Packing Tips

Every trip we get lots of questions about suitcases and what can be taken. Please note that, because we will be on a tour bus, the limitations are not the same as the airline rules. For our trips you can take one large suitcase that can weigh up to 50 pounds. If you think you need more that 50 pounds, call the airline and ask. The weight restriction has been changing recently and 50 pounds is the safe limit. But in some cases, particularly internationally, you may be allowed 70.

You can also take one carry-on plus a purse or brief case. These must be carried on to the bus as well as the plane so you don't want anything too big. Usually the overhead compartments on busses are smaller than on the plane, so you want something modest in size - probably less that you might usually carry on to a plane.

Tip #1 - Here's what I do. I take a large suitcase that I can take on the plane and put in the luggage compartment on the bus. Included in your trip is the cost of handling this one large suitcase in and out of the hotels. Then I take a small carry-on in which I put any valuables, medicine and a few "necessities" just in case my suitcase gets lost for a day. Extra film should be in this bag and not in your checked suitcase since scanners at the airports are much stronger than they used to be.

Tip #2 - If you think that you might need extra room to take souvenirs home, consider packing a folding bag in your suitcase that you can fill up. This can be checked on the plane on the way home since the airlines allow you to check two bags. Of course if you buy fragile items you should have them shipped by the store at which you buy them.

Tip #3 - You can't lock your suitcase any more since it must be available to be searched. The people who check bags have been very careful and will seal your bag when they are done and put a note on it that it was checked. At home I usually close my suitcase with a simple twist-tie that can be easily removed. And I take an extra twist-tie to use on the way home.

There are a number of good web sites with a variety on packing tips. If you want to explore, here are a few (click on the name - each will open in the same separate browser window):

• The Travelite FAQ - an educational site that teaches ordinary people how to travel lightly.
• ASTA Packing Tips - Helpful guidelines compiled by the American Society of Travel Agents. Some of the most travel-wise people in the world, ASTA members know the techniques of efficient packing for all types of travel.
• Rick Steve's Travel Tips - A good checklist that can be used with or instead of ours.
• Universal Planning List - a fun site that will customize a list for you.

Good traveling!
Don Robinson
Marian Tours International
www.marian-tours.com