managed, lol!

Dear lucci, JulieH, and all,...in answer to your questions: we leave in 7 days and have never flown internationally before nor have I ever "flown lite" before...usually I am checking a 24" packed to the max plus a small tote as a carry on. This time, my DH and I are each carrying on a 21" apiece, plus he- a small backpack and me-a medium size tote with my purse inside.

I can't believe I was able to do it, but I have already tried a "dry run" to make sure everything fits and it does! I am taking 2 pair slacks, 2 gauchos, 2 jackets, 5 tops, 1 sweater set, 1 pair of shoes,unmentionables,toiletries,curling iron, travel clock, empty duffle bag and it all fits in my 21"er, nexpanded, and weighing 24 lbs. (My shoes are orthotic and weigh 2.5 lbs all by themselves.) The clothing is all "travel-wear" (base color is black), so it all mixes and matches to make a lot of different outfits. I have never felt so liberated!

In my tote, I will have all our hotel/train/tour confirmations, touring info and guidebooks, reading material, a few granola bars and some trail mix, a bottle of water (purchased after security), iPod and charger, camera and charger, my 1Quart bag of toiletries,
eyeshade, earplugs, pashmina, inflatable neckpillow, prescription meds, small jewelry bag (not taking much), raincoat (extremely light and folds into a little 7X7 bag), deck of cards, and my purse (which, as soon as we get through security, will be across my body). ...oh, and my ambienCR!! I'll let you all know how it works out.

Julie - my checked bag (convertible backpack/suitcase) weighs in these days at around 10 kilos (say 22 lbs), plus another 5 kilos or so for my carry on/day pack. I haven't traveled since the 3 oz thing started, so will have to replace my 4 oz plastic bottles for the next trip. I'm 5' 5" and can travel for months with just that much luggage. You can read my packing list at www.wilhelmswords.com/faq.

loveroses: have you packed your plug adaptor (and possibly converter)? Here is a link if you need more info http://www.magellans.com/store/article/386?Args=

lovesroses: have you packed your plug adaptor (and possibly converter)? Here is a link if you need more info http://www.magellans.com/store/article/386?Args=

I do check my bags coming home. This time, I may not because we are going from an airport not near home to a car and driving to NYC before we go home. Maybe I'll send stuff...

Or, maybe I won't buy anything! I can't imagine that happening. Or maybe I'll take a larger piece of luggage than my 19 inch Eagle Creek. But I love that bag. It's expandable, so we expand on the way home. We also usually take a totes bag that folds up to about the size of a "trade" paperback book.

Ok, I'm going to weigh my Eagle Creek. 5 pounds; also weighed an LL Bean rolling duffle, also about 19 inches, also 5 pounds.

Julie_Hurst: Size doesn't matter (well almost never )

I teach packing classes and the same garments/system works whether one is a size 0 or a size 22, 4'11" or 6' (or male or female - though the choice of clothing would be different )

The only difference really is for men's shoes. It is really easier if a guy only takes one extra pair of shoes.

The garments I listed will not nearly fill up a 19-22 inch rollaboard.

Thanks everyone for your very interesting info. I can see that I am losing 5 lbs on the bag! Mine weighs 10 lbs.

But 3 slacks (+ones wearing) for 3-4 weeks - I don't know about that! Also, my slacks for Nov. in Rome will need some weight. I packed thin ones last year & my legs almost froze on several very cold days.

At least when I pack for this next trip, I'm going to look very differently at what I actually allow to go into the bag (as if it jumps in there itself *-) ). Hopefully, I will begin to conquer this issue. I'll let you know the results.

Julie

yes - 4 pairs for 3 or 4 weeks. Many people take even less. And you don't need to take really heavy slacks. Silk long underwear and/or tights are warmer and take almost no space in the suitcase.

Yes, I take three pairs of slacks (including the ones I'm wearing) regardless of the length of the trip, plus a long skirt or sarong or dressier slacks to wear in the evening while my day clothes drip dry. If I expect cold weather I take light weight long underwear, and one pair of slacks will be heavier weight. When it's really hot and humid (SE Asia) I may buy a light pair of cotton slacks locally.

All of it:

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=2&tid=35067386

If I am checking bags, then I only put one shirt in my carry-on. Clothings for most people are easy to find. You may not find a drug store with your particular medicine, or battery for your particular digital camera, but you can always find something to put on your body if you lose your checked bags.

Lucci,
I am a guy in my middle 60's. My older brother and I are going to Ireland, France and Uk next April. I have been all over uk, Ireland and Europe mostly headquartered with kinfolks in Middlesex with all the family. This time it is just my brother, his first trip overseas, and myself. We always pack too much. This time, as a test, I was able to get 4 winter shirts, 4 long pairs of pants, 6 underwear, 6 tee shirts, 6 pairs of cotton socks, 6 handchiefs and a heavy long sleeve sweat shirt in a 22" carry on. The trick was using the space roll up bags to flatten everything. I will carry an empty one for by dirty clothes.
A note to the men who use shaving cream, I have found a great shaving oil that you rub five drops on your wet face, it works great.
I am also looking at a 22" wheeled backpack, with removable day pack.
Also, be ready to check that 22" carryon you brought from the states if you use one of the small connecting airlines in Europe, for example, Aerlingus carryon limit is 14 pounds, must be no bigger than 9"x14"x18".
Hope this helps

<<< but you can always find something to put on your body if you lose your checked bags. >>>

You've never been to Cuba

alanRow - No, I have not been to Cuba. But of course, my point was a generalization. I would have problem getting clothes if I'm going to some remote parts of the world.

As for Cuba, I can understand that. It certainly wasn't easy to buy anything in China as a visitor when I first visited in the late 70's.

yes, evecolorado, I forgot to mention my adaptor! It's already in my tote.

Julie- You do have to watch that. Especially at the last minute, once the suitcase is already packed... stuff starts jumping in there on it's own because you "just might need it".

Egailc,

I am curious as to why you would need to pack four pairs of winter pants and four winter shirts. With the ones you are wearing, that makes five of each. Surely you can make do with fewer, and do a wash when needed.

I find I can make do with one pair of packed pants, and two shirts, as long as they are the quick drying variety. I wear one shirt and trousers on the plane (I had better!), and also wear a sweater, which I can use for layering under a light jacket.

With a quick rinse in the basin every evening, or a trip to a laundromat less frequently, I find I can travel almost indefinitely with only that amount of clothing.

