How to travel
light and smart
TIPS & TRICKS
WHAT YOU CAN’T
CARRY ON
CERTAIN ITEMS are deemed dangerous and
can’t be carried on an airliner. Instead, they
are allowed only in checked luggage. These
items include:
• Knives and scissors of any length
• All sporting bats, sticks, clubs, cues,
poles and spears
• Ammunition
• Compressed-air guns, stun guns
and shocking devices
• Martial-arts and self-defense items A
PACKING LIGHTER IS ONE solution to the problems and challenges of air
travel. Here are five easy ways to pack less and pack light.
Take versatile clothes
Take clothes that can be worn several times, such as a blazer worn on the
plane that can also go casual with jeans or be dressed up for dinner. Another
practical piece is a denim shirt that can be worn as a shirt or light jacket, or
over sleepwear as a robe. A different outfit for every day is a travel luxury; it’s
best to mix and match a few versatile pieces.
Pack around laundry stops
Plan a mid-vacation break at a coin-operated laundry. That halfway stop
will double your clothes options. Invest in underclothes made of comfortable
wicking fibers that can be washed in your hotel room and dried overnight.
Pack only three pairs: one to wear, one to wash and a spare, and plan to do
hand laundry.
Choose thin items over thick
A light turtleneck combined with a light sweater is a warmer, more versatile
option and packs smaller than a sweatshirt or a bulky sweater.
Pack only the cosmetics needed
Cosmetics often represent half the weight of a fully packed suitcase. Buy
sample-size cosmetics or transfer the amount needed to a small container.
Take only three pairs of shoes
Shoes are a very bulky item. Wear one pair and pack two. A
HELPFUL HOW TO’S
WHEN IT’S GOOD TO CHECK LUGGAGE
Sometimes you’ve got no choice. Here are some situations when it’s OK to resign yourself to
checking luggage.
• You need to carry lots of equipment, beyond
the carry-on limit.
• Your luggage is being handled for
you by a tour company.
• You are traveling with
small children and don’t
want to (or can’t) deal
with luggage, too.
• You are unable to handle your own luggage
due to your or your traveling companion’s
physical condition.
• You require bulky cold-weather clothing or gear.
• You are planning to shop and need lots of
room for souvenirs.
• You are going on a formal business trip and
need several suits and dresses.
