Christina

It depends where you are going and the form of accommodations, but there are several things on your list that I never take and have never needed. A lot of this is really overplanning and for folks like that anal-retentive chef on Sat Night Live (who giftwrapped the garbage). I mean, would it kill someone to be without a handiwipe all of a sudden.

If you are renting an apt. and want supplies like that eventually, I can understand it, and even packing them if you are certain you want them and have the space so you won't need to shop right away.

But, I would never take a clothesline as I only handwash a few small items (underwear, socks and maybe lightweight tank or Tshirt). These can be dried by hanging on the towel ranks or something (or laying on a towel over chairback). I do take most of the other things and think it's a good idea for any OTC med. you use often and like the brand. I always take Pepto Bismol, for example, and some aspirin and ibuprofin. It's easy and small (a few packets) and I don't want to spend time buying it if I have a headache.

I don't take US$1 for tips, that's for sure, and have never taken a Swiss army knife, nor have needed one; no duct tape (?) and I wouldn't take bulky liquids that can spill and weight a lot (ie, witch hazel which I've never heard of for feet, isn't it alcohol?). I would never pack a water bottle when you buy water on most street corners (in plastic bottles you can keep and refill if you want).

I hate those old luggage carts, was so glad when they invented the wheeled suitcases. They were really unwieldly and didn't work that well. I wouldn't recommend them to anyone.

I do agree with taking a driver's license for ID (and I'd have to have mine anyway, as I drive to the airport). I've used mine for that (you have to leave deposit ID in some places as security, and it can be used as ID if you don't want to carry your passport around). Also, if there are strikes or something, one could have to rent a car unexpectedly. It's just a small piece of plastic, I can't imagine leaving it out of one's wallet even if you don't drive to the airport. I have unexpectedly had to drive home from the airport, also, when weather and other transportation failed.

FainaAgain

The older I get, the shorter my shoes/clothing list gets.

But the items dropped on the above list get rapidly replaced by medications.

So, the suitcase size is still the same. Sigh...

suze

Some of the things I choose to buy after I arrive (rather than pack) because they make great souveniers... a corkscrew or small notebook for instance.

Ozarksbill

Comments from ozarksbill...thanks for feed back. So you want me to admit I'm over 70? Yes, this list is tilted toward the older travelers. I know it seems a bit much. And yes, I do think older folks may add a few things. Many would leave out items and add their own as you-all have done. Most items are small so it really isn't that much "stuff."

As for the $1 bills, yes mostly for in transit tips, but if with a conducted American tour they can be used for local guides, believe it or not. Of course, ATM card (which I meant with credit cards).

As for the tape recorder or whatever, as I type up my notes it is really a help because not only do I record words from guides but also add my own comments. Also like to hear some of the music and concerts to add flavor.

I know...I'm maybe over planning!
Bill
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GBelle

Ozarksbill,
When my kids went on camping trips, the duct tape was recommended as a useful item to bring along. It has hundreds of uses (including as a cover up for blisters). However, rather than bringing the whole roll, all they did was wrap some around a pencil and they were good for the trip. Unless you are camping as they were, you can always purchase more in the local store.

Patrick

Rufus, good tip on taking the US TV to get US programs. How long is the extension cord? And do you keep it connected to your cable at home so you get extended channels?

platzman

Forgive me for asking, but what is witchhazel?
The only other time I've ever heard this word was on an old episode of Andy Griffith when Floyd the barber asked a customer if he wanted witchhazel.

JudyC

No one pack light slippers? I could not bring myself to step bare foot on the floor/carpet of hotel room, and my luggage is 18inch (for 1-6 weeks).

jpf

Without itemizing, our list was much shorter, but as walkers, we carried a compass and used it quite often.

Isabella

I always want slippers and the one time I forgot them bought some at the grocery store! I take most of these things and they really don't take up much room. Nothing like waking up with heartburn in the middle of the night in France and knowing that you have some Tums handy! I take the OTC meds out of the box if they're in blister packs and just take a few.
Funny note: duct tape in the stores in Italy is called "American Tape"!

L84SKY

With the exception of few items, my list looks pretty much like this one and can be packed lightly.
The clothesline is nice so your clothes dry faster and don't fall into the tub.
Witch hazel is great for insect bites and sunburns. I'd never thought of it for feet.
I wouldn't think of going anywhere with without my drivers license. It's such a small thing that can be so useful.
I also carry a compass and a pair of rubber shoes that double for room slippers and aqua shoes.
Good list, I think.

GSteed

Very good list. My wife packs her curling iron and a travel iron (dual voltage). Many of the items are small and light weight. If weight is a consideration lay out everything and eliminate heavy items. USA Dollar stores can supply many suggested items. A fisherman's vest can be used to carry items and provide ready access. A daily purge of paper, etc., will simplify finding needed materials.