My 12 Day packed suitcase
May 3rd, 2006, 08:51 AM
#21
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hey Kopp -- thanks for the Target tip.. i was wondering if you (or anyone) knows where i can get a bag comparable to the RS Civita? I don't want to wait 10 bus days for delivery since we only have 12 bus days before we leave.. and i sure dont want to pay $15 shipping for a $25 bag. Thanks for any/all assist .. or suggestions.
Also - please tell.. what is FWIW? thanks!
Also - please tell.. what is FWIW? thanks!
May 3rd, 2006, 09:15 AM
#22
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Topping. I'm going to keep this list to check against when I need to pack for any future trips. You know how you're trying not to forget anything that you will need, but sometimes do? Well, this list will help, for sure.
We need to renew our passports before we go on any trips overseas, and so will worry about this list then.
Thanks.
We need to renew our passports before we go on any trips overseas, and so will worry about this list then.
Thanks.
May 3rd, 2006, 09:18 AM
#23
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DiG - great list; I will be referring to it; I have the same RS suitcase. I hope I can take more than 3 pairs of slacks total--I need to get my clothes purchased and start practicing 
Are you using the RS avanti flight bag?
Did you get those flexilocks from RS--do you like them?
Calla - my local luggage store (Landmark Luggage) sells the Civita and other RS bags.
Have a wonderful trip, DiG!!!!
Are you using the RS avanti flight bag?
Did you get those flexilocks from RS--do you like them?
Calla - my local luggage store (Landmark Luggage) sells the Civita and other RS bags.
Have a wonderful trip, DiG!!!!
May 3rd, 2006, 10:24 AM
#24
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Briall, if you don't want to wear the same formal outfit go with a long black skirt and have different style tops. Something slinky that packs small, a solid black top that you can dress up with bold jewelry and then a jacket (either with glitter or sparkle) over a black camisole. Once you get to the ship you won't have to worry about your luggage. Cruises just seem to call for overpacking with all the social possibilities 
Shoes were my downfall on the cruises we've taken. Have a great trip. Deborah
Shoes were my downfall on the cruises we've taken. Have a great trip. Deborah
May 3rd, 2006, 02:22 PM
#25
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calalilli - you're welcome!!
Can't help you with a different day pack than the RS Civita. I've got the original one, and to me it's the best there is - so squishabale and packable, yet very durable.
Don't you hate it when you find something you want just before a trip? Last time I went to Italy, I had been looking for shoes. Couldn't find any. Night before we leave, we go out to dinner and stop at this store. Wouldn't you know, I found the perfect pair. No time to break in. Went against all my normal rules and took them. Fortunately, they were terrific.
And BTW (by the way), FWIW is "for what it's worth."
Can't help you with a different day pack than the RS Civita. I've got the original one, and to me it's the best there is - so squishabale and packable, yet very durable.
Don't you hate it when you find something you want just before a trip? Last time I went to Italy, I had been looking for shoes. Couldn't find any. Night before we leave, we go out to dinner and stop at this store. Wouldn't you know, I found the perfect pair. No time to break in. Went against all my normal rules and took them. Fortunately, they were terrific.
And BTW (by the way), FWIW is "for what it's worth."
May 3rd, 2006, 05:43 PM
#26
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Great job of packing! Almost the same as my wife takes except we found Pampered Chef Twix-Its are great for sealing off those bags of snacks. They come in assorted sizes. Cheaper (and lighter) alternative but not as easy to use are twist ties. Also suggest taking a mesh shopping bag. Some stores charge for bags. Especially plastic bags (Irish kites) in Ireland.
Now, what should the gent take for 12 days under the same circumstances and same size and weight bag?
Now, what should the gent take for 12 days under the same circumstances and same size and weight bag?
May 3rd, 2006, 06:44 PM
#27
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I think I pack light, but not that light! I have a serious question. With only 2 pairs of slacks,what happens if you spill something on 1 of them? Just wear the other pair until you get home? I always bring atleast 3 pairs so I can rotate and have an extra in case of spills.
