It's hard to communicate how important it is to travel light when packing for international travel. I traveled to China, Vietnam, and Manila several years ago with a roommate who actually packed an iron for the trip. I really over packed as well...but really.....an iron?After the experience of dragging around the most ridiculously heavy suitcase from Hong Kong to Beijing to Hong Kong to Saigon to Ho Chi Ming City to Hong Kong to Manila to Hong Kong...(that was a trip where airports were the star of the trip)....I finally "got it". Now I refine my trips each time with less and less. It eliminates a lot of the hassle of struggling through airports, cabs, and hotels with a heavy suitcase.
1) Carry-on if at all possible. I have traveled with a couple of pairs of pants, several tops, 1 pair of shoes, 1 jacket (that you wear), and lots of little layers depending on the weather.
- Pack and then remove HALF. You're going to want that real estate for the things you find on the trip.
- If it's a short trip -you will probably never see the people again. If you are going for an extended stay - then you have to wash clothes anyway.
2) If you must check a bag AND carry-on:
Carry-On:
- Pack 2-3 sets of clothes in the carry-on - just in case the luggage doesn't make it to the next location. A daypack would be a good choice if you will be moving around a lot during your stay.
- Pack a tooth brush, face cleanser, hair brush and make-up to freshen up on the flight over. (Use a gallon zip lock bag. It will make your life easier when passing through airport security.)
- Pack an empty water bottle that you can fill up while in the airport.
- Pack a small neck pillow. You won't regret it.
- Layer your clothes and wear your jacket on the flight over.
Checked bag:
- Don't pack any valuables in the checked bag. (Camera and lap top should be with the carry-on)
- Pack three colors of garments - preferably white, black, and beige. You should be able to mix and match everything.
- Pack Smartwool socks. (Winter)
- Pack a hat and gloves. (Winter)
- Pack a rain jacket; preferable one that can be stuffed in a very small sack.
- Take 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes and a pair of decent sandals depending on the time of year.
- When it doubt, leave it out of the suitcase. You can always buy things you need.
- Research the carry-on weight, weight and bag limit of every airline you'll be on. For most airlines, the carry-on bag limit is two - one suitcase and another, smaller bag or laptop. A purse does not count.
Everyone comes up with the ideal list of what's constitutes the "best" mix. I believe each person should be able to handle their luggage without assistance. It eliminates a lot of hassle.
