Need help with packing!
Jul 20th, 2005, 09:23 PM
#21
Join Date: Sep 2004
Posts: 45,322
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Dear Maureen, my very best wishes to you for a beautiful trip. May every day be filled with happiness and new pleasures. I will so look forward to your trip report. And I am so proud of you for eliminating unnecessary items from your luggage. This will help you enjoy your time in G.B.
And St. Cirq, I guess we are all basically the same because when I read your post about the missed lunch appointment, the unpaid bill etc. I had to smile to myself as I too went through the same thing. It got a bit scary. But that too passed.
Hugs to both of you!
And St. Cirq, I guess we are all basically the same because when I read your post about the missed lunch appointment, the unpaid bill etc. I had to smile to myself as I too went through the same thing. It got a bit scary. But that too passed.
Hugs to both of you!
Jul 21st, 2005, 05:36 AM
#22
Original Poster
Join Date: May 2005
Posts: 134
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I am keeping an eye on the latest news from London as I write this. I guess this is not meant to be a stress-less trip. That's ironic, because I specifically chose Britain for my first trip abroad after losing my husband because I did not want the additional stress of dealing with unfamiliar places and foreign languages this time around. I know that I am like StCirq and LoveItaly in that I am not functioning at full speed yet. Little did I know that our trip would also end up being a defiant personal statement against terrorism!
I never did explain why I was traveling again so soon. When my husband retired, our goal (other than sending our daughter to college) was to travel, specifically a trip each year. We managed to do that (Spain, England and France, Mexico, Hawaii, and Cuba) before he became ill. Our daughter became as much of a travel addict as we were, and is double majoring in English and Medieval Studies, with a minor in History, specifically because of interests sparked during our travels (cathedrals at Chartres, Salisbury, and Canterbury; Hastings Battlefield, and especially, a love of Shakespeare).
Anyway, within a few weeks of losing my husband, I told my daughter that I thought we should take a mother-daughter trip this summer, as a healing, sharing experience. We knew it would be somewhat bittersweet, as the last time we traveled to London, we were all together. But we also knew for certain that my DH would encourage us, actually insist, to pick up our lives again.
It has been a good decision, and I'm embarrassed that I had this last-minute panic about something as silly as packing. In the past, I would have been happy to have two changes of clothes as long as I could go on a trip! I think I have things back in perspective now.
I really appreciate the insights from people who have been through this experience. Grief is a strange thing--you think you are so strong one day, and then something very unexpected sets you off again. I am determined that life go on, but it is certainly different than it was before. I find it amazing that part of my healing process has come not only from planning a trip, but through this travel forum, because its members have been so supportive.
I never did explain why I was traveling again so soon. When my husband retired, our goal (other than sending our daughter to college) was to travel, specifically a trip each year. We managed to do that (Spain, England and France, Mexico, Hawaii, and Cuba) before he became ill. Our daughter became as much of a travel addict as we were, and is double majoring in English and Medieval Studies, with a minor in History, specifically because of interests sparked during our travels (cathedrals at Chartres, Salisbury, and Canterbury; Hastings Battlefield, and especially, a love of Shakespeare).
Anyway, within a few weeks of losing my husband, I told my daughter that I thought we should take a mother-daughter trip this summer, as a healing, sharing experience. We knew it would be somewhat bittersweet, as the last time we traveled to London, we were all together. But we also knew for certain that my DH would encourage us, actually insist, to pick up our lives again.
It has been a good decision, and I'm embarrassed that I had this last-minute panic about something as silly as packing. In the past, I would have been happy to have two changes of clothes as long as I could go on a trip! I think I have things back in perspective now.
I really appreciate the insights from people who have been through this experience. Grief is a strange thing--you think you are so strong one day, and then something very unexpected sets you off again. I am determined that life go on, but it is certainly different than it was before. I find it amazing that part of my healing process has come not only from planning a trip, but through this travel forum, because its members have been so supportive.