About the cruise and formal wear. That is a BIG problem. We leave on a 13 night Transatlantic Friday and I'm having trouble keeping the cloyhing count down. One plus (if I don't spill junk on it) is I have a black tank dress from Chicos that I will will with a kimono jacket for 1 of the formal nights, a lace poncho another night and a beaded sweater the 3rd night. Then I have a floral cotton sweater and pink lacy cardigan for dressy nights. 5 outfits, 1 dress! We'll see if I can keep it clean. If not, we'll hit the buffet.
About the cruise and formal wear. That is a BIG problem. We leave on a 13 night Transatlantic Friday and I'm having trouble keeping the cloyhing count down. One plus (if I don't spill junk on it) is I have a black tank dress from Chicos that I will will with a kimono jacket for 1 of the formal nights, a lace poncho another night and a beaded sweater the 3rd night. Then I have a floral cotton sweater and pink lacy cardigan for dressy nights. 5 outfits, 1 dress! We'll see if I can keep it clean. If not, we'll hit the buffet.
May 3rd, 2006, 11:34 PM
#28
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Evanjva1, we will be in Europe this time next year, but it is autumn now where we live, I have been getting in early and buying our warm clothes to put away for our trip. We are off to Norway & Switzerland amoung other places.
So far my on my DH's list:
4 coolmax s/sleeve wash & wear shirts
1 thick l/sleeve shirt
1 polo s/sleeve top
1 blue, 1 black pair poly/cotton wash & wear casual pants
1 dark blue linen blend trousers
1 sleeveless black wind proof vest
1 polar fleece dark grey zip up top
1 windproof/rain jacket
thermal pants & t-shirt
1 pair gortex walking boots
1 pair black neat walking shoes
& of course toiletries etc
Hope this is a start for you to get some ideas.
So far my on my DH's list:
4 coolmax s/sleeve wash & wear shirts
1 thick l/sleeve shirt
1 polo s/sleeve top
1 blue, 1 black pair poly/cotton wash & wear casual pants
1 dark blue linen blend trousers
1 sleeveless black wind proof vest
1 polar fleece dark grey zip up top
1 windproof/rain jacket
thermal pants & t-shirt
1 pair gortex walking boots
1 pair black neat walking shoes
& of course toiletries etc
Hope this is a start for you to get some ideas.
Jun 6th, 2006, 01:40 PM
#32
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Hi to all and wow I'm glad my list has been helpful for some of you.
We're back but had some PC tech issues so I'm just starting to chat but really want to start a trip report.
Answers to questions/reply to comments:
Scarlett: robe takes little space & weighs little as it's silk but your sweater idea is a good one. I use my robe alot. After I get back to room & shower I lounge in it which also gives clothes more time to air out. In the morning I wear it as well as we have
coffee or whatever, & check the news.
Kopp, thanks for Target tip, great to save money if we buy a 2nd bag plus I like to shop there.
Zwho with only 2 pr slacks I still have a skirt, attend to a spill right away, and pack travel size shout wipes.
And wouldn't you know it I had a Spill!
Rainjacket is waterproof with a foldaway hood.
Yes, we also pack umbrellas.
Yes, flexilocks are from RS.
No, we bought tote bags from LLBean.
Yes I'd love to be a smaller size but I'm a 14 and DH is 50/52.
Comments from our trip:
Wore our rainjackets on both days of Normandy DDay tours and 1 cool night there.
Used umbrellas in Paris 3x, compact ones from Magellan's I carry in my bag,
so glad we had them with us as weather in Paris was too warm for rainjackets.
Didn't need flexilocks on train as our suitcases & tote bags went above our seats. We bought them based on our train experience from a former Italy trip.
We love our smaller tote bags, great for all types of stuff, and they have 3 large outside zipped sleeves and spacious open pockets on each side.
Well Zwho, it was a red wine spill on my slacks, used club soda right away, and then washed them out when we got back to hotel. The stain came out. Also used the shout wipes on DH shirt and whatever it was it came out.
Maudie I really like your list for your trip to Norway & Switzerland, have you added additional LS tops for DH?
I added these items to suitcase or tote: travel size bottle febreeze spray, travel shout wipes, my shoulder purse which is also my day bag, vitamins and 3 prescriptions all in travel size bottles, 2 sleeveless tops, 2 camisoles, 1 pr trouser socks,
2 magazines to read.