BTW what is that shaving oil you found?

suze--LOL!!! So true! On our trip this summer my moms vitamin bottles jumped into her bag, along with her bathrobe. They were forcibly removed

suze & mms, you are funny! That happened to us on our last trip - a cruise! We purchased a bag weighing hook & we were so proud that each bag was 15 lbs underweight. As the bags sat open for a couple of days on this long projects table we have (& us knowing they were underweight!), things must have jumped in there overnite! We got to the airport & barely met our weight limit! Funny how that happens!!

Our son is here & I read aloud about the 2 shirt theory & he freaked out! He is a clean freak - don't tell him I said that. He said a rinse out in the sink is not good enough for him! Oh well, if I can reform my hubby & I, that's an accomplishment.

Julie

janisj,
I teach packing classes.

Do you get paid for this?

may i ask everyone what kind (brandnames) of bag they use for all their whatnots . i am looking for a new weekender.

I have an American Tourister that I got as a premium from Staples. It has wheels and a pullyou handle and - the part I like best - a laptop pocket on the front.

For trips of a week or less, I can outfit the whole trip from it. For longer, it's my "single carryon" that's also my computer.

hopscotch: yes - it is sort of a hobby that turned into a bit of a money maker. Sometimes I speak at libraries and community orgs and just get an honorarium. Other places, (Community colleges/Parks and Rec, etc) they charge and I get a %. Usually between 60 and 100+ people attend. I also give travel programs

There are a LOT of folks who want/need packing counseling

thanks Robespierre..
i do need one with a laptop pocket too.

Lovesroses...if you don't mind, what type of raincoat did you find that folds to 7x7. I have been looking for something like that but can't find anything. Does it go over your jacket/coat or do you wear it by itself over layers? Thanks.

nukesafe,
I only packed that many clothes to show how much you really can get into a carry on bag. We will be taking a lot less. The shaving oil is in a tiny bottle in the shaving section at Walmarts.
egailc

janisj-
I would have to respectfully disagree that the size of the clothing does not matter.
There's a HUGE difference in the amount of space 5 pair of my underwear take up than 5 pair of my husband's boxer-briefs (my 5=1 of his). BIG difference in the size of my t-shirts (small, cotton/lycra stretch) vs. his (XL, all cotton). Don't even get me started on how much room you need for size 12 shoes!

Now, all that said, we still manage to travel carry-on only just about everywhere we go. The only difference is that he does not get the choice of clothing options I do.

Unfortunately, for my next trip (to Thailand), I'm going to have to check my bag. I'll still bring the 22" roller, but Thai Air has a stingy weight allowance (7 kilos/15.4 lbs) for carry-on and with the weight of my luggage, I just can't make it work. Fortunately, it's a non-stop flight.

Kristina: Of course, men and women have different issues re packing in a carry on. My comment re size meant it doesn't matter if a woman is size 4 or 24 (or a man small or XXL) - it still all fits in a carryon suitcase.

Men (generally) have bigger shoes and individual garments, while women (generally) want to take more shoes, toiletries and changes of clothes.

In my classes I pack both a woman's and a man's 3 week wardrobe in 21 inch suitcases.

And that three week wardrobe will do just fine for a three month trip too. Once you get the packing list down, you can pack the same regardless of the length of the trip. The only thing that would change it is a big difference in temperatures.

janisj, my husband has actually suggested that I start a business showing people how to pack. I agree with you: just about anybody can pack efficiently, and my husband (at 6 ft, with disproportionatly long limbs) is a convert to my point of view (and a well-dressed and comfortable traveler).

I think it would be cool to actually go to people's homes and use their own wardrobes to do the packing, and even take people shopping if there was something that they needed to pull it all together.

Therese: You might want to look into it. There is a huge un-met need out there. I have gone to homes - usually a lady will invite a few of her friends in and make an afternoon tea or wine/snacks evening of it. In those cases I mostly use her wardrobe.

But doing personal consultation is certainly another option.

Janis--My mother went to a packing class before our trip this summer. She did get a lot out of it, but also really needed my help back at home. And both my DH and my mom tell me I should do like you, and teach a class, lol!

BTW, if anyone is looking for good carryon bags, REI has (last week anyway) the Rick Steves 21" rolling bag on sale for $84. Great price! It weights only 7 pounds.

I had a great 22" bag that I have used for years. But this summer I measured it and it was 3 cm over the limit for Air France. Not wanting to get stuck checking it, I bought this RS bag. So did DD and my mother. It held up great, and worked just fine for what we needed. It does expand so if you want to check it you can get more stuff in it.

janisj: It's the "getting started" aspect of things that's a bit daunting. Which it shouldn't be, as I do a lot public speaking and teaching, but I can't quite figure out how to present myself as somebody with the credentials to tell other people how to pack their suitcases. So ordinary and yet so intimate.

Put together a business plan, create a web site, business cards, hook up with travel agents, personal shoppers, specialty luggage stores...

Msbelles51, it's made by "Mycra Pac NOW" was rather pricey, but very stylish, is 3/4 length, reversible: dark bronze/black, with a hood. I just now measured it (I have trouble eye-balling accurately, obviously )because it folds more like 9X9 and has a little bag made of the same material, if you want to carry it in there. It is roomy enough to wear it over a blazer or jacket, but it would also "stand on it's own" over a dress or shirt. It is not lined, so if the weather were really cold, you would definately want to wear it over whatever you were already wearing for warmth. I hope I answered your questions.

dandj, my husband and I each just bought new 21"ers because our old ones were too heavy. We decided on the "Affinity" series of IT (International Travelor). It weighs 8lbs and is frameless. I know we could have chosen something even lighter-weight, but really liked many of the specifics this one had.

I'm actually thinking about taking a rain poncho that was given out at the US Open in Pittsburgh this summer. It was in some VIP pack that someone gave DH at work. It is disposable, like the kind you get for the attractions at Niagara Falls, or can buy at sporting events.

I just cleaned my closet and got a HUGE bag for Goodwill, a small bag of trash, and a much better idea of what I want to take to Venice and NYC in October.

I've been doing the same with toiletries and cosmetics for a week or so.

For a jacket, I have a lot of mid weight choices, but none are water proof. I was going to buy something but I don't think I will. I'll just take my travel umbrella and the disposable poncho, since it is here, anyway. I also pack a super lightweight rain hat. DH hates umbrellas, so that's for him. He has a very lightweight rain jacket from Bean; folds up very small, but no hood.

I am now thinking of sending a couple of outfits to NYC by mail, so I don't have to drag them to Venice and back. I could do wash when we get to NY, but I'll be exhausted after flying in from Venice and driving to NY from Philadelphia.