Jul 21st, 2005, 06:02 AM
#23
Join Date: Jan 2003
Posts: 738
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Hang in there. You are going to have a terrific time.... I travel internationally all the time on business, and - as you have said - I know how to pack. Alll that knowledge completely leaves my brain when I am going on vacation. So I lay all the clothes I think I'm taking out on a spare bed, about a week in advance. Then I go in every night and pull things off. The last night I'm doing this, I remember that I'll probably want to buy a little something while I'm there that will need to fit in the suitcase - and I get it back down to reasonable.... Enjoy yourself - when I have a little glass of wine, it helps me eliminate more clothes......
Jul 21st, 2005, 07:57 AM
#25
Join Date: Nov 2003
Posts: 488
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
The "rule of thumb" I have heard and try (not always sucessfully) is - lay out everything you think you might want to pack, then put half of it back. Then look at each item left and say, do I REALLY need this? I also pick a color for my trip and make sure all my clothes either are or match that color. In my case it's usually blue because that happens to be my favorite. Keep reminding yourself you can wash or buy things at your destination if necessary - you're going to Europe, not Antartica!
Have fun, both with your packing and on your trip.
Have fun, both with your packing and on your trip.
Jul 21st, 2005, 10:31 AM
#26
Join Date: Apr 2004
Posts: 222
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Dear MaureenGP.
I, too, have been known to purchase new items for a trip and want to bring all of them with me.
Here is what works for me: I call it the fashion show. I'd suggest gathering a dear friend or two and opening a bottle of wine first. Then, try on your favorite outfits for the trip for your friend(s). See if they can help you select the most PERFECT and FABULOUS of the great clothes that you have, because I'm sure you want to look your best.
I often find that when I try on six or so tops with the same pants, a few naturaly eliminate themselves by not being quite a cute as I had hoped. It also helps if you leave the tags on...I have been known to return a few of those must-haves, which turn into extra cash for the trip!
Hope this is of help.
I, too, have been known to purchase new items for a trip and want to bring all of them with me.
Here is what works for me: I call it the fashion show. I'd suggest gathering a dear friend or two and opening a bottle of wine first. Then, try on your favorite outfits for the trip for your friend(s). See if they can help you select the most PERFECT and FABULOUS of the great clothes that you have, because I'm sure you want to look your best.
I often find that when I try on six or so tops with the same pants, a few naturaly eliminate themselves by not being quite a cute as I had hoped. It also helps if you leave the tags on...I have been known to return a few of those must-haves, which turn into extra cash for the trip!
Hope this is of help.
Jul 21st, 2005, 12:48 PM
#27
Join Date: Jul 2005
Posts: 1,135
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
MaureenGP,
Even though I myself have never gone through the sad experience you faced, I was really moved by this thread. I also had good laughs because I go through this ordeal of packing everytime I am about to go on a trip. I just know it is going to be like this this coming October. I am supposed to go to a conference in Bangkok, with stopovers in Lisbon (on the way down) and Munich (on the way back), each of these cities with very different kinds of weather. I always try to pack light, but find myself carrying a whole of stuff I don't really wear. Janis, St,Cirq, and others here, I will definetly need your help when it is time for me to pack!
Have a wonderful trip, Maureen (just stay away from the tube).
Cecilia from Brazil
Even though I myself have never gone through the sad experience you faced, I was really moved by this thread. I also had good laughs because I go through this ordeal of packing everytime I am about to go on a trip. I just know it is going to be like this this coming October. I am supposed to go to a conference in Bangkok, with stopovers in Lisbon (on the way down) and Munich (on the way back), each of these cities with very different kinds of weather. I always try to pack light, but find myself carrying a whole of stuff I don't really wear. Janis, St,Cirq, and others here, I will definetly need your help when it is time for me to pack!
Have a wonderful trip, Maureen (just stay away from the tube).
