I never leave home without different sizes of baggies. It is at the top of my packing list. I also keep several handy as I go thru security in case anyone has forgotten the right size. It truly is amazing how I can get along with lots of "stuff" in 3oz bottles. In a wierd way, security has given me freedom from large bottles. I also take empty water bottles thru security to fill before I get on the plane. I'm too cheap to buy at the prices asked.

Knowing, can I now brag to my friends that I know someone who is descended from Jane Austen? (Does one still use the word "descended" if she didn't have any direct descendants? I don't know.) That is so cool! I feel like a little groupie right now.

BTW, I wasn't paraphrasing Jane Austen about packing--I was paraphrasing JA about people who look down their noses at people who wear the same outfit twice.

Sorry, EJ, I can't answer your question about 'descended'. I really don't know.
I understood what Jane what was saying. I was just thinking that until a couple of years ago, I was never able to wear the same dress twice on vacation. I AM getting better! In fact, when we went to Barbados, I only took three pairs of shoes. I was really proud of myself!

Knowing, I wonder if the store would let you make an exchange on your luggage? I know the frustration I felt a few weeks ago with that monster 28inch. NEVER AGAIN! That guy will be used for storage only. My elbow is still sore from schlepping that guy around. I feel FREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!

Just one more question. I was wondering if anyone had a rough idea of the size under the seat of the plane? I've got my new rolling tote and I would really like to be able to keep it under the seat in front of me instead of the overhead because it's too much of a hassle to lift it up there and to retrieve things. By the way, it's the travelon rolling tote if anyone has this. Thanks!

Midwest Diver,
Every night I'm setting aside a little bit and putting most of it away and feeling more and more confident that I'm not going to need much room. I've actually been wondering myself if the store would allow me to do an exchange. I might give them a call and ask. Thanks for backing me up on my thoughts.

To Midwest Diver: I have the travelon rolling tote and yes, it will fit under the seat in front of you. It may stick out about 3" but no one has given me a hard time about it! BTW, Im going to St. John for only 7 days and Im bringing my 30" rolling bag, my rolling carry on and a BIG purse! Since I wear uniforms to work, I love dressing in fun things on vacation. Its worth making my husband handle all the luggage for me!

I have had the pleasure of travelling all over the Caribbean for years (not to boast but I have part ownership in http://www.wheretostay.com/ so I get quite a few freebies)

My advice, carry two bags that you can carry on. The reason is simple, most of the regional jets down there will take them from you as you get on the plane, then you pick them up as you hop off and away you go. Couple of tee shirts and a bathing suit - who needs anything more!

Happy travelling!

Ksea, Thanks so much! I checked the airline today and it said 45inches max for under the seat. Well I just wanted to know the height because I figured the width would be ok. What a relief. Thanks!