Still puzzling the shoe issue.

Therese: It sounds like you have the background to give entertaining programs. Why not start small - just put your toe in the water. Before a website, or anything - just go to a local library, or Parks & Rec that offers adult-interest programs. Volunteer to give a talk, get it announced in the local newspaper travel section. That sort of thing. Get a small honorarium (or even do the first one for free). Start to get a "name" as the local "packing Lady". Don't know what size town you live in - but unless it is a really rural location, there are probably multiple venues where that would work. Then you can tweak your program and start to broaden out to personal consulting etc.

You can make really good business card on your home computer so that is no biggie.

Eventually - you may be asked to do a studio segment on a local TV station, or featured in an article in the paper.

bookmarking a good thread - never put much thought into a carry - on before.

janisj,

Congratulations on making a business out of teaching people how to pack a bag! Incredible. I also see books on Amazon with the sole purpose of teaching people how to pack a bag.

Maybe I could start a business teaching people how to peel potatoes? To me, packing is that simple but I guess not so for many.

Lovesroses
Thanks for the info. I looked it up and it was a bit pricey for me.

If anyone's interested, I found a great one at Travelsmith. It's also packable and you can get a liner to go with it.
Thanks
http://www.travelsmith.com/jump.jsp?itemID=1039&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C250%2C284&iProductID=1039&sortBy=0

Packing one pair of pants and a shirt plus the one you wear on the plane can get you by indefinitely... That is a bit extreme, I am on vacation, I would wash that much at home why on vacation? I agree that I could pack less, 5 pair of pants and tops, a skirt or dress and some scarves would work for a 1-3 week trip with a stop to do laundry. I never would have thought to wash my underwear and leave them hanging in the bathroom dripping so the cleaning staff has to manuever around them when staying in a hotel. In an apartment with W/D, I could carry no less than 4 pants/tops and one skirt or dress. I don't want to wash the heck out of my clothes.
Clea

"This time, my DH and I are each carrying on a 21" apiece, plus he- a small backpack and me-a medium size tote with my purse inside." Julie, aren't you departing from anywhere which has a one carry-on only rule ? UK, of course, but I thought it was still most of Europe too - they were certainly enforcing it in Italy when I was there a couple of months ago (though curiously weren't at Birmingham last week !). That one item even covers your purse - you need to be able to get it all into 1 bag to pass through security.

I'm curious about how 'carry-on only' people manage fitting all their toiletries for the trip in max size 100ml containers all fitting into 1 litre plastic bag - I can just manage it with miniatures for a weekend but not any longer. I don't consider myself at all high-maintenance & hardly wear any make-up; but even if I were to buy all my sun products at my destination there'd still be shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, deodorent, toothpaste, cleanser, toner, moisturiser, eye creams, body lotion, hairspray...

"Never put your passport, cash, credit cards or any valuables in any bag. Keep them on your person." Hopscoth, you must be a man ! Women have handbags but don't have pockets - at least, hardly any of my clothes have pockets.

<<< but even if I were to buy all my sun products at my destination there'd still be shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, deodorent, toothpaste, cleanser, toner, moisturiser, eye creams, body lotion, hairspray... >>>

And how many of them could be shared with your travel companions, how many of them CAN be bought at your destination and how many of them can come as a solid rather than a liquid or a gel

"Never put your passport, cash, credit cards or any valuables in any bag. Keep them on your person" - that means carry them in a money belt under your clothes, NOT in pockets, so whether you're a man or a woman is irrelevant. You would just keep a day's worth of cash in a pocket or handbag.

"there'd still be shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, deodorent, toothpaste, cleanser, toner, moisturiser, eye creams, body lotion, hairspray..." You can buy shampoo and conditioner combined in the same product. I no longer use hairspray, but you can buy it in sample sizes although I'm not sure how many ml that would be. I don't use shower gel, I use soap, which is a solid, and you can buy deodorant as a solid. And in any case, soap or gel is always available in hotels. Although I'm female I don't use cleanser, toner, moisturizer or eye creams, so that only leaves body lotion and hand cream. Of course, I do take clothes detergent (Woolite), but I can get by with shampoo if necessary.

However, I do check my bigger bag, since I usually have a Swiss Army knife and scissors (and a hiking stick with a sharp point on the last trip!), and also because I don't want to cart it around airports. BTW, is the only limit on the number of little bottles the number you can get in a quart bag?

There's no limit on the number of little bottles that you can fit in your 1 quart/liter plastic ziploc, and I take on the order of 20 different items, with all of them fitting in that bag.

I take solids or powders when possible: solid deodorant, soap, face powder instead of foundation, powder rouge instead of cream, etc.

Alan : "And how many of them could be shared with your travel companions" - he's not using my expensive products ! "how many of them CAN be bought at your destination" - hardly any. "How many of them can come as a solid rather than a liquid or a gel" - just deodorent (I don't care for soap or for the solid shampoos I've tried).

thursdaysd : "shampoo and conditioner combined in the same product" - it's never any good IME.

But even if I made all these adjustments, there's no way I'd get enough for 2/3/4 weeks into a litre bag - like I said, I just about manage to squeeze in enough for a weekend, using sample sizes.

Anyway, I do find it simpler to check in my suitcase & just take the minimum amount as hand baggage.

thursdaysd : we don't do money belts, just take the same precautions we'd take in any big city, home or away - I take a small handbag with minimal cash & one card only when I need it; DH takes the same in his wallet, in a front trouser pocket. Cards not needed that day are left with passports in the hotel safe.

Julie-

For most of my trip I usually only have a carryon. However, most of my trips are just 1 week, so I bring 6-7 pairs of socks and underwear. I usually pack 2 pairs of pants (plus the one I'm wearing) and 6 tops. If it's cold weather, I bring a few sweaters. For scarf and gloves, they are on me when I board the plane, then put them in the overhead bin. I tend to go with just 1 pair of shoes as shoes really take up lots of space.

As for toiletries, I have lots of tiny containers. By that I mean containers that hold 4 ml. I have one for my day moisturizer, one for night cream, one for eye cream, one for hair gel. Since I use barely a dime size of each daily, 4ml is plenty enough for a week or two. I also have lots of trial sizes bottles and packets of shampoo, conditioner and shower gel. Just threw them away at end of the trip.

I rarely buy souvenirs. I always bring a folded duffle bag on my trips. If I do buy something that doesn't fit, then I check my suitcase on my return trip.