Cecilia from Brazil
Jul 21st, 2005, 02:08 PM
#28
Join Date: Feb 2005
Posts: 512
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Sending you a hug Maureen! I am sympathetic about the packing situation.
I am a very nervous traveler and my many lists for packing and my extreme overplanning are really more about my attempt to control a situation that I really have no control over. LoveItaly is very perceptive.
I am hoping that your trip will be wonderful! I loved Edinburgh, and London as well. I wish that I was going back.
I have gotten a few things at ridicculous prices as well. Really cute summer clothes and shoes. I am leaving for Chicago, for business, on Saturday. I have done well and restrained myself from overpacking. I have almost taken out my bigger suitcase several times. I keep stopping my self though.
I just have my 18" and a back-pack and that's it! For a week.
Safe travels. Post a trip report when you get back. Especially about beautiful Edinburgh.
Have fun!
I am a very nervous traveler and my many lists for packing and my extreme overplanning are really more about my attempt to control a situation that I really have no control over. LoveItaly is very perceptive.
I am hoping that your trip will be wonderful! I loved Edinburgh, and London as well. I wish that I was going back.
I have gotten a few things at ridicculous prices as well. Really cute summer clothes and shoes. I am leaving for Chicago, for business, on Saturday. I have done well and restrained myself from overpacking. I have almost taken out my bigger suitcase several times. I keep stopping my self though.
I just have my 18" and a back-pack and that's it! For a week.
Safe travels. Post a trip report when you get back. Especially about beautiful Edinburgh.
Have fun!
Jul 21st, 2005, 02:23 PM
#29
Join Date: Jul 2005
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Hi Maureen,
As a UK resident here's some info about our weather. It sometimes feels as if you can have all four seasons in one day and Edinburgh can be a cold and wet place even during the summer - I was a student there for four years (many moons ago) and I've visited and indeed taken part in the Tattoo. We used to go when I was a child and we always wrapped up warm, often taking a travel rug. Now you don't want to be packing one of those so take the modern girl's best friend, the pashmina. In fact take two one to sit on and one to wrap around you. If you choose different colours you can use them to ring the changes with your evening outfits and they really do fold up small for packing. I always take one in my hand luggage in case the aircon on the plane is set too cool for my liking or I want something soft to rest my head on. Definitely take a waterproof coat and suitable shoes (in addition to your sandals and evenining shoes) and if you don't like wet hair a hat too - much better than an umbrella in the wind. Dare I suggest a thermal vest/camisole (I think your idea of a vest and mine might be different - I'm talking underwear)? For evenings out remember not everyone will be dressed up for the theatre but you'll want to look lovely as you're on holiday so maybe some fashion jewellry could jazz up a black top and make it look a bit different. Bless you for coming over and I hope you only need your new summer outfits but in a UK summer I'd always be prepared for a little bit of cold (especially on the castle esplanade at night for the Tattoo) and some rain. I'd take your rain jacket and a dressier jacket (you'll feel better looking smarter when it's dry) and use scarves and jewellry to make a smaller number of tops feel different. Hope this helps as it's my first ever post.
As a UK resident here's some info about our weather. It sometimes feels as if you can have all four seasons in one day and Edinburgh can be a cold and wet place even during the summer - I was a student there for four years (many moons ago) and I've visited and indeed taken part in the Tattoo. We used to go when I was a child and we always wrapped up warm, often taking a travel rug. Now you don't want to be packing one of those so take the modern girl's best friend, the pashmina. In fact take two one to sit on and one to wrap around you. If you choose different colours you can use them to ring the changes with your evening outfits and they really do fold up small for packing. I always take one in my hand luggage in case the aircon on the plane is set too cool for my liking or I want something soft to rest my head on. Definitely take a waterproof coat and suitable shoes (in addition to your sandals and evenining shoes) and if you don't like wet hair a hat too - much better than an umbrella in the wind. Dare I suggest a thermal vest/camisole (I think your idea of a vest and mine might be different - I'm talking underwear)? For evenings out remember not everyone will be dressed up for the theatre but you'll want to look lovely as you're on holiday so maybe some fashion jewellry could jazz up a black top and make it look a bit different. Bless you for coming over and I hope you only need your new summer outfits but in a UK summer I'd always be prepared for a little bit of cold (especially on the castle esplanade at night for the Tattoo) and some rain. I'd take your rain jacket and a dressier jacket (you'll feel better looking smarter when it's dry) and use scarves and jewellry to make a smaller number of tops feel different. Hope this helps as it's my first ever post.
