Thanks for all the input; but when we walk 4 miles in the morning, I walk in SNEAKERS and running shorts and tank/tee; also wear this at the beach, not later in day anywhere else. I do layer a tank, tee and long sleeve thin cotton hoodie + down vest (which we wore travelling) on colder mornings. Travel in jeans since they are heaviest, pack lightwt blend pants. Going out to dinner I wear slacks and tops that are not kid-friendly. Cotton beach hat protects my neck and blond tresses which visors do not, sorry. Buy and dump?! Guys, I live in Jersey where there is no clothing sales tax-- buy clothes in CA at 9+% salestax?? My clothing is high end purchased at drastic discount, forgetaboutit!! Dont worry, I've learned my lesson and have decided to go w/ max 24-25" checked which abound, esp. since next big trip will involve 8 hotel changes over 3 wks. Got to research the lightest amongst the lightweights. Happy travels to all! "My closet is my shrine."

Aliced - Our point is that if you don't want to pay the excess luggage fees, then you have to give a little with your packing. Everyone has given suggestions on how to reduce your load without going naked, it's your choice on whether you choose to follow any of it.

If you're going to pack like you have been, then I'd suggest you use a lightweight nylon duffle bag (no more than 24 inches) (like this: http://tinyurl.com/7lyje2) rather than traditional luggage styles to keep the weight down. Otherwise, you might try using two smaller bags and splitting the weight between them.