What to pack in... the world of luggage
My first trip to Europe was a true learning experience. I took a large backpack, a large rolling checked suitcase, and a small backpack as my personal bag. I quickly realized that I had made a mistake. First, I didn't use half the clothing I had packed. Second, I was burdened with carrying all this luggage around. Third, having so many items to take care of made for a very long trip. I decided then that my next trip would be very different. I started researching how to pack light for around the World travel. It's taken me a few trips, but I have learned to travel with only a carry-on bag and a personal bag. I now use what I take and I get the benefit of traveling light. I can better focus on enjoying the experience, learning about the culture, and living in the moment, instead of focusing time and effort to clothing and items I have packed.
***For my EF travelers...Here is what you are allowed. One checked bag (stored in the cargo department of plane) no more than 50 lbs and a total of 62 inches when you total length+width+height. One carry-on bag no larger than 22" x 14" x 9", and One personal item (1 purse, briefcase, camera bag, laptop computer (computers cannot be checked), or 1 item of a similar or smaller size to those listed above that can be stored under the airplane seat. I DO NOT recommend that you take all that is allowed...you are required to haul your own baggage...trust me...travel as light as you can. If you check a bag take a small backpack on the plane, if you decide to just do carry-on look at my recommendations below. If you have questions...contact me.
***For my EF travelers...Here is what you are allowed. One checked bag (stored in the cargo department of plane) no more than 50 lbs and a total of 62 inches when you total length+width+height. One carry-on bag no larger than 22" x 14" x 9", and One personal item (1 purse, briefcase, camera bag, laptop computer (computers cannot be checked), or 1 item of a similar or smaller size to those listed above that can be stored under the airplane seat. I DO NOT recommend that you take all that is allowed...you are required to haul your own baggage...trust me...travel as light as you can. If you check a bag take a small backpack on the plane, if you decide to just do carry-on look at my recommendations below. If you have questions...contact me.
Carry-on Luggage
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This is the Traveler's Choice Two Piece Expandable Carry-On Luggage Set. The luggage was very affordable (remember, I'm a teacher) and I have used this luggage for last Summer's trip to Scotland & Ireland. I was pleased with the performance of the luggage and I will use it again this Summer when we travel to Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, France, and England. The wheels are solid and the bag rolls well. I experienced no problems while traveling with this luggage. The size is within the standard carry-on range, the measurements are 21 in. h x 13.5 in. w x 8.5 in. d and expands to 10.5 in. With planning & preparation this bag holds everything you need for a 15 day trip to Europe. This set also comes with a 26" check bag for those that need more space.
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Backpacks - Carry-on Style
I am getting ready to enter the World of backpacking. I traveled on my first European trip with a top-load backpack and hated the experience. I have now researched numerous backpacks that offer the convenience of opening and packing like a suitcase, but they keep your hands free and offer that allure of "backpacking Europe".
All of the backpacks that I have listed are carry-on size and that's what I'm looking for. No checking my baggage, no waiting for my luggage to be tossed on the conveyor, and all are easy to use. I am also looking at packing cubes to help keep the backpack (and myself) organized while traveling. These are my two top choices of backpacks. All come with unique features and I think either one would be perfect for my trips. I ordered & used the eBags Mother Lode for my 2016 Europe Trip & loved it! Check out my review on my Gear & Product Review page! |
Personal Bag
For my personal item/bag...I prefer the sling bag. I like this bag because as a tour leader I have to carry quite a bit of information with me every day. This bag is awesome for that purpose. I can carry my required paperwork, a light sweater, and still have room for buying a few small keepsakes (or a bottle of wine!). I also really like the fact that I can wear the sling bag on my back or turn it around to my front for added security from potential pick pockets. The bag is perfect for carrying on the plane, fits under the seat on the plane, and holds everything I need....PERFECT bag! There are tons of sling bags out there...go with what you like!
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Laundry Bag
Dry Bag used for Laundry Bag
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My all purpose bag... I just bought this particular bag for this Summer's trip. What do I do with it...well, it's my dirty laundry bag, my washing machine, and my extra bag if I need to bring home more than I left with. This is a great bag. It folds flat in my carry-on bag, so no space wasted. As my clothing gets dirty I put it in this bag. When the bag is loaded I add detergent and water, soak the clothes, swish everything around for ten minutes, rinse, squeeze, hang clothes, TADA!!! I dry out the bag and it's ready to go again. At the end of my trip I have this as my backup bag. I can always check my backpack on my return journey and carry-on this bag. If I buy too many souvenirs, clothing, etc. I am good to go!
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3-1-1 Liquids Rule
If you are traveling with carry on only - You are allowed to bring one small bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces or less per container. Consolidating these containers in the small bag separate from your carry-on baggage enables TSA officers to screen them quickly.
3-1-1 for carry-ons. Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container; must be in 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. The bag limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. Be prepared. Each time a TSA officer stops to physically screen a carry-on bag, it slows down the line. Practicing the 3-1-1 rule will facilitate the checkpoint experience. If you are checking a bag - Put your liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes in checked baggage and you don't have to worry about size/amount limitations. |