Packing Tips - My Personals

Packing can be easy, no need to take the kitchen sink!
There are many pages on the internet that have advice on packing much more expert than mine but I have included what works best for me and it may help someone else. I check in one bag as that is what suits me and that's how it should be for everyone, what works best for them. I can't go without a few things for my comfort but have made what I do need as compact as possible. I take a medium back pack on board which will fit under the seat, so you can just be seated and shove it under the seat, no hassles. I can thread my micro fleece jacket through the handle as well. So it is always available if I get cold on the plane. Which I quite often do!

Clothing

Clothing for me is 3 pairs of long pants, not denim jeans but cotton jeans in beige, camel and a pair of brownish/black to dress up a little more if need be. Usually the weather we are in is autumn or spring so 3 3/4 sleeve tops usually see me through with my dark brown micro fleece semi fitted zip jacket that has a high collar. I don't wear shorts anymore so 3/4 pants are my choice usually 2 pair with a couple of semi fitted tee shirts to go with either the long or short pants and decent shirt. Thermal singlet gets chucked in as well, underclothing, sandals and walking shoes and a pair of heeled sandals for more dressed occasion. I am usually wearing my lace up walk shoes on the flight so don't need to pack them. I never take dresses. Pants have always been accepted everywhere and much more versatile.*Note: I went against my own rules in Canada and took jeans but would have been better served sticking to my rules!

My luggage

My check in bag is a carry bag with shoulder strap and I have never found it a problem to carry around. I check it in as soon as I get to the airport and trains don't pose any problem so far anyway. It is also a suitable size when on a boat or traveling with a small group. I don't take too many clothes as I find no matter how long I go away for if I can have enough clothes to see me through a week I have enough to see me through a month or more. A push up tube of Sard Wonder Soap is an absolute necessity which goes into this bag along with my little travel iron and hang up peg drier, both fit in the side pocket of my bag.

Packing

I lay out my pants and fold my shirts, then wrap the legs of the pants over them and place them in plastic bags which come in handy for dirty/wet clothes if necessary. I pack each bundle into the bag and hey presto very few creases! and everything is matched and ready to go and all fit comfortably in the above bag. My enjoyment is seeing as much of the country as possible and not having to worry too much about clothes. Anyway having too many choices takes up to much time deciding!!