LostinChina

I'm having trouble staying within the limits of one suitcase/person , 44lbs or less. There is so much I want to bring!! I just talked to my insurance and she told me to bring everything I want to use for the next 7 days since they are losing a LOT of luggage!! She said they can't get it back to you until usually 7 days. I can't carry on that much! Would the internal airlines allow 2 bags if they total less than 44 lbs to check-in? That's what my travel agent says, though the rules state one piece of luggage/person.

This is a challenge.

thursdaysd

Didn't we sort of address this on your laundry thread? What on earth are you taking that weighs that much? I manage for weeks (even months) with 25 lbs - you can check out my packing list at www.wilhelmswords.com/faq. I do put a change of underwear and top in my carry-on when I fly, though, along with the electronics and pharmaceuticals.

ggreen

thursdaysd, what a great packing list! I had begun compiling my own, but now will just modify yours. (I'm going to China, but will not be backpacking. I am, however, really looking to minimize the amount of junk I take with me for a 30-day trip!) And I can't wait to read your travelogues. Thank you so much for sharing!

KimJapan

I don't usually backpack, but do usually travel with only a carryon bag, or at most, a wheeled suitcase slightly bigger than carryon. Never weighs much more than 15 kg. In a much smaller carryon, I carry documents, a book, pen, medicine and a lightweight and compact change of clothing for just in case. That's it. Do laundry every other day. If you discover that you really want something, chances are you can buy it...or that you really can live without it. Lots of luggage is just a hassle.

A good rule of thumb for packing is to lay out everything you want to bring, then cut in half, at the least. You don't need a different outfit for each day, a single extra pair of shoes is sufficient. Hair dryers and such are better left at home, hotels have them...and if not, you can air dry, clip your hair up, or just buy a cheapie there if you really need one.

I really don't think so much luggage gets lost that you have to count on it happening. Even if it gets lost, with a change of clothes in your carryon and one on your body, you are all set anyway. Take the minimum, and leave space for things you might buy. We pack a soft duffel in a suitcase every trip for just in case we buy things. Even if it's over the luggage limit, you can likely pay extra to get it on the plane, which is probably cheaper than mailing home. Cheaper yet is to not overpack and not overshop to begin with though.

thursdaysd

Thanks ggreen! My list would work fine for a small regular suitcase or wheeled carry-on - I just find it easier to be able to carry my bag on my back when dealing with train and bus stations. I mostly use planes just for the cross-ocean sections.

ggreen

For this trip, I have the luxury of a single accomodation for the duration, since I am going for a class with my university. We have the last week off to travel, but I can leave some things at the hotel since it's covered for that time. I'm a pretty seasoned traveler, but have never really been to Asia before, and all the trips I've taken have been either shorter or significantly longer than this one. It's been a little tough to get my packing bearings - until now! Thanks again.

P.S. Thursdaysd, the "pharmaceuticals" list alone is so helpful!!

LostinChina

Thanks for all of your input.

thursdaysd- I had read your info awhile ago and had forgotten. Thanks for the refresher. Good tips!