In several trips, I've brought some older pieces of clothing with me that I was going to give away. I just left the clothes folded in a plastic bag next to the trash can. It opens up more space as the trip gets on and space for souvenirs!

I actually don't know how heavy my carryon is, but it can't be too heavy. It's light enough for me to lift it overhead, and for me to carry it up 2 flights of stairs.

On my return trip from London, I actually have enough room in my carryon to stuff my purse inside (my purse measures 13"x7"x5") to comply with the 1-bag rule. If there's a will, there's a way.

Why IS it that people who claim they can spend weeks traveling out of one carry-on never mention the amount of time they spend doing laundry?

Because they Febreeze it all!

But seriously, if you're traveling someplace for 3 weeks, and staying in one place, doing laundry isn't completely out of the question...

we don't do it ourselves, but drop it off and have it done halfway (one week). Works great and reasonable too.

I'd take me about 15 minutes every 3-4 days to do laundry in my hotel bathroom.

My dad likes to do his daily. Takes him about 5 minutes or so (or less).

Msbelle51, I have that exact coat from T-smith--you will like it. However, just FYI for comparison, while T-smith does call it packable, it's a LOT heavier and bulkier than the Mycra Pac raincoat. There is no way I would be able to pack the T-smith coat. I'd have to either wear or carry it and then put it in the overhead bin. I did not want to have to deal with that--wanted one that I could have in my tote or backpack without adding bulk or weight. I was able to get the Mycra Pac, locally, on sale for only $35 more than the T-smith coat, and, if you deduct the S/H.....not much difference in cost. On the other hand, if your not looking for a really light-weight, truly (small-pkg) packable raincoat and don't mind carrying the coat, you would have lots of deep pockets to carry "stuff" in the T-smith coat. Good luck with your decision.

After my 1st 2 european trips with a 26", 12lb wonder I downsided big time with a underseat tote type of carry on! It is only 5 lbs6oz and I packed quite easily for a 9 day trip to Paris early this year.

I'm 5'10" size 10 kind of gal so my clothes are not petite by any means. I fit all toiletries in the 1qt bag and also 1 or 2 travel envelopes of clothes detergent to wash out undies and wrinkle free shirts/turtlenecks and I'm set to go.

I am not a shopper [I buy bookmarks from museums for personal souvenirs}

Last trip my bag weighed 18lbs fully packed. lynda

"Why IS it that people who claim they can spend weeks traveling out of one carry-on never mention the amount of time they spend doing laundry?" Because it's no big deal. It takes me maybe 10 minutes in the downtime between sightseeing and a pre-dinner drink, or dinner, and not every day. With the TV on if I have English language TV. And since I do it in the late afternoon it's mostly all dry in the morning, so not a problem for people cleaning the room. If my clothes don't dry fast, they don't go. I take one "evening" skirt or sarong to wear to dinner, that doesn't need washing very often.

"Why IS it that people who claim they can spend weeks traveling out of one carry-on never mention the amount of time they spend doing laundry?"

Because in the time it takes my GF to sort herself out in the evening I can have done the washing, wrung it out, hung it out AND be on my 2nd beer. Plus we never pack stuff - like jeans - that take more than an evening to dry

Lovesroses

Good point. I was looking for something lighter not heavier. I don't really carry a lot of stuff and I'm not a big dress/skirt wearer so I was looking for something that comes to the knees/mid thighs. Have a small pacsafe bag that fits all my needs. Thanks for the headsup.

These forums are the best. You can get such great info/tips from people who have been there or done it before.

I'm off to London/Paris (1st time) on Sat morning (4 days each) w/my 22" bag. What I dont have I won't worry about and I plan on having the BEST time I can, no matter what.

Thanks everyone for all the great info.
Bonnie

I don't mention it because it doesn't take time from any other part of my day. Either when in the bathroom I'm showering myself, or when I'm back to the room for the night and having a glass of wine, I pop a couple things into the sink using hotel shampoo. I travel with 2-3 plastic hangers so things dry more quickly. It couldn't be less of a big deal.

Hi Bonnie, you are certainly welcome! I hope you have a marvelous time. I too feel enormously grateful to all the wonderful "veterans" here that help us all out. (DH and I leave for Italy in 4 days.)

Another one for whom laundry is rarely an issue. I just rinse things out by hand, and they're the sorts of things I should be rinsing out by hand in any case.

If your hotel has a towel warming rack (usually heated with hot water running through the tubes) it's great means of drying your clothes quickly.

I throw my underwear in the bidet with a packet of Woolite. Stir and let them soak for a few hours. Rinse and hang before dinner. Ready to wear in the morning.

Or if I am in a hostel when I run out I use the company machine for a good wash.

What is that shaving oil? Got a name for it?

Wow, this has been most informative!
Carry on is limited to 7kg from Australia to Europe with Qantas, and I am a chronic over-packer, so I've learnt a lot reading this thread.
I'm taking: things to read, MP3 player, camera, warm cardigan (I get cold on planes), clean underwear & socks, medicines, mini moisturiser, pashmina, neck pillow, and my breakables such as perfume. Of course on me I'll have money, credit cards, tickets, documents & passport.

Regarding the liquids limitations, I have found some great miniature bottles which I have decanted various liquids into, as well as finding a few sample bottles/tubes of various things.

Yeah, I'd like th name of that shaving oil, too. Sounds interesting, and my local drug stores carry no such thing.

I've been searching for carry on size Febreeze. Anyone know where it is available?

BTW, doesn't solid deodorant/antiperspirant have to go in my quart baggie? Gosh, if I can take that out, I can fit in soooo many other things. Seriously. I also thought solid soap had to go in there.

If these can be packed in my suitcase, I will have a ton of room in quart baggie. I too can fit myriad tiny things in there, and DH and I each have one, so...

I believe Kiss My Face has a shaving oil of some sort that is supposed to require just a minute amount. And don't Magellan's and TravelSmith have that? Seems to me that I've seen often when perusing website and catalogues.

I used to find travel sized febreeze everywhere but not anymore. So I just decant some into a small spray bottle.

Per my last contacts w/ TSA - solid lipstick/Chapstick and solid deodorants are now OK in the carry on. While liquid/gel lip glosses, and roll on deodorants still have to go in the ziplok baggie.