What I didn't wear or use:
1 SL pullover top
1 camisole
1 camera card
hideaway bag
flexilock but would still bring if using the train.
*Pantyhose and/or silk longjohns used in Normandy underneath slacks.
I also wear panthyhose with my skirt at night or on days I'm wearing skirt and it's cool out.
Guidestuff we didn't use:
Do it yourself bus tour,
Rainy day ideas & Passages,
90% DK pages and 80% RS pages weren't not used.
*Need to work on this part of travel as always take too much stuff.
DH packing list for Paris & Normandy:
Rainjacket
Lightweight spring waisted jacket
Hat/gloves/scarf
2 pullover sweaters
Blazer
3 pr slacks
3 SL polo tops
1 SL button shirt
1 LS button shirt
1 LS pullover polo top
2 merino wool/cotton pullover tops
1 SL Tshirt
1 LS Tshirt
1 sleeper boxers
1 pj sleepers/lounge pants
6 pr socks
8 pr undies
walking shoes
walking loafers
2 hankerchiefs
Flexilock
Headphones/eyeshades/neckrest
Pen
Toiletries
Water and snacks
Wallet
Travel document holder
Reading glasses
Eye glasses
Guidebooks and maps
What He used/didn't use/used alot:
Didn't wear LS pullover polo top.
Wore mediumweight pullover merino wool/cotton top only 1x and lighter one
3x.
Wore RedSox hat only on the 2 DDay tours and pulled the rainjacket hood up when it rained and when it was very windy.
So he didn't wear his scarf but he's not a big scarf an but I insisted he have it for Normandy.
Didn't use Flexilock.
Didn't pack or take his RS Civita bag and for what we did he didn't need it.
Wore his blazer 5x, 3x for dinner and 2x during the day.
Loved those 3 SL polo tops.
Wished he had 1 more SL button shirt.
He liked having 2 pullover sweaters, 1 was solid black & other mixed colors.
How it worked for us:
We did sink laundry prn before bed; Used laundry service 2x, once at a Bayeux launderette and sent out once in Paris.
Important for you to know that our clothes are especially bought with travel in mind. They are wrinkle free, microfiber, mixed blend fabrics of cotton/poly, spandex/elastene, tencil denim, silk/cotton all that withstand
being in a suitcase and wear well.
We share as many toiletries as can.
In the end my suitcase weighed 21pds
and Cosmo's weighed 24 pds.
I'm sure I forgot to mention some things but I wanted to reply back since
this post received alot of replies.
We're back but had some PC tech issues so I'm just starting to chat but really want to start a trip report.
Answers to questions/reply to comments:
Scarlett: robe takes little space & weighs little as it's silk but your sweater idea is a good one. I use my robe alot. After I get back to room & shower I lounge in it which also gives clothes more time to air out. In the morning I wear it as well as we have
coffee or whatever, & check the news.
Kopp, thanks for Target tip, great to save money if we buy a 2nd bag plus I like to shop there.
Zwho with only 2 pr slacks I still have a skirt, attend to a spill right away, and pack travel size shout wipes.
And wouldn't you know it I had a Spill!
Rainjacket is waterproof with a foldaway hood.
Yes, we also pack umbrellas.
Yes, flexilocks are from RS.
No, we bought tote bags from LLBean.
Yes I'd love to be a smaller size but I'm a 14 and DH is 50/52.
Comments from our trip:
Wore our rainjackets on both days of Normandy DDay tours and 1 cool night there.
Used umbrellas in Paris 3x, compact ones from Magellan's I carry in my bag,
so glad we had them with us as weather in Paris was too warm for rainjackets.
Didn't need flexilocks on train as our suitcases & tote bags went above our seats. We bought them based on our train experience from a former Italy trip.
We love our smaller tote bags, great for all types of stuff, and they have 3 large outside zipped sleeves and spacious open pockets on each side.
Well Zwho, it was a red wine spill on my slacks, used club soda right away, and then washed them out when we got back to hotel. The stain came out. Also used the shout wipes on DH shirt and whatever it was it came out.
Maudie I really like your list for your trip to Norway & Switzerland, have you added additional LS tops for DH?