Jul 21st, 2005, 02:23 PM
#30
Join Date: Nov 2003
Posts: 14,607
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Hello Maureen. I wish you a safe trip. I know you have been through a terribly difficult time and there is no way to evaluate the many manifestations of that stress. I am no use on many issues, but one place I really shine is packing. I travel frequently on business and pleasure. All my male companions are astonished that I never pack more than a large purse (Coach bag almost twenty years old and still perfect for the purpose) and one carryon suitcase. Here is what works for me. I carry one pair of black casual pants (Talbots bistretch washable, no iron, $78.), one pair of black slacks knit (these are handwashable and wear like iron) made by Cyrus (priced under $100.) These are very nice pants and work well for evenings out or business wear. I also have a black Cyrus skirt, costs less than the pants, but also washable. Then I pack three or four cute Cyrus sweaters (no, I swear I don't work for them). Two silk scarves, and one pashmina. I wear a black raincoat. I truly never need anything else for dinners out, shopping, theatre, or just plain sightseeing. Add to that the fact that all of these items are very comfortable. Shoes: One pair of French Sole flats (bought on Sloane St. London) and one pair of black Mary Jane Naots. That's it!
My heart goes with you. May the trip bring you joy.
My heart goes with you. May the trip bring you joy.
Jul 21st, 2005, 02:56 PM
#32
Original Poster
Join Date: May 2005
Posts: 134
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Just came home and checked to find all these new messages--so heartfelt and encouraging. I especially appreciate the advice from Scotslass on how to dress for the Tattoo. I guess that rain jacket will stay in my luggage after all! And I suppose I'd better put the loafers back in. That means I have to get really tough on myself with those tops. By the way, I went back to TJMaxx today and bought a different suitcase---lighter than that spiffy red one I bought two weeks ago (which I will return). I figured it would be better to start out with a lighter suitcase, as every bit of weight will count when I'm manuevering those trains, subways, and airports. I am getting so excited about this trip. My daughter and I are looking forward to theater in London, our first visit to Windsor Castle, and communing with Shakespeare on the banks of the Avon. We're even going to try haggis!
Jul 22nd, 2005, 03:22 AM
#34
Join Date: Nov 2003
Posts: 14,607
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Aggiemom, I buy Cyrus clothing at Seasons in Mt. Airy, NC. Nordstroms carries some of their items. Their line is perfect for travel. Everything I have bought in that line is machine or hand washable. That they were reasonably priced seals the deal.
Jul 22nd, 2005, 07:49 AM
#35
Hurray on the suitcase Maureen. Very good move. And thanks for the Cyrus brand mention by cmcfong. This is one of the nicest threads I've participated in, in quite awhile. Only best wishes for successful adventurous enjoyable trips upcoming, for each of you traveling soon!
Jul 22nd, 2005, 02:27 PM
#36
Original Poster
Join Date: May 2005
Posts: 134
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Just checked in again, and agree that this is such a nice thread, as everybody has given both practical advice and great encouragement. As a relative newscomer to this forum, I feel a little timid sometimes. But this thread has been such a good experience for me. I really think people who like to travel are special, as they have a desire to see the world and meet its people. That indicates a generosity of spirit...
