Packing light

Note from Liz: I asked Laura Luthy to share several of her packing tricks with us since she is able to pack a carry-on only for over-seas trips. We can all take a few notes from her.

     I’m sending out a few tips that have worked for me when traveling internationally.  It is so helpful to pack lightly!  Having a rolling carry on case that doesn’t need to be checked and a back pack allows for speed and flexibility. 
​     No need to wait to check or pick up baggage.  There is also no risk of lost luggage. You can also move about more quickly and fit into small areas which are more common in other countries.
     The lists that have been provided are adequate if you launder along the way.  Having a small clothes line and soap are a must. 
    One tip that works for me is to use compression packing cubes.

I typically use :
1 large for pants, shorts, dresses, jackets or other larger bulky items
1 medium for tops and swim wear
2 small, one for garments or underclothing and the other for socks, pajamas or other small accessories such as collapsible hats, etc.
You can pack more in if you roll things tightly as shown below

Once cube is filled you zip it
Then zip the compression zipper.  You will be amazed at how much smaller it will become!
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A stowaway duffle takes a small amount of space going and will serve as a bag for souvenirs (you know you will have them!!) on the return home.  I usually will check my rolling carryon for the flight home (not as worried if it gets delayed)and carry the duffle full of treasures and my backpack (2 allowable pieces) so as not to break anything.

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