Thank you all for the inspiring talk about traveling abroad with only a carry on. here's the dilemma--we are in Venice for a few days, then board a casual sailing ship that calls for "resort casual" for dining--7 days at sea and then 3 more days in Rome---OH HELP--what to pack? It is all in black and white so I can mix and match but I cannot--repeat---cannot go with JUST a carry on. Bless this forum.

janisj, on our return flight from Europe this spring, my mascara was pulled out of my carryon & I was informed that it is a liquid & must also be in my security baggie. First time that happened to me.

inwild, we cruise often & have really cut down on clothes. First of all, you will 99% probably never see your dining companions again - so what if you do repeat. Plus, they totally understand the packing situation. Also, you can dress up the same clothes many times - scarves, jacket, no-jacket, slacks vs skirt, etc. Wear your heavy shoes & pack 1 dressier pair. Good luck & have a great cruise.

Julie

Inwild~ You can still pack reasonably light but go with more than only a carry-on. I usually check-thru a 24" expandable rolling suitcase, plus take a good sized tote on the plane.

Mascara has always been on the list of what you must put in that one-quart baggie for liquids/gels. Unless it's solid cake mascara, of course. I'm sure they miss lots of stuff people don't put in there, and if they didn't pull it out before, they just missed it. Mascara is clearly a liquid/gel consistency.

The mascara's always struck me as a little silly, as it's such a small volume (especially the small travel size that I prefer), but I always put it in with my liquids/gels.

<< here's the dilemma--we are in Venice for a few days, then board a casual sailing ship that calls for "resort casual" for dining--7 days at sea and then 3 more days in Rome---OH HELP--what to pack? It is all in black and white so I can mix and match but I cannot--repeat---cannot go with JUST a carry on.>>

You sure can!

Black pants with a few tops to mix and match, a matte jersey wrap dress, jersey skirts. A pashmina, a nice carigan, two pairs of dinner type shoes, two for day and one for the gym.

Use packing cubes, a 22 in and a large tote and it can be done as I have done it (with 2 formal nights).

OK, I give - or should I say, I "gave"! DH & I went out today & RETURNED our 2 new bags - 28" each - a down size from our old 30" - which we hauled over Venice bridges, lugged up train steps, & "tried" to lift into the train overhead (our son rescued us)!! We came home with 2 new 22"!! OMg, am I out of my mind!!!

The measurements were not listed, but I measured them as: 21 1/2"T x 13 1/2" W x 10"D. Are these the usual carryon measurements?

Anyway, we are keeping the receipt, just in case we cannot do this. We leave for Italy on 11/1 & return on 11/16.

I know on some airlines we will need to check them, because only 1 carryon is allowed, such as in UK & RyanAir. And we also take a backpack each. Unless.....we can squeeze the backpack items into those tiny bags!!!!

OMg, I am out of my mind. I have been subjected to mind control - & you guys did it! !!

(I need therapy!)

Julie

Julie

Yeah! Congratulations! Do let us know how it goes...

Julie-You can do it. I did 12 days with just that size and a smaller "carry-on" last March to Prague, Vienna and Budapest. And the weather was cold!!
If you want to see how and what I packed, go here:
http://wired2theworld.blogspot.com/2007/02/packing-it-in.html

Kristina, big help. I printed your packing page. It's unbelievable that you got all of that in those bags! Surely I will make it because I don't think I will take any extra shoes

I need to review this entire thread & pick out some more helpful info.

We are excited about not dragging & lifting our previously used monster bags on our upcoming trip.

Julie

Travelers,
The shaving oil is called "Shaving Secret" and is usually found on the top shelve in the shaving section at Walmart. It is 18.75 ml. in size.
One thing to remember when packing a carry on, is to pack for the smallest airline you will be traveling. The airline that I found with the smallest carry on limits was Alitalia, which was 11 lbs. Also, a bag that is 9 + 14 + 22 inches, including wheels and handles will work on most airlines if you get the weight allowance correct. Most web sites show the bags as being measured using the "x", but it "+", and adding up to a total of 45".

Travelers,
Just one more item, you can lock your checked bags with a special padlock that can be opened and closed by the airport security people. It will show red if the bag has been opened. If it shows red and there no TSA note inside, better check your stuff.

egailc, This is my personal experience: I used a brand new "TSA approved" lock on my checked bag on a trip to Hawaii 3 years ago and when we got there, not only had it been cut off, but they broke the zipper on my brand new suitcase to boot! I have never put anything other than clothes in a checked bag since, and do not ever lock them.

Julie, you will not regret it!

I am packing for 2 weeks in a backpack and a 22inch. Look into pacing cubes - hubby and I swear by them and we travel for a living - and remember to choose clothes that you can mix and match and fabrics that travel well.

As for shoes, I am packing three pair and wearing one. You really need two pair of good walking shoes to give your feet a break and I like to dress up at night.

Good luck!

Where do i get packing cubes? Walmart, kmart, target? How do they work? Is it like baggies - the air seeps back in? Do I need bulky attachments - hose, etc.?

my concern is my warmth - maybe - depends on the weather - but last year some very cold days! last year I took a lite weight pair of slacks that are so comfortable. I froze in them, so only got to wear them once! Since we live in Indiana, I have insulated underwear (tight, long pants & tight long sleeve tshirt type). I cannot wear those under my clothes in Italy. They would get too hot during the day while touring when it warms up.

I could wear panty hose, but those are not very comfortable IMO. What else is there - top & bottom?

I layered last year. Took 2 sweaters, blouses, undershirts, & a lite weight rain coat with hood - lite weight in case it got warm while raining! I plan to do so this year too.

Thanks, Julie

Julie- Google "Eagle Creek Packing Cubes" if you want to know what they are.
Personally, I prefer zip lock bags of varying sizes (up to 2.5 gallon), the ones with the slider "zipper" along the top, like Hefty "One Zip". It makes it easy to squeeze all the air out.
For lightweight cold weather packing, I prefer cashmere sweaters. They are both lightweight and extremely warm. I also brought an above-the-knee wool coat and was pretty warm most of the trip. Gloves, hat and scarves too.
You might look into silk longjohns as they are extremely lightweight and warm.
Yes, layering is the way to go because inside building it can be overly hot. In Prague, Vienna and Budapest, I found myself stripping down to a t-shirt everytime we went into a cafe.
Depending on what part of Italy you will be in, it may not be that cold, even in November.

I have had my packing cubes for years and use them religiously. They do not wear out , can be washed if needed, are mesh so they breath and can be unzipped so you can put them in the drawer directly from your suitcase and use them easily.

I use ziplocs for other things but my clothes work best in these, for me.

I bought mine on sale at ebags for 19.95 for a set of three. I purchased a set for my husband as well. At first, he was resistant but now is as appreciative of them as I am.

They are also great for security screenings as they will just pull out the whole cube and search the bag, so no rifling through personal stuff.

