kybourbon

There was a coupon in the Sunday paper for a new product that would be great if you planned to do laundry (as many that carry on do). It's called Purex complete 3-in-1. Looks like a dryer sheet, but has detergent, softener and anti-static on the one sheet.
http://www.purex.com/purex-3-in-1/product#description

LucieV

That does look good, kyb. My only concern is how much does the stuff weigh? i.e., I'd rather buy my detergent at the laundromat if it's going to be a lot of extra weight in my bag. I'll look for it in the store.

cmstraf

The biggest problem is not size it's weight. Many airlines allow only 18 pounds in one carry on item plus a personal one (daypack with toiletry kit). Be sure to check regulations re weight.

suze

Call me crazy but I just put a couple plastic hangers in the bottom of my suitcase. I've never tried the balloon method, but I can't believe it'd be easier than simply hanging damp clothes to dry!

kybourbon

I assume one sheet will do a load of laundry (how many loads are you planning?)and in the newspaper ad the sheet looks very thin, but a little thicker than a dryer sheet. I would think you could put a couple of sheets in a zip lock bag and shouldn't weigh anything. Might be pricey though as the coupon is $2.00 off.

Kristina

Ekscrunchy, you can do it! I know you can!You'll have lots of support here.

I am going to Vietnam for 2 weeks and will only do carry on as will my husband. It's easier traveling with a companion because you can share certain things (computer, camera, some toiletries, etc.) that you would take anyway solo.
I travel with a 22" rollaboard and another smaller "personal bag".
I don't care so much for the packing cubes because I think they can take up too much space and weight. I'm a huge fan of the ziplock (one-zip brand) bag. I use all different sizes in my packing.

One thing that makes me crazy is when people say, "but what about shampoo?" Really? How much shampoo do you really need for a week to 10 days? Certainly not 3 ounces. Try it at home. See how long a small bottle lasts. You will be surprised.

cmstraf- I'm with you on the weight thing. Most US carriers have a 40 lb limit, but the international ones can be very low. I can't make it with just a 13 lb limit for example. My camera and other gear are just too heavy.

Even when forced to check a bag, I still take the 22" bag. It's the only size I own now.

My current issue is that I will be traveling back to Rome in October with friends. I know they won't do carry on. This means that I will still have to wait for their luggage. Last time we did this trip I just checked my bag. The driver who picked us up looked at my bag and then my friend's bags. He said to me, "that's all you have?" LOL

kfusto

My mesh packing cubes weigh a few ounces each and fold up as small as a ziploc. Cannot imagine which ones this refers to: "packing cubes because I think they can take up too much space and weight".

MademoiselleFifi

kfusto, not all packing cubes are the same. I have some thick heavy ones (I think they were by Eagle Creek, but not sure) and some much lighter ones by Rick Steves.

kybourbon

The mesh ones look like they would be lighter. I just use 1 and 2 gallon ziplock bags and roll clothes. I think you have less wrinkles with rolling.

russwuf

for all you peeps who have to bring the entire makeup/hair/accessory counter from a major dept store with you....they do have stores in europe...pharmacia in italy etc. etc. etc. I find a certain brand of italian toothpaste with eucalyptus in it really refreshing! pack light>>>save your back

Therese

Another member of the "packing cubes? I don't get it" club. They do add weight and if I'm looking at a 7 kg limit (yes, I'm seriously considering this, for a three week trip) I can't afford to waste even 10 gm.

Wrinkle prevention is the result of packing tightly with as few folds as possible. Packing cubes do make you do this, but they aren't required. They do help organize packing, and if you've got the weight to spare then it's not an issue, of course.

kfusto

<<kfusto, not all packing cubes are the same>>
Understood and that was my point. Did not want others who are not familiar with them to rule them out based on the statement they are necessarily heavy and bulky, which is incorrect.

TC

So many great ideas! For me the "perfect" one-bag wardrobe has been my hobby for many years. Some people collect stamps or teacups -- I collect, perfect travel attire. I have an on-going wish list, for which I am always on the lookout. Maybe its the ideal pair of boots for travel -- amazingly comfortable, black (to go with everything), mid-heels for easy walking, but just high enough to be fashionable, made from a fabric rather than leather so they will fold up and pack in minimal space, waterproof, just over the ankle to be worn with trousers or (with the addition of opaque black stockings) with a longish skirt -- and, of course, at a price I can't resist. It took nearly two years of "keeping my eyes open" but I finally found just the right ones -- on sale! Each time I happen on to a little jewel of an item for my travel "collection"; be it an article of clothing, the perfect luggage, a travel tip (contact lens cases, who knew?), one-step make-up in a TSA exact container or any other little item, I feel so smart and so prepared. My point is this -- the <u>perfect</u> travel ensemble isn't something one runs out and buys just before the trip - it is something one collects a little at a time until it is ideal. Then -- no more worries. Its just into the closet and pick the right things for the particular trip -- winter, summer, rain, snow, tropics or city, glam or camping, there is something just right for every occasion.

kfusto

TC, you are exactly right!

ncounty

you are such a connoisseur, TC!

res_q_u

How do you keep the weight below the 18lb weight restriction for carry-on baggage? I was able to pack with plenty of room left in my 22x14x9 but could not get below the weight. Thanks, Rich

TC

Rich, I've never had my carry-on weighed. As long as it fit in the overhead, no on seemed to mind how much it weighed. For serious travel where weight is an issue (upcoming Africa flights have 33 lb. restriction), we use very lightweight duffels. LL Bean Adventure duffel is only 2 lbs. 4 oz.

"Connoisseur"....hmmmm, insult or complement? Mostly, I'm just too lazy to reinvent the wheel everytime I travel. Having a standard travel wardrobe ready to go makes my life a lot easier.