I notice a thread of condolences today about a regular forum member who has passed away. The many responses and genuine sympathy have really touched my heart, even though I do not recall reading any of his posts personally. You seem to have created quite a close-knit community here.
Again, I thank all of you for every bit of advice you have given me. It has helped immensely--I'm almost ready to leave for London, much lighter in both my packing and in my heart. PS: I won't let those bombers get me down either!
I notice a thread of condolences today about a regular forum member who has passed away. The many responses and genuine sympathy have really touched my heart, even though I do not recall reading any of his posts personally. You seem to have created quite a close-knit community here.
Again, I thank all of you for every bit of advice you have given me. It has helped immensely--I'm almost ready to leave for London, much lighter in both my packing and in my heart. PS: I won't let those bombers get me down either!
Jul 22nd, 2005, 04:42 PM
#37
Join Date: Dec 2003
Posts: 554
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Dear Maureen: Best wishes for a wonderful trip with your daughter. Threads like this one, and people like you, are the reason that this forum is such a success. Warmest wishes for safe travels. Bon voyage! 
Jul 22nd, 2005, 09:04 PM
#38
Join Date: Jan 2004
Posts: 120
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Dear Maureen,
Warmest wishes from Australia. In 5 days I leave with my husband for an 11 week trip to Europe. I will now appreciate him a lot more.
My proposed outfits are sitting on my dressing table and have been there for 3 days now. My husband was horrified at the amount of tops. I should know better as this is not our first trip - but it is really difficult to not take some things because you say to yourself 'what if?'. Anyway I am trying my best. The biggest problem for me is that I love reading and must have lots of paperbacks with me. I throw them away when I have finished with them and fill the space they took with pottery, gifts etc. Trouble is I am a fast reader and paperbacks in English are just too expensive in Europe. I just can't get to sleep at night without a relaxing read. What a stupid problem to have!
The helpful advice you have been given will make me firmer with myself when it comes to not taking things.
Have a lovely trip.
Warmest wishes from Australia. In 5 days I leave with my husband for an 11 week trip to Europe. I will now appreciate him a lot more.
My proposed outfits are sitting on my dressing table and have been there for 3 days now. My husband was horrified at the amount of tops. I should know better as this is not our first trip - but it is really difficult to not take some things because you say to yourself 'what if?'. Anyway I am trying my best. The biggest problem for me is that I love reading and must have lots of paperbacks with me. I throw them away when I have finished with them and fill the space they took with pottery, gifts etc. Trouble is I am a fast reader and paperbacks in English are just too expensive in Europe. I just can't get to sleep at night without a relaxing read. What a stupid problem to have!
The helpful advice you have been given will make me firmer with myself when it comes to not taking things.
Have a lovely trip.
Jul 22nd, 2005, 09:28 PM
#39
Join Date: Jun 2003
Posts: 12,188
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
jofrommelbourne, don't give up on the paperbacks! I know how necessary these are when traveling. But in most cities, you can find a second-hand bookshop that has English books. For example, the Paperback Exchange in Florence is excellent.
If you haven't got any books, consider picking up magazines from a kiosk. The Economist is excellent because it takes so long to read thoroughly.
If you haven't got any books, consider picking up magazines from a kiosk. The Economist is excellent because it takes so long to read thoroughly.
Jul 22nd, 2005, 09:29 PM
#40
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,077
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Maureen, I think dsm22 made a good point when she/he talked about "control". By obsessing about packing, you're seeking to control one aspect of the trip, one aspect of your life that *is* controllable. After dealing with illness and death in your personal life (along with the recent events in London), that's pretty natural. I think you could stand to delete more tops. I wear one and pack five. Someone mentioned carrying some fashion jewelry to dress up for evenings. You could also buy a fun piece of jewelry while on the trip! I'm glad you and your daughter will be spending some joyful time in a place you love. In light of recent events, it is even more important to "soldier on" and gain what joy you can in life. Carpe Diem!