Last but not least, since I do not unpack items unless they need to hung, I can put them in hotel drawers without concern about the last time they were cleaned

I have a pair of silk underwear that I pack for cold weather trips and am also a big fan of cashmere and silk/spandex ribbed turtlenecks, long and short sleeved. I do not like bulk and these allow me to layer while still looking nice. And, they are not hot indoors.

Kristina & kfusto, thanks for your replies, the link, names, & advice. I definitely will use all this info.

Kristina, that is why I am concerned about me being warm in Rome & Venice in Nov. We were there last Nov & I froze!!! Granted, not every day. But there were about 4-5 days that I needed winter scarf with hood, gloves, & all the layers I could find! But then during the heat of the day while siteseeing, I got warmer, but on some days, not warm.

I also put everything in ziplock bags with the zipper - sometimes think I am supporting the company! So easy to keep organized. However, even though I squeeze out the air, it seeps back in.

I'll look at some cashmere sweaters. I can't take a winter coat, because of rain possibilities while out & about & because on warm days I will need a lite weight jacket. Don't want to take 2 coats, although it would be nice! Will definitely take my winter scarf with hood & gloves.

Are the silk longjohns like the insulated wear? Do they get too warm when the day warms & doing lots of walking?

Funny you said that about layering & then going inside! Boy, those museums can cause some heat & peeling of the clothes!

kfusto, why do you prefer the packing cubes for some things, but ziplocks for others?

So, you do not find the silk underwear to be hot when the day warms up & you are out for hours of walking or going inside?

How does silk underwear differ from panty hose?

Thanks again. I'm working on changing my packing ways!

Julie

TSA locks are for the United States, right? That doesn't work for Europe.

<<
How does silk underwear differ from panty hose?
>>

The silk underwear I've had isn't tight like pantyhose and doesn't have feet but loose cuffs at the ankles, so it's more comfortable.

Also, it breathes much better than nylon and it's more durable, no worrying about runs etc. It's also as quick drying (maybe more so) as nylons for easy washing in the evenings.

As for layering in museums etc. if you're going to be inside for an hour or more and are concerned about being too warm, my suggestion would be to hit the bathroom and take off your under-layer as you arrive(be it silk or something else) and put it in your bag. Then hit the bathroom before you leave and put it back on.

Silk is very lightweight and you can fold/squish it into a very small roll. Maybe carry a very small stuff sack to put it in.

Here's a link to silk underwear at my favourite outdoor store. I'm sure you can get them many different places, but the description may be of interest. Also, note when it says they're not sufficient for cold weatehr use, they're talking about really cold weather (-10C or below).

http://tinyurl.com/yu4y5l

I use Ziplocs for my TSA liguids/gels, one small one for cotton pads, balls, Q tips, one for my facial cleansing pads (snack size), and some empty large ones just in case (damp clothes, etc).

All of my clothes go in the cubes.

I generally pack my inlined black leather trench for early fall but this time I am bringing a Totes jacket I just bought. Waterproof, black croc print, mid thigh length and I can pack it very small and put in my backpack. For layering and in case of rain, I am hoping it will be a good choice.

I generally pack the silk underwear (mine are black, very thin and bought them online at Sierra Trading Post on sale) and silk T (V neck, long sleeve) when going to Germany and Austria (or similar) in winter. My trench has always done a good job of keeping me warm on cold days/nights.

I would also suggest a pair of black stretch cords perhaps. I like these in fall. They look nicer than jeans, are pretty light and keep me a bit warmer than regular pants.

What a lively thread!
And thanks Thursdaysd, for your description of using the squat toilet. I wondered if a skirt was really as great as claimed- I never thought so myself.

??

caroline_edinburgh: I think (??) NGail posted to the wrong thread . . .

My Seven Steps to Happy Squatting are on the same FAQ page on my website (www.wilhelmswords.com) as my packing list, which I linked way up thread, so I think she did mean to post hear. Glad you found it useful, NGail.

Yep, found it here!

On a more relevant note - India in February - both north and south. Any advice re what to pack? Does it get cold enough for heavy-weight clothing in Delhi? What about a skirt? I've got a black travel skirt that's practical but amazingly dorky - or would a very light-weight one work for evenings down south? (Though maybe pants are better for keepng off moquitos?)
Thanks!

NGail - suggest you post your India question over on the Asia board. We have a regular poster there who spends much of the year in India. I was in Delhi in Nov, and it was a bit chilly at night but pleasant during the day. In the south in December it was still quite hot!

I would definitely recommend pants, and no short skirts. Actually, I'd recommend taking pants and buying a salwar suit (trousers, tunic, scarf) while you're there. You really need to cover shoulders and knees if you're a woman, and better all of your legs.

I bought two sets of 3 mesh packing cubes from Magellans for $26. http://www.magellans.com/store/Packing_Aids___Packing_Cubes___Folders?Args=&page_number=all

We use the Eagle Creek packing envelopes instead of the cubes. I like the envelopes, but look at both.

you can also order silk long underwear and packing cubes/envelopes from llbean.com. lynda

Got the silk underwear today. Since we don't leave until 11/1, it will get cold enough in Oct., here in Indiana, for me to "test" them. Thanks for the info.

Also got some more treasures! 3 oz shaving lotion, 2.5 oz spray cologne, .17 oz Tide sink washing gel (3 of them), & a shaving oil my hubby is going to test - but doesn't feel will work as aerosol replacement.

For me, got 3 pairs of black knit slacks the other day, with matching zipper knit black sweater with hood. All pack small & will be warm enough (which was my concern) & shouldn't wrinkle. Wore pair of the pants today to test & they are very comfortable. Later I'll test hand washing & drying them.

Now if I can just find my hubby a 3 oz aerosol can of shaving cream!

Did test packing yesterday. I was shocked! Everything fits in our backpack! 5 tops, 3 slacks (as above), 16 days undies (won't do undies by hand), 8 socks, sweater (as above), nitegown, toiletries, etc.

However, must still check a bag because we are flying RyanAir & can't get carryon down to 22 lbs. So this trip, checked is necessary on one leg of the trip only. We will carryon our backpack & check our little 22" wheelie. That is still so much better than our customary bringing of the kitchen sink! Much better for Venice bridges & the train overhead luggage racks!

Thanks everyone. We are excited to see how this goes. I have a feeling this is the new way of traveling for us

Julie

I've seen the mini cans of shaving cream at Target in the sample size toiletries section.