I added these items to suitcase or tote: travel size bottle febreeze spray, travel shout wipes, my shoulder purse which is also my day bag, vitamins and 3 prescriptions all in travel size bottles, 2 sleeveless tops, 2 camisoles, 1 pr trouser socks,
2 magazines to read.
What I didn't wear or use:
1 SL pullover top
1 camisole
1 camera card
hideaway bag
flexilock but would still bring if using the train.
*Pantyhose and/or silk longjohns used in Normandy underneath slacks.
I also wear panthyhose with my skirt at night or on days I'm wearing skirt and it's cool out.
Guidestuff we didn't use:
Do it yourself bus tour,
Rainy day ideas & Passages,
90% DK pages and 80% RS pages weren't not used.
*Need to work on this part of travel as always take too much stuff.
DH packing list for Paris & Normandy:
Rainjacket
Lightweight spring waisted jacket
Hat/gloves/scarf
2 pullover sweaters
Blazer
3 pr slacks
3 SL polo tops
1 SL button shirt
1 LS button shirt
1 LS pullover polo top
2 merino wool/cotton pullover tops
1 SL Tshirt
1 LS Tshirt
1 sleeper boxers
1 pj sleepers/lounge pants
6 pr socks
8 pr undies
walking shoes
walking loafers
2 hankerchiefs
Flexilock
Headphones/eyeshades/neckrest
Pen
Toiletries
Water and snacks
Wallet
Travel document holder
Reading glasses
Eye glasses
Guidebooks and maps
What He used/didn't use/used alot:
Didn't wear LS pullover polo top.
Wore mediumweight pullover merino wool/cotton top only 1x and lighter one
3x.
Wore RedSox hat only on the 2 DDay tours and pulled the rainjacket hood up when it rained and when it was very windy.
So he didn't wear his scarf but he's not a big scarf an but I insisted he have it for Normandy.
Didn't use Flexilock.
Didn't pack or take his RS Civita bag and for what we did he didn't need it.
Wore his blazer 5x, 3x for dinner and 2x during the day.
Loved those 3 SL polo tops.
Wished he had 1 more SL button shirt.
He liked having 2 pullover sweaters, 1 was solid black & other mixed colors.
How it worked for us:
We did sink laundry prn before bed; Used laundry service 2x, once at a Bayeux launderette and sent out once in Paris.
Important for you to know that our clothes are especially bought with travel in mind. They are wrinkle free, microfiber, mixed blend fabrics of cotton/poly, spandex/elastene, tencil denim, silk/cotton all that withstand
being in a suitcase and wear well.
We share as many toiletries as can.
In the end my suitcase weighed 21pds
and Cosmo's weighed 24 pds.
I'm sure I forgot to mention some things but I wanted to reply back since
this post received alot of replies.
Jun 6th, 2006, 03:41 PM
#33
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Hi DiG,
This is a great thread, very good basic ideas.
I have picked up a light machine washable woollen black pullover to add to hubby's list but no not another l/s shirt, maybe I should think about that. All the sales are on here now then the winter clothing will be gone so I need to get the last pieces of clothing organised. Oh - any excuse to shop!
This is a great thread, very good basic ideas.
I have picked up a light machine washable woollen black pullover to add to hubby's list but no not another l/s shirt, maybe I should think about that. All the sales are on here now then the winter clothing will be gone so I need to get the last pieces of clothing organised. Oh - any excuse to shop!
Jun 6th, 2006, 05:25 PM
#34
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Great lists Thanks for posting!
FYI Target (travel aisle) sells FLAT compact umbrellas - very small / abt $10.
I tear up my travel books - staple the pages of the section I need. Less stuff to haul. I then leave those pages for someone else or toss. I figure the next time I return, their will be new edition printed that I can buy.
FYI Target (travel aisle) sells FLAT compact umbrellas - very small / abt $10.
I tear up my travel books - staple the pages of the section I need. Less stuff to haul. I then leave those pages for someone else or toss. I figure the next time I return, their will be new edition printed that I can buy.
Jun 6th, 2006, 06:15 PM
#35
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Each time I go to Europe, I go for about eight weeks, and generally do a fair bit of travelling around. Therefore I don't want to be lugging any unnecessary gear.