Thanks for everyone's hints and encouragement. Don't think I can do it with a carry one for this trip but may try the next time to Hawaii where there will be no dress up needed.

Don't forget you still have to get all those 3oz containers into a litre plastic bag per person - those bags don't hold very much. IME a 3oz/100ml container is too big - you'll only get a couple into a bag. When I do carry-on only, for weekends, my containers are more like 15ml each and they only just all fit into the plastic bag.

you can easily get at least 4 or 5 3 oz containers into a qt/litre baggie. But since few travel sized toiletries are as big as 3 full ounces, you actually can put many more things in. My demo gets more than 20 items in the baggie from very small like shout wipes, nail polish remover pads, packets of woolite, lip gloss, mascara, etc -- to .5-1.5 oz facial creams, toothpaste, eye drops etc -- to 2-3 oz hair gel, mouthwash, body butter, shaving foam . . . .

Most people don't need a fraction of those items - but I use them as a demo just to show the possibilities.

Hi Janis. My bag contains the smallest possible sizes of shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, cleanser, toner, eye cream, moisturiser, body lotion, hairspray, mascara & lip salve; it's only enough for 2-3 nights & I struggle to seal it.

So am I to understand that you can stuff that little quart size bag to the gunnels as long as you follow the guidelines? From what I read, it only has to be sealed. I can seal mine but it looks like Santa after a few too many eggnogs. It doesn't need to be flat?

No it definitely doesn't need to be flat. But everything must fit inside. I've always zipped mine closed - but don't know if that is absolutely necessary. I would though, just to make sure everything stayed inside.

The last few European airports I've been through -- they had staff along the security queue handing out baggies if anyone needed them. They were not zip lok - just simple plastic bags w/ a small flap but no closure.

Thanks Janis. What a relief! Now excuse me as I see what else I can squeeze into my baggie...

Those of you who'd like to optimize use of your toiletries (or other liquids) allotment may want to consider the following options:

1. Ziploc bags. Yes, I know, you're already using a ziploc bag, but that doesn't mean that you can't use another ziploc bag (a smaller, sandwich or snack-size one would likely suffice) for something like lotion or shampoo or conditioner. Re-sealable, and because the bag itself takes up almost no room, and you can squish all the excess air out there's no virtually no "dead space" to consider.

2. Test tubes. Test tubes, you ask? Yep, test tubes. Those of us with access to laboratories have already figured out that they are lightweight and sturdy (the plastic sort, not glass, though they're also pretty durable), and come with variety of very reliable closures (stoppers, screw-on, etc.). They also come in lots of different sizes, so you can pick the size you need for the application: 30 mLs for three shampoos (5 mLs is a teaspoon, so that's plenty), 5 mLs for a week's worth of undereye cream, etc.

but if I transfer my product to a non-labeled container, such as, a test tube, plastic bottle, etc., how do I prove to security that it is less than 3 oz?

Julie

I love the thought of packing light - my problem is the books I take. No kidding - I count on at least 1 per day, plus 2-3 for going, and another 2-3 for coming home. One of my favorite pleasures is reading a book while in the area it's about - think about the enjoyment of sitting on a temple platform in the Forum reading about the plot to kill Caesar, or sitting in the gardens at Versailles reading a chapter or 2 of "Abundance". Then, there's bedtime and mealtime reading. Well, you get the point! On a recent cruise I learned it was not de rigeur to read your book at the black jack table while the dealer is shuffling!

Julie_Hurst: "but if I transfer my product to a non-labeled container, such as, a test tube, plastic bottle, etc., how do I prove to security that it is less than 3 oz?"

As long as each container is 3 oz or less, that is all that matters. Each one doesn't need to be labled "2.3 oz", ".75 oz", etc.

Believe me - they are looking a thousands of tiny containers every single workshift - they can spot ones that are too big.

And even IF they don't think your container is w/i the limit - the worst that will happen is you'll lose about 3 oz of something you can replace at your destination (or even airside)

Momofrajah, I'm also a book addict. But instead of taking all the books with me, I take one and buy more as I go along (typically giving the one I've finished to somebody I've met). And so now you're thinking, well, how am I going to find books while I'm traveling in Europe? Especially books in English if I only read in English?

Well, that's actually not too difficult, at least if you're visiting a good-sized city. And it's a great way to learn a bit about local history and authors. Just go into a decent-sized bookstore, ask if they have any local authors in English (not original English books, though they'll likely have those as well), and they'll set you up. Clerks in bookstores (in the U.S. as well as Europe) love to talk about books, and love to show you which ones are the very coolest.

I do usually come home with a few more books than I left with.

"but if I transfer my product to a non-labeled container, such as, a test tube, plastic bottle, etc., how do I prove to security that it is less than 3 oz?"

As janisj points out, Julie, security is very good at eyeballing the volume of small containers, and a 30 mL container is very obviously smaller than a 100 mL (about 3 oz) container.

But as it turns out you don't even have to worry about possible arguments over the issue, as plastic test tubes and similar containers are almost always labeled as to their volume (some of them in 1 or 5 mL graduations), as of course the staff who work in laboratories need to know the volumes of their equipment.

<<Yes, I know, you're already using a ziploc bag, but that doesn't mean that you can't use another ziploc bag>>

It does if you are carrying on as only one quart size bag is permitted for liquids and gels. I use others for non liquid items.

"It does if you are carrying on as only one quart size bag is permitted for liquids and gels. I use others for non liquid items."

I'm afraid you've missed the point here, kfusto. The other ziploc bag would fit inside the first one: you'd put an ounce or so of whatever toiletry you'd need in the other bag, zip it shut so as to exclude as much air as possible, and then fit it inside your official toiletries bag.

Note that this technique does, in fact, break the rule about container volume, as most commercially available ziploc bags will contain, when full, more than 3 oz/100 mL. But then of course so does that first ziploc bag, and any other ziploc bags that you might be using. Heck, you can bring along gigantic two gallon ziploc bags, and if 10 of your terrorist buddies got on the same plan, and all of them handed off their supposed toiletries (really bomb-making liquids, of course) you could whip up a really gigantic bomb, right?

And if you wanted a rigid container, you could just bring along one that contained a solid or powder, like baby powder. You can get pretty large containers of baby powder that would work just fine.

I saw a ready-to-pack kit at Bed Bath & Beyond for $9.95 that had more than a dozen empty perfect sized containers in the 1 QT ziplock, even with sticky labels. For newbies or people confused or intimidated about this issue, seems an easy solution.

suze, post a link to that product if you can find it---I looked on the Bed Bath & Beyond web site and couldn't find it, but they may not offer it on line.

I've seen some other kits that didn't quite work, as the bottles were too big (so not enough of them for us high-maintenance sorts). I rarely need 3 oz of anything, so I end up with too much dead space.

And then there's the issue of my typically wanting to throw away my left over toiletries at the end of the trip (ideally this is minimal, as I've figured out how much I'm likely to need) so as to maximize space for purchases made en route. If I've splashed out $10 on the containers I'll want to keep them, whereas test tubes cost pennies a piece.

Oh, and another cool thing about test tubes et al.: many of them include a frosted, opaque area on the surface so that you can easily write on them with a Sharpie and thereby distinguish your shampoo from your conditioner, etc. You can write on the ones without the frosted bit as well, but they're not as easy to read, and not as water-resistant.

I saw it in a store not online. I mention it mostly because it seemed perfect (and I'm real picky about how I carry travel toiletries).

suze, how big were the containers? Were they more like generic drugstore travel containers? Or more like cool spa sample jars (which is another source of great small travel containers)?

And for myself, having looked at the packing cubes, etc, I went to Walmart and purchased I believe there were two sweater type bags in each pkg and they about basically cubes (not flat bags), zippered and do the very same as the expensive type from Eagle Creek. And I too just take them out in bulk and unpacking that way, use items as necessary, instead of each item, etc. Although with plastic, I have found it best to use the straps inside the suitcase, over the bags as when security occasionally have opened them in my view, the bags could slide out. But you get to used to that kind of packing, you would never go back to the other way. Happy traveling. Halfpint

They were mostly 1 oz. size of bottle and jar shapes and couple of 2 oz, one with spray top. What caught my attention was how many different bottles were neatly contained in a 1 qt. baggie. Way more than I though it could possibly be. And very neat.

Oooh, 1 oz bottles, the most useful size IMO. And jars are great for things that are sufficiently liquid to pour from a bottle (or test tube).

Now if only there were a Bed Bath & Beyond somewhere along my usual errand route...

Therese, I know I know!!

People probably think I'm nuts for mentioning it. But those 3-4 oz. kind you normally find in a drug store travel section are too "gigantic" for me.

Another way to downsize with cosmetics is to visit the cosmetic counter at your dept store. I was purchasing my moisturizer before a trip and asked if they also had any sample sizes since we were traveling. They didn't, but what they did have were there tiny sort of compact looking things...about the size of 2-3 quarters stacked on top of each other. They filled that with my cream. They gave me several, but one was enough for 2 weeks. It was great because it was so tiny, and I didn't feel bad tossing when I was done. They said they do that all the time at that store.

Janis - I was advised by a security guy (at Cardiff I think) that unlabelled containers wouldn't do & would be assumed to be too big.

Therese - "you can bring along gigantic two gallon ziploc bags" - I'm not sure you are getting the point that the maximum size of the plastic bag is a litre ? One litre bag containing as many => 100ml containers as you can fit into it.

"Therese - "you can bring along gigantic two gallon ziploc bags" - I'm not sure you are getting the point that the maximum size of the plastic bag is a litre ? One litre bag containing as many => 100ml containers as you can fit into it."

Yes, I'm definitely getting the point that the maximum size of the bag that contains liquids is one liter (all in aliquots of 100 mL or less, and all in containers that will not hold more than that volume). But there's nothing to prevent you (or anybody else) from bringing along EMPTY two gallon ziploc bags. Or even two gallon ziploc bags stuffed with underwear or sweaters or whatever.

OK, sorry. But still not sure I'm understanding the scenario of 10 terrorists each with 2 x 2 gallon empty bags ?

caroline_edinburgh: Of course individual security screeners may define the rules differently -- that is always an issue. No matter what the requirements are, the guy on the machine will determine what gets through and what doesn't.

But in the last 8 months I've flown in/out/through ORK, LHR, LGW, MAN, GLA and in each case my zip lok bag contained several marked and unmarked containers. No problems, questions, or raised eyebrows by any security srtaff.

bookmarking. Great ideas!

"...not sure I'm understanding the scenario of 10 terrorists each with 2 x 2 gallon empty bags."

The theory is that they're not empty. Each of the 10 terrorist has a Kippy filled with tiny bottles of explosive components. Everything legal, right?

Then, 38,000 feet over Greenland, they all put their collective gallon of liquid together and touch it off.

But read this: http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/08/17/flying_toilet_terror_labs/

I don't understand the issue of carrying empty plastic bags, either or why that is a security issue. The whole point of the 1 L or qt plastic bag was that was the entire amount of liquids/gels they wanted one person to be able to carry and the plastic bag was just to make screening quicker, that's all. It had nothing to do with the bag itself. The 1L size was just to indicate the quantity they wanted allowed, it had not purpose in itself.

I agree with Suze about the 1 oz size bottles being most useful. I never carry 3 oz of shampoo on a trip, for example -- at least no trip of 3 weeks or less, but I do have dry hair and don't wash it as much as many people do theirs. But it's long and thick, so does probably use up more than short hair would.

The guy at Cardiff was just making up his own rules or indicating what the staff at Cardiff were doing -- I have never had any security staff at major US international airports or European ones question my travel-size bottles that weren't labelled, just generic empties. Unless you are a real dunce, you can tell a 1 oz plastic bottle is not over 3 oz. I could see if they were over 2 oz and unmarked, one wouldn't want to debate the issue. That's kind of a silly thing to say anyway, as if I really had to, I could soak the label off a 2 oz bottle and glue it onto a larger one, if all the security staff could do was read the label and would believe it.

In fact, I think they rarely read the labels as they are too small and they mainly screen them in that machine.

Hello all,

Since I started this thread before I left for Italy, I thought as well join in and share what I took on my trip.

My carry on was a black 18x24 bag..Lonchamp (sorry about the spelling) long,leather handles and a soft zipper across the top. Inside I had a book, fresh undies, meds, hand and body lotion (scented) reading glasses, toothbrush and paste, aLuna bar for a snack and water I purchased before we entered the plane. Just enough for me to feel good and not too much stuff for me to feel crazy. I wore Nike workout pants, a sportbra to feel super comfy, a whitenylon shirt and a Nike jacket. I felt comfortable sleeping in this outfit and looked good enough the next morning..sez I. I wore green Puma's that I took off and replaced with thick socks called Smartwool. Oh, I also brought a deck of cards and played alot of Gin with my travelmate.

This is the best travel site ever and I am forever grateful for everyone's help and insite.

GRAZIE,

Luci