On the plane, I wear the following items:
U/pants
Travel socks
Trousers
Polo shirt
Windcheater
Shoes
Watch
Reading glasses
Bum bag
Ticket
Passport
Digital camera
Wallet 1 (Visa, Euros)
Wallet 2 (Amex)
In my carry-on backpack, which falls within the international measurements, I have:
2x Shirts
2x upants
2x socks
1x trousers
1x shorts
1x cap
1x swimming togs
1x light rainjacket
1x shoes
Duplicate documents
Laundry bag
Toiletry bag
European adapter plug
Powerboard
Mobile phone
Batteries
Ipod
Folding Headphones
Adapter to connect headphones to aeroplane system
Travel towel
Asprin
Pens
Xwords & sudoku
Novel
Diary
Travel folder
Pencil
Sunglasses
Camera battery charger
Ipod charger
Phone charger
Spare SD cards in small bag
The total weight of all this is just under 14 lbs.
I have provided for three days clothing, and simply repeat those three days, in various combinations, for the full duration of my trip. Obviously it entails regular visits to a laundry. I enjoy dining at fine restaurants, particularly in France, and this array of clothing accommodates that.
If the need arises for something that is not listed here, then I buy it: they have shops in Europe. What I don't want to do is give stuff a free ride around the world.
On the plane, I wear the following items:
U/pants
Travel socks
Trousers
Polo shirt
Windcheater
Shoes
Watch
Reading glasses
Bum bag
Ticket
Passport
Digital camera
Wallet 1 (Visa, Euros)
Wallet 2 (Amex)
In my carry-on backpack, which falls within the international measurements, I have:
2x Shirts
2x upants
2x socks
1x trousers
1x shorts
1x cap
1x swimming togs
1x light rainjacket
1x shoes
Duplicate documents
Laundry bag
Toiletry bag
European adapter plug
Powerboard
Mobile phone
Batteries
Ipod
Folding Headphones
Adapter to connect headphones to aeroplane system
Travel towel
Asprin
Pens
Xwords & sudoku
Novel
Diary
Travel folder
Pencil
Sunglasses
Camera battery charger
Ipod charger
Phone charger
Spare SD cards in small bag
The total weight of all this is just under 14 lbs.
I have provided for three days clothing, and simply repeat those three days, in various combinations, for the full duration of my trip. Obviously it entails regular visits to a laundry. I enjoy dining at fine restaurants, particularly in France, and this array of clothing accommodates that.
If the need arises for something that is not listed here, then I buy it: they have shops in Europe. What I don't want to do is give stuff a free ride around the world.
Jun 7th, 2006, 08:26 AM
#36
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Join Date: Jul 2003
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Hi adeben:
I admire your list. It's the lightest I've seen to date so I have a few Q's if you don't mind.
If I remember you're from Melbourne, so that's 20 plus hours on a plane for you. Unfortunately, you can't sleep on board which is why you pack alot of entertainemnt.
What is a bum bag?
Is a windcheater a pullover nylon vest or a LS pullover top?
Are any of your shirts LS?
What kind of shoes do you wear?
Is this your Euro list for Spring-Fall as I didn't see any gloves/mittens listed?
Di
I admire your list. It's the lightest I've seen to date so I have a few Q's if you don't mind.
If I remember you're from Melbourne, so that's 20 plus hours on a plane for you. Unfortunately, you can't sleep on board which is why you pack alot of entertainemnt.
What is a bum bag?
Is a windcheater a pullover nylon vest or a LS pullover top?
Are any of your shirts LS?
What kind of shoes do you wear?
Is this your Euro list for Spring-Fall as I didn't see any gloves/mittens listed?
Di
Jun 8th, 2006, 06:08 AM
#39
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I'm glad you acknowledged the need to <b>do laundry</b> since like garbage and house magazines, this "necessity" rarely seems to be mentioned.
I admire your list but you must remain aware that some of us wear shoes larger than size 4 LOL and two pairs of US size 12's takes up about half the room in the suitcase.
I admire your list but you must remain aware that some of us wear shoes larger than size 4 LOL and two pairs of US size 12's takes up about half the room in the suitcase.
